Developing geographical competencies through voluntary participation in real field research: an interdisciplinary approach

Abstract

This article addresses the impact of university student participation as volunteers in a socio-environmental research project, specifically on field trips. It highlights how this experience strengthens geographical and interdisciplinary competencies, promoting a greater understanding of the relationship between human activity and the environment, as well as a deeper environmental awareness. It was evident that the aspects that are taken into account or not in the research design have an impact on the interpretations that students make in the territory. Greater integration of students in interdisciplinary university research projects is suggested to improve the geographical training of future professionals taking into account an interdisciplinary approach from the research design. Likewise, the importance of teaching geography in contexts beyond specific subjects is emphasized as a key element for the development of geographical competencies in the citizenship and professional training of students.