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TIC for Fostering Critical Thinking and Learning Mathematics

2024 , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Laura Concha-Hidalgo , Ocaña-Chiluisa, José

The purpose of the research was to design strategies that allow the development of critical thinking for the learning of mathematics in upper elementary school students. The same is of a quasi-experimental type that contemplates a methodology based on a quantitative approach, which allowed after the application of the proposal for four weeks, to analyze and explain the phenomenon under study through the application of objective tests of 10 items in a pretest and a posttest, applied to 156 tenth grade students of an educational unit in Ecuador, for the experiment were divided into two groups: 78 students in the control group and 78 students in the experimental group, which was subjected to an innovative proposal and traditional education. The post evaluation results of the scores obtained from the control group showed an overall average of 4.65 showing the lack of skills and cognitive tools to develop critical thinking. While, the experimental group reached an average of 7.63 after the implementation of the proposal, observing a significant improvement in their skills and qualities in the development of critical thinking, evolving positively with the criteria applied within the didactic guide. Finally, to test the hypothesis, the Anova statistical test was used, which concluded a direct relationship between the development of critical thinking and the learning of mathematics.

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Motivations, Quality, and Loyalty: Keys to Sustainable Adventure Tourism in Natural Destinations

2025 , Miguel Orden-Mejía , Mauricio Carvache-Franco , Olenka Palomino , Orly Carvache-Franco , Lidia Minchenkova , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Aleksandra Minchenkova , Wilmer Carvache-Franco

This study examines the key factors that influence tourists’ perceptions of destination quality and loyalty in the context of adventure tourism in Santa Elena, Ecuador, an emerging destination in Latin America. A quantitative approach was used, with data collected through an online questionnaire completed by 318 participants. Structural equation modeling was conducted using SmartPLS 4 to examine the relationships between motivational constructs (intellectual curiosity, health assurance, stress relief, physical condition, and social connection), perceived destination quality, and loyalty. The findings reveal that health assurance (β = 0.395, p < 0.001), stress relief (β = 0.417, p < 0.001), and intellectual curiosity (β = 0.143, p = 0.010) significantly influence perceived destination quality, while social connection and physical condition did not show significant effects. Moreover, perceived destination quality strongly predicts tourist loyalty (β = 0.634, p < 0.001). The model explains 63.5% of the variance in destination quality and 48.1% of that in loyalty. These results highlight the importance of post-pandemic health concerns, emotional well-being, and intellectual engagement as drivers of satisfaction and loyalty in adventure tourism. While existing research has largely focused on motivations and quality perceptions in adventure tourism within developed regions, studies in post-pandemic settings across Latin America—especially using validated structural models—remain scarce. This study also contributes to filling a gap in the literature by analyzing post-pandemic tourist behavior in Latin America, an underexplored context in existing research on sustainable and adventure tourism. The findings offer theoretical contributions to the field of adventure tourism and practical recommendations for destination managers seeking to enhance their competitiveness and visitor retention in the post-pandemic context.

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Validation of a teaching model instrument for university education in Ecuador through an artificial intelligence algorithm

2025 , Jenniffer Sobeida Moreira-Choez , Tibisay Milene Lamus de Rodríguez , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Ángel Ramón Sabando-García , María Belén Reinoso-Ávalos , Cynthia Michel Olguín-Martínez , Daniel Omar Nieves-Lizárraga , Julieta Elizabeth Salazar-Echeagaray

Introduction: In the context of university education in Ecuador, the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the assessment and adaptation of teaching models marks significant progress toward enhancing educational quality. The integration of AI into pedagogical processes is increasingly recognized as a strategic component for fostering innovation and improving instructional outcomes in higher education. Methods: This study focused on the validation of an AI-based instrument, specifically designed for the evaluation and adaptation of pedagogical strategies in the Ecuadorian university environment. A quantitative methodology was adopted, employing multivariate statistical analyses and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the internal consistency, construct validity, and interrelations among various didactic dimensions. The instrument was applied to a statistically representative sample of university professors across both undergraduate and graduate levels. Results: The statistical analysis demonstrated high levels of internal consistency and discriminative validity among the constructs representing different teaching models. The confirmatory factor analysis and SEM procedures verified the adequacy of the theoretical structure and the robustness of the proposed measurement model. Coefficients obtained for reliability and model fit met or exceeded established thresholds in educational research. Discussion: The findings confirm the empirical soundness of the AI-based instrument and support the feasibility of using such tools to assess and enhance teaching models in higher education. These results underscore the importance of adopting innovative, data-driven methodologies that respond to the demands of contemporary educational environments. Furthermore, the use of AI in the validation process enables a more precise interpretation of educational information, reinforcing the relevance of AI-supported models in optimizing teaching and learning processes.

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Teaching Tools Based on Artificial Intelligence to Strengthen English Language Skills

2024 , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Elizabeth Morales-Urrutia , Ximena Tapia

The use of tools based on artificial intelligence is taking an important role every day in the teaching and learning processes, which is why this study promotes the use of a repository of tools based on artificial intelligence to strengthen language skills. English seeking to help students develop the four skills necessary for learning English (listening, speaking, writing and reading). For the investigative process, a mixed methodology was used, a pretest was applied, obtaining an average value of 6.3 and once the repository was used with practical activities supported by artificial intelligence tools, a post test was applied with an average rating of 9, demonstrating a very notable improvement which evidenced the improvement of language skills. It is concluded that the proposed activities based on artificial intelligence tools motivated and stimulated students, improving their academic performance in learning the English language.

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The Psychometric Properties of the ACIE Test for the Identification of High Intellectual Abilities

2024 , Xavier Andrade – Torres , Alba Yépez- Moreno , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Gonzalo Remache – Bunci , Soraya Toro – Santacruz

High intellectual abilities reflect outstanding qualitative and quantitative performance. It involves aptitudes, talents, and skills that surpass common standards. The main objective was the construction and validation of the High Intellectual Abilities Execution Test (ACIE). The methodological process involved administering the test structured with 117 items distributed across 5 dimensions. The pilot study was conducted with 164 students from fourth to seventh grade in four schools in the capital of Ecuador. Psychometric qualities such as reliability, validity, difficulty, discrimination power, and differential analysis were identified, providing the technical conditions for the application and detection of high abilities.

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Analysis of the determinant factors in university dropout: a case study of Ecuador

2024 , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda

University dropout is a social issue that directly impacts both families and the state, characterized by disparities in enrollment and graduation based on various factors. The primary objective of this study was to analyze the determinants of university dropout supported by multifactorial analysis at a private university in Ecuador. This research was conducted within a post-positivist paradigm with a quantitative approach, utilizing digitized statistical records of students and results from a personalized survey sent to dropouts via email. Out of a total of 1,078 students admitted and/or enrolled over 5 years, a sample was analyzed from the 484 who dropped out. Student dropout is associated with personal, familial, economic, academic, and institutional factors, contributing to school abandonment with an estimated probability of 44.90%. In conclusion, a higher dropout rate was observed among male students from public institutions who did not complete the first cycle, despite having a higher number of enrollments at the university. Finally, the Multilevel Logistic Regression model can predict with 76.44% accuracy the behavior of the independent variables affecting school dropout.

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Work Environment and its Influence on Organizational Commitment: A Study in the Financial Sector

2025 , España Rivadeneyra, Martina , Taruchaín Pozo, Fernando , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Diego Escobar-Bermudes

This study examines the relationship between work climate and organizational commitment within a financial institution using a cross-sectional quantitative approach. A total of 200 administrative staff members participated, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was conducted using validated instruments: the CL-SPC Work Climate Scale and the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire, ensuring robust reliability and validity. Results indicate that specific dimensions of the work climate, such as autonomy, equity, and transparency, are significantly associated with employee engagement and organizational loyalty. Notably, gender differences were observed, with women reporting higher levels of affective commitment compared to men. This research contributes to the literature by addressing these demographic disparities and proposing actionable interventions tailored to enhance workplace dynamics in the financial sector. Practical recommendations emphasize strategies to improve autonomy and transparency while fostering equity to strengthen organizational commitment. These findings provide valuable insights for managers and decision-makers aiming to create inclusive and supportive work environments.

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Learning Service: Transforming Secondary Education

2024 , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Erika Urgilez , Marco Pérez-Narváez , Diego Escobar-Bermudes

This study investigates the impact of Learning Service on the teaching-learning process and the academic development of second-year high school students at the Ecuadorian Dutch Educational Unit during the academic year 2023-2024. A quantitative and descriptive approach was employed, using surveys and academic performance evaluations. The results show a significant improvement in students' cognitive and psychosocial development, supported by a positive perception of teachers regarding the effectiveness of Learning Service. The conclusions highlight the importance of integrating innovative educational strategies that promote meaningful learning and students' social engagement. Increased implementation of Learning Service in the school curriculum is recommended to strengthen students' social and cognitive skills

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Subjective Well-Being and Corruption in Latin America

2024 , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Ximena Morales-Urrutia , Rodrigo Villegas

This study explores the impact of corruption on subjective well-being in Latin American countries, focusing on Chile, Ecuador, Argentina, Uruguay, Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru during the period 2017-2021. The research examines how perceptions of corruption affect key indicators such as education, health, income, and life satisfaction. Utilizing secondary data from the World Values Survey, a descriptive and explanatory methodology was employed, incorporating statistical analysis and ordinal logistic regression models. Findings reveal a complex relationship between corruption and subjective well-being, indicating that higher levels of education are associated with increased awareness of corruption, while economic stability, political trust, and life satisfaction show varied associations with perceived corruption. The study highlights regional differences and contextual factors influencing these dynamics, providing insights into the multifaceted effects of corruption on human development and overall well-being in Latin American populations.

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Gamification for psychomotor development: an experience with Genially in pre-school education

2024 , Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly Fernanda , Acuña Mayorga, José Miguel , Viviana Lourdes Martinez

Psychomotor skills in early childhood are notably affected due to the pandemic, which is why the objective of the research was to implement gamified strategies in Genially that seek to improve psychomotor development in early education, the research had a mixed and field approach, with a proposal in which 21 students participated for 4 weeks; before the application of the proposal and after it, tests were applied, where the results obtained fulfilled the expectations of improvement in the teaching process.