The application of problem-based learning (PBL) as a teaching strategy to strengthen research competencies in university students

Authors

  • Javier Enrique Martínez Ruíz Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo image/svg+xml
  • Glenda Cecibel Intriago Alcívar Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo image/svg+xml
  • Mario José Mora Salas Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo image/svg+xml
  • Michael Steven Morales Medina Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo image/svg+xml

Keywords :

Problem-based learning, research competencies, higher education, pedagogical innovation.

Additional Files

Abstract

In the context of Ecuadorian higher education, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) has emerged as an active methodology that promotes meaningful learning, critical inquiry, and the development of student autonomy. This study aimed to determine the impact of PBL on strengthening research competencies in university students at the Technical University of Babahoyo A mixed-method approach with a quasi-experimental design, with pre-test and post-test, was used in a single group. This strategy was applied over the course of an academic semester. The results show a considerable increase in research competencies; therefore, it is concluded that PBL represents an effective strategy for fostering key research skills.

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References

Arroyo, J. C. P., et al. (2023). El aprendizaje basado en problemas y el desarrollo de competencias investigativas. Revista InveCom, 3(2). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8147000

Zúñiga García, X. J., & Pando Ezcurra, T. T. (2019). Las competencias investigativas y el aprendizaje basado en problemas: un estudio cuasiexperimental. Dilemas contemporáneos: Educación, Política y Valores, 6(2), 1–23. https://dilemascontemporaneoseducacionpoliticayvalores.com/index.php/dilemas/article/view/945

Julca-Asto, M. J. M., et al. (2023). El aprendizaje basado en problemas para la enseñanza de las ciencias. Koinonía, 8(Supl. 2), 93–108. https://doi.org/10.35381/r.k.v8i2.2882

Perdomo, B. (2023). PBL and Research Competencies in a Virtual Environment: Results and Students’ Perceptions. Multidisciplinary Journal of Educational Research, 13(3), 273–294. https://doi.org/10.17583/remie.8755

Erdem, C., et al. (2025). Problem-based learning and student outcomes in higher education: A second-order meta-analysis. Studies in Higher Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2025.2498084

Ramdani, Y., et al. (2023). Problem-based learning in research method courses: development, application and evaluation. F1000Research, 11, 378. https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.75985.2.

Yu, L., & Mohamed Zin, Z. (2023). The critical thinking-oriented adaptations of problem-based learning models: a systematic review. Frontiles in Educación, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2023.1139987.

Published

2025-08-20
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How to Cite

The application of problem-based learning (PBL) as a teaching strategy to strengthen research competencies in university students. (2025). Journal of Science and Research: Revista Ciencia E Investigación, 10(IV CISE). https://revistas.utb.edu.ec/index.php/sr/article/view/3776