Minerva

Information and Communication Technologies as a Strategy for Developing Critical Thinkers

Bethy Banessa Jimenez-Saavedra, Juan Pedro Soplapuco-Montalvo — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 22:38:46 +0000

Critical thinking is an essential competence in contemporary education, which has driven the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) into teaching and learning processes. This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence on ICT-based strategies that foster the development of critical thinking. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines using the Scopus and SciELO databases, resulting in the selection of 20 studies published between 2023 and 2026. The findings indicate that artificial intelligence, collaborative platforms, gamification, and virtual learning environments strengthen critical thinking when integrated through active learning methodologies and supported by adequate teacher digital competence. Barriers related to teacher trai-ning, the digital divide, and institutional constraints were also identified. The study concludes that the educational impact of ICT depends more on pedagogical integration than on technological availability.

Operational Efficiency and Persistence of Capital Adequacy in Peruvian Microfinance Institutions

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 01:28:57 +0000

This study analyzed the relationship between operational efficiency and the persistence of capital adequacy in Peruvian microfinance institutions. A quantitative, longitudinal, and non-experimental approach was employed using monthly financial information from 15 institutions supervised by the Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Fund Administrators. The dataset comprised 2,519 observations for the 2010–2023 period, and a dynamic fixed-effects model with institution-clustered robust standard errors was estimated. The results showed a high degree of persistence in the Capital Adequacy Ratio (ρ = 0.9407; p < 0.001). Likewise, the ratio of administrative expenses to financial income exhibited a negative and statistically significant association with capital adequacy (β = −0.0056; p = 0.002). It is concluded that operational efficiency constitutes a factor associated with capital strength and that capital adequacy follows a markedly persistent adjustment process.

Water Justice and Conflicts over Water in the Kichwa Community of La Calera, Ecuador

Karla Paulina Hidalgo Montesinos — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 03:12:23 +0000

This study examines the demand for water justice in the Kichwa community of La Calera, Ecuador, through the external and internal conflicts it faces regarding the use, distribution, and gover-nance of water resources. An interpretive qualitative methodology was employed, based on in-depth semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and documentary analysis, with the data analyzed according to grounded theory principles. The findings show that water is conceived as an essential common good with symbolic and identity-forming significance, thereby strengthening the community's social and cultural cohesion. They also reveal the persistence of centralized water-governance structures that hinder the recognition of existing community practices and norms. The study concludes that Indigenous worldviews and rights must be considered in the formulation of public water policies in order to promote water governance that is more just, equitable, and responsive to local contexts.