Proposal and validation of a system of indicators to measure the Third University Mission in Colombian higher education institutions

Alix Johana Gaffaro Garcia, Claudia Milena Pico Bonilla and María de Lourdes Reyes Vergara
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Alix Johana Gaffaro Garcia: Politécnico Grancolombiano
Claudia Milena Pico Bonilla: Universidad Militar Nueva Granada
María de Lourdes Reyes Vergara: Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla

Revista Tendencias, 2026, vol. 27, issue 01, 148-177

Abstract: Introduction: The Third Mission of Universities (TMU) refers to the active engagement of universities with society, aiming to promote sustainable development and generate social value. However, in Latin America and Colombia, there are methodological and information limitations that make it difficult to measure systematically. Objective: This study proposes a system of indicators designed to measure the TMU in Colombian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Methodology: A mixed and quantitative approach was employed, which included a literature review, selection and categorization of indicators, and validation through expert judgment and statistical analyses, such as Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Result: The result is a valid structure consisting of 31 indicators that demonstrate internal consistency and there are theoretically and empirically aligned to the Colombian context. Discussion: This study advances previous research by providing a replicable and adaptable quantitative instrument that facilitates the measurement of university-society engagement. Conclusion: The proposed system offers a useful methodological framework for evaluating institutional appropriation of TMU, identifying areas for improvement in HEIs, and contributing to the design of university engagement policies and strategies grounded in concrete results.

Keywords: factor analysis; institutional evaluation; university management; performance indicators; expert judgment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D83 I23 L31 O32 O35 Q01 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:col:000520:022233

DOI: 10.22267/rtend.262701.290

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