Experiential training program for the prevention of gender violence, aimed at Indigenous leaders in the province of Chimborazo

Abstract

The educational program constitutes an effective tool for the prevention of gender violence, providing detailed information about the causes and consequences, as well as the development of strategies that contribute to harmonious coexistence, assertive communication, negotiation skills, and conflict resolution, all linked to violence prevention. The objective of the intervention was to establish a experiential training methodology for indigenous leaders in the prevention of gender violence. Among the methods and techniques, the program was developed through a qualitative research approach known as Participatory Action Research (PAR). It was aimed at 35 female leaders and 21 male leaders from Chimborazo and was implemented through an experiential training process with the support of constructivist pedagogy. The methodology employed allowed for the development of practical, playful, and experiential activities that generated processes of analysis and reflection on self-esteem, life projects, emotional management, and interpersonal relationships. The results showed an improvement in social skills, confirming that the experiential workshops developed promote better coexistence and appropriate interpersonal relationships at the family and community levels. In conclusion, two methodological facilitation guides were elaborated in a participatory manner, designed according to the realities of the indigenous population of Chimborazo. The implemented workshops generated meaningful learning for participants and their families, friends, and neighbors, which contributes to social change processes at the community level.