The objective of the study was to evaluate the development of mathematical skills following the application of a didactic strategy based on mathematical modeling as well as its relationship with the form of participation of civil engineering students in Peruvian universities. An experimental group and a control group were considered in a sample of 73 students. The results show that the application of mathematical modeling as a didactic strategy improved the development of mathematical skills, highlighting its performance in problem solving and the use of mathematical symbols. In addition, greater student participation, through questions or explanations, improves the development of mathematical skills.