Research and community engagement: a new challenge for university teaching
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51247/pdlc.v7iEspecial1.995Keywords:
research competencies; community engagement; higher education; knowledge transferAbstract
The integration of research and community engagement has become one of the major challenges facing contemporary higher education, requiring university faculty to develop research competencies capable of generating scientific knowledge with social impact. The aim of this study was to analyze the research competencies of university professors involved in community engagement projects at the Universidad Nacional de Loja, identifying the knowledge, skills, and practices that guide the design, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination of research outcomes. The study adopted a qualitative approach with a descriptive and interpretative design. Eight faculty members were selected through purposive sampling and participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis through a systematic process of coding and interpretation. The findings revealed three core research competencies: scientific knowledge generation as the foundation for identifying social problems and producing evidence; community engagement project management through planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation; and knowledge transfer and dissemination through scientific publications, training activities, innovation, and technical assistance. Furthermore, an integrative model was identified that links research, community engagement, and social impact through a continuous feedback process. The study concludes that research competencies are a strategic component for strengthening the university's third mission by promoting socially relevant knowledge production, innovation, and social transformation from a perspective of university social responsibility.
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