DESIGN AND VALIDATION OF AN INSTRUMENT TO MEASURE COMPETENCIES IN SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Effective information management has become essential in today's academic context, where the abundance of data requires critical skills for its access, evaluation and use. However, many researchers in training lack these skills, which can limit the quality of their research. The study presented aims to design and validate an instrument to measure scientific information management skills in postgraduate researchers. The study is based on a theoretical framework that covers information search, critical evaluation of sources, data synthesis and communication of findings. A bibliometric analysis of existing instruments was carried out, followed by a systematic development of the new questionnaire, which was validated with a group of researchers from various disciplines. The results indicate a Cronbach coefficient of 0.87, suggesting excellent internal consistency of the instrument. The implications of this study are significant for the training of postgraduate researchers, as it provides a diagnostic tool that allows identifying areas for improvement in information skills. The implementation of the instrument in postgraduate training programs is recommended to guide the development of information management skills. In addition, future research is suggested to explore its application in different contexts and its relationship with academic performance, thus contributing to improving the quality of research and the preparation of researchers in the academic field.