Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(2), 28-34, 2024
https://doi.org/10.62574/rmpi.v4i2.134
28
Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
La alfabetización en investigación como necesidad educativa actual en
educación superior
Guadalupe Dolores Salazar-Cedeño
guadalupe.salazarc@ug.edu.ec
Universidad de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Guayas, Ecuador
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7991-8381
Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
mainer.alcivaro@ug.edu.ec
Universidad de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Guayas, Ecuador
http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7960-5333
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
zila.estevesf@ug.edu.ec
Universidad de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Guayas, Ecuador
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2283-5370
ABSTRACT
The aim is to analyse the importance of research literacy as a current educational need in
higher education. This study was based on a descriptive documentary methodology with a
bibliographic design. The inclusion criteria were oriented towards key terms such as "research",
"literacy" and "educational curriculum". The population analysed consisted of 15 articles
selected from various fields of knowledge. Research literacy in higher education is essential for
improving the quality of education. It not only enables students to acquire a higher level of
knowledge, but also promotes skills such as independent thinking, problem solving and effective
communication.
Descriptors: research; fundamental research; interdisciplinary research. (Source: UNESCO
Thesaurus).
RESUMEN
Se tiene por objetivo analizar la importancia de la alfabetización en investigación como
necesidad educativa actual en educación superior. Este estudio se fundamentó desde la
metodología descriptiva documental con diseño bibliográfico. Los criterios de inclusión se
orientaron hacia términos clave como "investigación", "alfabetización" y "currículo educativo".
La población analizada consistió en 15 artículos seleccionados de diversas áreas del
conocimiento. La alfabetización en investigación en la educación superior es esencial para
mejorar la calidad de la educación. No solo permite a los estudiantes adquirir un mayor nivel de
conocimiento, sino que también promueve habilidades como el pensamiento independiente, la
resolución de problemas y la comunicación efectiva.
Descriptores: investigación; investigación básica; investigación interdisciplinaria. (Fuente:
Tesauro UNESCO).
Received: 24/02/2024. Revised: 28/02/2024. Approved: 27/03/2024. Published: 01/04/2024.
Research articles section
Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(1), 28-34, 2024
La alfabetización en investigación como necesidad educativa actual en educación superior
Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
Guadalupe Dolores Salazar-Cedeño
Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
29
INTRODUCTION
Research literacy in higher education faces a number of challenges and barriers that greatly
hinder its full and proper development. Particularly notable among these is the lack of
specialised teacher training in this crucial area. It is worrying to note that many teachers lack the
necessary preparation to teach students the most relevant and current research skills and
scientific methods. This significantly limits teachers' ability to effectively guide students in the
research process, thus hindering their learning and the acquisition of key competences for their
future careers. In addition to the challenges mentioned above, there are other key issues that
need to be addressed to promote strong and equitable research literacy in higher education
(Vega-Lebrún et al. 2021).
One of these is the need to provide adequate resources and access to information. Currently,
many students face limitations in terms of relevant, up-to-date and quality data sources. This
makes it difficult for them to conduct rigorous and reliable research and to make the most of
learning opportunities in this vital area. To overcome this barrier, it is imperative to seek
alternatives that facilitate students' access to these sources of information and data, as well as
to promote strategies that enable them to develop their critical and analytical skills through
research. Another important challenge facing research literacy in higher education is resistance
to change in the educational curriculum (Amador-Fierros et al. 2021).
Some teachers may be reluctant to modify their traditional teaching methods and instead adopt
more research-focused approaches. This reluctance may stem from a variety of reasons, such
as lack of awareness of the benefits of research literacy, lack of time for adequate training in
this area, or simply comfort and familiarity with traditional teaching methods. However, it is
essential to promote the need to adapt to new educational paradigms, emphasising the
importance of research as a central axis of student learning and development (Morales-Salas &
Rodríguez-Pavón, 2022).
In addition to addressing the challenges mentioned above, it is also crucial to address socio-
economic inequalities in access to research opportunities. It is evident that students from more
disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds may face great difficulties in accessing the
necessary resources, equipment and research experiences. As a result, their opportunities to
develop research skills and participate in scientific projects are considerably limited. This has a
direct impact on their comprehensive education and future possibilities (Suckel-Gajardo &
Chiang-Salgado, 2021). It is essential to implement policies and programmes to reduce these
inequalities, so that all students have the same possibilities to develop their abilities and reach
their full potential. Faced with this reality, it is necessary for educational institutions, teachers,
governments and society as a whole to take concrete steps to overcome these challenges and
barriers. It is necessary to promote the training and constant updating of teachers in the field of
research, as well as to ensure equitable access to relevant resources and sources of
information (Martínez et al. 2020).
In addition, a paradigm shift in the educational curriculum must be promoted, encouraging
pedagogical approaches that foster research and the active participation of students in scientific
projects. Finally, it is essential to implement policies and programmes to reduce socio-economic
inequalities in access to research opportunities, so that all students have the same possibilities
to develop their skills and reach their full potential. Only through collective commitment and
concrete actions can we overcome these challenges and ensure strong and equitable research
literacy in higher education (Ianni-Gómez, 2023), (Ianni-Gómez, 2023b), (Esteves-Fajardo,
2022).
Based on the above, the aim is to analyse the importance of research literacy as a current
educational need in higher education.
METHOD
This study was based on a descriptive documentary methodology with a bibliographic design.
The inclusion criteria were oriented towards key terms such as "research", "literacy" and
Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(1), 28-34, 2024
La alfabetización en investigación como necesidad educativa actual en educación superior
Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
Guadalupe Dolores Salazar-Cedeño
Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
30
"educational curriculum". The population analysed consisted of 15 articles selected from various
areas of knowledge.
The research techniques applied comprised an exhaustive literature review supported by
searches in recognised academic databases such as Scopus, Scielo, Google Scholar, Dialnet
and Redalyc, thus ensuring the timeliness and quality of the information collected, limiting the
analysis to data from the last 5 years.
In this study, the analytical-synthetic method was used as the analytical approach. This method
involved breaking down the object of study into parts in order to examine and understand its
individual components (analysis), and then integrating this information to obtain an overall
understanding of the phenomenon (synthesis).
In the analytical phase, relevant information was extracted from the existing literature on literacy
in research. The different documentary aspects related to the benefits and challenges
associated with this practice were broken down and examined. Subsequently, in the synthesis
phase, the findings obtained during the analysis were consolidated and summarised. This
synthesis made it possible to present the information gathered in the article in a coherent and
structured way, providing a comprehensive and comprehensible overview of the results
obtained in relation to research literacy.
RESULTS
Based on the material examined, the research findings are presented:
Strategies for promoting research literacy.
Research literacy can be promoted through various strategies that contribute to the
development of research skills in higher education students. One such strategy is the integration
of research into the curriculum, which involves the inclusion of research activities in the various
subjects and programmes of study. This inclusion will allow students to have the opportunity to
develop the skills of searching, analysing and generating knowledge from the very beginning of
their academic training, which will open the doors to a world full of possibilities and discoveries.
Collaboration between teachers and students should be encouraged, promoting the active
participation of students in research projects and stimulating the exchange of ideas and
knowledge. This type of collaboration will allow students to learn from experts in the field and
benefit from their experience and knowledge. They will also be able to work in teams and
develop communication and teamwork skills, which will be useful in their professional life.
Another important strategy is the use of information and communication technologies in
research. These digital tools and new technologies allow quick and easy access to resources,
facilitating the search for information and the dissemination of results. They also promote
collaboration and communication between researchers from different parts of the world, which
enriches research projects and contributes to the creation of international networks and
partnerships.
The establishment of research mentoring programmes provides students with the opportunity to
be supported and guided by experienced researchers. Mentors can provide guidance and
advice on how to approach a research project, how to analyse the data obtained and how to
interpret the results. In addition, they can share their experiences and teach students best
practices in the field of research. This mentoring is essential for the growth and development of
students as researchers.
Importantly, the promotion of research literacy not only benefits students, but also has a positive
impact on society at large. The promotion of research contributes to the generation of new
knowledge, the development of innovative solutions and the improvement of people's quality of
life. It is therefore essential that educational institutions and governments promote and support
research literacy as a key tool for the progress and growth of societies. Only through research
Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(1), 28-34, 2024
La alfabetización en investigación como necesidad educativa actual en educación superior
Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
Guadalupe Dolores Salazar-Cedeño
Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
31
and knowledge will we be able to find answers to the great challenges we face as a society (de-
Camilloni, 2022), (González-Estrada, 2021).
Impact of research literacy in higher education
Research literacy in higher education has a significant impact in several respects. Firstly, it
contributes strongly to improving the quality of education by providing students with the
necessary skills to conduct research in a rigorous and effective manner. This enables them not
only to develop highly insightful critical thinking, but also to enhance their analytical skills and a
deeper and more holistic understanding of the concepts and theories in their field of study. In
addition, research literacy in higher education also has the effect of producing highly competent
and committed professionals by equipping them with the necessary skills to solve complex
problems and apply the extensive knowledge acquired in their professional practice.
This comprehensive preparation results in professionals who are stronger, better prepared and
extremely capable of facing the challenges and demands of a constantly evolving work
environment, marked by exigency and constant innovation. Last but not least, research literacy
in higher education also contributes greatly to the advancement of scientific knowledge by
generating ground-breaking new ideas, unparalleled discoveries and ground-breaking
innovations through research conducted by highly qualified students and exceptional teachers.
This broadens the horizon of knowledge, challenging established boundaries and opening the
way to a greater understanding of the world around us.
In this way, higher education becomes not only an exponential engine for scientific progress
and the evolution of knowledge, but also a privileged platform for the development of new areas
of knowledge that are constantly growing and changing, enriching not only academia and
science, but also society as a whole. The impact of research literacy in higher education
transcends the boundaries of the classroom and extends to all spheres of life, enabling holistic
and sustainable development. The constant pursuit of excellence and a passion for knowledge
are the pillars of research literacy in higher education, and its impact will endure over time,
leaving a deep and lasting mark on the world (Sánchez-Emeterio & Fernández-Cézar, 2022),
(Acosta et al 2021).
Training more competent professionals
Research literacy in higher education plays a crucial and fundamental role in the formation of
highly competent and skilled professionals in their field of study. Through active and effective
participation in various research activities, students acquire the necessary and essential skills to
conduct thorough critical analyses, evaluate and carefully examine the evidence gathered, and
make sound and informed decisions that positively impact their area of specialisation.
These acquired skills are especially valuable and beneficial in professional environments, where
complex challenges are presented and innovative solutions are required. By developing and
strengthening their research competences, students become more versatile, adaptable, creative
and able to deal effectively and efficiently with new scenarios and challenges in today's
constantly changing and evolving workplace.
Broadening research competences not only enhances students' ability to deal with complex
situations and solve problems, but also fosters their capacity to generate knowledge and
actively contribute to the advancement and progress of their discipline. By acquiring a deeper
and broader perspective of their field of study, students become highly skilled professionals
prepared to face the challenges and demands of the constantly evolving world of work. In
conclusion, research literacy in higher education is not only essential for the comprehensive
training of students, but also plays a fundamental role in the development of competent, ethical
professionals with the necessary skills to contribute significantly to the advancement and
improvement of their discipline (Aldana-Zavala, 2019).
Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(1), 28-34, 2024
La alfabetización en investigación como necesidad educativa actual en educación superior
Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
Guadalupe Dolores Salazar-Cedeño
Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
32
Contribution to the advancement of scientific knowledge
Research literacy in higher education has a significant and lasting impact on the advancement
of scientific knowledge worldwide. Through the meticulous research and hard work of students
and teachers, it not only generates new ideas, discoveries and contributions to diverse areas of
study, but also strengthens existing knowledge and pushes the boundaries of human thinking.
The rigorous and methodical approach used in research encourages the verification and
validation of existing knowledge, providing a solid foundation for future research and discovery.
It is not only about collecting data and analysing it critically, but also about questioning and
challenging established theories, which in turn leads to the discovery of new findings and
strengthens the overall scientific corpus.
Research literacy in higher education promotes the exchange of knowledge and results
between institutions and partners around the world. This exchange not only enriches scientific
and scholarly thinking, but also fosters greater collaboration and cooperation in diverse fields of
knowledge. By working together, researchers can address complex, global problems and
develop innovative solutions that benefit humanity as a whole. Ultimately, research literacy in
higher education plays an essential role in the advancement of scientific knowledge, fuelling
innovation and the development of new theories and practices in various academic disciplines.
With each new generation of researchers, a world of possibilities opens up and paves the way
for a brighter future full of amazing discoveries. Research in higher education not only creates a
solid foundation for academic progress, but also drives the advancement of society and brings
us to a new level of understanding and development in all aspects of our lives (Hurtado-
Talavera, 2020).
Improving the quality of education
Research literacy in higher education plays a key role in improving the quality of education. By
acquiring research skills, students have the ability to deepen their understanding of the topics
studied, critically analyse information and develop evidence-based solutions. This not only
enables them to achieve a higher level of knowledge, but also promotes independent thinking
and the ability to solve complex problems. In addition, incorporating research skills into the
academic curriculum encourages a more active and participatory approach on the part of
students, which contributes to an optimal learning environment and the formation of more
competent professionals in their respective fields of study.
In addition, research literacy also fosters the development of effective communication skills.
Students who are familiar with the research process are able to present their findings clearly
and concisely, both orally and in writing. This enables them to convey information effectively to
their peers, teachers and others interested in their work. Another advantage of research literacy
is that it prepares students for the world of work and helps them to stand out in the increasingly
competitive job market. Research skills are highly valued by employers as they demonstrate the
ability to collect and analyse information in a rigorous and objective manner. In addition, the
ability to solve complex problems and make informed, evidence-based decisions is also critical
in many professional fields (Fernandez, 2022).
CONCLUSION
Research literacy in higher education is essential for improving the quality of education. It not
only enables students to acquire a higher level of knowledge, but also promotes skills such as
independent thinking, problem solving and effective communication. It also prepares students
for the world of work and helps them to excel in a competitive labour market. It is essential for
educational institutions to promote and encourage research literacy, as this will help to produce
highly competent and prepared professionals in their respective fields of study.
Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(1), 28-34, 2024
La alfabetización en investigación como necesidad educativa actual en educación superior
Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
Guadalupe Dolores Salazar-Cedeño
Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
33
FUNDING
Non-monetary
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
There is no conflict of interest with individuals or institutions involved in the research.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
To the university research trainers.
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Research literacy as a current educational need in higher education
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Mainer Gregorio Alcívar-Olvera
Zila Isabel Esteves-Fajardo
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