
| Jesi Pérez Rivera | Javier Tarango | Juan D. Machin-Mastromatteo |
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of the linguistic dimension include: (1) its role as the most representative symbolic
element in human communication; (2) its various modes of expression, including
articulated or formal language, gestures, artistic representations, and expressions
through diverse cultural codes among participant groups, allowing individuals to
recognize and identify with how others convey their knowledge, skills, and
experiences (Tenzer et al., 2021; Woltran & Schwab, 2025).
c) Human relations dimension: while language is the most viable medium for
establishing human connections, this dimension requires consideration from a
different perspective, focusing on human capital conditions, including potentialities,
innovation capabilities, and idea expression forms, all aimed at constructing and
subsequently strengthening university identity (Valtonen et al., 2023; Wolniak,
2023). Another form of capital involved in this dimension is relational capital, which
encompasses interactions within and beyond educational institutions, integrating
groups identified by specific characteristics—be they formative, academic,
intellectual, or research-oriented—thus facilitating the generation of epistemic
communities, working groups, academic bodies, or collegiate groups. The levels of
interaction vary in characteristics and intensity, ultimately fostering a sense of
belonging.
d) Infrastructure dimension: while this dimension may appear to consist only
of tangible elements, university infrastructure is pivotal in defining identity and
represents, beyond physical elements, the construction of organizational or
structural capital. This involves not just artifacts but a strong connection to
organizational knowledge utilized internally and projected externally through
processes and organizational culture. For instance, the scientific knowledge
generated by higher education institutions significantly enhances social recognition,
positioning entities favorably due to their role in producing not isolated acts but
rather systematic new scientific knowledge, which formulates one of the prestigious
elements associated with knowledge entities (Larregue & Pavie, 2025).
e) Symbolic dimension: universities typically possess distinctive symbols,
including at least a logo, distinctive colors, a motto, or a mascot, which help
differentiate them from others. There are two types of symbols: (1) diachronic
symbols, associated with institutional history and developed over time, including
frequently found elements such as coats of arms, flags, and anthems; and (2)
synchronic symbols, tied to specific eras, which include notable individuals
connected with the institution, such as teachers, artists, intellectuals, and
recognized cultural figures, especially those who contributed to knowledge during
their time at the university (Deng & Feng, 2022).
f) Intangible elements dimension: this dimension often overlaps with the
linguistic dimension but can be distinguished depending on the situation. One of its
primary characteristics is its imperceptibility through touch; for example, elements
such as the institutional mission, vision, and values, as well as the institutional
history, are primary aspects. This dimension includes elements related to
relationships and developmental networks (academic, scientific, social, and
political), allowing for the creation of power and influence groups (Miotto et al.,
2020; Aldosari, 2021).
The comprehensive categorization identified allowed for the specification of