Three Business Engineering graduates from the Universidad del Pacífico were selected to present their research at the International Association for Computer Information Systems (IACIS) Conference 2024. Nicole Contreras, Paul Velásquez, and Hafid Córdova shared their work on social media, the adoption of AI tools, and data privacy with international experts in the field of information systems. The event, held in Atlantic Beach, Florida, offered students a unique platform to validate their research on the global stage.
This conference is a prominent international space for the exchange of knowledge on information systems. "Having students presenting at this event not only validates their effort and dedication, but also allows them to connect with experts from around the world, expanding their collaboration networks and opening doors for future research", explained the head of the UP's Academic Department of Engineering, Christian Libaque.
Motivation and enthusiasm for a global challenge
Invited by Professor Libaque to participate in the event, the students, each of them passionate about research since their undergraduate days, did not hesitate to take the opportunity to delve into issues that reflect current technological challenges.
“I always tell my students that research is a powerful tool to transform the world. When I told them about the chance of participating in IACIS, I saw in them a great motivation and enthusiasm to take their ideas to an international stage", said Libaque.
To present their papers, the graduates had to follow strict guidelines, which included conducting an exhaustive analysis of the topics, using appropriate methodologies, and defending their work before an evaluation committee. This process strengthened the graduates' analytical skills but also their communication skills, preparing them to thrive in a demanding academic environment.
Technological challenges of the present and future
The UP graduates presented highly relevant research that addressed key issues such as the impact of technology on trade, education, and data privacy. Their focus on current technological challenges contributed new perspectives in their fields of study.
Nicole Contreras centered her study on the impact of social media on Peruvians' purchasing decisions: specifically, by analyzing how platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are transforming commerce—especially among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), for which these sites tend to be accessible and profitable channels.
Contreras stressed the importance of understanding these dynamics from the perspective of both consumers and businesses, especially those with limited resources. “My interest arose from seeing how social media has completely changed the way people shop. In Peru, many SMEs depend on these platforms, and I wanted to better understand their impact on both consumers and businesses", Contreras said.
For his part, Paul Velasquez focused on the adoption of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, within the educational field. His research sought to identify the motivations of university students to use these technologies, as well as the factors that influence their use. Through his analysis, Velasquez cast a critical glance on the role of AI in the transformation of university education.
“I was intrigued to see how artificial intelligence is changing the way students approach their education. I wanted to delve deeper into the aspects they value and how these advances can improve the learning experience", noted Velasquez.
Hafid Córdoba, in turn, presented his research on consumer perception regarding the privacy of their data in the context of mass-scale information collection. The study addressed how consumers value their privacy amid current data collection practices, exploring new forms of protection in the face of technological evolution.
“With the constant advance of technology, I am concerned about how our personal information is handled. I wanted to investigate ways to protect privacy, as I believe this will be a crucial issue in the future”, Córdova explained.
World-class academic training
The training received at the Universidad del Pacífico, in conjunction with the University of London's double-degree program, provided the students with the methodological and analytical tools they needed to undertake high-level research. This interdisciplinary approach, combined with the academic rigor of both institutions, was pivotal for them to successfully overcome the challenges posed.
“The UP gave me a strong foundation to understand consumer behavior in the local context, while the University of London gave me a global perspective”, commented Nicole Contreras.
Paul Velásquez's remarks were along similar lines: "Thanks to the technology and business courses, I was able to apply interdisciplinary approaches to my research and analyze the social impact of technology".
Hafid Córdoba stressed that "Professor Libaque's support and the academic preparation allowed me to carry out solid and well-founded research".
The Universidad del Pacífico is proud of its graduates and reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence and the promotion of undergraduate research. These achievements reflect the level of preparation that the university offers to its students, enabling them to face the challenges of the academic and professional world.