University dropout and grade retention at UFRGS Librarianship course

Abstract:

Reports the research results on dropout and grade retention of students in the course of Librarianship at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) between 2000/1-2009/2. It defines aspects of the profile of the student of this course such as entry, family income, motivation towards the course, paid activities, use of benefits from the Office of Student Affairs, motivation for grade retention, feeling towards the possibility of cancellation of the course and in relation to the labor market. It uses a qualitative and quantitative method, by applying questionnaires and interviews. The results show a dropout rate of almost 40% and a grade retention of 46%; there is a strong relationship between the student's willingness to attend the course of Librarianship and his/her level of knowledge about the curriculum and about the possibilities of professional practice. Weak reasons for the choice of the course may be responsible for a large percentage of dropouts and long-term students, as well as their need to work, because 50% of the students have family incomes below the rate of 3.5 minimum wages. There is considerable use of the benefits granted by the university among students of the course; 86.2 % of students who have dropped out felt dissatisfied or only somewhat satisfied with the course; 66 % of students who dropped out of the course of Librarianship later joined another course that they are attending or have already graduated; the choice to give up, and in fact the dropout occurs early in the course, especially along the first semester. It concludes that the average student of Librarianship at UFRGS has a great sense of responsibility towards his/her family or his/her own support; many students are attracted to the course by their interest for higher education, but without a deeper understanding of the field of ​​librarianship; the first three semesters are decisive in regard to specific measures to reduce grade retention and accelerate dropouts, if unavoidable.

Key words:
University dropout; Grade Retention; Librarianship Course; UFRGS