Research

Description                                                                                                                                                

In view of the Mission and Vision of Universidad EAN, the Board of Directors, the highest governing body of the institution, has stipulated that strategically the Research Department is responsible for the assimilation, adaptation, generation, and divulgence of knowledge required for the development of all the university’s missionary processes [1]. Correspondingly, the department must divulge such information and assess the business sector in its research. Bearing in mind this objective, the Research Department also has other strategic focuses such as the strengthening the framework for the transfer of knowledge according to the fourth CONPES 3582 guideline which makes specific reference to “To promote the social divulgence of knowledge. The strategy, which aims to promote the social divulgence of knowledge, is based on the realization of actions directed at specific audiences and communities that may act as multipliers in increasing effectiveness, dialogue and citizen participation in the areas of science and technology and innovation processes” [2]

As a part of the management of these processes, the University has structured a Chain of Command to strengthen the value chain of services that are provided to our various interest groups, where joint investigation between the University, Business Sector and the State is an activity which is developed through projects which are useful and of mutual interest. The objective is to carry out research based on the solution of problems which affect all parties involved, during a specific time frame, allocating specific resources and a specific end product. [3] This approach to defining a joint working scheme ensures that we are equipped with a group of full-time teachers who are continuously engaged in research. It should be noted that Universidad EAN always conducts research in collaboration with consultants / teachers / external entrepreneurs, seeking greater integration with the national status quo.[4]

One of the key strategies in the strengthening of Universidad EAN is the increase in the number of educational institutions and universities with which we are connected. This complements an objective of the Institutional Education Project which responds to the internationalization of the University, creating another form of strategic management for the Research Department. As such, the work done in international research networks is ongoing and aims to achieve advanced international integration by 2014. Additionally, COLCIENCIAS, in its plan to grade the quality of intellectual production, has included the participation of international evaluators in scientific committees, editorials and in joint participation in research. In this way, we internationalize our research thanks to the consequent network associations as we help the country to increase the number of academically competent, intellectual and professional educators.

Finally, as a transversal strategy, the approach which the Department has taken to production and knowledge management is both systemic and holistic. In other words, we believe that education is a holistic process and as such, research must be considered to be of equal importance and as far as possible, explore all its areas and aspects. This responds to the educational model of Universidad EAN where it is understood that knowledge is the development of human beings which is achieved through the meaningful integration of know-how and experiences. The university also perceives integral development as an educational process where full responsibility is taken for the student and the equal development of all possible aspects. [5]

1. Resolution No. 019 April 19, 2007. Board of Directors, Universidad EAN.

2. Conpes Document 3582 (2009) page 49 defines the policies the Colombian government must follow to strengthen research quality. National Policy on Science nd Technology.

3. Definition for the BSC, May 2009, Planning Department. See Diagram for Integral Command: Balance Score Card (BSC), Kaplan, R. and Norton, David, (2002).

4. Likewise, a requirement to qualify as a full-time teacher at Universidad EAN is to have previous work experience in businesses/organizations. (2005) Chapter II. Types of Teachers.

5. Framework of integral education at Universidad EAN. Human Resource Department and Academic Vice Rectory. 2007.