Personal Factors Affecting the Learning Process in University Students of the FCMV-UDV, 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Recognizing the factors that determine the learning process is essential for both educators and students. Teaching methodology and course content are frequently analyzed to evaluate learning effectiveness, often without attending to personal factors that can make a difference in studying both inside and outside the classroom. Objective: To determine the personal factors affecting the learning process in university students of the Faculty of Medical and Life Sciences during 2024. Method: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional observational study, involving a population of 721 students from the Medicine and Surgery, and Nutrition programs at a national level within the university. Results: The highest percentage of students (37.3%) belongs to the Quetzaltenango campus; the female sex predominates at 66.4%. 41.5% of nutrition students are economically self-supporting, and more than 50% of medical students reported difficulties in time management. Furthermore, 26% presented physical or mental health problems that affected their learning process. Both programs face challenges, notably time management issues and mental health concerns in a considerable percentage of students. Conclusions: Female students present higher levels of anxiety, sadness, or depression. The Nutrition program has a lower percentage of students suffering from mental health issues.