Development of the Link with the Environment in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry of the University of Antofagasta, Chile

Abstract

The University of Antofagasta has a Policy and Model that defines the linkage agents and areas of action that must consider the extension and linkage activities carried out by the different Faculties and Departments. This essay addresses the genesis of the Environment and Extension Linkage Program of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry of the University of Antofagasta and its fulfillment, through its activities, in line with the guidelines of the Development Plan of the academic unit. 2021 – 2030, as well as the importance of reportability mechanisms and the role of the actors involved. Its main strengths, weaknesses, opportunities for improvement and actors involved are described. The methodology consisted of a reflective analysis of the development of the connection with the environment and extension in the Faculty based on what was established in its work program. The results indicate that the activities are carried out regularly, although some must be strengthened. It is concluded that the above contributes to the indicators of the Faculty and the University of Antofagasta, thanks to the reportability exercised by Liaison Secretaries, academics and students, contributing to compliance with the Quality Assurance Law of Higher Education of Chile ; the standards defined by the National Accreditation Commission and the third university mission, leaving as pending challenges the measurement of the impact of the activities carried out and their curricular correlation, through the Service Learning methodology.