Exhorts to value student experience for their training
SANTO DOMINGO. - Transdisciplinary research, in which scientific knowledge goes hand in hand with the experience of the common man for the solution of complex problems, must occupy a significant position in the training of more human professionals who know their reality, according to Dr. Waldemiro Vélez Cardona, professor at the University of Puerto Rico.
When giving the conference “Transdisciplinary research for the strengthening of general studies” at the Fifth General Studies Seminar, which organize the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC) and the International Network of General Studies (RIDEG), Vélez Cardona said that the problems facing humanity today, including global warming and migration, require a transdisciplinary approach that takes into account the diversity of perceptions on these (from science, business, politics and communities) and the various actors are incorporated into the entire research process.
He indicated that interdisciplinary research, both for its integrating nature of all dimensions of life, and for its incorporation of other knowledge and epistemologies that are not considered very frequently in university education, is the most appropriate way to modify the university curriculum. and it contributes to the integral formation of the student, where he deepens in his affective and spiritual aspects.
Vélez Cardona said that in this type of research the scientist is involved in the process emotionally, rationally and ethically, which promotes communication skills.
Listen to the student
During his presentation he urged teachers to listen to their students and put aside prejudices, as well as the misconception that due to their youth they do not have knowledge that can enrich the academic field. “Many times we teachers believe that students don't know anything, but if we don't let them speak, how will we know? We could learn so many things from them, if we let them talk, we would be surprised ”, argued the RIDEG coordinator.
He stressed that real knowledge begins when it is questioned what is known and valued that general studies provide a critical reflection on scientific, political and economic reasons for the emergence of the various academic disciplines.
The activity was attended by educators from the basic and middle levels, as well as academics from the Universidad Nordestana, Universidad Central del Este, Open University for Adults, Pontifica Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra, Catholic University Santo Domingo, Autonomous University of Santo Domingo, Catholic University Nordestana, among other places, as well as representatives of higher education institutions of Puerto Rico.