Validity and reliability of a moral values questionnaire in students of URACCAN, CUR Nueva Guinea

Abstract

The promotion of values in higher education is essential for the development of ethically responsible professionals with strong social commitment. In this context, the present study aimed to develop and validate an instrument for measuring moral values among students at the University of the Autonomous Regions of the Nicaraguan Caribbean Coast (URACCAN), Nueva Guinea campus. A quantitative, correlational, and cross-sectional design was employed, with a sample of 245 students. Content validity was assessed through expert judgment using the Lawshe model modified by Tristán-López, resulting in a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.7692. Reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha, which reached a final value of 0.835 after item refinement. Construct validity was examined through Exploratory Factor Analysis, showing adequate sampling adequacy (KMO=0.852; p<0.05) and identifying three underlying dimensions. The final instrument consisted of 18 items grouped into the dimensions of integrity and responsibility, empathy and social support, and generosity and solidarity. It is concluded that the scale demonstrates adequate psychometric properties and constitutes a valid and reliable tool for assessing moral values in university contexts.