Autonomous work and academic performance in the basic education career.

Abstract

This research examines the importance of autonomous work as a determinant of teaching-learning process in the classroom. The study was conducted at the State University of Santa Elena Peninsula, Faculty of Education Basic Education Career, during the years 2012 and 2013. The academic performance of the students has been assessed using observation and description. A survey conducted to 143 faculty members reveals that in order to improve the quality of education, self-regulated strategies should be implemented. Additionally, the findings suggest that the majority of learners do not properly organize their academic activities. Factors that affect this system can be identified as predominant forms of study habits and the students’ attitudes toward autonomous work. Similarly, it can be concluded that the implementation of an academic guide might improve the quality of learning. Such academic guide could include strategies, techniques and blogs that help to optimize the process of gaining knowledge.