Herramienta digital de educación para la prevención de acoso sexual, dirigido a representantes estudiantiles de la federación de estudiantes de la Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo octubre 2023 - marzo 2024

Abstract

Sexual harassment in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has persisted and continues to be a significant concern. Following the visibility of cases in 2015 by students at a public university in Quito, the need for concrete actions to prevent it became evident. Therefore, this research aimed to develop a virtual course for preventing sexual harassment at Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo (ESPOCH), focusing on prevention as a fundamental strategy. An observational and cross-sectional study was applied involving a sample of 68 student representatives who completed an online survey to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sexual harassment. Due to the study group's information, education, and communication needs the number of units and topics for the virtual course "Prevention of Sexual Harassment" (P. S. H) was set. Each topic has been developed through an extensive literature review to provide updated scientific information. The PACIE methodology was implemented in the course which promotes self-learning and the generation of knowledge structured into three blocks (block 0, academic, and closing). The methodology facilitates interaction processes and tutorial activities, creating a virtual environment conducive to learning. In addition, the methodological characteristics of the course were validated by a group of experts, ensuring its quality. In this context, it is concluded that sexual harassment is a prevalent issue at ESPOCH, and the fear of retaliation prevents these acts from being reported. Therefore, prevention through education and information stands as a fundamental pillar in the fight against sexual harassment in the university environment.