Revista San Gregorio

Demographic dynamism and socioeconomic development in Ecuador

Alejandro Josue Quiroz Cedeño, Claudia Zambrano-Yépez — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The demographic structure of the population is a determining element in guiding public policies aimed at the country’s socioeconomic development. This article set out to analyze the influence of demographic dynamics on Ecuador’s socioeconomic development. Using a correlational quantitative approach, secondary data from the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses and the Central Bank of Ecuador (2001–2023) were analyzed for demographic and socioeconomic indicators through multiple regression models using the statistical software Stata. The results show a close relationship between the mortality rate, GDP per capita, and the young population (ages 15–24), which explain the behavior of GDP. Furthermore, it was found that employment is associated with mortality, while migratory flows have a significant impact on unemployment; together, these factors determine the variation in poverty in Ecuador, which in turn affects economic growth. The study concludes that, given the explanatory links among the variables analyzed, demographic factors shape Ecuador’s socioeconomic dynamics, underscoring the need to integrate the demographic dimension as a systemic axis in the formulation of public policies to achieve sustainable economic growth in the country.

Structural equation modeling of emotional exhaustion and life satisfaction in college students

Mónica Reyna Martínez, Alicia Hernández Montaño — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Academic emotional exhaustion is a decisive factor of individual stress that can affect the psychological well-being and academic performance of university students. Life dissatisfaction has been identified as a variable influencing this phenomenon, which may act either as a risk or protective factor. The objective of this study was to evaluate a structural equation model explaining how the independent variables—life dissatisfaction and academic emotional exhaustion—affect levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among university students. It was a cross-sectional, correlational, and explanatory study with a sample of 207 Mexican university students (M = 21.08 years, SD = 5.18), of whom 50.7% were women and 49.3% men. The Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Academic Emotional Exhaustion Scale, and the DASS-21 Scale were employed. Descriptive, internal consistency, correlational, and normality analyses were conducted, followed by structural equation modeling. The results indicate that life dissatisfaction influences academic emotional exhaustion, explaining 9% of its variance. The analyzed factors explained 50% of the variance in stress, 62% in depression, and 69% in anxiety. The model showed adequate fit indices (χ² = 6.3, p = .09, CMIN/DF = 2.13, GFI = .988, RMSEA = .074). These findings highlight the need to implement psychological support programs in universities to mitigate the impact of emotional exhaustion on mental health and academic performance.

Creative teaching strategies for students with special educational needs not related to disability

Angela Natalia Moncayo Cadena, Lina Cedeño Tuarez — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The article examines the challenges of educational inclusion for students with special educational needs (SEN) not associated with disabilities in traditional school settings, where limitations persist in teacher training, family involvement, and access to resources. The study was conducted at the “Costa Azul” Educational Unit in Manta, Ecuador, using a mixed-method approach and an exploratory-descriptive design. A total of 90 teachers, 80 students, and 4 experts participated through the application of questionnaires, interviews, and structured classroom observations. Findings reveal that while teachers hold a positive view of inclusive strategies, their implementation remains partial and limited, focusing primarily on material adaptation. Gaps were identified between pedagogical discourse and actual practice, particularly in integrating students with SEN into the broader classroom dynamic. Creative teaching strategies show promise for advancing educational equity, but their effectiveness depends on differentiated planning, active methodologies, and an institutional culture genuinely committed to inclusion.

Quality of care and user satisfaction in a Health Center in Ancash, Peru

Edgar Dino Mosqueira-Cueva, Shirley Invania Guanilo Iparraguirre — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

One of the functions of public health management is to evaluate the quality of care and user satisfaction in order to identify deficient areas, reduce obstacles that affect primary care, and improve the user experience, with the aim of building a system that fosters trust and increases satisfaction. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between Quality of Care (QC) and User Satisfaction (US) in a health center in Áncash, Peru. It employed a quantitative approach, of a basic type, with a non-experimental, cross-sectional design and a descriptive-correlational level. A total of 131 users were surveyed using two questionnaires. Statistical analysis yielded a p-value < .05, evidencing a statistically significant relationship, and a Spearman’s Rho = .741, which revealed a strong positive correlation. The study concluded that quality of care and its dimensions are correlated with user satisfaction; as quality of care improves in the health center studied, user satisfaction tends to increase, and vice versa.

The role of TikTok in the second round of the 2023 Ecuadorian elections

Mariú Dessiré Gutiérrez Alvarado, Mario Junior Cedeño Bravo, Ernesto Intriago — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The digitalization of political communication has positioned emerging platforms such as TikTok at the center of electoral campaigns. This article aims to analyze the role of TikTok as a political communication platform during the second round of the 2023 Ecuadorian presidential elections. A mixed methodology was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative content analysis through a validated coding matrix, and all official publications by the candidates during the electoral period were processed. The results show that Noboa relied on viral trends that generated greater reach and interaction, while González opted for more traditional formats, achieving broader organic redistribution. In both cases, the proportion of informative content was minimal. The discussion highlights the consolidation of algorithmic persuasion models and politainment, in which emotionality and spectacularization prevail over rational deliberation. The dynamics of TikTok during this electoral period revealed the primacy of persuasive and emotional content over informative content, which reinforces politainment but poses risks for democratic deliberation and the formation of critical citizenship.

Analysis of X data on the decriminalization of abortion due to rape in Ecuador

Joyce Quijano Martinez, Julio César García García, Yenny Margarita Vera Loor — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study was to analyze the content generated by users of the social network X regarding the decriminalization of abortion in cases of rape in Ecuador, following the ruling of the Constitutional Court of Ecuador on April 28, 2021, which approved the measure. The research was descriptive-longitudinal with a quantitative approach, based on content analysis of tweets and retweets published on X about the decriminalization of abortion in such cases. The results show that January and February 2022 were the months with the greatest digital confrontation, marked by a predominance of negative messages associated with hashtags such as #LeyAbortistaNo, #AbortoPorViolación, and #LeyJustaYReparadora, coinciding with the second legislative debate. In conclusion, the majority of X users expressed opposition to the decriminalization of abortion in cases of rape, outnumbering those who supported the bill.

Incidencia del comercio justo en la calidad de vida de productores agrícolas

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Fair Trade (FT) is presented as an alternative to the traditional commercial model, focused on ensuring fair prices, social and environmental sustainability, and economic benefits for small producers. This study aims to determine the impact of FT on the quality of life (QoL) of the members of the Corporación de Productores de Plátano Industrializadores y Comercializadores Sumita Palmita (Corpicsupal) in the canton of El Carmen, Manabí Province, Ecuador. The research adopted a quantitative approach, with a descriptive and correlational scope, under a non-experimental and cross-sectional design, applying surveys to the 70 members of Corpicsupal through validated instruments. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS v.25, verifying reliability with Cronbach’s Alpha and employing normality tests (Kolmogorov-Smirnov) as well as Pearson or Spearman correlations as appropriate. The statistical analysis performed with the Spearman correlation test evidenced a positive and significant correlation (ρ = 0.322) between participation in this commercial model and the well-being of producers. Although the relationship is weak, improvements in QoL were identified, such as the adoption of sustainable practices and the strengthening of human relationships. Nonetheless, challenges persist, particularly low income and limited access to technological resources. The study recommends strengthening the value chain and exploring complementary programs to enhance the benefits observed.

Interdisciplinary didactic sequence to Strengthen environmental education in High School students

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of an interdisciplinary didactic sequence on strengthening environmental education, particularly in the understanding of chemical processes related to climate change among high school students at Unidad Educativa Colón Arteaga García, located in the parish of Ricaurte, Chone canton, Manabí province, Ecuador. A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design without a control group was adopted, following a mixed-methods approach, and applying structured questionnaires and Likert-type scales to an intentional sample of 60 Chemistry students during the 2024–2025 academic year. Data were processed using Python, employing statistical tests and graphical representations. The results revealed significant improvements in the comprehension of greenhouse gases, chemical reactions associated with climate change, and the identification of mitigation alternatives. Likewise, student perception showed a predominantly positive acceptance of the applied methodology, highlighting the value of practical, experimental, and multimedia activities. These findings confirm that interdisciplinarity strengthens environmental literacy, fosters meaningful learning, and contributes to the formation of critical and responsible citizens in the face of current socio-environmental challenges.

Impact of transformational leadership, happiness management, and work stress on turnover intention.

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In the context of ongoing labour transformation and increasing talent turnover, understanding the factors influencing employee retention has become a strategic priority for modern organisations. This study analyses the effect of transformational leadership on turnover intention, incorporating happiness management and work-related stress as mediating variables. Additionally, it explores potential differences between Mexico's public and private sectors. A quantitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 414 employees from various institutions. Data were analysed through Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modelling (CB-SEM) and multigroup analysis. The results indicate that transformational leadership positively influences happiness management, reducing stress and turnover intention. Although work-related stress increased turnover intention, its mediating effect was not statistically significant. Sectoral differences were also observed: in the private sector, transformational leadership acted as a buffer against stress, whereas in the public sector, happiness management played a stronger role in reducing turnover. The proposed model contributes to the advancement of Social Exchange Theory by incorporating emotional mechanisms as key explanatory factors for employee retention. The findings offer valuable insights for developing human-centred organisational policies tailored to sector-specific dynamics and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals related to decent work and emotional wellbeing.

Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in the assessment of professional competencies: a systematic review

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is recognized as a highly objective assessment tool, capable of comprehensively evaluating a wide range of clinical skills and competencies. As such, it is considered by many to be the gold standard for assessing clinical performance. The aim of this study is to identify the usefulness, strengths, and limitations of the OSCE as an evaluative instrument in both educational and clinical contexts. The research was based on a scoping review designed to systematically identify and organize the existing literature on the topic. Academic databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus were examined. The findings support the validity of the OSCE as a means of evaluating professional competencies and suggest that it is an effective tool that significantly contributes to the development and refinement of such competencies in the field of healthcare.

Perception of critical reading in basic education: a systematic review

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Critical reading is fundamental to achieving a comprehensive understanding of written texts, enabling the construction of a personal stance grounded in the exercise of critical and reflective thinking. The objective of this article is to analyze the perception of critical reading in basic education. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA method with a qualitative approach, which allowed for the exploration of contextual factors to identify similarities and variations in the meanings attributed to the subject of study. The search was carried out in the SCOPUS, Web of Science, and SciELO databases, yielding a total of 220 articles. The established inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, resulting in the selection of 23 articles for the final analysis through a quality assessment that considered methodological validity, relevance of findings, and alignment with the study’s objectives. The findings conclude that critical reading is perceived as a fundamental and cross-cutting skill within curriculum implementation, requiring diverse cognitive and metacognitive processes to advance levels of comprehension that enable the construction of meaning from texts. In the teaching of critical reading, active methodologies predominate, fostering autonomous learning. However, in the learning of critical reading, there persist limited conceptions regarding the meaning of reading critically, highlighting the need to implement more systematic and methodical instruction

Heritage cuisine and gastronomic tourism in Ecuador: a systematic review of cultural valorization strategies

Daliannis Rodríguez, Edwin Antamba, Gilma S. Gallegos — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Heritage cuisine represents a fundamental dimension of intangible cultural heritage, encompassing knowledge, practices, ingredients, and symbolisms deeply rooted in territorial identities. This culinary legacy has emerged as a strategic axis for sustainable tourism development in Ecuador. The objective of the present study was to analyze the cultural valorization strategies of heritage cuisine in Ecuador within the framework of gastronomic tourism, in order to identify predominant conceptual approaches, notable practices, local stakeholder participation, and existing research gaps in the field. A qualitative methodology based on the SPIDER model was adopted, which allowed for a structured approach to the search, selection, and analysis of studies published between 2010 and 2024, resulting in a final synthesis of 15 works. The findings reveal a growing interest in culinary patrimonialization as a tourism resource, emphasizing traditional recipes, the evocation of food memory, and the design of gastronomic routes. Key stakeholders in the process were identified—governments, communities, the private sector, and universities—and notable initiatives such as food fairs, heritage inventories, origin certifications, and the training of local cooks were highlighted. Nevertheless, significant gaps remain, including limited research in Amazonian and Afro-descendant regions, scarce incorporation of gender perspectives, and weak institutional coordination. It is concluded that, although cultural valorization strategies are making meaningful progress, it is essential to foster a more inclusive, intersectional, and participatory research agenda to enhance the sustainability and authenticity of heritage cuisine as a cultural asset and a driver of development.

Innovative experience applying the Objective Structured Clinical Examination in the Medical Degree Program at Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo

Judith Galarza López, Eugenio Radamés Borroto Cruz — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a tool that has proven effective in assessing clinical competencies. This paper presents the main results obtained from the implementation of an innovative OSCE experience using high-fidelity simulators and standardized patients, integrating both quantitative and qualitative evaluation indicators. This examination serves as a prerequisite for access to pre-professional practice within healthcare institutions. The experience focused on medical students at the Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo in Ecuador, specifically those completing their clinical training in the fifth and sixth levels. The study highlights the applied methodology and the main challenges faced by the program in the continuous improvement of the assessment process. The results demonstrate that the OSCE is a valid and reliable assessment tool for distinguishing the level of clinical competencies achieved by students and emphasize the value of feedback provided by both students and faculty regarding the importance and objectivity of the results.

Revista San Gregorio. SEPTIEMBRE 2025

Equipo Editorial — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Medical training in Latin America in the face of the challenges of CRES+5 and the University 4.0

Judith Galarza López, Eugenio Radamés Borroto Cruz — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

CRES+5, a follow-up meeting to the Regional Conference on Higher Education for Latin America and the Caribbean, was recently held. It addressed the most relevant challenges faced by Higher Education Institutions in contributing to sustainable development. These challenges particularly impact medical education, and align with the demands of University 4.0, to guide the training of physicians amidst current requirements and the serious health problems in the Latin American region. To analyze the most significant challenges to medical education in Latin America derived from CRES+5 and University 4.0, to contribute to the responsible fulfillment of its social mission. The study was based on documentary analysis of specialized literature, and theoretical methods linked to the authors´ professional experience. Medical education must prioritize teacher preparation, a relevant curriculum, and a focus on science and innovation as essential pillars to ensure quality. These actions must align with the principles of University 4.0 and Education 4.0, which promote strategies to train physicians capable of fulfilling their social mission responsibly.

Pulpectomy with rotary instrumentation in a pediatric patient: Case report

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Pulpectomy is the treatment of choice for primary teeth with severe pulp involvement, aiming to maintain the health of oral tissues and preserve the space for the permanent dentition. Rotary instrumentation is considered a technique currently used in primary dentition, as it allows for better adaptation to the shape of the canals, facilitates irrigation and subsequent obturation, reduces operative time, and improves pediatric patient cooperation during treatment.
The objective of this study was to describe the clinical management of a pulpectomy in a primary tooth using rotary instrumentation in a pediatric patient. This case report presents the treatment of a primary first molar diagnosed with pulp necrosis, in which a pulpectomy with rotary instrumentation was performed. The Endo Kids system with Ni-Ti rotary files was used, irrigation was performed with sodium hypochlorite, and obturation was carried out using a calcium hydroxide and iodoform-based paste. A stainless-steel crown was placed as the final restoration, and three follow-up evaluations were conducted after the procedure.
This case demonstrates the effectiveness of pulpectomy treatment using rotary instrumentation in primary teeth, showing both clinically and radiographically a good quality of obturation and canal sealing, and allowing for the preservation of the tooth in the oral cavity without infectious processes that could compromise the patient’s overall health.