Maskana

The Project Method in Early Childhood Education and its scientific production: a systematic review

2025-01-23T20:17:23+00:00

The Project-Based Learning (PBL) method has emerged as a key pedagogical strategy in Early Childhood Education. This article conducts a systematic review of 31 selected studies to analyse the trajectory and current state of PBL research in Spain, published between 2020 and 2024. Using the PRISMA methodology, relevant studies were identified, selected, and synthesized from databases such as ERIC, Google Scholar, Dialnet, Redalyc, and Scielo. The findings reveal a sustained increase in the implementation of PBL in Early Childhood Education, highlighting its positive impact on the development of key competencies such as creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork. Furthermore, a diverse range of interdisciplinary and technological approaches to PBL are observed, underscoring its potential to enhance educational practices in varied contexts and settings.

Editorial: Expectations and Acknowledgments

2025-06-30T21:21:09+00:00

Dating Violence and the use of Coping Strategies in Adolescents from Rural Institutions in Cuenca, 2022-2024

2024-11-22T17:01:51+00:00

Adolescent romantic relationships often involve power struggles where coping strategies play a significant role. This study aimed to determine the presence of dating violence and coping strategies among adolescents from rural institutions in the Cuenca canton. The instruments used were the Coping Strategies Inventory (CSI) and the Violence in Dating Relationships Questionnaire (CUVINO). A total of 133 students aged 12 to 18 participated, 52 of whom were in a romantic relationship. The findings revealed that 92.3% of participants had experienced violence, with 50% reporting psychological violence. Additionally, self-criticism and problem-solving were slightly positively correlated with coercion. Age was also associated with wishful thinking and problem avoidance. The study concluded that psychological violence, in its various dimensions, is related to certain coping strategies.

Knowledge and practices regarding the use of medicinal plants during pregnancy in Costa Rica

2025-01-06T20:06:56+00:00

This study aims to identify the knowledge and practices regarding the use of medicinal plants and analyze how gender and educational level influence such knowledge and practices during pregnancy in Costa Rica, addressing research gaps. A total of 144 individuals aged 20 to 49 were surveyed. 59% of respondents were aware of the risks associated with the use of medicinal plants during pregnancy, with women showing greater knowledge than men. A higher educational level was associated with greater concern about risks such as abortion and fetal malformations. The most commonly used plants were Matricaria chamomilla, Ruta graveolens, Satureja viminea, and Zingiber officinale, with leaves being the most frequently used part and infusions the most common preparation method. These plants were primarily used to treat nausea and gastrointestinal issues. The study concluded that further research is needed to guide healthcare professionals and the public on the safe use of medicinal plants during pregnancy in Costa Rica.

Pedagogical practices of music education with deaf students in southern of Chile

2025-01-03T23:26:34+00:00

Music encompasses various dimensions of human life and has a significant impact on all students and is part of the national curriculum. The objective is to reveal the pedagogical practices used by music teachers to teach deaf students in educational institutions in four cities in southern Chile. The instrument applied was a semi-structured interview with 6 music education teachers. The results show a central category called pedagogical practices in music education, with three subcategories: methods for teaching music education, music teaching strategies and material resources. The conclusions highlight that the teaching experience to give an educational response is based on the acquired experiences and on their personal interest, likewise, the use of a variety of resources and multisensory strategies is valued, highlighting the willingness to innovate and generate new teaching strategies.

The method Art Workshop of Discussion to investigate the experience of artist-teacher in the postcualitative age

2025-01-23T21:41:13+00:00

This article introduces the Art Workshop of Discussion (AWD) as a post- qualitative method to explore the subjectivities and identities of artist- teachers in Los Lagos Region, Chile. The method integrates arts-based research strategies, specifically social cartography, and was implemented in two sessions. The first session employed discussion groups to establish networks and gather discursive inputs. The second focused on social cartography, enabling participants to reflect on and creatively express their artistic-teaching trajectories. Results emphasize how AWD fosters collective dialogue and artistic introspection, offering new ways to understand teaching and artistic practices in specific social and cultural contexts. The conclusions highlight AWD's transformative potential to promote critical reflection, peer connection, and the generation of collective knowledge through artistic action.

Effect of incorporating an inert support for the production of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) from cocoa bean shells by fermentation

2024-11-29T18:02:16+00:00

El poli(3-hidroxibutirato) (PHB) puede emplearse como sustituto de los plásticos convencionales no biodegradables. En un contexto de economía circular, resulta de gran interés el desarrollo de tecnologías fermentativas para producir estos bioplásticos a partir de sustratos como la cascarilla de cacao (CBS). Este trabajo evaluó el efecto de la presencia de un soporte sólido inerte en la producción de PHB utilizando Bacillus firmus. Se emplearon hidrolizados de CBS como sustrato para tres fermentaciones diferentes: (i) sin sólidos), (ii) con estropajo de polyester (PSS) y (iii) con polvo de basalto (BP). Los mejores resultados se obtuvieron en las fermentaciones en las que se añadió un soporte sólido, con rendimientos en torno a 36 mg de PHB/g CBS, valor aproximadamente 10 veces mayor que el obtenido sin sólidos. Estos resultados indican que la presencia de sólidos resulta esencial en el metabolismo de los microorganismos para la producción de PHB a partir de CBS.

The History of Open-World Video Games: A Timeline from 1976 to 2023

2025-02-18T19:56:10+00:00

This article analyzes the evolution of open-world video games from their origins to 2023, establishing a chronology that contextualizes their development in relation to technological advancements and industry trends. By examining the release pace, the study explores the progression of the open-world model and its consolidation across different console generations. A comparative approach is employed, linking the evolution of these games to hardware capabilities. Verification criteria were applied through the analysis of specialized sources and player discussions to ensure the coherence of the selected titles. The results indicate that the expansion of open-world games has been strongly tied to platform power, although it also reflects shifts in industry preferences. The recent decline in their release frequency suggests a potential transition in their design and consumption.

The Influence of Internalizing Problems on Social Media Addiction in Young Adults: An Empirical Study

2025-02-24T14:52:54+00:00

As social media use continues to expand, its potential effects on mental health have become a growing concern, especially for young adults who are among the most active users. This study explores the relationship between internalizing problems—anxiety, depression, and stress—and social media addiction among young adults. A total of 170 participants (aged 18–22 years) completed self-report measures for anxiety, depression, stress and social media addiction. Results indicated a significant relationship between internalizing problems and social media addiction. Participants with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress were significantly associated with greater social media addiction. Conversely, those with minimal or no internalizing symptoms had the lowest addiction scores, indicating a direct link between psychological distress and social media addiction.

Effective measures to adapt hotels to future health crises

2025-03-21T15:28:26+00:00

The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected the tourism accommodation sector, reducing mobility and closing international borders. Hotels have adapted by implementing sanitary measures to meet mandated guidelines, addressing growing health security concerns. This study, based on Stakeholder Theory, analyzes differences in perceptions of COVID-19 measures between 521 tourists and 14 hotel managers in Córdoba, Spain. Using a contrast of means and a Mann-Whitney test, it identifies significant disparities in the importance assigned to these measures, particularly when both groups view them as less critical. There is consensus on the value of cleanliness protocols, but technology-related measures reveal contrasting opinions. These findings provide practical insights for industry professionals guiding prioritization of investments that enhance preparedness for future pandemics, enabling hotels to better align with customer expectations and foster trust during crises.

Needle removal improves the survival of Oreocallis grandiflora in Pinus plantations in southern Ecuador

2025-04-04T16:19:35+00:00

Pine plantations have negatively impacted biodiversity and the establishment of native flora in Ecuador. We evaluated whether needle removal facilitates the establishment of Oreocallis grandiflora in a plantation in the southern part of the country; we conducted direct seeding in plots with and without needles. Our results showed that removal had no statistically significant effect on emergence (p > 0.05), but it did affect survival (p < 0.0001). After 22 weeks, we recorded >86% survival in plots without needles and 7% in those with needles. Two years later, we observed significant growth, although survival was 82% and 5%, respectively. We conclude that direct seeding is viable, but recommend monthly needle removal during the first few months to ensure successful establishment.

Gastronomic uses of forgotten foods such as chachafruto and medlar

2025-03-18T17:21:47+00:00

Forgotten foods are species relegated from the gastronomic scene as a consequence of a series of economic, historical and cultural changes that have caused them to be undervalued. The objective of this research was to investigate the uses of the Chachafruto (Erythrina edulis) and the Medlar (Manilkara zapota).

The research was divided into phases: 1. Interviews in market squares in the city of Bogotá seeking to establish the level of knowledge and availability; 2. Physical and bromatological analyses. 3. Application of recipe transformation and standardization techniques. 4. Sensory panel.

The results obtained highlight the lack of knowledge of the two species and low availability. Products such as wrappers, chancacas, fritters, pasta, cookies, pickles were generated; which presented a high level of acceptance, evidencing a preference for the consumption of sweet preparations made from Níspero. In conclusion, both species have a high potential to be transformed

Media Consumption and Political Orientation. A Study on the 2023 Spanish Elections

2025-03-11T16:25:24+00:00

This study examines the bidirectional relationship between media consumption and ideological orientation in the context of Spain's 2023 General Elections. Using a survey with 1,014 valid responses, the research explores how political preferences influence media selection and, conversely, how media consumption shapes ideological perspectives. It also assesses voters' willingness to diversify their information sources, considering demographic variables such as age and gender.

The findings indicate that while most respondents prefer media aligned with their ideology, younger audiences tend to consult a wider range of sources. Only 17.7% reported having active subscriptions to paid press, with a preference for outlets perceived as neutral. Additionally, 5.9% actively sought media with opposing ideologies.

The study concludes that confirmation bias remains dominant, although generational and gender differences influence media consumption patterns.

Differences in the use of learning strategies in university education students

2025-04-07T16:42:50+00:00

Given that university students may have different ways of organizing their learning, the use of learning strategies was investigated among students from three education programs at the University of Cuenca. A quantitative approach was used, applying the CEVEAPEU questionnaire to evaluate 25 learning strategies to a sample of 305 university students. The differences in strategy use were analyzed based on: programs, the year of study, and the students' gender. Significant differences were found in the use of 14 learning strategies across the three programs investigated; men used more motivational and affective strategies, while women were better at managing learning skills; and motivational strategies and strategies that favor rote learning were more prevalent in the first year of studies. It is important to understand how students employ learning strategies because this facilitates the design of educational strategies appropriate to the context of the groups studied.

Previous training and current legislation: Incidence in the elaboration of Didactic Units

2025-03-12T14:06:05+00:00

The didactic unit manifests the programmatic structure of the teacher for the implementation of the teaching-learning process. Despite its relevance, it is a genre with little research on the difficulties of its production. Thus, through the application of a taxonomic tool of analysis, this study aims to analyze the variation of the difficulties and omissions presented by students of the Master's Degree in Teacher Training in the production of this genre, taking as variables the educational legislation (LOMCE and LOMLOE) and the previous training of the students. For this purpose, 96 didactic units produced by Master's students during three academic years (2020-2021 to 2022-2023) are analyzed. The legislative variable shows variations (lower difficulty index with LOMLOE than with LOMCE) and, likewise, so does the previous training (lower difficulty in Humanities compared to areas such as Psychology, Science or Mathematics). In conclusion, these two variables have implications that must be addressed from the didactic point of view within the teaching-learning process of the programmatic action.

The sgraffito that decorates the Baroque chapel of Santa Bárbara in the church of San Juan del Hospital de Valencia

2025-03-19T17:26:26+00:00

This study focuses on the decorative technique of sgraffito in the Baroque architecture of the Chapel of Santa Bárbara in the Church of San Juan del Hospital in Valencia. The research aims to analyze the technical and stylistic characteristics of the sgraffito patterns, as well as their symbolic and aesthetic significance within the Baroque context. The analysis revealed the use of common geometric and vegetal motifs, such as circles, rhombuses, and stylized flowers, often seen in other religious buildings of the time. These patterns align with the artistic trends of the late 17th century, especially in the second half, when Baroque decoration became more standardized and symbolic. The results suggest that the sgraffito in the Chapel of Santa Bárbara is a significant example of the artistic and ideological synthesis of the Baroque period in Valencia.

Suicidal risk screening scale in adolescents: Content validity evidence

2025-04-22T22:01:11+00:00

Suicide is considered a serious and preventable public health problem. Psychometric evaluation using validated suicide risk tools allows for more effective prevention of suicidal behaviors. This study aims to assess the content validity of a set of items measuring key risk factors for self-harming behaviors (both suicidal and non-suicidal) in adolescents. Content validity will be evaluated through clarity, representativeness, and relevance indicators. An instrument was designed by reformulating the content of a selection of 413 items grouped into ten dimensions. The participants were clinical psychology professionals selected by convenience. The Osterlind Index was then used to analyze the representativeness and relevance of the data. Frequency analyses were carried out to assess clarity. The results show adequate values of representativeness, clarity, and relevance for each of the selected items.

Flipped learning and lifelong learning: synergies for 21st century education

2025-04-23T16:59:41+00:00

This study explored the perceptions of Ecuadorian university students regarding the Flipped Learning (FL) model in a Research Methodology course, employing a mixed-methods approach (questionnaire, N = 18; focus group, N = 7). The findings revealed a generally positive evaluation of FL, with particular emphasis on the flexibility and usefulness of videos to reinforce learning. However, challenges were also identified, including limited student engagement and difficulties in formulating questions while watching the videos. Video duration and quality emerged as critical factors influencing the learning experience. The study concludes that FL can be effective in this context, provided it is carefully planned with attention to content selection and strategies that promote interaction. Future research should examine the long-term impact of FL, considering variables such as gender and digital competence, and recognizing the convergence of FL with lifelong learning as a comprehensive educational paradigm.

Violence, subjects and education. A study with actors from secondary schools in Ecuador

2025-04-29T20:04:24+00:00

The article aims to describe the characteristics of expressions of violence in and from educational institutions in Quito and Esmeraldas, Ecuador. To do so, a multiple-base methodology was designed that involved the production of data through qualitative techniques, such as participant observation in the development of workshops with teachers and students, semi-structured interviews, as well as the analysis of institutional documents from 2016 to 2021. The results showed that the actors experience situations of violence in various scenarios and levels ranging from normative principles (laws, decrees, norms, political decisions) referring to educational management to the practices of the subjects in daily life inside and outside the institutions. It is concluded that expressions of violence can be characterized at least on three scales that involve visibility-concealment, lesser and greater objectification and speed of transition-lags in this action regime (violence).

Life Cycle Assessment of material used in social housing in Ecuador

2025-05-19T19:57:40+00:00

This article aims to evaluate the sustainability of construction materials in Ecuador, whose use accounts for 41.1% of the country’s environmental impact, focusing on social housing projects in the provinces of Azuay and Cañar. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology was applied to quantify the environmental impacts of concrete and steel from raw material extraction to end-of-life, using the OpenLCA software. Two scenarios were compared: one based on conventional practices and another incorporating sustainable strategies, such as the use of recycled materials and steel reuse. The results show that the extraction and production stages are the most impactful, with cement and steel being the main contributors due to their high energy consumption. It is concluded that the incorporation of recycled materials and the implementation of circular economy strategies can significantly reduce environmental impacts, especially in the categories of climate change and resource depletion, reinforcing the need for sustainable approaches in social housing construction.

Secondary Education and Creativity in Industrial Design: Reflections of Inequity

2025-04-27T21:39:53+00:00

This article examines the relationship between secondary education and project-based creativity among Industrial Design students in Chile. Based on a hypothesis of inequity, the study explores whether educational trajectories influence the development of creative personality upon university entry. The Torrance Test of Creative Thinking (TTCT) and a socio-demographic survey were administered to 71 students (51 from design programs, 20 from other disciplines). ANOVA and Chi-square tests were used to explore associations between creativity and variables such as school type, parental education level, cultural exposure, and academic integration difficulties. The results revealed significant correlations between creativity and structural background factors, particularly school type and educational capital. A gap was also identified between students’ creative self-perception and their studio performance. The findings underscore the need for inclusive curricular design that acknowledges educational diversity. The study concludes that creativity should be understood as a situated expression, shaped by social conditions that demand ethical consideration in design pedagogy.