Experiencias de los Estudiantes en las Carreras Online: Un Estudio Cuantitativo en la Universidad Católica de Cuenca

Online education, especially higher education, has experienced a significant expansion in this decade, caused by technological advances and the growing demand for flexible and accessible pedagogical programs. In this context, Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) have consolidated as essential tools that facilitate interaction, access to educational resources and the development of digital skills in students. The effectiveness of these platforms goes beyond technology, since factors such as satisfaction and motivation are key variables in strengthening their pedagogical impact. The present study focuses on this line of research, with the objective of evaluating the level of student satisfaction with the institutional VLE. Quantitative research was carried out by administering an institutional survey validated by a group of experts, based on a five-point Likert scale, to a sample of one hundred and eighty-seven students of the online program at the Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Ecuador. The instrument evaluated key dimensions such as course organization and technical support, teacher-student communication, synchronous meetings, content and assignments. The results highlight the effectiveness of the curricular management, the quality of the academic content and the teaching methodology, aligned with the formative needs of the students.