THE NEW SCHOOL FLEXIBLE EDUCATIONAL MODEL, AN ALTERNATIVE FOR SCHOOL PERMANENCE IN THE RURAL CONTEXTS OF COLOMBIA

Abstract

The following essay, the Flexible Educational Model (FEM) Escuela Nueva (EN) is explored as an effective solution to address school dropout in rural areas of Colombia. This model, adapted to the individual needs and characteristics of students, promotes meaningful learning and guarantees the right to education for diverse and vulnerable populations. By fostering autonomy and responsibility, FEM enables students to make decisions about their learning process, contributing to reducing school dropout, driven by factors such as the need to work, lack of interest, and difficulties adapting to the traditional educational system. However, the implementation of FEM faces obstacles, including insecurity, poverty, state abandonment, and decontextualized pedagogical practices. Despite these challenges, it is expected that the model will transform education in rural areas, making it more relevant and applicable to students’ daily lives. As a result, an increase in school retention, integral development of students, and a decrease in migration to urban areas in search of better educational opportunities is anticipated, consolidating FEM’s role as a key tool for educational progress in rural contexts.