Situated analysis for the formulation of engineering research initiatives: a commitment to the transformation of territories
Research initiatives and continuous improvement in engineering take on a fundamental role from the recognition of problems, with a contextualized and sustainable perspective where the importance of considering the specific characteristics of a territory, such as its geography, culture, economy, is recognized. and resources, which allow the design and implementation of comprehensive solutions from their discipline and in close collaboration with the communities to address challenges according
to the specific needs evidenced. The thematic consolidation of the research initiatives presented by UNAD engineering students during the years 2022 and 2023 is presented, based on the methodological exercise through Participatory Action Research - PAR, addressed in the common basic interdisciplinary course Fundamentals and Generalities of Research , which opens up the foundations of investigative action on a social and community level where the student assumes his role as a dynamic agent of social change, promotes the management of ethical and supportive action of situated knowledge, acting as a transformative leader committed to advancing well-being in their communities. Their participation promotes the improvement of the quality of life, promoting a vision of progress that is based on ethical, supportive and disciplinary values from the professional programs that are part of the School of Basic Sciences, Technology and Engineering.