Science and Interculturality

Preface

Ilenia Arllery García Peralta — 2025-07-02

La Revista Ciencia e Interculturalidad de la Universidad de las Regiones Autónomas de la Costa Caribe Nicaragüense (URACCAN), divulga artículos inéditos de investigación, artículos de revisión bibliográfica y ensayos investigativos que contribuyen a promover las diversas temáticas relacionadas a la ciudadanía intercultural de género. Está dirigida a investigadores, profesores, estudiantes y profesionales vinculados a áreas sensibles como: Educación y Salud Intercultural, Territorialidad, Recursos Naturales y Medio Ambiente, Género e Interculturalidad, Derechos Humanos, en especial los vinculantes a los tratados y convenios internacionales de los pueblos indígenas y afrodescendientes.

Para fines de organización Académica, la cobertura temática de la revista Ciencia e Interculturalidad volumen 34, contempla las siguientes secciones: Educación (4); Educación Superior en la Costa Caribe Nicaragüense (4); Revitalización lingüística y cultural (3); Salud intercultural (2).

Los resultados de estas investigaciones aportan significativamente a la praxis innovadora de la comunidad universitaria en el ámbito de Abya Yala o América Latina y el Caribe; constituyen un medio educativo y de comunicación para compartir con la comunidad de profesores, investigadores y estudiantes del mundo académico, en una expresión crítica y autónoma que, apuntala hacia la emancipación en un ambiente del derecho de ciudadanías interculturales de género.

Perspectives and Paths for Nurturing, Planting Wisdom and Knowledge - CRISSAC in the Polindara Indigenous People, Cauca, Colombia

Yaned Sánchez Quilindo — 2025-06-26

The article emerges from a journey to dialogue about indigenous methodologies, focusing on the connection between research and communities. It underlines the need to decolonize methodologies, embracing the context and ethical implications of research for communities. It highlights the pedagogy of oral memory, territorial journey, community assembly, dialogue of knowledge and living, the reconceptualization of history as essential methods in this approach. The nurturing and planting of wisdom and knowledge - CRISSAC is positioned in contrast to colonial paradigms, aiming for an urgent decolonization of research as a political and epistemological tool for the social, cultural and identity strengthening of peoples.

This article is more than a pedagogical exploration; it is a vibrant testimony of the resilience, depth and vitality of the CRISSAC paths or indigenous research methods with their community, spiritual, territorial and experiential approach of Indigenous Peoples such as Poliandra in Cauca and an intercultural recognition of Afro-descendants and peasants. It invites us to recognize and value these methodologies as guardians of the history, culture and legacy of Indigenous Peoples, not only as contributions to academia, but as fundamental pillars such as the cultivation of wisdom for the preservation and flourishing of their communities and Life Plans.

Methodological discussion of research in the approach of cultivation and elevation of knowledge and knowledge - CCRISAC: From conventional technicality to the didactics of relationality

Norling Sabel Solís Narváez — 2025-06-26

The purpose of this article is to carry out the methodological discussion of the forms and use of the Cultivation and Nurturing of Wisdom and Knowledge – CCRISAC, in Higher Education contexts with other research models. The approaches focus on the limits, encounters and disagreements between traditional research approaches and new paradigms. This work arises from the methodology proposed in the research project whose purpose is the curricular management of careers with an intercultural approach. The article does not delve into the topic of the research project, but rather into the methodological reflection of the CCRISAC. It addresses four sections: a) Diagram for the methodological discussion, b) Theoretical-methodological foundation: encounters and disagreements, c) From the design of the protocol to the dialogue of knowledge for the cultivation and breeding of knowledge, d) From conventional technicality to the didactics of relationality.

Graduate Follow-Up Study of the business administration program at Martín Lutero University in Nicaragua

Winston Joseph Zamora Díaz — 2025-06-26

The purpose of this study was to assess the perception and degree of satisfaction of graduates of the business administration program at Martin Luther University regarding their professional training and current employment status. It also sought to obtain the assessment of employers regarding the competencies in the work performance of these professionals.

Although the existence of qualitative elements was notable, a quantitative approach was adopted, due to the majority presence of the characteristics and procedures of the same. The predominant type of research was descriptive and cross-sectional, in which a deductive and inductive methodology was used to treat a population of 16 graduates to whom a questionnaire of 39 questions was applied and 8 employers who answered a questionnaire of 23 Likert scale questions and 4 open questions.

As significant results, it was found that graduates gave high levels of value to generic and specific competencies, but expressed as opportunities for reinforcement the use of ICT, consulting processes, audits and market research, use of English as a second language and need for preparation to work in international contexts. Likewise, they assumed very satisfactory evaluations for the academic processes with which they were professionally trained, making suggestions to enhance tutoring in the area of scientific research. For their part, employers made extremely positive evaluations of the graduates' performance. Finally, recommendations were presented that the UML should take up in a timely manner, in order to improve the quality of its graduates.

Fundamentals and Applications of Gröbner Bases in Solving Polynomial Equations

Zayda Julissa Blandón-Chavarría — 2025-06-27

This review article examines research on Gröbner bases applied to systems of polynomial equations, with the aim of presenting a comprehensive review of their applications in solving these systems. The study, based on a qualitative approach, covers 24 citations selected from 30 research found and uses Google Scholar for the search, addressing topics such as Gröbner bases, mathematical learning, computational thinking, algebra, polynomial equation solving, technology and mathematics education. New educational technologies in mathematics education go beyond a simple computer; however, the computer remains a fundamental tool in computer algebra. Gröbner bases facilitate the solution of polynomial equations and are an essential tool in computer algebra and other areas, allowing to solve various algebraic difficulties. This article provides an overview of Gröbner bases applied to systems of polynomial equations, highlighting key theoretical and educational aspects for the academic community.

Methodological paths for the analysis of URACCAN's Intercultural Community accompaniment in the Mayangna indigenous people

Hermes Davis Taylor — 2025-06-27

This article analyzes the methodological paths of the Cultivation and Nurtuting of Wisdom and Knowledge (CCRISAC) as a paradigm to strengthen intercultural community support towards the Mayangna indigenous people in the Sauni As territory, Nicaragua. Focused on good living and the exercise of collective rights, the study arises from the need of indigenous communities to face sociocultural and economic challenges through processes of cultural revitalization, self-management and development with identity.

From a methodological pluralism approach, the CCRISAC is presented as a tool that integrates its own forms of creation and recreation of knowledge, highlighting the dialogue of wisdom, conversations and etymological tracing as central methods. This paradigm, which articulates endogenous and exogenous knowledge, seeks not only to analyze the effectiveness of URACCAN's support strategies, but also to transform traditional research practices, reclaiming indigenous methodologies as a basis for the construction of further knowledge.

Cultivating and Nurturing of Wisdom and Knowledge: A methodological approach to investigate the Construction of Intercultural Identity in the context of the Language Skills I Course

Judith Yasmina Wong Serrano — 2025-06-27

This methodological article proposes an innovative approach to analyze the influence of the Language Skills I course on intercultural identity construction at Bluefields Indian & Caribbean University (BICU). It combines the "Cultivating and Nurturing of Wisdom and Knowledge" (CRISSAC) framework with narrative research, highlighting the value of life stories and individual experiences. Intercultural identity is viewed as a dynamic, transformative process shaped by interactions between diverse cultures. This approach moves beyond static views of knowledge, valuing student wisdom and promoting a dialogue of knowledges.

The proposed methodology includes in-depth interviews, document analysis, participant observation, and dialogue of knowledges. It aims to foster epistemological justice by amplifying marginalized perspectives, validating diverse knowledge systems, and challenging the hegemony of a single system. Researcher and participant subjectivity are acknowledged as crucial. The intercultural and community context of the BICU is also emphasized. The article concludes by stressing the need for critical reflection on educational practices and the importance of teacher training in qualitative methodologies and intercultural approaches.

Methodological discussion of the analysis of Access, Retention, and Graduation of indigenous and Afro-descendant students in Higher Education

Keith Sankara Narváez Ismael — 2025-06-27

The article explores the access, permanence and graduation of indigenous and Afro-descendant peoples in higher education institutions in Nicaragua, under the paradigm of Creation and Recreation of Knowledge, Wisdom and Practices (CCRISAC). It uses a pluralistic methodological approach that integrates hermeneutical (manifest and latent content analysis), ethnographic (participatory observation), statistical (survey and Likert scale) and symbolic interactionism (open interviews) tools.

The research focuses on understanding educational dynamics through interaction with key actors (students, parents, universities, MINED and NGOs), highlighting the importance of experience and collaboration in the data collection process. Strategies are established to guarantee methodological rigor and strategic organization in implementation. This study provides a comprehensive framework that combines qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze and improve educational inclusion in the region.

Dialogue of Knowledge, a look from our own and decolonial methodological pluralism

Rigoberto Antonio Rostrán Sandino — 2025-06-27

This article emerges as part of a reflection of the research methodologies that have persisted in the face of Eurocentric methodologies. The purpose of this article is to discuss methodological aspects and ways of conducting research based on the Cultivation and Nurturing of Wisdom and Knowledge (CCRISAC), from an Indigenous and Eurocentric perspective, describing etymological tracing as a form of own research of peoples and communities. The methodology implemented for this process was ab documentary and content review, which allowed for the examination and comparison of the authors' different positions regarding research methods.

It is concluded that, based on methodological pluralism, etymological tracing constitutes a fundamental tool for linguistic inquiry, helping to obtain more precise meanings from contexts, as well as their use and applicability in a given community or society.

Education of Indigenous peoples and its influence on Mexican Indigenous cultural identity

Héctor Ricardo Rodríguez-Aguilar — 2025-06-27

Historically, the education of Mexico’s indigenous communities has been fraught with controversies due to its objectives, which initially aimed to create a mestizo population under a common cultural identity. However, over the past fifty years, the focus has shifted towards cultural diversity and the strengthening of pre-colonial roots. Within this historical context, this study seeks to explore how the cultural identity of Indigenous peoples and Indigenous education have been intertwined over the past century, and what outcomes this relationship has produced in the last five years. To this end, the work focuses on three common antinomies present in the conceptions of Indigenous education: monolingual Spanish education / bilingual multicultural education, nation-state / plural-state, and homogeneity / diversity. These are then contrasted with the developments in Indigenous higher education in Mexico over the past five years and its impact on the cultural identity of students from Indigenous communities. Based on the theoretical foundations discussed and the empirical studies consulted, it is concluded that higher education offered by intercultural universities, resulting from new Mexican educational policies, together with the psychological phenomena of resilience and resistance, contributes to the strengthening of Indigenous cultural identity. This identity remains subject to discrimination and inequality, which forces these students to re-signify their cultural value within the conflict.

The research methodologies of the Nordic Peoples

Ana Edy Perdomo Pancho — 2025-06-27

This article explores how the research methodologies of the indigenous Sami peoples of the Arctic and Maori of New Zealand have contributed to the decolonization of scientific thought and the preservation of their cultures. From a critical and intercultural perspective, it analyzes the strategies of resistance and adaptation that these peoples have developed in the face of the challenges imposed by Western science, highlighting their connection with the defense of territory, linguistic revitalization and the construction of their own epistemologies.

Through a historical and methodological journey, the contributions of these communities are shown, such as the strengthening of Sami cultural symbols in the face of energy projects in Norway and the recovery of the Maori language as a tool for political and social autonomy. These cases are compared with the resistance experiences of the indigenous peoples of Cauca, Colombia, highlighting points of convergence in the struggles for recognition and cultural survival.

The analysis is based on documentary review, the authors' experiences as indigenous women, and methodologies that integrate respect for the word, spirituality and collective work. The results underline the need for universities to deepen these epistemologies in order to foster intercultural dialogues that enrich the educational sciences.

Erotic Elevation: Exploring the Psychological and Cultural Dimensions of Sexual Imagery Carved on Tudals of Temples of Kathmandu Valley

Ramesh Prasad Adhikary — 2025-06-27

Hindu temple art in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal is renowned for its intricate carvings, particularly the tudals—wooden roof struts—that often depict gods and goddesses in explicit sexual poses. These carvings, deeply rooted in Tantric traditions, symbolize fertility, cosmic unity, and spiritual transcendence. Despite their cultural and historical significance, there remains a paucity of psychological research on their impact. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach integrating historical, cultural, and psychological perspectives to explore the implications of these carvings. Historical and cultural analyses reveal their origins in Tantric practices, where sexual symbolism signifies the union of opposing forces to achieve enlightenment. Mythologically, the carvings depict divine unions like Shiva and Shakti, embodying profound spiritual concepts. Culturally, the Newar community views these carvings not as taboo but as sacred representations of life’s vitality and divine blessings. Symbolically, they denote the integration of dualities and the cyclical nature of existence, which is crucial for spiritual growth. Psychologically, Freudian and Jungian frameworks elucidate how these carvings serve as outlets for repressed desires and facilitate individuation by integrating unconscious elements. This research synthesizes existing literature and conducts archival research to contextualize these carvings within their historical and religious frameworks. It also employs thematic analysis to uncover their symbolic meanings and uses of psychological theories to interpret their impact on worshippers and visitors. By bridging gaps in existing scholarship, this study aims to deepen our understanding of Nepali temple art’s psychological dimensions. It underscores the importance of these carvings not just as aesthetic artifacts but as profound expressions of spirituality and cultural identity. Ultimately, this research contributes to broader conversations at the intersection of sexuality, spirituality, and cultural heritage, highlighting the enduring relevance and significance of these ancient artistic traditions in contemporary society.

Stress, anxiety, and depression among university students, teaching staff, and administrative personnel at URACCAN Nueva Guinea Campus during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic

Carlos Álvarez Amador — 2025-06-30

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about drastic changes in people's lives and presented significant challenges. The college community was not exempt from these impacts. Manifestations of depression, anxiety, and stress are aspects that arise at varying levels in situations like the aforementioned. This article provides a summary of the evaluation of the psychological impact experienced by the university community of URACCAN University, Nueva Guinea, during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The DASS-21 and EIE-R tests were administered to 285 students and 47 members of the teaching and administrative staff. The information was obtained through a self-administered questionnaire and subsequently analyzed using SPSS version 24 software.

The results revealed that 26% of the total sample had experienced symptoms of COVID-19. Regarding depression, 62% of the students exhibited symptoms within the normal range, while 17% and 12% experienced mild and moderate depression, respectively. Levels of anxiety and stress varied from normal to mild and moderate, with similar results in both cases. This study demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of students and university staff. Additionally, significant differences were observed in levels of anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress, as well as an association between gender and anxiety and stress levels among the staff.

Intercultural conceptions and competencies in the training of doctors trained by URACCAN University

Loyda María Stamp Lackood — 2025-06-30

This article, derived from the doctoral research process, analyzes part of the scientific production aimed at the training of human resources in health, particularly that referred to crucial aspects of intercultural conceptions and competencies of the doctors trained at URACCAN University, with a perspective of intercultural health. The approach is qualitative, hermeneutical, and the results respond to the content analysis applied to the scientific evidence found resulting from the etymological search oriented from academic search engines and indexed electronic journals, guided by established descriptors. In this regard, there is a great consensus in the aforementioned works, which confirm that the development of intercultural competencies in this direction is increasingly pertinent to the global context in which these professionals operate, ensuring that medical training is therefore redefine in congruence with the ethnic and cultural diversity of the peoples themselves. However, it is necessary to deepen the practices of the intercultural physician, from clinical practice in contact with their patients.