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    Robotics in higher education and its impact on digital learning
    In recent years, robotics has transformed various industrial processes but has also influenced teaching methodologies. Although there are literature reviews on its application in professional training, many are outdated or lack a current focus on its impact in higher education. Addressing this gap, the present mini review examines the impact, challenges, and opportunities of this technology in the university setting. To this end, a search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, APA PsycNet, and Web of Science databases, selecting 11 studies that addressed diverse applications of robotics, including educational robotics, robotic telepresence, human-robot interaction, and artificial intelligence applications. Their effects on teaching, the factors influencing their adoption, and the strategies used to optimize their implementation were analyzed. The findings show that educational robotics enhances student motivation and engagement, with prediction models reaching an accuracy of 98.78% in assessing academic engagement. Additionally, robotic telepresence emerges as an effective alternative for hybrid education, and social robots and AI-based tutors demonstrated their potential to personalize learning. However, methodological and structural challenges persist, such as the need to develop more accurate evaluation metrics and ensure accessibility and educational equity. Future research should focus on improving these aspects, enabling more efficient integration to enhance teaching processes. This study was registered in the Open Science Framework under the code: 10.17605/OSF.IO/KHDTU.
      57
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    Gamification in Inclusive Education for Children with Disabilities: Global Trends and Approaches - A Bibliometric Review
    Given the growing attention to the intersection between technology and education, gamification has emerged as a strategy with great benefits. This bibliometric review addresses gamification’s current and future relevance in the educational field, focusing on its use as a pedagogical strategy to improve the learning and engagement of children with disabilities. Sixty-six studies published between 2001 and 2023 were analyzed, evaluating the most influential articles, main keywords, prominent authors, collaborating institutions, and funding sources. The literature suggests that gamification offers inclusive and personalized learning opportunities covering various disabilities. Methodologies and approaches to implement gamification were identified, including game elements, user-centered design techniques, and emerging technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and educational robotics. However, challenges and areas for improvement were also found, such as the need for more long-term empirical evidence and the importance of considering individual differences and specific needs when designing gamification strategies. The review highlights the importance of strengthening collaborative networks between researchers and education professionals to disseminate best practices and promote more effective gamification approaches adapted to the needs of children with disabilities. Collaboration between educators, game developers, researchers, and parents are crucial to ensure that gamification efforts are inclusive and meet the diverse needs of students. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.
    Scopus© Citations 2  24
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    Towards Smart Agriculture: An Overview of Big Data in the Agricultural Industry
    Agriculture is currently undergoing progressive diversification and expansion, as demonstrated by the wide range of research topics and methodologies being employed. The growing need for technology to enhance agricultural processes is increasingly evident and prominently highlighted in recent studies. To assess the influence of Big Data on agriculture and its potential to advance Smart Agriculture, this bibliometric study was conducted. The research consolidates bibliometric data from the Scopus database, using the Bibliometrix package to identify trends in this field. The findings show a growing annual publication rate, indicating increasing interest in the integration of data analysis methodologies within agriculture. The collaborative nature of the research, combined with a high citation rate per document and diversity of key terms, underscores the importance of this field and its potential contribution to achieving Smart Agriculture. The convergence of Big Data, the Internet of Things, and agriculture is particularly noteworthy, as these technologies are improving decision-making and efficiency in the agricultural sector. Despite certain limitations, this study highlights the transformative potential of these advancements and suggests areas for future research, thus laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, productive, and intelligent agricultural future.
      21
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    Adaptive Learning Platforms and Their Influence on Higher Education: A Scoping Review
    Over the past decade, adaptive learning platforms have transformed higher education by adjusting content and activities based on students’ abilities and progress. This approach personalizes learning and optimizes academic performance, particularly in complex disciplines such as engineering and science. However, challenges remain related to their technological implementation and acceptance by both students and educators. This scoping review analyzes the impact of adaptive learning platforms in higher education, focusing on their influence on academic performance, student motivation, practical implementation challenges, and future implications for research. An exploratory literature review was conducted using the PRISMA-ScR method, identifying recent studies published between 2019 and 2024 in databases such as ERIC, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and APA PsycNet. Quantitative and qualitative research studies were selected, evaluating the impact of these platforms in university settings and the outcomes they produce. The results indicate that adaptive learning platforms significantly enhance academic performance by providing personalized experiences and immediate feedback. They also increase student motivation and engagement, particularly in online learning environments. However, challenges were identified, including the need for adequate technological infrastructure and specialized training for educators. Adaptive learning platforms hold transformative potential in higher education but require overcoming technological and pedagogical barriers. Further qualitative research is recommended to better understand user experiences and maximize their effectiveness across diverse educational contexts.
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    The Role of Virtual Reality in Promoting Sustainability
    (2025) ;
    Harlem Miranda
    ;
    Alex David Muyulema-Mayorga
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    ;
    Guillermo Palacios-Navarro
    In a global context where sustainability has become a central challenge, immersive virtual reality emerges as a promising tool to address environmental, social, and economic problems. This study explores the potential of immersive virtual reality and virtual prototyping to foster sustainability. Using a theoretical approach and PRISMA methodology, relevant articles on this topic were selected and rigorously evaluated. The search strategy included the Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, APA PsycNET, and SpringerLink databases, using terms related to virtual reality and sustainability. Ten studies were included, indicating that virtual reality, by providing a deeply immersive experience, not only enhances the perception and understanding of sustainability issues but also motivates significant behavioral changes towards more sustainable practices. It is highlighted that virtual reality is more effective than non-immersive learning methods in terms of emotional and cognitive impact, which underlines its value as an educational and awareness-raising tool. Furthermore, it can offer practical solutions to create a more sustainable environment by reducing the environmental footprint, such as decreasing the need for physical travel through virtual meetings or implementing telemedicine to support human health. Despite these promising applications, the need for further empirical research is recognized to explore the variability of responses among different demographic groups and to validate these findings in real-world contexts. Additionally, the development and optimization of virtual environments is suggested to increase the effectiveness of sustainable interventions.
      21
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    Virtual Reality and User Experience: Current Trends and Future Challenges
    (2025) ; ;
    Guillermo Palacios-Navarro
    Virtual reality is an emerging and versatile technology that is gaining increasing interest from the scientific community, particularly regarding user experience. A review of the literature highlights the need for updated analyses that comprehensively address current trends in this field. The objective of this study is to analyze the evolution of scientific publications related to virtual reality and user experience, identifying trends, the most influential authors, relevant journals, and international collaborations, to provide a comprehensive overview. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection database, identifying a total of 1,848 relevant publications. Network analysis techniques and Bradford’s law were applied, allowing for the examination of the distribution and impact of publications, as well as collaboration between authors and institutions. The results show an exponential growth in scientific output, particularly since 2019. While the United States leads in the number of publications, most of the influential authors are from Europe, with notable scientific output in Spain and Portugal. Current research hotspots include virtual reality applications in education and healthcare (over 70% of the analyzed publications), which align with Sustainable Development Goals, particularly 3 and 4. Trends indicate a shift towards integrating virtual reality with artificial intelligence, adaptive systems, and multisensory interaction to enhance immersion and usability. Challenges include a lack of standardized methodologies to assess immersion, presence, and cognitive load, which limits comparisons across studies and hinders the development of best practices. Future research should focus on refining interaction paradigms, improving accessibility, and developing ethical frameworks that respect data privacy and protect the user from cybersickness and the psychological effects of prolonged virtual reality exposure.
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    Analysis of Natural Lighting in Traditional Homes: Pilahuin Case Study
    Traditional homes in the Ecuadorian Andean region showcase their culture and tradition in their design. However, they may not be effectively harnessing natural light, making it necessary to analyze this condition. Natural light is essential for creating comfortable and habitable environments in homes. This research aims to understand the influence of natural lighting in traditional homes. On-site measurements and digital simulations were conducted to evaluate the luminous flux in specific areas of these homes. Parameters unique to this type of construction, such as the materials used, orientation, date, and time of day, were considered to ensure the accuracy of the simulations. Using Velux software, it was possible to simulate the sun's trajectory throughout the day and year to comprehend and enhance the luminous performance of these spaces. Measurements and simulations revealed that the levels of illumination in traditional Andean homes fall below the standards established in the Ecuadorian Construction Regulations. This is partly due to the design of small windows on the main facade and the materials used in floors and walls. This demonstrates that integrating natural light into architectural design is crucial for improving the quality of life for occupants and promoting sustainability.
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    Organizational communication in change management: A narrative review
    In an increasingly digital and competitive business landscape, communication practices within organizations are evolving to meet new operational and cultural demands. These shifts have redefined how companies engage with internal and external stakeholders across different levels. Despite the growing importance of communication, many organizations continue to face structural and strategic challenges that hinder effective message delivery and alignment. This review aims to identify key trends, persistent challenges, and the reported benefits of organizational communication, offering a synthesized view of recent academic contributions to the topic. A structured narrative review was conducted using thematic analysis of 52 peer-reviewed studies published in English and Spanish over the last decade. Using thematic analysis, the study identifies prevailing trends, key challenges, and reported benefits within organizational communication in the context of change management. Major trends include the adoption of digital communication tools, personalized messaging, strategic utilization of social media, and the incorporation of storytelling techniques. Challenges highlighted encompass resistance to change, message fragmentation, data security concerns, and information overload. The review also underscores significant benefits such as enhanced decision-making processes, improved stakeholder alignment, innovation facilitation, reputation management, and talent retention. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the evolving role of communication as a strategic asset in organizational change processes. The study concludes by emphasizing the necessity of integrated, adaptive, and inclusive communication strategies that not only support change initiatives but also foster organizational resilience and competitiveness in dynamic environments. Together, these findings provide a solid foundation for developing more effective communication practices aligned with the current demands of organizational transformation.
      78
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    Effects of a dual intervention (motor and virtual reality-based cognitive) on cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment: a single-blind, randomized controlled trial
    (2024) ; ;
    Carolina Del-Valle-Soto
    ;
    ;
    Guillermo Palacios-Navarro
    <jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:sec> <jats:title>Background</jats:title> <jats:p>The increase in cases of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) underlines the urgency of finding effective methods to slow its progression. Given the limited effectiveness of current pharmacological options to prevent or treat the early stages of this deterioration, non-pharmacological alternatives are especially relevant.</jats:p> </jats:sec><jats:sec> <jats:title>Objective</jats:title> <jats:p>To assess the effectiveness of a cognitive-motor intervention based on immersive virtual reality (VR) that simulates an activity of daily living (ADL) on cognitive functions and its impact on depression and the ability to perform such activities in patients with MCI.</jats:p> </jats:sec><jats:sec> <jats:title>Methods</jats:title> <jats:p>Thirty-four older adults (men, women) with MCI were randomized to the experimental group (<jats:italic>n</jats:italic> = 17; 75.41 ± 5.76) or control (<jats:italic>n</jats:italic> = 17; 77.35 ± 6.75) group. Both groups received motor training, through aerobic, balance and resistance activities in group. Subsequently, the experimental group received cognitive training based on VR, while the control group received traditional cognitive training. Cognitive functions, depression, and the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) were assessed using the Spanish versions of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-S), the Short Geriatric Depression Scale (SGDS-S), and the of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL-S) before and after 6-week intervention (a total of twelve 40-minutes sessions).</jats:p> </jats:sec><jats:sec> <jats:title>Results</jats:title> <jats:p>Between groups comparison did not reveal significant differences in either cognitive function or geriatric depression. The intragroup effect of cognitive function and geriatric depression was significant in both groups (<jats:italic>p</jats:italic> &lt; 0.001), with large effect sizes. There was no statistically significant improvement in any of the groups when evaluating their performance in ADLs (control, <jats:italic>p</jats:italic> = 0.28; experimental, <jats:italic>p</jats:italic> = 0.46) as expected. The completion rate in the experimental group was higher (82.35%) compared to the control group (70.59%). Likewise, participants in the experimental group reached a higher level of difficulty in the application and needed less time to complete the task at each level.</jats:p> </jats:sec><jats:sec> <jats:title>Conclusions</jats:title> <jats:p>The application of a dual intervention, through motor training prior to a cognitive task based on Immersive VR was shown to be a beneficial non-pharmacological strategy to improve cognitive functions and reduce depression in patients with MCI. Similarly, the control group benefited from such dual intervention with statistically significant improvements.</jats:p> </jats:sec><jats:sec> <jats:title>Trial registration</jats:title> <jats:p>ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06313931; <jats:ext-link xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" ext-link-type="uri" xlink:href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06313931">https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06313931</jats:ext-link>.</jats:p> </jats:sec>
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    Innovative Learning Environments Through Social Media: Evaluation of Their Impact on Secondary Basic Education
    Education has evolved with the integration of information technologies, including the use of social media as innovative tools in educational technology. Although initially conceived for social interaction, platforms such as TikTok, WhatsApp, and Facebook have shown potential to enrich the learning environment and teaching-learning processes. In this context, a four-week didactic intervention was designed and implemented in seventh-year basic education students, focused on reinforcing knowledge in natural sciences through activities on social media. The methodology combined a quantitative and qualitative approach, with the application of surveys and pre- and post-intervention evaluations in three areas: electricity and energy, magnetism, atmosphere and climate. The results showed significant improvements in the categories of magnetism (Z = −3.918, p < 0.001) and atmosphere and climate (Z = −3.324, p = 0.001). However, no statistically significant difference was found in the category of electricity and energy (Z = −1.230, p = 0.219). This indicates that the intervention was more effective in certain areas, suggesting the need to adjust strategies for other topics. The effectiveness of using information technologies in education, particularly social media, to improve academic performance in specific areas is highlighted, proposing their potential as complementary teaching tools and the need to continue researching their application in various educational disciplines
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