FORMATIVE RESEARCH FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE GRADUATE PROFILE OF LAW STUDENTS AT THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MANABÍ

Abstract

This research addresses the topic “Formative Research from the Perspective of the Graduate Profile of Law Students at the State University of Southern Manabí”, considering the importance of research training in the development of professional competencies. The research problem focuses on determining how formative research contributes to the achievement of the competencies established in the graduate profile of future legal professionals. The general objective was to analyze formative research from the perspective of the graduate profile of Law students at the State University of Southern Manabí. The methodology followed a quantitative approach with a descriptive and field-based scope. A survey was administered to 200 Law students to identify their perceptions regarding the importance of research in their educational process. The results revealed that 85% of the students consider research to be very necessary for their professional training, 10% consider it necessary, and 5% perceive it as having little importance. The discussion highlighted that formative research promotes the development of critical thinking, legal argumentation, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential competencies for legal practice. Likewise, the findings emphasize the need to strengthen strategies that integrate research, teaching, and community engagement. It is concluded that formative research is an essential component for achieving the graduate profile, as it significantly contributes to the development of academic, scientific, and professional competencies required for the comprehensive education of Law students.