Improving the university teaching-learning process with ECO methodology: Teachers' perceptions

Area of Science:

• Educational Methodology
• Higher Education Pedagogy

Background:

• University teachers' perceptions of innovative teaching methods are crucial for effective implementation.
• The Explore, Create, and Offer (ECO) methodology aims to enhance teaching and learning experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate university teachers' perceptions of the ECO methodology's impact on teaching and learning.
• To assess the effects of ECO implementation on student engagement and teacher-student relationships.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory and descriptive study design was employed.
• Data were collected via online surveys from 22 university teachers across five institutions.
• Statistical analysis included Kruskal-Wallis H test and ER2 for effect size, alongside thematic analysis of qualitative data.

Main Results:

• ECO methodology demonstrated a very positive effect on teachers' personal development.
• Significant improvements were observed in teacher-student relationships and student commitment to learning.
• The methodology effectively connected academic learning with the social and professional spheres.

Conclusions:

• The ECO methodology offers revolutionary benefits for higher education.
• It fosters a more engaged learning environment and strengthens the link between academia and the wider world.