Analysis of Trends and Challenges Leading to the Achievement of Research Competencies in Graduate Students

Abstract

Research competencies allow students to develop analytical and reflective skills, achieve autonomy, create new knowledge, and face complex problems in their environment. This study analyzes the scientific evidence on the trends and challenges that influence the achievement of research competencies in graduate students. A systematic review of existing literature was carried out following the PRISMA protocol in the Scopus database, considering articles in Spanish and English published between 2020 and 2024, resulting in 12 manuscripts for evaluation. The results show that universities continue to apply strategies and improvement plans to strengthen research skills in students. Several authors underline the need to improve research training to respond to the social demands arising from socioeconomic, cultural, and institutional factors. However, some studies do not consider these elements, limiting the ability to learn and develop new skills, thus posing a barrier to further studies. In conclusion, the complexity of educational problems significantly affects the development of research competencies in university students. It is not only a matter of implementing new theories on developing these research skills but also of applying the best academic practices to comply with the educational curriculum and local regulations.