Academic tutoring from the perception of students and tutors of the Faculty of Dentistry of the National University of Asunción, Paraguay

Abstract

Academic tutoring is a personal and academic accompaniment to the student, its aim is to improve academic performance and develop study habits and social coexistence. In 2011, the Academic Tutoring Program was created at the Faculty of Dentistry of the National University of Asunción (FOUNA), with the aim of providing personalized attention to the student, identifying problems that influence their performance and incorporating habits, attitudes and values ??that promote their professional and human growth. In 2019, at FOUNA, with the objective of evaluating the program from the perception of students and tutors, a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional investigation was carried out, applying surveys, with probabilistic sampling of consecutive cases. 221 students and 8 tutors participated. The students conceptualized the program as academic support (55.6%), mentoring (20.1%), support in the face of difficulties (18.1%); 41.6% identified academic orientation as the main function; 19.2% claimed to want to discuss exam techniques and study methods. 35.2%, dealt primarily study methods. 60.1% reported not being convinced of the tutor's capacity, only 5% qualified him as capable; 57.2% disagree with the organization of the program and 59.7% with the physical environment. The tutors identified three deficiencies: lack of physical space for the sessions, no remuneration for the tutor, and non-compulsory attendance to the program. Among the benefits, lower repetition rate. The shortcomings must be corrected, so that it can fully fulfill its function.