School Dropout in a Rural Educational Unit in Manabí

Abstract

School dropout is a social problem that significantly affects the most depressed areas of the population, such as rural areas. The objective of the research was to determine the causes of school dropout in the Alajuela fiscal educational unit in the rural area of the province of Manabí, Ecuador. A mixed approach methodology, non-experimental design, descriptive and explanatory level, was used through the application of a survey structured in 24 questions to an intentional sample of 30 former students, who could be accessed, given the considerable distances from homes in this rural community; An interview was conducted with an education professional and was used in the discussion of the results. 11 causes of school dropout were identified, of which the precarious economic situation due to lack of money and work tops the list of causes, lack of pleasure in studying, emotional situations of pressure due to living with family members, learning problems, pregnancy, free union, loss of the school year, work at home, absences from school, parental problems, and traffic accidents. As a conclusion, it is necessary that the economic measures that are established in each new government significantly affect the income of households, particularly in rural sectors, which do not have a fixed income, and which depend on the sale of agricultural products according to the summer or winter season, making minors who study in rural schools, are forced to make the decision to abandon them because of the expenses they incur to be able to educate themselves.