Abstract Differences in skills among graduates form the key explanation of meritocratic approaches to the unequal results observed in the labor market. In this study, we use data from Enade (2009-2011) and Rais (2013-2015) to analyze to what extent qualitative dimensions of higher education, including training quality, can structure formal employment and wages four years after graduation. The main result indicates the significance of the skills measured for the occupational destination of graduates, but also that the dichotomy between formal-informal employment does not seem to apply to the upper strata of the workforce: graduates with a privileged social background and high professional qualification in technically intensive areas tend to remain out of formal employment after graduation, which seems to be aggravated by deteriorating employment conditions in occupations that require higher education. Although skills matter for the transition between higher education and the labor market, we found evidence of the persistence of processes of social reproduction and social closure by diploma. market study 20092011 2009 2011 (2009-2011 20132015 2013 2015 (2013-2015 quality graduation formalinformal informal workforce diploma 2009201 200 201 (2009-201 2013201 (2013-201 200920 20 (2009-20 201320 (2013-20 20092 2 (2009-2 20132 (2013-2 (2009- (2013- (2009 (2013 (200 (201 (20 (2 (

Résumé différences de compétences entre les diplômés constituent l’explication clé des approches méritocratiques aux résultats inégaux observés sur le marché du travail. Dans cette étude, nous utilisons les données d’Enade (2009-2011) et de Rais (2013-2015) pour analyser dans quelle mesure les dimensions qualitatives de l’enseignement supérieur, y compris la qualité de la formation, ont une capacité distinctes de structurer l’emploi formel et les salaires quatre ans après l’obtention du diplôme. Le principal résultat indique la pertinence des compétences mesurées pour la destination professionnelle des diplômés, mais aussi que la dichotomie entre l’emploi formel et informel ne s’applique pas aux couches supérieures de la population active : Les diplômés d’origine sociale privilégiée et de haute qualification professionnelle dans les domaines techniquement intensifs ont tendance à rester en dehors de l’emploi formel après l’obtention de leur diplôme, ce qui semble aggravé par des conditions de détérioration de l’emploi dans les professions de niveau supérieur. Bien que les compétences importent pour la transition entre l’enseignement supérieur et le marché du travail, nous avons trouvé des preuves de la persistance des processus de reproduction sociale et de fermeture sociale par diplôme. lexplication l explication travail étude dEnade d Enade 20092011 2009 2011 (2009-2011 20132015 2013 2015 (2013-2015 lenseignement enseignement formation lemploi emploi lobtention obtention diplôme sapplique s applique dorigine origine 2009201 200 201 (2009-201 2013201 (2013-201 200920 20 (2009-20 201320 (2013-20 20092 2 (2009-2 20132 (2013-2 (2009- (2013- (2009 (2013 (200 (201 (20 (2 (

Resumo As diferenças de habilidades entre graduados compõem a explicação chave das abordagens meritocráticas para os resultados desiguais observados no mercado de trabalho. Neste estudo, utilizamos dados do Enade (2009-2011) e da Rais (2013-2015) para analisar em que medida dimensões qualitativas da educação superior, incluindo a qualidade da formação, têm capacidades distintas de estruturar o emprego formal e os salários quatro anos após a graduação. O principal resultado indica a relevância das habilidades mensuradas para o destino ocupacional dos graduados, mas também que a dicotomia entre o emprego formal-informal não se aplica aos estratos superiores da força de trabalho: os graduados com origem social privilegiada e elevada qualificação profissional em áreas tecnicamente intensivas tendem a permanecer fora do emprego formal após a graduação, o que parece agravado por condições de deterioração do emprego em ocupações de nível superior. Embora as habilidades importem para a transição entre educação superior e mercado de trabalho, encontramos evidências de persistência de processos de reprodução social e fechamento social por diploma. trabalho estudo 20092011 2009 2011 (2009-2011 20132015 2013 2015 (2013-2015 formação graduação formalinformal informal diploma 2009201 200 201 (2009-201 2013201 (2013-201 200920 20 (2009-20 201320 (2013-20 20092 2 (2009-2 20132 (2013-2 (2009- (2013- (2009 (2013 (200 (201 (20 (2 (

Resumen Las diferencias de competencias entre los titulados constituyen la explicación clave de los enfoques meritocráticos para los resultados desiguales observados en el mercado laboral. En este estudio, utilizamos datos de Enade (2009-2011) y Rais (2013-2015) para analizar en qué medida las dimensiones cualitativas de la educación superior, incluida la calidad de la formación, tienen diferentes capacidades para estructurar el empleo formal y los salarios cuatro años después de la graduación. El principal resultado indica la pertinencia de las competencias medidas para el destino profesional de los titulados, pero también que la dicotomía entre empleo formal e informal no se aplica a los estratos superiores de la población activa: los titulados procedentes de medios sociales privilegiados con altas cualificaciones profesionales en ámbitos técnicamente intensivos tienden a permanecer fuera del empleo formal tras su titulación, lo que parece agravarse por las condiciones de deterioro del empleo en las ocupaciones de nivel superior. Aunque las competencias son importantes para la transición entre la enseñanza superior y el mercado laboral, encontramos pruebas de la persistencia de procesos de reproducción social y de cierre social a través de los diplomas. laboral estudio 20092011 2009 2011 (2009-2011 20132015 2013 2015 (2013-2015 formación graduación activa titulación diplomas 2009201 200 201 (2009-201 2013201 (2013-201 200920 20 (2009-20 201320 (2013-20 20092 2 (2009-2 20132 (2013-2 (2009- (2013- (2009 (2013 (200 (201 (20 (2 (

Abstract Introduction: The malnutrition-inflammation process is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), influencing quality of life. The aim of this study was to identify the inflammatory and nutritional status of elderly hemodialysis (HD) and its association with quality of life. Methods: This study was carried out in health services in three different cities. The Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS) was used to assess the inflammatory and nutritional status, with anthropometric measurements, protein status, lean mass and function. The quality of life was assessed using KDQOL-SFTM. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis and the Poisson model to evaluate the factors that increased the risk of developing malnutrition and inflammation. Results: The MIS identified a 52.2% prevalence of malnutrition and inflammation in the population. In univariate analysis, most KDQOL-SFTM domains presented higher scores for nourished elderly. Anthropometric measures associated with muscle mass and functionality were lower in the malnourished elderly. Multivariate modeling revealed a higher nutritional risk of 50.6% for women and older age, since with each additional year of life the risk of malnutrition increased by 2.4% and by 0.4% with each additional month on HD. Greater arm muscle circumference (AMC) and higher serum albumin were factors for reducing malnutrition by 4.6% and 34.7%, respectively. Conclusion: Higher serum albumin and preserved AMC have been shown to be good indicators of better nutritional status. Higher MIS was associated with poorer quality of life, older age, lower income and education, longer time on dialysis, and presence of comorbidities. Introduction malnutritioninflammation CKD, CKD , (CKD) HD (HD Methods cities MalnutritionInflammation Malnutrition Inflammation (MIS measurements function KDQOLSFTM. KDQOLSFTM KDQOL SFTM. SFTM Results 522 52 2 52.2 population 506 50 6 50.6 age 24 4 2.4 04 0 0.4 (AMC 46 4.6 347 34 7 34.7% respectively Conclusion education dialysis comorbidities (CKD 5 52. 50. 2. 0. 4. 3 34.7 34.

Resumo Introdução: O processo de desnutrição-inflamação é uma das principais causas de morbimortalidade em pacientes com DRC, influenciando a qualidade de vida. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar o estado inflamatório e nutricional de idosos em hemodiálise (HD) e sua associação com qualidade de vida. Métodos: Estudo realizado em serviços de saúde de três cidades diferentes. O Escore de Desnutrição-Inflamação (MIS, por sua sigla em inglês) foi utilizado para avaliar estado inflamatório e nutricional, com medidas antropométricas, estado proteico, massa magra e funcionalidade. A qualidade de vida foi avaliada com KDQOL-SFTM. Os dados foram analisados utilizando análise multivariada e modelo de Poisson para avaliar fatores que aumentaram o risco de desenvolver desnutrição e inflamação. Resultados: O MIS identificou prevalência de 52,2% de desnutrição e inflamação na população. Na análise univariada, a maioria dos domínios do KDQOL-SFTM apresentou escores maiores para idosos nutridos. Medidas antropométricas associadas à massa muscular e funcionalidade foram menores em idosos desnutridos. A modelagem multivariada revelou maior risco nutricional de 50,6% para mulheres e idosos pois o risco de desnutrição aumentou em 2,4% para cada ano adicional de vida e em 0,4% para cada mês adicional de HD. Maior circunferência muscular do braço (CMB) e maior albumina sérica foram fatores de redução da desnutrição em 4,6% e 34,7%, respectivamente. Conclusão: Demonstrou-se que albumina sérica mais elevada e CMB preservada são bons indicadores de melhor estado nutricional. Maior MIS foi associado a pior qualidade de vida, idade mais avançada, menor renda e escolaridade, maior tempo em diálise e presença de comorbidades. Introdução desnutriçãoinflamação DRC HD (HD Métodos diferentes DesnutriçãoInflamação Desnutrição Inflamação MIS, (MIS inglês proteico KDQOLSFTM. KDQOLSFTM KDQOL SFTM. SFTM Resultados 522 52 2 52,2 população univariada nutridos desnutridos 506 50 6 50,6 24 4 2,4 04 0 0,4 (CMB 46 4,6 347 34 7 34,7% respectivamente Conclusão Demonstrouse Demonstrou se avançada escolaridade comorbidades 5 52, 50, 2, 0, 4, 3 34,7 34,

Resumen: La pandemia por COVID-19 influyó en el proceso de educación superior generando una transición entre la modalidad presencial a la modalidad en línea-emergente en la que se identificaron varias dificultades para el acceso debido a la inequidad, problemas tecnológicos, crisis de salud y económica a nivel mundial, y en Ecuador a nivel de docentes y estudiantes. El descubrimiento de conocimiento en bases de datos de KDD - Educacional, el análisis de técnicas de minería de datos de clasificación y agrupación, y el complemento de análisis de datos con la inteligencia de negocios determinaron los factores desde la perspectiva de la institución, del docente y de los estudiantes que inciden en el proceso de educación en línea, donde se demuestra además, la importancia del modelo de educación, la metodología del proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje, el entorno de aprendizaje y el bienestar de los docentes y estudiantes que garantizan una educación superior en línea de calidad con igualdad de oportunidades en el acceso.

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted higher education, forcing a rapid transition from face-to-face modality to the emerging online learning modality. This transition exposed several challenges, including, inequitable access to technology, global health and economic crisis, and specific difficulties faced by both teachers and students in Ecuador. Knowledge discovery in KDD - Educational databases, the analysis of classification and clustering data mining techniques and the complement of data analysis with business intelligence determined the factors from the perspective of the institution, teachers and students that influence the online education process. In addition, the importance of the education model, the teaching-learning process methodology, the learning environment, and the well-being of teachers and students that guarantee quality online higher education with equal access opportunities is demonstrated.

Abstract: This study proposes a model to evaluate the impact of a quality management system on the processes linked to teaching and learning in students recently graduated from the Faculty of Engineering at the Autonomous University of Baja California (Mexico). The perceptions of youth about the influence of processes directly related to their learning are gathered by using an online survey. The survey is evaluated by experts in academic areas and with experience implementing a quality system in the educational field. The sample consists of 82 participants at the end of the 2023-1 cycle. The results highlight a positive influence on student training and reveal areas for improvement to enrich future educational experience. It is concluded that this analysis allows identifying risks in quality management, opening the way to continuous improvement.

Resumen: Este estudio propone un modelo para evaluar el impacto de un sistema de gestión de calidad en los procesos vinculados con la enseñanza y el aprendizaje en estudiantes recién egresados de la Facultad de Ingeniería de la Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (México). Se recogen las percepciones de los jóvenes sobre la influencia de los procesos directamente relacionados con su aprendizaje utilizando una encuesta en línea. La encuesta es evaluada por expertos en áreas académicas y con experiencia en implementación de un sistema de calidad en el ámbito educativo. La muestra es de 82 participantes al final del ciclo 2023-1. Los resultados destacan una influencia positiva en la formación estudiantil y señalan áreas de mejora para enriquecer la experiencia educativa futura. Se concluye que este análisis permite identificar riesgos en la gestión de calidad, abriendo camino a la mejora continua.

Abstract: The present study examines the practices promoting self-regulated learning of university professors who teach basic sciences and social sciences courses in Chile, Argentina, and Cuba. The methodology applies a quantitative approach with a non-experimental cross-sectional design and descriptive-correlational design of variables. The sample consists of 299 university professors from Chile (41.1%), Argentina (31.1%), and Cuba (27.8%), with 18.8 years on average of university teaching experience. The results show that the basic sciences teaching group declares self-efficacy, knowledge, and beliefs to a lesser extent than social sciences professors, but this does not influence the practices of promoting self-regulation of learning. In conclusion, the variables are related to each other and the ones with the greatest effect are beliefs and teaching experience, the latter independent of the professor's country of origin.

Resumen: En el presente estudio se analizan las prácticas de promoción de la autorregulación del aprendizaje (ARA) de docentes universitarios que imparten clases a carreras de ciencias básicas y ciencias sociales en Chile, Argentina y Cuba. La metodología tiene un enfoque cuantitativo con un diseño no experimental transversal y diseño descriptivo-correlacional de las variables. La muestra consiste de 299 docentes universitarios de Chile (41.1%), Argentina (31.1%) y Cuba (27.8%), con un promedio de 18.8 años de experiencia ejerciendo docencia universitaria. Los resultados muestran que el grupo docente de ciencias básicas declara en menor medida autoeficacia, conocimiento y creencias que docentes de ciencias sociales, pero esto no influye sobre las prácticas de promoción de la autorregulación del aprendizaje. En conclusión, las variables se relacionan entre sí y las que tienen mayor efecto son las creencias y experiencia docente, esta última independiente del país de origen de los docentes.

BACKGROUND: Multimodal or online learning is the use of electronic technology to deliver, support and enhance both learning and teaching. It involves communication between learner nurses and lecturers using online content. The study aims to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education by promoting inclusive education at tertiary institutions. The use of multimodal teaching and learning (MTL) in higher education institutions (HEI) has increased over the last decade, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic OBJECTIVES: To explore and describe the perspectives of the undergraduate learner nurses regarding MTL challenges at the HEI, Limpopo Province, South Africa METHODS: A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to explore and describe the perspectives of the undergraduate nurses at a HEI in Limpopo Province, South Africa. A non-probability purposive sampling method was employed to select participants. Data were collected through five focus group interviews (FGI) and analysed using Tesch's open coding data analysis method. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the study RESULTS: Study findings revealed the perspectives of the undergraduate nurses during MTL. The challenges related to connectivity issues, technological difficulties during online teaching, learning and assessment as well as the unapproved platforms used by module facilitators for online teaching CONCLUSION: Undergraduate learner nurses expressed their perspectives regarding the challenges they experience when using MTL. Our study findings could influence educational institutions and policymakers to improve the quality of online teaching, learning and assessment by embracing innovative instructional techniques and providing teachers with ongoing training

Hierdie sewe-jaar longitudinale opvoedingstudie evalueer drie akademiese afleweringsmodusse vir deeltydse MBA-studente in hul Bemarkingsbestuursmodule, naamlik vol kontak (20172019), vol aanlyn tydens COVID-19 se harde inperking (2020-2021 en die daaropvolgende gemengde modus (2022-2023). Die studie het ten doel om te bepaal of die afleweringsmodus studente se akademiese prestasie beduidend beïnvloed. Die eenrigting-variansie-analise (EVA) het beduidende verskille tussen die afleweringsmodusse vir individuele opdragte (normatiewe assessering) en groepgevallestudies (summatiewe assessering) geïdentifiseer. Daar was ook betekenisvolle verskille tussen die akademiese prestasie ten opsigte van die finale saamgestelde portefeulje van kennis (wat as eksamen dien). Hierdie portefeulje bestaan uit 'n prakties-toegepaste bemarkingsplan. Die post-hoc toetse het getoon dat studente aansienlik beter gevaar het tydens die gemengde afleweringsmodus in individuele opdragte, terwyl die volledige aanlyn modus laer punte vir die groepgevallestudies gehad het. Beide die gemengde en volledige kontakmodusse het beduidende opeenvolgende verbetering vir die groepgevallestudies getoon, wat in elke gevallestudie verbetering getoon het namate die semester gevorder het. Dit verskil van volledige aanlyn onderrig. Die gemengde modus het ook aansienlik beter gevaar in die eksamen- en finale modulepunte en het selfs beter gevaar as volkontakklasse.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly transformed the tertiary education landscape. Traditional contact universities were forced abruptly to adopt a full-distance education mode, a situation neither the students nor lecturers were prepared for. Many lectures and teaching activities were developed on the fly as universities struggled to roll out the needed support in double-time for lecturers and students. This new normal for education required integrating technology, advanced communication software, revised assessment techniques, and recognising the need for flexible and adaptable approaches to teaching and learning. Students also evolved and gained technological proficiency, adaptability, time management, soft skills, social media proficiency, and an awareness of health and well-being. Albeit uncertain in redefining the new normal, universities continue to provide quality education. However, exactly how university education should be delivered to a new breed of students in a new business environment is a challenge. This is even more so in the case of executive MBA students. After the hard lockdown and restrictions were lifted on 21 September 2020, the North-West University Business School started to explore other modes of academic content delivery. Reinstating a full contact delivery mode was not an option because of remaining restrictions. High technological investment, online-educated lecturers and students, and benefits and developments during online learning now form a new normal for the Business School. Which teaching method, or rather, which mode of delivery, is the most relevant and adequate? Should the MBA lectures return to the historic full-contact delivery mode, stick with the newly established full online mode, or attempt to integrate the benefits of both into a hybrid mode of delivering business education to a new breed of technology-savvy students? This study, therefore, examines the academic performance of the different delivery modes by comparing data of Executive MBA Marketing management students at the NWU Business School in South Africa. The study examines the academic performance of these students from 2017 up to 2023. The panel database consists of Executive MBA students'marks for the module in Marketing Management from 2017 up to 2023. The database contains marks for individual assignments, groupwork case studies, final individual- and groupwork marks, exam marks and the final module mark. The final assessment is a portfolio of evidence comprising a detailed marketing plan for a product, service, or organisation of choice. The mode of delivery served as the dependent variable, while the independent variables comprised the marks for each assignment (groupwork, individual and portfolio of evidence). Three delivery modes were compared, namely full-contact (2017-2019), full-online (2020-2021), and the post-pandemic hybrid mode currently in effect (2022-2023). The data comprised 630 cases. However, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) used 532 cases to compare the different groupwork assignments (230 full-contact students, 159 full-online students, and 143 hybrid students). Cronbach's alpha coefficient measured the data's reliability, and one-way ANOVA determined significant differences (p<.05) between the academic performance of the three delivery modes. The analysis confirmed that significant differences exist between the modes of delivery for individual assignments, group case studies and exams (p<.05). The Tukey ab post-hoc tests showed that students performed significantly better during the hybrid delivery mode in individual assignments (69.2%) than full contact (63.8%). Regarding the individual assignment, the full online (63.8%) and full contact (63.7%) delivery modes perform significantly worse than the hybrid (69.2%) delivery mode. Regarding the first group case study (Group Assignment 1), full online performs (67.3%) significantly worse than hybrid (71.1%) and full contact (73.6%) delivery modes. There is no significant difference between the hybrid and full contact delivery modes. In the second, third, and fourth group case studies (Group Assignments 2, 3 & 4), the hybrid delivery mode (82.37%, 75.4%, 82.7%) outperforms the full contact (75.4, 80.1%, 86.6%) and full-online (71.4%, 71.4%, 67.8%) modes. The hybrid delivery mode, therefore, proves to be more conducive towards academic performance in group work. Finally, in considering the final module mark, the hybrid delivery mode (71.0%) is significantly higher than the other two delivery modes. However, there is no significant difference between full online (67.5%) and full-contact (67.2%) delivery modes regarding the final module mark. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the better performance in the final module marks is a function of the groupwork where the students analysed case studies together. There are no significant differences in the exam marks between the delivery modes, so better academic performance in the hybrid mode of delivery where groupwork is concerned culminates in the better module mark. Based on the findings, it is evident that the hybrid mode of delivery results in the best academic performance. This observation is based on three reasons, namely 1) students performed better in both the normative and summative assessments during hybrid tuition; 2) there is continuous progressive learning throughout the semester regarding the group case studies (summative assessment). They learn to improve and hone their skills to analyse better and apply business solutions to real-life problems experienced by organisations. This is based on students' improving marks in the group case studies as they become more proficient in analysing and answering the applied case studies because they learn from each case study; and 3) the students perform better academically in their normative assessments and earn higher final module marks (partially due to reason 2). It is concluded that the hybrid delivery mode facilitates the academic performance of post-pandemic executive MBA Marketing management students. JEL KODES: I23, I21, M30

Abstract Introduction: Every year, thousands of students enter higher education, often facing personal and academic challenges. This new phase in their lives involves adapting to increased autonomy, a new routine and a new academic environment, which can result in emotional changes. The feelings experienced in this transition phase can have an impact on their quality of life, their adaptation and their academic success. Objectives: The aim of this study is to identify the emotional states present in the perceptions of first-year undergraduate students, in relation to the period of transition and academic adaptation to higher education. Methodology: This is an exploratory, qualitative study, carried out using a focus group, with content analysis using Nvivo 14 software. The group consisted of nine public higher education students. At the time of data collection, the participants were enrolled in their first year of undergraduate studies in different schools and scientific areas at the same Portuguese institution. Results: The preliminary data shows that the students interviewed tend to characterize their first contact with higher education as a shock. They also described situations of stress, demotivation and doubt associated with not knowing their peers, leaving their parents' home and the new academic reality. On the other hand, emotions of optimism, security and resilience are identified when a favorable relationship is established with teachers and the student is satisfied with the course. Final Considerations: Although negative emotional states were manifested, these tended to dissipate with integration into the institution, support from teachers, the formation of new friendships, and adaptation to new academic demands.

Resumo Introdução: Todos os anos, milhares de estudantes ingressam no ensino superior, deparando-se frequentemente com desafios pessoais e académicos. Esta nova fase das suas vidas implica a adaptação a um aumento de autonomia, a uma nova rotina e a um novo ambiente académico, podendo resultar em alterações emocionais. Os sentimentos vividos nesta fase de transição podem ter um impacto na sua qualidade de vida, na sua adaptação e no seu sucesso académico. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo é identificar os estados emocionais presentes nas perceções dos estudantes do primeiro ano de licenciatura, em relação ao período de transição e adaptação académica ao ensino superior. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo de carácter exploratório, qualitativo, realizado com recurso a um grupo focal, com análise de conteúdo recorrendo ao software Nvivo 14. O grupo foi constituído por nove estudantes do ensino superior público. Aquando da recolha de dados, os participantes estavam matriculados no 1.º ano em licenciaturas de diferentes escolas e áreas científicas da mesma instituição portuguesa. Resultados: Os dados preliminares mostram que tendencialmente os estudantes entrevistados caracterizam o seu primeiro contacto com o ensino superior, como um choque. São também descritas situações de stress, desmotivação e dúvida associadas ao desconhecimento dos colegas, saída da casa dos pais e à nova realidade académica. Por outro lado, são identificadas emoções de otimismo, segurança e resiliência quando se estabelece uma relação favorável com os docentes e o estudante está satisfeito com o curso. Considerações Finais: Embora tenham sido identificados estados emocionais negativos, estes tendem a dissipar-se com a integração na instituição, o apoio dos professores, a formação de novas amizades e a adaptação às novas exigências académicas.

Resumen La autoevaluación de los programas de maestría impartidos total o parcialmente en entornos virtuales permite la mejora de estos y favorece la toma de decisiones basada en evidencias. La eficacia de la autoevaluación depende de los indicadores utilizados por lo que es indispensable determinar el valor de estos. El objetivo del trabajo fue implementar un instrumento de evaluación de los indicadores para la autoevaluación de la calidad de los programas virtuales de maestría. Se realizó la identificación y análisis de artículos científicos, guías de diseño y normas técnicas que abordan la evaluación de indicadores. Se empleó el motor de búsqueda de Google y Google Académico con las palabras clave: indicadores, sistemas de indicadores, evaluación de indicadores. Como resultado del análisis se identificaron seis criterios de calidad de los indicadores utilizados en la autoevaluación de los programas virtuales de maestría. Se elaboró un instrumento para medir estos seis criterios mediante una escala de Likert de cinco niveles. La prueba piloto del instrumento diseñado permitió su validación y mejorar los indicadores utilizados en la autoevaluación de los programas virtuales de maestría en la Cátedra de Calidad, Metrología y Normalización de la Universidad de La Habana.

Abstract Systematic self-assessment of master's programs taught totally or partially in virtual environments allows the improvement of these and favors evidence-based decision making. Self-assessment effectiveness is to a large extent due to indicators that are defined to carry it out. Value determination of these indicators for the self-assessment´s objectives achievement is the first step to the realization of this. Given the above, the objective of this work was to implement an instrument for evaluating the self-assessment´s indicators for quality of virtual programs master's. It was carried out identification and analysis of scientific articles, design guides and technical standards that address the evaluation of indicators. The Google and Google Scholar search engine was used with the keywords: indicators, indicator systems, indicator evaluation. As a result of the analysis, six indicators’ quality criteria used in the master's virtual programs self-assessment were identified. An instrument was developed to measure these six criteria through a five-level Likert scale. Pilot test of designed instrument allowed its validation and improve the indicators used in master's virtual programs self-assessment in the Chair of Quality, Metrology and Standardization of the University of Havana.

RESUMEN En este trabajo se argumenta cómo la formación para la ciudadanía se constituye en uno de los pilares fundamentales y de los principales desafíos de las IES para contribuir a la formación integral de los estudiantes, a partir de la indisoluble relación entre educación y ciudadanía. Por ello, esta formación no debe limitarse a los niveles primarios, básicos o medios de la educación. Se considera un modo privilegiado a través del cual cada IES y particularmente la Universidad de El Salvador, puede cumplir su responsabilidad social, mejorando la calidad y pertinencia educativa, asumiendo un compromiso más consciente, sistemático y planificado de la formación para la ciudadanía de los estudiantes. Para el desarrollo de la investigación se utilizaron los métodos teóricos: analítico-sintético e histórico-lógico y los empíricos: revisión documental y observación directa. Como resultado se llegó a la conclusión de que las universidades, deben volver su mirada hacia sí mismas, reflexionar crítica y autocríticamente sobre su razón de ser en el actual contexto histórico de las sociedades latinoamericanas, para evitar el riesgo de caer en la irrelevancia educativa e institucional y de ser menos pertinentes frente a las nuevas exigencias que les impone la sociedad en pleno siglo XXI.

ABSTRACT This work argues how training for citizenship constitutes one of the fundamental pillars and of the main challenges of HEIs to contribute to the comprehensive training of students, based on the indissoluble relationship between education and citizenship. Therefore, not be limited to primary, basic or middle levels of education. It is considered a privileged way through which, particularly the University of El Salvador (UES), can fulfill their social responsibility by improving the quality and relevance of their education and assuming training in a more committed, conscious, systematic and planned way. for the citizenship of students. To develop the research, the analytical-synthetic and historical-logical methods were used as theoretical methods, and documentary review and direct observation were used as empirical methods. As a result of the research, the conclusion was reached that universities must turn their gaze towards themselves, reflect critically and self-critically on their reason for being in the current historical context of Latin American societies, to avoid the risk of falling into educational and institutional irrelevance and being less relevant to the new demands that society imposes on them in the 21st century.

The social and political history of South Africa yielded massive transformation in the higher education landscape, including access to education and the merger of universities. Despite the many successes of transformation, it brought with it challenges such as increasing participation, student retention, throughput, and graduation rates; changes in government funding models; declining student subsidies and providing quality education with limited resources. The South African higher education sector is multi-faceted, and students have a wide range of higher education options. This study explored factors influencing decision-making of first-year students when selecting a university. Data was collected from first-year students and employees at a University of Technology. Through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the researchers analysed the complex factors that guide students' decision-making when selecting a university. The findings revealed that factors significantly influencing decision-making on university selection are, the reputation and quality of university programmes offered, response time and support provided by staff; location; and infrastructure and facilities. This research is significant in that it will assist higher education institutions, particularly marketing and communications departments to be more responsive to students' needs by shifting toward active engagement in its marketing and recruitment approaches to attract, retain, and satisfy students.

Students' research, interactivity, experiences, and exposure have increasingly become important indicators of quality in higher education, however these expectations declined during COVID-19 pandemic. While studies have been conducted on postgraduate students' experiences during their studies, there is lack of empirical evidence on their experiences during COVID-19 pandemic, specifically at open distance learning institutions (ODLs). To bridge this identified gap, qualitative exploratory research was conducted to explore the experiences of postgraduate students registered in master's and doctoral programmes at the Department of Health Studies, University of South Africa, during the pandemic. Non-probability purposive sampling was used. Online interviews via Microsoft Teams were used for data collection. The interviews were recorded and the data obtained were analysed thematically. Findings revealed both positive and negative experiences. Anxiety, exhaustion and frustration due to sickness, death of family members, poor communication from the university, inadequate resources and poor internet access affected students' studies. Some participants reported lack of supervisory communication and support, while others applauded the continuous support of their supervisors and the university's improvement of its electronic communication linkages. Microsoft Teams was newly adopted. Working from home also gave them an opportunity to accelerate their studies. In conclusion based on the findings the researcher recommended that the university continue to improve academic support and address the mental health of students to prepare them to accept current and future unforeseen circumstances positively. Strengthening collaboration with national and international partners to enhance continuous online communication between the university and the students should also be considered.

ABSTRACT Introduction: A quality education for university students of medical sciences is part of the policy established by the Cuban State for Higher Education. Correspondingly, a research project is being developed aimed at raising the quality in the training process of the students of the University of Medical Sciences of Camagüey; For this reason, the objective of this text is to present the results of the process of characterization of the assumed problematic situation, taking into account the linguistic and technological dimensions, based on the application of research instruments during the initial diagnosis stage to professionals and students who make up the sample. Method: The research is classified as R&D, of a causal explanatory observational nature, which produces systems of actions to raise the quality of the training of future professionals at the University of Medical Sciences of Camagüey and is developed between January 2023 and December 2024. The non-probabilistic sampling by quota is made up of students from different faculties, teachers, professionals and non-teaching workers. Results: Insufficiencies were found in the development of computer skills to complement their studies through the search for information in virtual learning environments, to which are added the difficulties that the students in the sample present in expressing themselves and understanding texts, using the use of English for professional purposes. Discussion: The results were compared with those of con scholars who, at a national and global level, have investigated the topic of achieving quality in training processes at the university, and with this the usefulness of the study was corroborated.

RESUMEN Introducción: Una educación de calidad para los estudiantes universitarios de las ciencias médicas es parte de la política establecida por el Estado cubano para el nivel superior. En correspondencia se desarrolla un proyecto de investigación dirigido a la elevación de la calidad en el proceso formativo de los estudiantes de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Camagüey; por ello el presente texto tiene como objetivo exponer los resultados del proceso de caracterización de la situación problémica asumida, atendiendo a las dimensiones lingüística y tecnológica, a partir de la aplicación de los instrumentos de investigación durante la etapa del diagnóstico inicial a profesionales y estudiantes que conforman la muestra. Método: La investigación clasifica como I+D, de carácter observacional explicativo causal, que produce sistemas de acciones para elevar la calidad de la formación del futuro profesional de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Camagüey y se desarrolla entre enero de 2023 y diciembre de 2024. El muestreo no probabilístico por cuota está constituido por estudiantes de las diferentes facultades, docentes, profesionales y trabajadores no docentes. Resultados: Se constataron insuficiencias en el desarrollo de las habilidades informáticas para complementar sus estudios mediante la búsqueda de información en los entornos virtuales de aprendizaje, a lo que se suman las dificultades que presentan los alumnos dela muestra para expresarse y comprender textos, valiéndose del empleo del inglés con fines profesionales. Discusión: Se confrontaron los resultados con los de otros estudiosos que, a nivel nacional y mundial, han investigado sobre la temática acerca del logro de la calidad en los procesos de formación en la universidad y con ello se corroboró la utilidad del estudio.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a global crisis in higher education, where students were required to transition to emergency remote teaching (ERT). This study explored students' experiences of online assessments and feedback during the pandemic to inform future practice. METHODOLOGY: This study utilised a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative design with purposeful sampling to describe student's experiences of online assessments. Data were collected from occupational therapy students in 2022. The Assessment Experiences Questionnaire was sent to all eligible participants (n=166). Data were analysed using SPSS version 28. RESULTS: Students reported that 'tackling' assignments made them apply their learning more deeply (79.75%; n=63). More than half of the students learned more from doing assignments than studying course material (61.25%; n=49). Majority of students felt they did not receive timely feedback through online assessments (67.5%, n=54)( which impacted their learning. More than half of the students use feedback in preparation for assignments (56.25%; n=45), hence timely and quality feedback is needed. CONCLUSION: Occupational therapy students had a positive experience of online assessments; however, the transition was challenging. It is recommended for lecturers to consider the challenges of online assessments, the number of assessments and timely feedback for an effective online learning process. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE • For online learning to be effective, relevant and timely access to resources and support systems are required. These include internet access, resources like laptops and smartphones which facilitate engagement with remote learning. • The provision of institutional and academic support can positively influence students' experiences of online learning. • Timing and quality of feedback is essential to the online learning experience. Delayed feedback can negatively impact learning, emphasising the importance of timely feedback to aid student growth and improved learning outcomes. • Students' experiences and perceptions of how they receive feedback change over time. Thus, personalised feedback focusing on improvement rather than comparison to peers should be emphasised in the learning environments to which they are exposed. • The importance of effective time management in students is emphasised for online learning and students need to be equipped with these skills for this mode of learning.

Resumen El modelo propuesto tiene como meta fusionar el aprendizaje que ocurre en el entorno físico o presencial con el entorno virtual, logrando una integración armoniosa entre los sistemas de gestión de aprendizaje y las redes sociales. Mediante esta integración se persigue impulsar un enfoque de aprendizaje que fomente la colaboración, la comunicación y la interacción en el ámbito de la educación superior. Esta innovadora propuesta, desde la perspectiva del aprendizaje mixto, logra amalgamar la formalidad característica de los sistemas de gestión de aprendizaje con la espontaneidad inherente a las redes sociales. Esta sinergia permite aprovechar las virtudes distintivas de cada plataforma, con el propósito fundamental de agilizar la interacción y el intercambio de información entre docentes y estudiantes. Como resultado se busca enriquecer significativamente la vivencia de aprendizaje, mejorando así la calidad y efectividad del proceso educativo.

Abstract The proposed model aims to merge learning that occurs in the physical or face-to-face environment with the virtual environment, achieving a harmonious integration between learning management systems and social networks. Through this integration, the aim is to promote a learning approach that fosters collaboration, communication, and interaction in the higher education environment. This innovative proposal, from the perspective of blended learning, manages to amalgamate the formality characteristic of learning management systems with the spontaneity inherent in social networks. This synergy makes it possible to take advantage of the distinctive virtues of each platform, with the fundamental purpose of streamlining the interaction and exchange of information between teachers and students. As a result, the learning experience is significantly enriched, thus improving the quality and effectiveness of the educational process.