Factores asociados a la transferencia del conocimiento ancestral de productos artesanales en Biblián – Ecuador

Abstract

In the canton of Biblián, where the artisanal tradition of (toquilla straw) weaving represents an essential part of cultural heritage, a study was conducted to identify the factors influencing the transmission of ancestral knowledge among local artisans. A quantitative methodology was used, based on a non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational design. The research involved 85 active artisans, who completed a structured questionnaire previously validated by experts and tested for reliability using Cronbach's Alpha coefficient. Among the most relevant findings, trust and cooperation among group members were positively and significantly related to the culture of associativity (r = 0.284; p = 0.009), demonstrating that strong human relationships are key to preserving and sharing traditional knowledge. In contrast, collaborative practices within the production chain showed a negative relationship with such culture (r = -0.285; p = 0.008), possibly linked to internal difficulties in work organization. Furthermore, although shared norms and values did not show a direct relationship with associativity (p = 0.382), they exhibited a significant correlation with trust and cooperation (r = 0.617; p < 0.001), suggesting a relevant indirect effect. Based on these results, the research aimed to address the following question: What factors are associated with the transfer of ancestral knowledge in the production of handicraft goods in Biblián, Ecuador? Keywords: ancestral knowledge, handicrafts, associativity, cooperation, organizational culture.