Digital Skills Among Graphic Design Students: A Comparative Mixed-Methods Study
Competencias digitales en estudiantes de Diseño Gráfico: estudio mixto comparativo
Resumen (es)
Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar el nivel de desarrollo de las competencias digitales en estudiantes del programa de Diseño Gráfico y examinar sus implicaciones en los procesos de formación y transformación curricular en la educación superior. La investigación se desarrolló bajo un enfoque metodológico mixto, con un diseño no experimental de tipo transversal, en el cual se aplicaron cuestionarios estructurados a estudiantes y docentes, así como entrevistas dirigidas a profesores del programa. Los resultados evidencian que los estudiantes poseen un adecuado dominio técnico de herramientas digitales propias del campo del diseño; sin embargo, se identificaron brechas en dimensiones más complejas de la competencia digital, particularmente en el pensamiento crítico, la gestión de la información, el trabajo colaborativo y el uso estratégico de tecnologías emergentes. Asimismo, se encontró que el uso de tecnologías en el proceso formativo se orienta principalmente a la ejecución técnica y al aprendizaje autónomo, con menor presencia de prácticas reflexivas y colaborativas. Se concluye la necesidad de fortalecer estrategias pedagógicas y procesos curriculares que promuevan una formación digital integral.
Resumen (en)
This study aims to analyze the level of digital competence development among Graphic Design students and examine its implications for educational processes and curricular transformation in higher education. The research was conducted using a mixed-methods approach with a non-experimental cross-sectional design, including structured questionnaires administered to students and teachers, as well as interviews with faculty members. The findings reveal that students demonstrate a strong technical proficiency in digital tools related to the design field. However, significant gaps were identified in more complex dimensions of digital competence, particularly in critical thinking, information management, collaborative work, and the strategic use of emerging technologies. Additionally, the use of digital technologies in the learning process is primarily oriented toward technical execution and autonomous learning, with limited evidence of reflective and collaborative practices. The study concludes that it is necessary to strengthen pedagogical strategies and curricular processes to promote comprehensive digital competence development in higher education design programs.
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Derechos de autor 2026 Harvey Yesid Montilla Buitrago
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