Socioeconomic determinants of human capital in the local development of rural communities in the Quevedo cantón
Abstract
This study analyzes the socioeconomic determinants of human capital in the rural parishes of La Esperanza and San Carlos in the Quevedo canton, aiming to assess how family income, parental education, access to basic services, and technological connectivity influence the monthly income of young people aged 15 to 29, as a measure of the economic return on their human capital. A quantitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional approach was applied using stratified probabilistic sampling, which planned for the administration of 356 surveys. However, considering the logistical limitations of the rural context, 97 valid responses were obtained and processed for analysis. The data were processed using STATA statistical software through a multiple linear regression model. The results reveal that the model is globally significant and explains approximately 60% of the variation in monthly income. Internet usage frequency and years of schooling show positive and significant effects on income, while dependence on multiple income sources has a negative effect. It is concluded that economic constraints, low parental education, and limited technological connectivity hinder the accumulation of human capital and its economic return. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen education, connectivity, and digital inclusion in rural areas.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Acxel David Santo Veintimilla, Luiggi David Coello Veliz, José Luis Rivera Velasco, Wendy Tamara Mora Carpio
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