Revista San Gregorio

Heritage properties management in historic centers: subprocesses and main components

2025-03-12T15:43:36+00:00

Urban management, as a component of public administration, faces increasing levels of complexity due to the multiplicity of factors influencing territorial development. In this context, the management of heritage properties emerges as a multidisciplinary field that integrates the conservation of cultural heritage with principles of sustainable development and the active participation of local communities. The objective of this research is to identify the key subprocesses and core components involved in the management of heritage properties within historic centers. A descriptive bibliometric study was conducted using the Scopus database, complemented by a qualitative content analysis. Key subprocesses and components in heritage property management were identified through specialized software tools (VOSviewer and UCINET). The study concludes that the management of heritage properties combines the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage with community participation, through the development of effective strategies that demand shared responsibility and require an integrated, collaborative approach. Its importance can be summarized in three core dimensions: cultural identity, educational value, and economic development.

Process-object duality in the formation of mathematical concepts: A systematic review

2025-03-20T04:14:55+00:00

The formation of mathematical concepts requires the teacher’s specialized knowledge to interpret and establish connections between the concepts under study. The objective of this research is to analyze the process-object duality in the formation of mathematical concepts, based on the theoretical frameworks that support it and its didactic application in educational practice. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA protocol, covering studies published between 2019 and 2025.The analyzed studies agree that understanding mathematical concepts involves integrating both operational and structural dimensions, approaching them as processes applied to known objects as well as mathematical objects in their own right. A theoretical model for the cumulative formation of concepts was identified, and two key didactic actions are proposed: the explicit activation of procedural resources and the use of argumentation to clarify the distinction between process and object. Reflection on this duality is presented as both a theoretical and methodological perspective essential to fostering a deep, flexible, and meaningful understanding of mathematical knowledge.

Pedagogical strategies in the training of dental professionals: a systematic review

2025-02-04T21:50:53+00:00

This study aimed to identify the pedagogical strategies reported in the scientific literature that have been implemented in the training of dental professionals between 2013 and 2024. A systematic literature review was conducted using academic databases such as PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar, applying the PRISMA methodology. An initial search yielded 80 articles, of which 18 met the inclusion criteria. The results indicate that strategies such as clinical simulation, problem-based learning (PBL), the use of videos, anatomical models, and virtual platforms have proven effective in enhancing practical learning, clinical reasoning, and student motivation. However, limitations were identified, including insufficient pedagogical training among instructors and the lack of systematic integration of these strategies into dental curricula. It is concluded that these innovative methodologies significantly contribute to the development of clinical competencies in Dentistry, and their continued incorporation is necessary, particularly in contexts where their application remains limited, such as in Ecuador.

Administrative management and staff turnover at the Office of the Attorney General, Portoviejo Canton, Manabí Province

2024-11-14T01:48:27+00:00

Staff turnover in public institutions remains a challenge that affects both operational efficiency and organizational stability. The objective of this study is to analyze the administrative management factors that influence staff turnover at the Office of the Attorney General in Portoviejo, Manabí Province, Ecuador. A mixed-methods approach with an explanatory scope was employed, combining in-depth interviews with key Human Resources personnel and structured surveys administered to staff members of the Prosecutor's Office in Portoviejo. The analysis integrated qualitative techniques and descriptive statistics to identify factors associated with staff turnover.

Findings revealed that, despite a solid organizational structure, human talent management shows weaknesses in recognition, motivation, and flexibility, which negatively impact employee commitment and contribute to turnover. A more strategic, well-being-centered approach is recommended to strengthen staff retention.

Self-management among pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus: a descriptive study from Liberia

2025-01-29T20:40:26+00:00

The purpose of this study was to determine the self-management levels of pregnant women with GDM mellitus at a hospital in Liberia. This study used a descriptive and cross-sectional research design. The sample of this study consisted 208 pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) who attended antenatal care at the hospital from 2 August to 27 December 2023. Data were collected face-to-face using a Pregnancy Information Form and the Self–Management of Pregnant Women with GDM Scale. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 26 and descriptive statistics, and the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests were also used. The study finding showed that the majority of pregnant women had no basic or elementary education, almost half of them were unemployed, and they had a medium yearly income. The majority of pregnant women did not used insulin. The pregnant women in the research scored 75.24 ±18.97 points (min. 35; max. 140) on the Self–Management of Pregnant Women with GDM Scale. The self-management of pregnant women with GDM at the hospital in Liberia was at a low level. It is recommended that guidelines and policies be developed to improve the GDM self-management of pregnant women in the hospital.

If I can’t afford it, I will buy dupes: Influence of dupe culture on consumer perceived value of luxury products

2025-03-05T11:14:12+00:00

With the increasing trend of dupe culture and buying counterfeit products in the textile and fashion industry, the topic has received scarce attention in marketing research. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of counterfeiting on consumers’ perceived value of product. Quantitative customer survey forms (N=150) were used to collect data from customers in Pakistan. The study seeks its guidance from the theoretical framework of customer perceived value (CPVs) and performs SEM analysis to examine the effects of dupe culture on four dimensions of CPV: emotional value, social value, quality, and price. Multiple linear regression is used to test the relationship between independent and dependent variables. Research findings suggest that dupe culture/counterfeiting positively influences consumer’s perceived value. All four dimensions of perceived value including emotional or psychological value, social value, functional value and economic value are positively correlated with dupe culture/counterfeits of luxury products. Social and emotional values emerged as higher order constructs, while functionality and price were perceived as second order perceived value. The study findings are useful in understanding consumer behavior with regard to counterfeiting in developing nations and designing value propositions in the given domain. Luxury brands can also use research findings when developing anti-counterfeiting strategies to attract customers towards original products. Counterfeiting is an emerging market in developing nations and attracts customers by addressing their need for social status.

Relationship between psychological capital and engagement: Case of a basic educational institution in northeastern Peru

2025-03-20T00:09:36+00:00

Psychological capital directly influences well-being and job performance. On the other hand, engagement refers to the level of commitment, energy, and dedication an individual invests in their work. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between psychological capital and engagement among the staff of Colegio Particular Simón Bolívar, located in San Martín, Peru. A basic, quantitative, non-experimental, and correlational research design was employed, using a survey to measure both variables in a sample of 125 employees. The results of the Spearman’s Rho coefficient revealed a strong and positive relationship between psychological capital and engagement (Rho = 0.720; p = 0.000). It is concluded that any effort aimed at enhancing and promoting psychological capital will contribute to increasing engagement among workers.

Knowledge management and organizational innovation at the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí – Sucre Extension

2025-03-28T17:00:49+00:00

In the Ecuadorian context, higher education institutions face the challenge of adapting to dynamic environments that demand more efficient knowledge management in order to meet external demands and enhance educational quality. The objective of this research was to characterize the knowledge management processes and organizational innovation practices at the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro (ULEAM – Sucre Extension) during the 2023 period. The study employed a mixed-methods, descriptive approach, applying surveys to commission members and conducting interviews with department heads and institutional leaders. The results revealed emerging knowledge management practices and ongoing efforts in the use of technology, although limitations persist in systematic knowledge transfer, innovation incentives, and organizational culture. Strengths were identified in interdepartmental collaboration and institutional commitment. It is concluded that ULEAM – Sucre Extension has strong potential to consolidate itself as an innovative educational organization, provided it strengthens its training, technological, and communication strategies.

Interculturality scale, beyond the qualitative perspective: a measurable tool at Abya Yala territory

2025-03-27T01:22:26+00:00

Ecuador, as part of Abya Yala, has institutionalized the principle of interculturality, promoting its analysis primarily through qualitative approaches. However, there remains a limited availability of quantitative instruments capable of measuring this dimension, which motivated the development of a scale adapted to the regional context. The objective of this research was to psychometrically validate an instrument designed to assess perceptions and conceptions of interculturality among university students in Ecuador. A psychometric analysis was conducted on a 27-item Likert-scale instrument, applied to education students from two Ecuadorian universities. The study evaluated reliability using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, construct validity through exploratory factor analysis, and discriminant capacity using the Student’s t-test for independent samples. The results showed high reliability (α = 0.925) and adequate construct validity, revealing a five-component structure that accounts for 68.17% of the total variance. The findings highlight the instrument’s usefulness for measuring interculturality in the region and across various fields of knowledge. Nonetheless, some implementation challenges were identified, revealing conceptual and cultural barriers that represent key areas for future pedagogical intervention.

Virtual education and student learning in the Aesthetics and Cosmetology Program

2025-02-19T18:51:31+00:00

This research aimed to identify students’ perceptions of the use of virtual education as a pedagogical tool in professional training within the Integral Aesthetics program at Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo (USGP). The methodology followed a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach. A survey was administered to fourth-semester students. The results showed that virtual education has become firmly established in the Integral Aesthetics program, with high levels of student acceptance. However, diverse perceptions were identified regarding its impact, particularly in the development of practical skills. This confirms that virtual learning does not offer a homogeneous experience for all students. Therefore, it is necessary to implement differentiated pedagogical strategies and combine virtual education with in-person practice.

Strategic Information System in Higher Education Institutions: Theoretical model for its design

2025-04-06T03:23:15+00:00

Quality management constitutes a fundamental pillar for the responsible fulfillment of the social mission of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Therefore, it is essential for these institutions to have valid, reliable, and timely information to support strategic decision-making related to the management of academic processes. The objective of this research was to theoretically and methodologically substantiate a model for the design of Strategic Information Systems at the Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo (USGP), located in Manabí, Ecuador. The study followed a descriptive, explanatory, and propositional approach, framed within a non-experimental (cross-sectional) design and a mixed-methods paradigm. Theoretical methods employed included analysis-synthesis, induction-deduction, modeling, and the systemic approach. Among the empirical methods used were document analysis, surveys, interviews, source triangulation, and user consultation. As a result, a theoretical model was developed to guide the design process of a Strategic Information System to support the quality management of academic processes at USGP. The proposed model is structured around a set of interrelated components (essential relationships, objective, principles, approaches, premises, qualities, and stages), which together form a comprehensive, coherent, and applicable conceptual foundation for the design of SIS in HEIs.

Adaptation and Validation of the “Dental Subscale of the Children's Fear Survey Schedule” (CFSS-DS) in the Ecuadorian population

2025-03-12T05:35:41+00:00

Fear and anxiety toward the dentist are challenges that complicate clinical management, especially in children, and can interfere with the success of dental treatment. The aim of this study is to validate the "Dental Subscale of the Children’s Fear Survey Schedule" (CFSS-DS) for Ecuadorian children between the ages of 5 and 12 who were treated at the clinic of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Central University of Ecuador. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted with 147 participants. The CFSS-DS questionnaire, originally developed in English, was translated, adapted, and validated within the Ecuadorian context. The analysis was performed using SPSS v.27 software; internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha (α > 0.75), and stability was measured with the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC = 0.95). Convergent and divergent validity were evaluated through Spearman’s correlation (rs = 0.57) and the Frankl scale, respectively. The proposed questionnaire (CFSS-DS-EC) demonstrated excellent psychometric properties and was confirmed to be a reliable and valid tool for measuring dental anxiety in Ecuadorian children.

AI-powered digital tools for vocabulary retention in Foreign Language Learners: A perception-based study

2025-04-03T03:51:40+00:00

This study examines the use of AI-powered digital tools for vocabulary retention. It focuses on students enrolled in the Pedagogía de los Idiomas Nacionales y Extranjeros (PINE) program at Universidad Estatal del Sur de Manabí (UNESUM), Ecuador, where English is taught as a foreign language within the broader framework of language pedagogy. A quantitative, descriptive, and relational approach was used. Data were collected through an online survey. One hundred eleven students participated, all with experience using tools such as ChatGPT, intelligent tutoring systems, and augmented reality. The survey analyzed usage frequency, perceived effectiveness, and the role of multimedia resources in vocabulary learning. Many students reported better long-term retention, improved writing accuracy, and increased motivation. These benefits were linked to instant feedback and interactive features. However, some participants noted occasional errors and a lack of detailed explanations. Others mentioned limited opportunities for actual conversation practice. The findings align with studies emphasizing the importance of adaptive digital environments. While AI tools can enhance vocabulary learning, they still require improvements. Better student training and interface optimization are recommended. Integrating them into a hybrid learning model could maximize their benefits. Further studies are needed to understand their long-term impact. This research highlights the value of artificial intelligence in language teaching and opens the door to new opportunities.

Revista San Gregorio. JUNE 2025

2025-06-30T20:27:45+00:00

We are pleased to present the 62nd issue of Revista San Gregorio, corresponding to the month of June 2025. This new issue continues to consolidate our commitment to quality scientific dissemination, international academic exchange, and the promotion of research relevant to the social, cultural, educational, and scientific development of our communities.

This issue features 43 authors, of whom 56% come from higher education institutions and research centers in Ecuador, and 44% from renowned international institutions. This balance once again reflects our plural, interdisciplinary nature, open to the dialogue of knowledge across different geographical and academic contexts.

The crisis of liberal democracy and the return of fascism

2025-05-08T17:43:17+00:00

The fall of Soviet communism consolidated liberal democracy and the market economy as the dominant model for social organization in the 21st century. However, over time, fascism has resurfaced with force, and its advance has become particularly evident in the context of the current government of the United States. This article aims to explore the causes behind the return of this phenomenon, focusing specifically on the American case. The author’s critical analysis addresses the relationship between fascism and post-truth politics, the emergence of spaces for white supremacy and attacks on women and minorities, key factors behind the Republican return to power after their 2020 defeat, and reflections on whom the political model in the Global North truly serves. Based on this inquiry, the article proposes alternatives for strengthening democracy.

Digital pathology: A Critical Approach to Its Bioethical Implications

2025-06-03T15:02:57+00:00

Digital pathology has optimized histopathological analysis, but it also demands bioethical reflection in light of the new challenges it entails. The objective of this study is to critically analyze the bioethical implications arising from the implementation of digital pathology in clinical practice, with the aim of contributing to a more ethical, safe, and patient-centered medical practice, in line with the fundamental principles of contemporary bioethics. The analysis was developed through a reflective and argumentative approach, based on a critical review of academic literature and recent regulatory documents on digital pathology and bioethics. The findings show that, although digital pathology offers significant advances in diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, its implementation raises bioethical challenges related to process transparency, data security, equitable access, and changes in the pathologist's role and responsibilities. It is concluded that the ethical integration of digital pathology requires the creation of clear regulatory frameworks in the immediate future, ongoing professional training, and a sustained commitment to contemporary bioethical principles.