Construction of knowledge within the framework of the first research internship “El origen”: reflections from the training of seed talents in animal science

ABSTRACT

Contextualization: This experience takes place within the framework of the first zonal research stay called “The Origin: Seed Talents that Inspire and Investigate,” held at the Distance Education Center (CEAD) Yopal – Amazon-Orinoquía Zone (ZAO), as part of Call No. 01 of 2025 promoted by the National Open and Distance University (UNAD). From a formative research perspective, the document presents an academic reflection on the knowledge-building process experienced by a student member of the research group Production and Environment, from the Animal Science program. The stay allowed the articulation of theoretical knowledge with practical experiences in real productive contexts, as well as exposure to emerging technologies applied to the agricultural sector and scientific research.

Knowledge gap: In the training of professionals in the agricultural sector, limitations persist in the practical application of knowledge and in the adoption of emerging technological tools. A gap is evident in the integration of traditional production processes with innovations such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and additive manufacturing, as well as limited knowledge about specific production chains, such as that of essential oils.

Purpose: The internship aimed to strengthen the academic and practical competencies of students through interaction with real production environments, access to emerging technologies, and the analysis of livestock systems, promoting a more relevant and contextualized education.

Methodology: a qualitative descriptive–reflective approach was adopted, based on experiential learning, collaborative work, and participant observation. It began with the socialization of the schedule and the integration of the participants. Subsequently, technical visits were carried out to productive units, where the process of obtaining and marketing essential oils was addressed. Additionally, at the CEAD, training activities focused on artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and 3D printing were conducted. Finally, a technical tour was carried out aimed at the recognition and analysis of fine-step horse breeds.

Results and conclusions: The results show a significant strengthening of research, technological, and territorial skills, as well as a greater understanding of the value of interdisciplinarity and innovation as fundamental axes in professional training. It is concluded that this type of academic stays constitute strategic scenarios for the consolidation of seed talents and for the strengthening of a research culture from the initial stages of university education. Likewise, these experiences substantially contribute to the development of professional skills, by reducing the gap between theory and practice and promoting a relevant, contextualized, and aligned training process with the current demands of the productive and academic sectors.