Scientific Research as a Key Element of Institutional Transformation in the Peruvian Army: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the contribution of scientific research to institutional transformation in the Peruvian Army. The eligibility criteria applied were topic, sources, methodological design, related topics, language, and publication date, which allowed for the analysis of 212 studies from different academic databases. Exclusion criteria, in a first phase, excluded duplicate studies; in a second phase, those that covered study topics and variables unrelated to the research; and in a third phase, those that did not provide the required information, after analyzing the title, abstract, and full text. The databases reviewed were Scopus, ScienceDirect, Scielo, Redalyc, ERIC, and Dialnet, during the first days of June 2025. Fourteen studies were included, whose main characteristic is their focus on strengthening education, research, and innovation in military and academic contexts. The main results show that scientific research constitutes a fundamental activity for the transformation of an institution, by strengthening ethical and professional training, promoting critical thinking, and optimizing evidence-based decision-making, fostering a culture of continuous improvement through the use of innovative methods and the inclusive participation of diverse stakeholders. Furthermore, this analysis revealed a limited research culture, which restricts the assessment, development, and effective application of scientific research in the process of institutional transformation. It is concluded that, although scientific research plays a crucial role in the institutional transformation of the Peruvian Army, its impact is conditioned by a still nascent research culture, which limits its full appreciation and application.