Revista Iberoamericana de educación

Influence of pre-sports games on the development of social skills: a study in a school context

Iraisa Rocío Macías Asqui — 2026-06-05

The purpose of this study is to analyze how pre-sports games influence the development of social skills in middle school students. A quantitative approach is used, employing a quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design with a single group of 50 students. Data was collected using a Likert-type questionnaire, validated through expert review and demonstrating adequate reliability. The results show significant improvements in social skills after the intervention, as post-test scores were higher than pre-test scores. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.001), while Spearman's rank correlation coefficient identified a moderate-to-strong positive correlation (ρ = 0.65) between the practice of pre-sports games and the strengthening of social skills. Based on these findings, it is suggested that pre-sports games function as a favorable pedagogical strategy to promote cooperation, communication and teamwork, in addition to contributing to the integral development of the student and a better school coexistence.

Digital Transformation and Equity in Ecuadorian Higher Education: Opportunities and Challenges for Access, Retention, and Quality

Johanna Mariuxi Gonzalez Arias — 2026-06-09

Digital transformation is one of the most impactful processes in contemporary higher education, as it drives significant changes in teaching, learning, research, and university management models. In Ecuador, this phenomenon has taken on particular significance due to the need to expand access to higher education, strengthen student retention, and ensure quality standards in increasingly digitized contexts. The objective of this article is to analyze the opportunities and challenges that digital transformation presents for equity in Ecuadorian higher education. The research was conducted using a qualitative documentary methodology, based on the analysis of scientific literature, institutional reports, and regulatory documents published between 2020 and 2025. The results show progress in expanding educational access, making curricula more flexible, strengthening digital competencies, and fostering pedagogical innovation. However, challenges persist regarding the digital divide, socioeconomic inequalities, connectivity limitations, and the need to strengthen teachers’ digital competencies. It is concluded that digital transformation can become a mechanism for promoting educational equity, provided it is accompanied by inclusive public policies, sustained investments in technological infrastructure, and institutional strategies aimed at ensuring educational quality.

Didactic Strategy based on gamification for the teaching of Robotics to students with Attention Deficit, in the first year of technical high school (Computer Science)

Proaño Erazo Luis Raúl — 2026-06-30

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo diseñar y aplicar una estrategia didáctica basada en la gamificación para la enseñanza de robótica en estudiantes de primero de bachillerato técnico en Informática con déficit de atención. Se empleó un enfoque mixto y un diseño cuasi - experimental, aplicando cuestionarios pre y post intervención. Los resultados muestran un incremento en la motivación intrínseca, la disposición hacia el aprendizaje técnico y la capacidad de concentración, además de mejoras en la autorregulación y el trabajo colaborativo. La estrategia “RoboMisión: Desafío Tecnológico”, organizada en fases de activación, micro - retos, misión principal y cierre reflexivo, demostró ser viable y efectiva para atender las necesidades educativas de estudiantes con déficit de atención. El estudio aporta evidencia empírica sobre la pertinencia de la gamificación en contextos técnicos y ofrece orientaciones prácticas para docentes, recomendando ampliar la muestra y realizar investigaciones longitudinales para confirmar la sostenibilidad de los resultados.

Analysis of Reactors Simulation Models used in Combustion with Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC) as an Alternative and Potencial for Integration in Industrial Processes

Sandra Peña — 2026-07-23

Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC) is an emerging technology that enables energy generation with inherent CO₂ capture, positioning itself as a sustainable alternative to conventional methods. This study evaluates reactor simulation models ranging from equilibrium-based approaches to kinetic models implemented in software such as ANSYS Fluent and COMSOL Multiphysics. Key applications include power generation, hydrogen production, and fossil fuel processing, alongside challenges such as material selection, cost reduction, and adaptability to diverse feedstocks. The manganese minerals OXMN009 and OXMN009P demonstrate high efficiency, confirming that the optimization of models and materials is crucial for the industrial viability of CLC.

Atmospheric pollution and soil-water synergies in the life cycle of fossil fuels and biofuels: A comparative study

Sandra Emperatríz Peña Murillo — 2026-07-23

Fossil fuels release ancient carbon and toxic pollutants (SOx, heavy metals), whereas biofuels recycle recent CO₂ but their agricultural production can cause eutrophication and deforestation. This study aimed to analyze and compare emissions associated with agricultural practices in Ecuador through a systematic review of official data (2015–2021) and scientific literature. Key indicators were evaluated, such as emission factors (g CO₂/MJ), fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) release and toxicity, and the relative contribution of these emissions to the national carbon footprint. Fossil fuels emit 50–91.6 g CO₂/MJ and SOx; biofuels derived from lignocellulosic residues achieve negative emissions (-1.1 g CO₂ eq/MJ), whereas those from palm or soy double the fossil footprint (74 g CO₂ eq/MJ) due to land-use change. The study concludes that only advanced biofuels are sustainable; first-generation biofuels can be worse than fossil fuels. The discussion highlights that sustainability depends critically on the feedstock, agricultural practices, and waste management.

Manipulative Didactic Materials for Mathematics Learning in Children Aged 5 to 6 Years

Damaris Fernanda Gushqui Guamán — 2026-07-31

This research analyzes the impact of manipulative didactic materials on mathematics learning in children aged 5 to 6 years. The objective was to determine their contribution to the development of basic mathematical notions through pedagogical activities. The sample consisted of 20 students from Military School No. 6 "Combatientes de Tapi" in Riobamba, using a mixed-methods approach with a descriptive scope. Observation was employed as the data collection technique, and a checklist was used as the research instrument. The results showed improvements in the understanding of mathematical concepts, classification, comparison, and problem-solving skills. It is concluded that the use of manipulative materials promotes meaningful learning and strengthens children's cognitive development.