Abstract:

The final degree project, commonly known as the "Trabajo Fin de Grado" (TFG) in engineering careers, holds significant importance in shaping the professional trajectory of aspiring engineers. This culminating project serves as a culmination of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world engineering challenges. The TFG provides a unique opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to analyze, design, and develop innovative solutions independently. It fosters a sense of responsibility, time management, and project planning, essential skills for successful engineering careers. Moreover, the TFG encourages students to explore areas of interest, delve into specialized topics, and contribute to the advancement of their respective engineering fields. Ultimately, the TFG not only showcases students' technical proficiency but also enhances their problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and professional competencies, making it a crucial stepping stone towards becoming well-rounded and accomplished engineers.
The elimination of the extraordinary September exam session represents a significant shift in the academic landscape. This decision carries both benefits and challenges for students and institutions alike. On the positive side, it promotes a more continuous learning experience throughout the year, encouraging students to engage actively with their coursework and maintain a steady pace of progress. Without the safety net of a September session, students are incentivized to stay on top of their studies, seek help when needed, and develop effective study habits. Additionally, the removal of the September exams allows for a smoother transition between academic years and reduces the burden on faculty members who are often overwhelmed with the grading and administrative tasks associated with the additional session. However, the absence of the September exams also puts increased pressure on students to perform well in the regular assessment periods and leaves little room for potential academic setbacks or unexpected circumstances that may hinder their performance. It is crucial for institutions to provide adequate support systems, such as tutoring services and academic guidance, to ensure that students have the necessary resources to succeed under this new paradigm. In this paper the scenarios of the elimination of the September exam for the final projects of the degree in agricultural engineering at the University of Almeria are analyzed. The first scenario with September from the academic year 2010-11 to 2019-20, and the second scenario without September from 2020-21 to the academic year 2022-2023. This analysis will allow the decision making for a possible return to a scenario of allowing the TFG defences in September.

Keywords:

September, Extraordinary Exam Period, Academic performance.