HOW TO ORGANIZE A QUALITY SCIENTIFIC CONGRESS? KEYS AND VARIABLES OF SUCCESS OF THE XV NATIONAL AND V IBEROAMERICAN CONGRESS OF PEDAGOGY

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Quality is a multidimensional concept that has gradually permeated and cross all areas of university —de-grees, research, services, teaching—. Incorporating organizational excellence- centered approaches has led to an empirical culture shared by all involved actors and an evaluating praxis which facilitates and guides decision making and, consequently, improves activities including scientific congresses. METHODS. The article presents the results of a research study conducted to determine the impact and evaluate the organization and develop-ment of the XV National Congress and V Iberoamerican Congress of Pedagogy held in Burgos in July 2012. Through a stakeholder-based approach and considering the structural, institutional, organizational, scientific diffusion, social-emotional and personal aspects, we analyze the key variables involved in the planning and development of a scientific conference and measure their quantitative and qualitative influence on the satisfaction of the participants. RESULTS. The results show that, if certain requirements are fulfilled, congresses stimulate interaction and personal reflexivity, satisfy attendants’ expectations and contribute to the dissemination and learning of specialized research advances. DISCUSSION. Results strengthen the public value and quality status of congresses.