Academic Disciplines Research Articles

A survey on students’ use of AI at a technical university

We report the results of a 4800-respondent survey among students at a technical university regarding their usage of artificial intelligence tools, as well as their expectations and attitudes about these tools. We find that many students have come to differentiated and thoughtful views and decisions regarding the use of artificial intelligence. The majority of students wishes AI to be integrated into their studies, and several wish that the university would provide tools that are based on reliable, university-level materials. We find that acceptance of and attitudes about artificial intelligence vary across academic disciplines. We also find gender differences in the responses, which however are smaller the closer the student’s major is to informatics (computer science).

Belonging in engineering: Exploring the predictive relevance of social interaction and individual factors on undergraduate students' belonging in engineering

AbstractBackgroundBelonging in their academic discipline affects students' participation and retention in engineering. While prior studies have conceptualized belonging as a predictor of outcomes, this study examines belonging as an outcome that depends on interpersonal and intrapersonal variables.PurposeThis quantitative study tested a conceptual model of academic belonging for undergraduate engineering students that hypothesized how intrapersonal and interpersonal variables predict belonging in engineering. The model proposed that engineering students' satisfaction with and valuing of their academic discipline mediate these predictors' effects on belonging.Design/MethodsThis study sampled undergraduate engineering students (n = 849) across six universities and used structural equation modeling to examine the direct and indirect effects of four exogenous variables (achievement striving, grit, peer interaction, faculty interaction) on one endogenous variable (academic belonging). The model included satisfaction with and valuing of their academic discipline as mediator variables.ResultsThe direct effects of peer interaction, faculty interaction, as well as passion and perseverance (sub‐constructs of grit) on academic belonging were significant. The direct effects of achievement striving on predicting academic belonging were not significant. Satisfaction mediated the effects of the predictors on students' sense of belonging in engineering.ConclusionsPeer interaction was the most robust contributor to belonging, while faculty interaction and the value that students ascribe to their academic discipline predicted their sense of belonging in engineering. This work provides a novel model of belonging in engineering and its interpersonal and intrapersonal antecedents with educational, policy, and research implications to improve engineering students' belonging within their academic discipline.

Comparing and assessing four AI chatbots' competence in economics.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbots have emerged as powerful tools in modern academic endeavors, presenting both opportunities and challenges in the learning landscape. They can provide content information and analysis across most academic disciplines, but significant differences exist in terms of response accuracy for conclusions and explanations, as well as word counts. This study explores four distinct AI chatbots, GPT-3.5, GPT-4, Bard, and LLaMA 2, for accuracy of conclusions and quality of explanations in the context of university-level economics. Leveraging Bloom's taxonomy of cognitive learning complexity as a guiding framework, the study confronts the four AI chatbots with a standard test for university-level understanding of economics, as well as more advanced economics problems. The null hypothesis that all AI chatbots perform equally well on prompts that explore understanding of economics is rejected. The results are that significant differences are observed across the four AI chatbots, and these differences are exacerbated as the complexity of the economics-related prompts increased. These findings are relevant to both students and educators; students can choose the most appropriate chatbots to better understand economics concepts and thought processes, while educators can design their instruction and assessment while recognizing the support and resources students have access to through AI chatbot platforms.

Translation Theory: A Historical-Thematic Account

The main function of Translation Studies is to study issues of translation production and propose solutions for translation problems. Today, Translation Studies is an academic discipline that is gaining more recognition in the academic community. More than that many scholars of different backgrounds and fields of study like literature, history, anthropology, semiotics, and philosophy have been attracted by translation studies. This article is divided into three sections. The first section presents a brief history of Translation Studies. The second section discusses definitions and meanings of the word 'translation'. The third section analyses different theories of translation.

Bioethicists Today: Results of the Views in Bioethics Survey

Bioethicists influence practices and policies in medicine, science, and public health. However, little is known about bioethicists’ views. We recently surveyed 824 U.S. bioethicists on a wide range of ethical issues, including topics related to abortion, medical aid in dying, and resource allocation, among others. We also asked bioethicists about their demographic, religious, academic, and professional backgrounds. We find that bioethicists’ normative commitments predict their views on bioethical issues. We also find that, in important ways, bioethicists’ views do not align with those of the U.S. public: for instance, bioethicists are more likely than members of the public to think abortion is ethically permissible but are less likely to believe compensating organ donors is. Our demographic results indicate the field of bioethics is far less diverse than the U.S. population—less diverse even than other academic disciplines—suggesting far more work needs to be done to build an inclusive field.

What qualitative systems mapping is and what it could be: integrating and visualizing diverse knowledge of complex problems

AbstractResearchers in sustainability science deal with increasingly complex problems that cross administrative, geographical, disciplinary, and sectoral boundaries, and are characterized by high stakes and deep uncertainties. This in turn creates methodological challenges to frame, structure, and solve complex problems in science and practice. There is a long tradition in visualizing systems as diagrams, and concept and cognitive maps, but there is insufficient differentiation and comparison between these methods and no clear umbrella term has yet been established. Against this background, we systematically review three foundational methods from different academic disciplines—causal diagrams, concept mapping, and cognitive mapping. Comparing and contrasting them, we facilitate a coherent understanding of qualitative systems mapping (QSM) as an umbrella term. We then proceed to explore the evident intersections between these methods to showcase some of the inter- and transdisciplinary opportunities and challenges crystallizing in integrated QSM approaches. Finally, we share case study insights from the food–water–biodiversity nexus in Austria and elaborate on some of the methodological nuances to data integration in QSM. Overall, with this overview paper, we lay the groundwork for a systematic, transparent, and yet flexible development and application of QSM methods to support mixed-methods research design and clear case study documentation, as well as fostering effective inter- and transdisciplinary communication in sustainability science. Further research needs to explore these QSM applications in depth across alternative sustainability science contexts, particularly with respect to efficient and rigorous protocols for knowledge and data integration vis-a-vis complex problems and transdisciplinary research processes.

Henry Hun and his family: Three foundational stories in the history of nineteenth-century American neurology, Part I. Thomas Hun (1808–1896): Nineteenth-century patriarch, neurophilosopher, and proto-neurologist

ABSTRACT Thomas Hun (1808–1896)—along with his sons Edward (1842–1880) and Henry (1854–1924)—were prime movers in establishing the clinical practice and academic discipline of neurology in the Hudson River Valley of New York in the ninteenth and early-twentieth centuries. This article outlines the life of the family’s semi-aristocratic patriarch, beginning with Thomas’s unusual educational background and his six-year post-graduate hiatus in Paris of the 1830s, where he came under the influence of P. C. A. Louis (1787–1872). It lays out his subsequent career as professor of the Institutes of Medicine and ultimately as dean of an American medical school that was not situated in a major metropolis. It also will demonstrate how Thomas Hun’s career as a medical practitioner, academician, neurophilosopher, and “proto-neurologist” recapitulates the evolution of clinical and academic neurology in nineteenth-century America.

Is international student mobility still a distinctive strategy? A study of upper milieu students in Germany

ABSTRACT Drawing on Bourdieu’s theory of social reproduction, the article examines whether international student mobility (ISM) is still a distinctive educational strategy of upper-milieu students in the 21st century. As a result of the Bologna process, ISM has become widespread in Europe. Does this also mean that international mobility loses its distinctive character? Based on current studies that point to a differentiation within ISM, we investigate to what extent students from upper milieus may strive to re-establish the ‘structure of distances’ - as Bourdieu puts it – in the field of higher education. Our research design consists of 95 qualitative interviews with Master’s students in Germany. The study conducts a comparative analysis to differentiate between lower, middle and upper milieus (vertical axis), with the main focus of the research being directed towards the upper milieus. In addition, the differences within upper milieus (horizontal axis) are examined by including three academic disciplines in the research design: management/business administration, medicine, and musicology. The results of our study suggest that, even within the context of a knowledge society, characterised by an increased participation in higher education, there remain numerous symbolic, spatial, and cultural opportunities for students from upper milieus to distinguish their educational paths in distinct ways, e.g. the destinations chosen, the rhetorical framing of international mobility experiences, and the integration with work-related practices beyond the course of study.

Contrasting the awareness and attitude of French university teachers towards open educational resources sharing across academic fields

ABSTRACT This study examines the disparities in open educational resource sharing among various academic disciplines in French universities. Conducted shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, it involved an online survey with 947 participants. The findings reveal significant differences in knowledge sharing practices across academic fields. For example, computer science instructors demonstrated greater familiarity with Creative Commons (CC) licences. However, awareness of these licences did not always translate into a willingness to use them. In contrast, law professors, despite being aware of CC licences, were less inclined to share their course materials. The study found that faculty in the hard sciences, as classified by the Becher-Biglan framework, were more inclined to share their resources. These observations highlight the need to consider the academic discipline of instructors when exploring their attitudes towards open education and in formulating policies to enhance the availability of resources on the internet.

STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES ON CHATGPT: AN EXPLORATION OF PERCEPTIONS

This master's thesis represents a meticulous scholarly endeavor meticulously crafted to illuminate the multifaceted perspectives of Indian students enrolled in MBA, B.Tech, BBA, and B.Com programs regarding the integration of ChatGPT within the academic landscape. Positioned at the intersection of technology and education, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of students' viewpoints, experiences, and perceptions concerning ChatGPT—an advanced language model renowned for its potential to revolutionize learning environments. Adopting a meticulous mixed-methods research approach, this study embarks on a journey to delve into the intricate nuances of students' interactions with ChatGPT, encompassing facets such as usability, impact on learning experiences, and overall satisfaction. Through meticulously structured surveys and in-depth interviews meticulously tailored to capture the diverse array of perspectives held by students, the research methodically collects and analyzes data to unveil the underlying factors shaping students' perceptions. By rigorously examining the data gleaned from these methodologies, the study aspires to unravel the complexities inherent in students' engagement with ChatGPT, thereby offering invaluable insights into the implications of its integration into the Indian higher education landscape. As such, this thesis serves as a pivotal contribution to the scholarly discourse surrounding the responsible adoption and implementation of advanced language models in educational settings. In essence, this research endeavors to inform decision-makers, educators, and stakeholders about the transformative potential of ChatGPT within the realm of higher education. Through its meticulous examination of students' perspectives, the thesis seeks to facilitate informed decision- making, foster meaningful dialogue, and ultimately drive positive change in educational practices, leading to enhanced learning experiences and academic outcomes for students across diverse academic disciplines. Moreover, this study recognizes the evolving nature of educational practices in the digital age and the imperative to adapt to emerging technologies. By shedding light on students' perceptions of ChatGPT, the research not only provides insights into the current state of technological integration in education but also paves the way for future advancements and innovations in pedagogical approaches. As such, this thesis contributes to the ongoing dialogue on the intersection of technology and education, shaping the trajectory of educational practices in the digital era. Furthermore, the comprehensive nature of this research underscores its significance as a foundational resource for policymakers, educators, and researchers seeking to navigate the complex landscape of technology-enhanced learning. By synthesizing diverse perspectives and offering actionable insights, this thesis lays the groundwork for informed decision-making and strategic planning in the integration of advanced language models like ChatGPT into educational settings. In doing so, it fosters a culture of evidence-based practice and continuous improvement, driving positive change and innovation in higher education.

Navigating political terrain: a comprehensive review of leadership theories in political science

Political science is increasingly focusing on the study of leadership factors in its field scope. Therefore, the primary objective of this article is to systematically analyze the use of leadership theories in scholarly publications of political science. This paper also underscores the lack of leadership theories or concepts in political science, offering insights to anyone interested in examining leadership in this academic discipline. This study introduces an alternative framework for analyzing leadership, specifically emphasizing political leadership. Thus, the question addressed in this study is: What leadership theories are applied to the study of political science? This study utilizes the systematic literature review approach, except for the Appraisal Quality stage, to examine political leadership theory and the notion of utilization as discussed in political science. The ROSE protocol is employed in this study due to its suitability for mapping and qualitative studies. Furthermore, PICo is used to formulate research questions in the context of this study. The results of this study, which involved the review of 75 papers, revealed the implementation of leadership theories and concepts in 15 distinct contexts or focus areas. The analysis of leadership in political science places significant emphasis on the dimensions of transformative and transactional leadership styles. Both leadership styles are frequently used in various research contexts. Overall, the prevalence of transformative and transactional leadership theories in political science can be understood as a reflection of the constraints political scientists face in comprehending the nature of leadership within a political context from a scientific standpoint.

ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN THE LAST 5 YEARS IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF KAYUNGA DISTRICT IN UGANDA. A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY.

Background: Academic achievement can be defined as excellence in all academic disciplines, in class as well as extracurricular activities. It includes excellence in sports, behavior, confidence, communication skills, punctuality, assertiveness, Arts, Culture, and the like. The study aims to analyze the student’s academic performance in the last 5 years in selected secondary schools of Kayunga district in Uganda.  Methodology: In this study, the researcher used a descriptive survey design, used both qualitative and quantitative research methods. study population of 211 respondents included the DEO, head teachers, teachers, and Students. Results:  60% of the headteachers strongly disagreed that Schools in our district have been ranked among the top schools in the country in terms of academic performance.100% of the headteachers disagreed that there have been few students scoring Division 9 in most secondary schools for the past 10 years. 78% of the teachers disagreed that schools have had very many numbers of students scoring Division 1 for the past 5 years. 88% of the students disagreed that most students who complete the Advanced level have had a chance of obtaining government sponsorships in different public universities.  Conclusion:  Schools in Kayunga district have had very few numbers of students scoring Division 1 for the past 5 years; many students were scoring Division 9 in most secondary schools for the past 10 years; schools in the district have been ranked among the least performing schools in the country in terms of academic performance.  Recommendation:  School managers should adverse means to improve academic performance, especially poor grades. For example, staff motivation, student motivation, remedial teaching, and constant supervision.

The Relationship between Study Habits and Academic Performance among University Students

Abstract: This paper examines the intricate relationship between study habits and academic performance among university students. Drawing upon a synthesis of empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and psychological models, the abstract delves into the multifaceted dynamics shaping students' study habits and their consequent impact on academic achievement. Key factors such as time management, learning strategies, motivation, self-regulation, and environmental influences are explored within the context of diverse student populations and academic disciplines. Moreover, the abstract elucidates the reciprocal nature of this relationship, wherein effective study habits not only enhance academic performance but also contribute to holistic student development. Additionally, it sheds light on the role of technology, social media, and other contemporary influences in shaping modern study habits and their implications for academic success. Finally, the abstract underscores the importance of tailored interventions and educational strategies aimed at optimizing study habits to foster optimal academic outcomes and lifelong learning skills among university students

Spiritual Health Status and Related Factors Among Medical Students in Kermanshah

Background: Spirituality constitutes an integral aspect of health, encompassing religiosity and spirituality, and is deemed essential alongside physical, mental, and social well-being, contributing to individual and societal health development. Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of spiritual health and its associated factors among medical students at Kermanshah Medical School. Methods: This research employed a cross-sectional descriptive design. The study population comprised 258 medical students in Kermanshah, selected through random and available sampling methods. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire for evaluating spiritual health in Iranian society, developed by the Academy of Medical Sciences. The questionnaire consists of 48 items, measuring behavioral, attitudinal, and perceptual dimensions. Its reliability and validity have been established by Amiri et al. using Cronbach's alpha method. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS-23 software. Results: The mean age of participants was 21.59 years, with 50.4% females and 94.6% single individuals. A majority (59.3%) were enrolled in basic science, and 73.4% lived with their parents. The average spiritual health score among students was 205.03. Female and single students scored higher than male and married counterparts, respectively. Additionally, students residing in dormitories or private homes scored higher than those living with their parents. There was a significant difference between genders and academic disciplines, particularly in the dimensions of attitude and overall spiritual health. Moreover, students' living arrangements significantly influenced their scores in terms of attitude and overall spiritual health. Conclusions: The overall spiritual health score among medical students was relatively low, with higher scores observed in the areas of attitude and perception compared to behavioral aspects.

University Majors and Personality Traits: A Quantitative Study of Natural Sciences and Language Majors

This study aims to investigate the relationship between university majors and personality traits, with a specific focus on the effects of studying natural sciences mainly, chemistry, biology, and physics and humanities majoring in English and Arabic languages on personality development. The study employs a quantitative research design, using self-report questionnaires and interviews to collect data from undergraduate students majoring in natural sciences and languages. The results of the study show that natural science learners tend to score higher on analytical thinking, attention to details, and persistence skills, while language learners tend to score higher on social awareness, critical consciousness, and communicative competence. These findings suggest that university majors have a significant impact on personality traits, which also have implications for academic and career success. The theoretical framework for this study draws on the literature on cognitive and social aspects of natural sciences and languages education, as well as the theory of Big Five personality traits. The study contributes to the theoretical and practical knowledge of how academic disciplines influence individual differences in personal characteristics and provides empirical evidence for the relationship between university majors and personality traits.

Evaluating the Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Scholarly Research: A Study Focused on Academics

This study is aimed at exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on academic research by conducting a focus group research strategy. The focus group consists of individuals who are actively involved in academic research and have experience working with AI technologies. The purpose of the focus group is to gather in-depth insights into how AI has influenced research methodologies, findings, and overall knowledge creation. The study will begin by identifying seven participants through purposive sampling, with an aim of recruiting a diverse group of individuals from various academic disciplines. Purposive sampling, also known as selective sampling, enhances the study’s validity by ensuring that the sample consists of individuals with a high level of expertise in the subject matter. Seven is large enough to generate a diverse range of perspectives and experiences and small enough to ensure that every participating academic researcher has a chance to contribute to the conversation. The focus group is conducted using a Zoom video conferencing to gather academics from different institutions across the world. It also eliminates distance issue required for conducting an in-person session. This provides opportunity to cover a wide array research specialization representation. Data analysis is conducted using a thematic analysis approach, with a focus on identifying key themes and patterns that emerge from the data. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the impact of AI on academic research and provide insights into the potential future direction of AI in academic research. While the study is aimed at providing practical recommendations for researchers who are interested in incorporating AI into their research practices, it also ignites the conversation on future incorporation of technologies into academic research activity.

Competence-based trainings for psychological treatments – A transtheoretical perspective

Background Although in most countries psychotherapy trainings focus on one treatment orientation, such an approach is associated with systematic shortcomings. The priorities from teaching one theoretical framework should be moved to a more rigorous orientation in science and evidence-based practice, and to the needs of patients, even if strategies of different theoretical approaches need to be combined. Method We discuss whether competence-based trainings in psychological treatments offer a better framework to facilitate the progress of psychological treatments to a professional academic discipline with transtheoretical exchange, and we provide an example of a transtheoretical education in the basic competences of psychological treatments. A transtheoretical education program requires an umbrella model for case formulation and a transtheoretical definition of intervention goals. Results We provide an adaptation of the traditional model distinguishing vulnerability/resilience, exacerbation, and maintenance of clinical problems for case conceptualization. Dynamic network models offer a further perspective for developing modern, transtheoretical case formulations. Treatment methods should be better classified according to their transtheoretical goals, which offers opportunities to better compare or combine them. We report a case example of how to transform a general competence-based approach in the training of psychological treatments in the academic education system, which found exceptional acceptance from participating students. Conclusion Thus, a rigorous competence-based approach to training early clinicians in applying psychological treatments helps to bridge the artificial divide between psychotherapeutic traditions. It also supports the evolution of psychological treatments into an academically robust and highly professional, integrative discipline.

The digital technologies in the development of spoken english among students in grades 10-11 classes

Today it can be argued that information and communication technologies (ICT) have taken a strong place among the mandatory means of organizing and implementing the educational process. Federal state educational standards target educational participants’ process for the widespread use of electronic (computer) technologies, allowing for classroom and extracurricular activities to obtain, assimilate knowledge, to form skills and develop abilities in the learning process various academic disciplines, including foreign languages.

Using ChatGPT as a Learning Tool: A Study of Ukrainian Students’ Perceptions

Artificial intelligence and generative AI in higher education emerge as transformative forces, profoundly impacting educational practices and methodologies. This paper explores students’ experiences using ChatGPT for learning purposes and investigates their satisfaction levels with the support provided by this tool. For data collection, the authors developed a questionnaire, and a study was conducted among a random sample of 247 university students from Ukraine graduating in Business, Engineering, and IT. The findings confirm that students most commonly rely on ChatGPT when searching for information and working on language-related tasks, such as text editing and text improvements. The study contributes to a better understanding of AI tool integration in diverse academic disciplines, highlighting the importance of tailored strategies to meet distinct needs and expectations across various specialisms in higher education. Moreover, the findings suggest high satisfaction among students of all three specialisms with using ChatGPT for learning purposes, including working on tasks and assignments, and a positive attitude toward this tool in promoting the quality of learning. The results of this study may encourage administrators and educators at higher education institutions to incorporate good practices on using Generative AI tools into curricula and instructional practices, with relevant guidelines on the use of AI and a substantial focus on developing students’ skills on how to use generative AI tools effectively for different purposes and in various academic and professional domains.

THE HISTORY OF MODIFICATION OF THE CONTENT AND DESIGN OF TEXTBOOKS ON LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE IN CHINA

The paper presents a retrospective analysis of the history of modifications in the content and design of textbooks on the Chinese language and literature for primary and secondary schools in the PRC. The conditions and nature of the formation of the academic discipline “Language and Literature” after the formation of the PRC (since 1949) are analysed. The authors of the paper identify and study new trends in the development of textbooks on the Chinese language and literature for primary and secondary school students at the beginning of the 21st century, and carry out a functional analysis of the educational products under consideration.