Validación de una caja de herramientas didácticas digitales para fortalecer las prácticas pedagógicas docentes en la open class del curso proyecto de vida

Abstract

Digital transformation in higher education requires pedagogical resources that connect active methodologies, learning purposes, and digital technologies. In this context, this study aimed to design a digital teaching toolbox to strengthen the pedagogical practices of teachers conducting Open Class sessions in the Proyecto de Vida course of the Political Science program at UNIMINUTO Virtual. The study was framed as applied educational innovation research, used a mixed-methods approach with qualitative predominance, and adopted Design Thinking to organize the stages of empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and validating. The diagnostic process combined a questionnaire, an observation guide, and semi-structured interviews, identifying needs related to instructional planning, methodological diversification, student participation, and the pedagogical use of digital resources. Based on these findings, a toolbox was designed around planning, connection, conceptualization, application, and closure and reflection, incorporating activities, teacher guidance, digital resources, and learning evidence. Assessment through a rubric, expert judgement, and a pilot application indicated favorable perceptions of its relevance, clarity, usability, applicability, innovation, and flexibility. The study concludes that its main contribution is a contextualized and adaptable resource that organizes pedagogical decision-making and creates conditions for enriching Open Class sessions; it does not, by itself, establish definitive effects on learning or student retention.