Gestão da qualidade aplicada à redução da evasão escolar em uma instituição de ensino profissionalizante

Abstract

School dropout is one of the main challenges faced by vocational education institutions, compromising student retention, the quality of educational services, and institutional competitiveness. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the factors associated with school dropout at the Microlins unit located in Goiana, Pernambuco, Brazil, using quality management tools to identify the causes of the problem and propose improvement actions. This research is characterized as applied, with a qualitative approach and exploratory and descriptive objectives, developed through a case study. Data were collected through direct observation of the institution's routine, a semi-structured interview with the unit manager, reports from former students, and the analysis of institutional records related to student enrollment and dropout rates. Data analysis was conducted using the Method of Analysis and Problem Solving (MASP), supported by the Ishikawa Diagram, the GUT Matrix, and the 5W2H action plan. The findings revealed that school dropout results from the interaction of multiple factors, particularly students' migration to competing institutions, difficulties in balancing work and study, financial constraints, failures in institutional communication, and insufficient systematic student monitoring. Based on these findings, improvement actions were proposed to strengthen the institution's image and provide greater academic flexibility for working students. It is concluded that the integrated application of quality management tools contributed to structuring the diagnosis of the problem, supporting decision-making, and proposing continuous improvement strategies capable of promoting student retention and strengthening institutional competitiveness.