Journal of the University of Zulia

Editorial

2025-09-07T03:48:51+00:00

Editorial of Issue 47, Journal of the University of Zulia , September-December 2025, dedicated to Social Sciences and Art.

Human Dignity and Artificial Intelligence as Ethical Challenges in the Digital Age

2025-09-07T03:41:55+00:00

The present article aims to examine the need to safeguard human dignity in the context of the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Dignity has traditionally been approached from ontological, philosophical, and theological perspectives, all agreeing on its intrinsic and inalienable nature to the human being, regardless of variations in its theoretical foundation. Currently, technological advances have generated significant benefits by facilitating the completion of various tasks with greater efficiency and effectiveness. However, this progress has also raised growing concerns regarding the impact of AI, particularly given its expansion in different social spheres and the lack of adequate regulatory frameworks. A substantial risk is identified for the protection of human dignity, as well as individual freedoms, privacy, autonomy, and security. Consequently, the urgency of developing proposals, regulations, and public policies that guide the development and implementation of AI is emphasized, ensuring that its evolution does not compromise fundamental rights or the well-being of individuals.

Temporary Admission and Border Control: Comparative Analysis and Recommendations for the Regulation of Tourist Vehicles in Ecuador

2025-09-07T03:41:57+00:00

This article analyzes the irregular presence of private tourist vehicles with expired permits at the Huaquillas border crossing (Ecuador) and its impact on foreign trade logistics and tourism dynamics between 2021 and 2024. The objective is to analyze irregularities in the presence of tourist vehicles at the Huaquillas border between 2021 and 2024, using a qualitative approach based on regulatory review, audits by the Comptroller's Office, and official statistics. Regulatory gaps, deficiencies in customs traceability, and limited inter-institutional coordination are identified. Based on a comparison with experiences in Peru and Colombia, recommendations are proposed to improve regulation, control, and coordination between entities. Consequently, the proposal is to modernize the temporary admission regime through interoperable platforms, ongoing training, and a deterrent sanctioning scheme. The findings serve as input for designing public policies that strengthen Ecuador's trade competitiveness and border governance.

Data Analysis for Saber Pro Tests Using the Transmodern Digital Educational Model

2025-09-07T03:41:59+00:00

This article analyzes the academic performance of students in the public accounting and systems and computer engineering programs at the University of Cundinamarca, Fusagasugá campus, based on data obtained from the Saber Pro tests between 2019 and 2023. Using a mixed model, the “five generic modules: critical reading, quantitative reasoning, civic competencies, written communication, and English” were analyzed, including sociodemographic variables such as socioeconomic status, access to technology, and working conditions. The results show that there are significant differences between the programs, as systems and computer engineering students have more difficulties in civic competencies, while public accounting students have persistent difficulties in critical reading, but both academic programs show limited English proficiency. The study reveals how socioeconomic factors affect learning outcomes, as a percentage of students combine studies with work, facing technological limitations. These results highlight the need for pedagogical strategies, in line with the Transmodern Digital Educational Model (MEDIT), that take into account academic weaknesses and contextual backgrounds, strengthening the essential skills for their professional training.

Work Absenteeism Due to the Use of Medical Leave in Four Economic Sectors in Perú 2010-2020

2025-09-07T03:42:02+00:00

Absenteeism in organizations and institutions is a complicated phenomenon that affects companies, workers and society in general. It is defined as the absence from the workplace for one or more unplanned days due to medical (leave) or personal causes. The objective of the present study was to carry out a study of absenteeism due to the use of medical leave in four economic sectors in Peru 2000-2025; hospital sector, mining sector, judicial sector and basic services sector. Disability rates (number of sick days per worker per year), frequency rate (number of medical leaves per year per worker) and severity rate (average duration of medical leaves) were elaborated and compared. Based on the information analyzed, it was concluded that there are differences between the disability, frequency and severity rates between economic sectors during the period analyzed.

Ecuador's International Trade and External Disagreements: Economic Consequences for the Period 2020-2024

2025-09-07T03:42:05+00:00

This study aims to analyze the economic consequences of external disputes on Ecuador's international trade during the 2020-2024 period, focusing on strategic products such as shrimp, bananas, and cocoa. The research is conducted using a mixed approach, using descriptive, explanatory, and correlational methods. The qualitative component included a documentary analysis of regulations, official reports, and reports from international organizations such as the WTO, ECLAC, and the Central Bank of Ecuador. At the quantitative level, statistical techniques were used to examine historical export data, assessing the relationship between trade barriers and the reduction in foreign trade. The results show that trade disputes, such as the tensions with Mexico, have had direct negative effects on Ecuadorian exports, particularly due to the failure to conclude key trade agreements. The main conclusions highlight the vulnerability of productive sectors to external factors and the need to strengthen the country's trade resilience. Likewise, the importance of diversifying markets and improving Ecuador's negotiating strategy is raised to reduce its dependence on a few partners and increase its competitiveness internationally.

The Teaching Portfolio as a Tool for Pedagogical Reflection: An Experience With Pre-Service Teachers in a B.A. in Foreign Languages

2025-09-07T03:42:07+00:00

The teaching portfolio is a valuable tool for the future teachers' training process. This article analyzes its role as a pedagogical and metacognitive reflection tool within teaching practice. A case study methodology was adopted for this research, involving students from the B.A. in Foreign Languages at the University of Pamplona (Colombia), undertaking their first teaching practicum in French as a Foreign Language (FFL) with a group of young adult learners at the A1 level. The implementation of discussion forums, the document analysis of portfolios, and the observation of teaching practices made it possible to identify that the teaching portfolio fosters the integration of theory and practice, promotes critical reflection on one's own teaching, contributes to recognizing both strengths and areas for improvement, supports the development of pedagogical competencies, and strengthens the construction of professional identity.

Financial Strategies and Innovative Behavior in Wine MSMEs: A Causal Model Toward Sustainability in the Valle de Guadalupe

2025-09-07T03:42:09+00:00

This study proposes a causal model that examines how the perceived effectiveness of financial strategies influences innovative behavior in wine-producing MSMEs in the Valle de Guadalupe one of the leading wine regions in Mexico. The objective is to identify the most effective strategies and assess their impact on both sustainability and competitiveness, with the aim of strengthening these economic units within their dynamic environment. A quantitative methodology was employed, using a correlational-explanatory approach with a non-experimental design. Data were collected through a questionnaire administered to owners, entrepreneurs, directors, managers, and administrators. The results confirmed the proposed hypotheses, showing that organizational culture has a positive influence on innovative behavior. Furthermore, the findings reveal that the perception of financial strategies is directly related to organizational culture and the use of information and communication technologies. In conclusion, most of these enterprises use innovation as a strategic tool for competitiveness, while financial is consolidated as a key element in the adoption of sustainable management practices.

Between Transhumanism and Religion: Is Religious Transhumanism Possible?

2025-09-07T03:42:12+00:00

Transhumanism holds that, through scientific and technological advancements, human beings can overcome biological limitations and the constraints of evolutionary processes without appealing to any transcendent entity. The relationship between transhumanism and religion has often been addressed from opposing standpoints, frequently presented as irreconcilable views concerning the transformation of the human condition. However, this polarized approach overlooks shared elements that reveal certain parallels between some religious traditions and the transhumanist imaginary, particularly in their transcendent aspirations. The present study aims to analyze the relationship between transhumanism and religion, as well as the possibility of a religious form of transhumanism. A qualitative methodology will be employed, using hermeneutics and exegesis as fundamental analytical tools. As a conclusion, it becomes evident that the relationship between transhumanism and religion is both ambiguous and complex. In the case of Christianity, such ambivalence is particularly pronounced: while certain groups, such as the Christian Transhumanist Association, seek to reconcile faith with technological enhancement, other voices within the Christian tradition emphasize significant doctrinal and ethical tensions, thus advocating a critical and cautious stance toward the promises of transhumanism.

Shrimp Exports and Economic Growth in Ecuador, 2019-2024

2025-09-07T03:42:14+00:00

The Ecuadorian shrimp industry represents a strategic pillar of the country's economic growth, as it is a key source of foreign currency, employment, and investment. This research analyzes the impact of shrimp exports on national economic development between 2019 and 2023 using a mixed, descriptive, and correlational approach. Factors such as infrastructure modernization, technological adoption, public policies, trade agreements, organizational management, and technical training are examined. Through the analysis of statistical data and official documents, both the drivers of export growth and the structural limitations of the sector are identified. The results show a sustained increase in export volume through 2023, but with signs of weakness in the economic value generated due to falling international prices and the high dependence on the Chinese market. The research also highlights the need for commercial diversification and institutional strengthening as ways to consolidate a more resilient industry. In summary, the study provides empirical evidence to guide public policies and business strategies that ensure sustainable and competitive growth in shrimp exports, directly contributing to Ecuador's economic development.

Foundations of Pedagogical Management for the Development of Critical Thinking Skills in Higher Education

2025-09-07T03:42:17+00:00

The objective of the research was to describe the foundations of pedagogical management for the development of critical thinking skills in higher education. The methodology of the study was quantitative; the type of research, basic; the level, descriptive; and the design, non-experimental, field and cross-sectional. The sample consisted of 12 teachers and 76 students from the School of Education of a public university located in Maracaibo, Venezuela. The technique used was the survey and the instrument was a questionnaire validated by experts. The results revealed that the fundamentals of pedagogical management: planning and organization, stimulating learning environment and evaluation of learning, and critical thinking skills: reflection, logic and analysis, were positively valued on the scale always by the students, while the teachers indicated that they are almost always present. It is concluded that effective pedagogical management and stimulating educational environments are key to developing critical thinking skills in higher education students.

Invisible Threads that Connect Critical Factors in the Consolidation of Economic Autonomy, Decision and Negotiation in Rural Women: Case of Colombia and Bolivia

2025-09-07T03:42:18+00:00

The study aimed to explore the current situation of rural women in relation to the predominant factors that have systematically limited their access to opportunities for autonomous development over time, attempting to highlight causes that are embedded in the everyday lives of women. The sample included 185 women, including community leaders located in 12 villages in three municipalities in the province of Sumapaz (Colombia) and one municipality in the capital of the province of Vaca Díez (Bolivia). A group methodology and semi-structured interviews were used, with a qualitative approach and statistical approximations. Among the results, limiting and critical aspects were found in the availability of time due to the evident imbalance in the female workforce in the unpaid care economy, which, according to the study, is above the national average. They have only 3% of total hours in the week to enjoy Sunday rest activities or spiritual gatherings or, in general, for their emotional and mental well-being. With this in mind, can women participate in processes to improve their decision-making and economic autonomy?

Cultural Heritage Management in Ibero-America. A Systematic Review From 2013 to 2023

2025-09-07T03:42:20+00:00

This research presents a state of the art on the methodological, conceptual and theoretical aspects associated with cultural heritage management. The methodology used for this study is a systematic review of published research in scientific journals, resulting in a total of 137 studies, 79 of which were selected. The inclusion criteria were related to the most relevant research published between the years 2013 - 2023, in addition to the search and analysis of articles through the Proquest, Science Direct, Scopus, Dialnet, Scielo, DOAJ and Redalyc databases. The results and ensuing discussion reveal a value chain associated with the identification, valuation, conservation and dissemination of cultural heritage, which suggests a procedure addressed to its management. Likewise, this concept is related to public policies of land use planning, sustainable development and tourism, with a need for professionalisation of the actors involved. In turn, related theories show that identity, the recognition of communities and citizen participation must be taken into account in order to achieve proper management. It is concluded that the management of cultural heritage allows a valuation of the existing cultural resources in a territory and with it, a search for their sustainability and safeguarding for future generations.

Social interpretations in technological transfer: the case of coffee growers in Veracruz, Mexico

2025-09-07T03:42:22+00:00

Despite the extensive literature on Science, Technology, and Society (STS), few studies have delved deeply into the impact of social interpretations on technological transfer processes within agricultural context. This research addressed this gap by analyzes the wet coffee cultivation and processing method promoted by Cafecol A.C. among small-scale producers in Veracruz, Mexico. Grounded in the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory and employing a qualitative approach combining interviews, field observation, and documentary analysis, the study examined how different interpretations of technology influence its appropriation and adaptation to local contexts. The findings reveal that stakeholders’ interpretations fundamentally reshape technological transfer processes of coffee producers, demonstrating that this process is not linear. Technological appropriation emerges as socially mediated, with interpretations stemming from lived experiences, socioeconomic contexts, and specific needs within dynamic community networks.

Active and Decolonial Pedagogy through a Transdisciplinary Lens

2025-09-07T03:42:25+00:00

Educational systems in Latin America have long replicated Eurocentric pedagogical models aligned with hegemonic global interests, privileging instrumental knowledge while marginalizing the epistemologies of Indigenous peoples, Afro-descendant communities, and rural populations. This trend has led to fragmented, rigid, and standardized curricula that exclude ancestral knowledge and local experiences, thereby hindering the recognition of other valid ways of knowing. In response to this reality, it is urgent to rethink education from more inclusive, dialogical, and critical perspectives. Within this framework, active pedagogy emerges as a meaningful alternative by placing the learner at the center of the educational process, promoting participation, and fostering the collective construction of knowledge. Decolonial pedagogy, in turn, challenges colonial epistemic logics and reclaims local and community-based knowledge as legitimate sources. From a transdisciplinary perspective, this paper analyzes active and decolonial pedagogies through a transdisciplinary lens. Using a hermeneutical methodology, it offers a critical reflection on the necessary changes in school culture and educational processes. It concludes that the articulation between active pedagogy, decolonial pedagogy, and transdisciplinarity is not only possible but essential for a more human, critical, and liberating education capable of addressing contemporary challenges.

Cross-Border Regime and Compliance with Simplified Customs Declaration by Travelers at The Ecuadorian Customs

2025-09-07T03:42:27+00:00

The purpose of this research was to analyze the relationship between the cross-border regime and compliance with the Simplified Customs Declaration (DAS) by travelers at the Huaquillas border in Ecuador. A non-experimental design with a descriptive-correlational approach was used, and the data were processed using IBM SPSS Statistics v31.0. Structured surveys were administered to 383 travelers and 41 SENAE officials. The reliability of the instruments was verified using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α = 0.870 for travelers and α = 0.851 for officials). Due to the ordinal nature of the variables, Spearman’s correlation coefficient was employed to analyze the relationships. A very strong and significant correlation was found between knowledge of the cross-border regime and compliance with the DAS (ρ = 0.942, p < 0.001), as well as a moderate correlation between such knowledge and the use of the SENAE Móvil simulator (ρ = 0.533, p < 0.001). The study concludes that customs compliance depends on regulatory knowledge, institutional clarity, and the use of technological tools. It is recommended to implement comprehensive training strategies, effective communication, and digital modernization.

Tensions Surrounding the Migrant Student Phenomenon in Administrative and Academic Management

2025-09-07T03:42:29+00:00

This article aims to reveal the tensions surrounding the migrant student phenomenon in administrative and academic management, with a view to strengthening educational inclusion policies at San Luis Gonzaga High School. A qualitative methodology was used. Among the most relevant conclusions are: 1) Venezuelan student migration has generated some tensions in administrative and academic management; 2) The inclusion of migrant students must go beyond granting a SIMAT enrollment spot, teachers repeating what is written in the Institutional Educational Project without translating it into practice, and knowing that there is a legal framework that mandates welcoming them, but that it is not done with quality criteria; 3) There are actions by educational stakeholders that limit inclusion and welcoming processes; 4) For the inclusion of migrant students, enabling conditions must be created, such as managing inclusive environments and inclusive institutional policies as welcoming structures from school bodies.

Educating for Peace: The Challenge of Building the Society of the Future and the Possible World. A Question of Public Policies

2025-09-07T03:42:31+00:00

Educating for peace is not a complex challenge in the midst of a world threatened with collapse as a result of exclusion, discrimination and intolerance. This research, as a result of a documentary review with a qualitative approach, was intended to analyze the benefits of educating for peace, a process that is needed as a hopeful way out to build the society of the future and the possible world; from there, we tried to deduce the theoretical, epistemic and practical referents based on which to formulate public policies that integrate synergistic efforts between the State, the educational institution and society. The results indicate that educating for peace not only responds to a global requirement, but to the process that in permanent construction and throughout life, urges humanity to bet on hospitality, mutual respect and active tolerance, as universal values based on which to weave bonds of fraternal unity in which symmetrical and fruitful dialogue is established as the revitalizing force of full conviviality. In conclusion, building the foundations of the possible world requires from humanity the synergistic disposition of wills that, together with strategic institutional operation, allow the formulation of situated proposals, whose focus results in the acceptance of the other and in the validation of diverse belongings without prejudicial conditions, until achieving functional and peaceful conviviality, as well as transcendence to the planetary vocation.

Digital Academic Access and Reading Profile of Venezuelan High School Students: Reflections from the Theory of Communicative Action and Digital Academic Literacy

2025-09-07T03:42:33+00:00

This study analyzes the digital academic reading practices of Venezuelan secondary school students. Based on Habermas's Theory of Communicative Action and the New Literacy Studies, this research examines the digital access and reading practices of these students in their academic settings. Methodologically, it employed a qualitative, critical-interpretative approach, involving 19 students from a public institution located in Las Calderas, Falcón State, Venezuela. An 18-question questionnaire was used as a research tool to identify students' digital academic reading practices in the school context. For the analysis and interpretation of the data, critical hermeneutics was employed under the Habermasian conception, based on the idea of hermeneutic moments: preconception, comprehension, interpretation, and self-understanding-reflection. The results indicate that students access digital technologies, especially smartphones and computers, but primarily carry out these practices at home, with school serving as a secondary space. While students demonstrate hyperconnectedness, expanding the scope of school learning through reading and internet browsing activities, it is argued that schools must assume a central and critical role, reflecting on online discourses and strengthening digital academic literacy.

Impact of the Shortage of Specialist Teachers on Aeronautical Education

2025-09-07T03:42:36+00:00

The shortage of teaching professionals has become evident at different levels of Venezuelan education; a phenomenon generated by various factors such as migration or insufficient salaries, and has inevitably reached the aeronautical education sector, which stands out for the obligation of its agents to ensure the operational safety of flights. The purpose of this article is to explore the causes of the shortage of specialist teachers in the different aeronautical sciences and how this deficit could influence the quality of education of future technicians. A qualitative field research was carried out, with phenomenological and hermeneutic methods, having as information gathering technique the semi-structured interview applied to 4 aeronautical officials. The information processing techniques were categorization, structuring and triangulation, yielding as main findings: the shortage of specialist teachers is due to the absence of an aeronautical education direction that trains teachers in the areas of aviation and not only operational technicians, in addition to this, the absence of competitive salaries was evidenced, which discourages specialist staff to venture into teaching. As a final reflection, the shortage of specialist teachers in aeronautics is a problem caused by academic, economic and social factors, which must be addressed comprehensively with the commitment of state institutions, those responsible for educational planning in aeronautics and technical specialists, in order to generate the necessary stimulus to meet the existing demand.

Relevance of Fair Value and Inflation Adjustments in IFRS for SMEs: Venezuela

2025-09-07T03:42:39+00:00

This doctoral article explores how inflation adjustments and fair value measurements, according to IFRS for SMEs, impact the quality, relevance, and reliability of financial information in a hyperinflationary and dollarized context in Venezuela. A qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach was used, employing in-depth interviews with key actors in the accounting ecosystem. Findings reveal that historical cost is absolutely irrelevant, making inflation adjustments (Section 31) and fair value (Section 34 for biological assets) essential and complementary for a true financial picture. However, reliability is compromised by subjectivity, the absence of active markets, and the informality of indices, introducing manipulation risks. Transactional dollarization adds complexity and new avenues for distortion. The study concludes with the imperative need for adaptation and credible information, recommending greater standardization and oversight for regulators, and for SMEs, investment in quality accounting and transparency to ensure sustainability and trust.