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PP250 Topic: AS16–Medical, Nursing and AHP Workforce & Education: Staff Education and Development/Equity, Diversity, Inclusion/Other: DEVELOPING A PEDIATRIC VASCULAR ACCESS COURSE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY AND PATIENT SAFETY IN GUATEMALA

PP250 Topic: AS16–Medical, Nursing and AHP Workforce & Education: Staff Education and Development/Equity, Diversity, Inclusion/Other: DEVELOPING A PEDIATRIC VASCULAR ACCESS COURSE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY AND PATIENT SAFETY IN GUATEMALA

Adult learning and education for expanding access to higher education: the case of opsimaths in Ghana

ABSTRACT Opsimaths are a unique group of late learners among adult learners who qualify as Knowles’ ‘neglected species’. Opsimaths usually face more daunting challenges in their academic journey than other adult learners. In this study, we employ the [exploratory] phenomenological design to present the experiences of 15 opsimaths in Ghana who entered the university through literacy classes. The 15 opsimaths went through a university-approved access course and passed an entrance examination before gaining admission to higher education programmes. All 15 learners were pursuing postgraduate programmes at the time of this study. The findings show there are varied reasons for opsimaths to embrace formal higher education in their later years. The findings further identified the challenges opsimaths faced, their resiliency strategies, and identity reconstruction as they pursued higher education. Beyond the opsimaths, the study’s findings have implications for higher education practitioners The findings provide a basis for a re-think and for higher education administrators to develop bespoke policies for such a cohort of learners.

1170 Bridging the Gap in Surgical Robotics Education

Abstract Aim Despite rapid evolution of surgical robotics systems, training opportunities are very limited especially for medical students and junior doctors. We organised a free-of-charge regional robotics workshop in collaboration with CMR Surgical with the goal of increasing exposure to surgical robotics technology. We also evaluated the delegates’ perception on current surgical robotics training and the workshop. Method CMR Surgical was invited to exhibit their Versius® robot and Virtual-Reality trainer for a one-day workshop at Glenfield Hospital, Leicester. The workshop was advertised across universities and hospital trusts in East Midlands. Registration form included pre-workshop questionnaire which assessed the motivation and barriers to attending surgical robotics courses, and their familiarity with robotics surgery. After 1-hour hands-on exercise supervised by consultants and CMR Surgical trainers, delegates were asked to complete post-workshop questionnaire to evaluate shift in familiarity, interest, and confidence in basic robotic skills. Results 75 delegates registered with 93% having never attended similar workshop before and the barriers were perceiving that robotics surgery skills are for advanced surgeons only (37%), cost (26%), no accessible courses (24%), time constraints (9%) and others (4%). The primary motivation to attend this workshop were learning basic robotic skills (49%), exploring innovative technology (44%) and networking (7%). 30 delegates were shortlisted for 1-hour hands-on experience into six groups consisting of 18 students and 12 junior doctors. Post-workshop feedback showed a positive shift in familiarity, interest, and confidence in basic robotic skills. Delegates also expressed increased interest in surgical specialties after this workshop. They also found VR station was enjoyable and believed it has potential in training future robotic surgeons. Conclusions These findings highlight the feasibility and importance of creating accessible training opportunities to bridge the gap in surgical robotics education.

Students online learning experience during emergency remote teaching in higher education

For actionable insight, this study explored computer science and information technology students’ online learning experience in an emergency remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic in a public technical university in Ghana. A mixed method research of both quantitative and qualitative design was used to expand the evidence base. The inherent set of factors of the learning experience were determined by an exploratory factor analysis and confirmed with a multiple regression. Six factors comprising sense of concern, institutional support, effective communication, connectedness, mediated technologies, and stress levels explained 66.5% of the variance in the patterns of relationship. All factors had positive regression weights and added significantly to the prediction. Potentials identified comprised positive reactions to institutional support, improved lecturer-student interaction, active participation, accessible course contents, and moderately high future online learning expectations. The challenges included unpreparedness, unreliable Internet, high cost of data, and incidental learning design and pedagogy. Evidently, the higher education landscape shifted during the pandemic in obvious ways to merit further studies and reflective online learning administration to inform robust technology-oriented post-pandemic practices.

Testing the tester

Over the summer of 2022. I was tasked with testing the language proficiency of many potential students who were unable to access the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), either due to displacement or other adverse circumstances. The largest cohort was that of Ukrainian students, following the Scottish government’s announcement that free education and living support would be available for those qualifying students. The second group was less homogenous. It varied in nationality, age, background, circumstances and fell under the broad umbrella of refugees and asylum seekers. The Ukrainian students, on acceptance of academic and language qualifications would directly enter faculty as undergraduates. In contrast, the refugees and asylum seekers would join the last five weeks of a 34-week pre-sessional course and then proceed to a Widening Access Course. Completion of this, and successful settled status would then enable them to enter degree courses. I use a reading-to-write integrated test based on an academic paper, followed by an interview of 20 – 30 minutes duration for all students who are unable to access IELTS or other recognized commercial language tests. Due to the urgency and sheer number of undergraduates needing to be tested over July/August 2022, I made the decision to use English for General Academic Purposes materials and conducted invigilated reading-to-write tests on Zoom, with individual interviews being conducted over the following days. While this format had been used successfully in the past with displaced PGT/PGR students, it quickly became apparent that it was unsuitable for the latter group of students. Here I reflect on my role and consider future test design.

Online learning and community engagement: Strategies for promoting inclusivity and collaboration in education

In recent years, the proliferation of online learning platforms has transformed the landscape of education, offering unprecedented opportunities for access and flexibility. However, as online learning continues to evolve, ensuring inclusivity and fostering collaboration within virtual communities remains a critical challenge. This review explores strategies aimed at promoting inclusivity and collaboration in online education settings. Firstly, it delves into the significance of creating a supportive online learning environment conducive to diversity. This involves implementing inclusive practices such as accessible course materials, accommodating diverse learning styles, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy among participants. Additionally, leveraging technology to facilitate real-time communication and interaction among learners from diverse backgrounds enhances inclusivity by breaking down geographical and cultural barriers. Secondly, the review examines the pivotal role of community engagement in fostering collaboration and mutual support among online learners. Establishing virtual communities where participants can engage in meaningful discussions, share resources, and collaborate on projects cultivates a sense of belonging and collective ownership of the learning process. Moreover, integrating collaborative learning activities such as group projects and peer reviews promotes active engagement and facilitates the exchange of diverse perspectives. Furthermore, the review highlights the importance of instructor involvement in fostering inclusive and collaborative online learning environments. Educators play a crucial role in designing inclusive curriculum, facilitating meaningful discussions, and providing constructive feedback that acknowledges diverse perspectives. Moreover, equipping instructors with training and resources to effectively manage online communities fosters a supportive learning environment conducive to collaboration and inclusivity. Promoting inclusivity and collaboration in online learning requires a multifaceted approach encompassing inclusive design, community engagement, and instructor support. By implementing these strategies, educators can create enriching online learning experiences that empower learners from diverse backgrounds to thrive and succeed.

Cultivating a Collectivist Community on a College Campus for Latinx Students

ABSTRACT Do inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) courses geared toward Latinx students help create a collectivist community on a college campus? We argue that courses incorporating IDEA initiatives into their curriculum and focusing on Latinx individuals provide students the face, place, and space to create the cultural wealth required for educational success. The academic intervention described in this study focused on supporting the Latinx community and advancing our university’s IDEA values. This qualitative project describes the results of forty-seven participants in ten focus groups within undergraduate courses during the Fall 2019-Spring 2021 semesters. Based on a deductive-inductive hybrid thematic analysis, our results suggest that IDEA courses at the curricular level are essential in cultivating a collectivist community on campus for students to thrive. Evidence from this study can be utilized to inform educational policy and pedagogical considerations within higher education.

Sex Disaggregated Data (SDD) Analysis: Unveiling Educational Journeys of BSBA Marketing Management Graduates

This study determines the differences in profile and academic experiences of BSBA Marketing Management from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) from SY 2013-2014 to SY 2017-2018 using Sex Disaggregated Data (SDD) analysis and a descriptive research design. The data for 208 graduates was collected through an online survey. The study shows gender differences in various aspects, including civil status, region of origin, residence, honors, scholarships, and motivations for pursuing the degree. Male graduates were mainly single and residing in the city, while female graduates demonstrated greater geographic diversity and higher incidences of marital and parental responsibilities. Educational experiences highlighted that female graduates were more likely to receive academic honors (e.g., cum laude) and scholarships, whereas male graduates excelled in extracurricular activities. Motivations for degree pursuit also varied, with peer influence being more significant for males and familial influence being more critical for females. The findings suggest several strategies to address gender disparities in the BSBA Marketing Management program. These strategies include advanced scholarship programs, support services for female students, promotion of extracurricular activities among female students, career guidance and job networking, and flexible and accessible course offerings. The goal is to create a more equitable educational environment, ensuring equal opportunities and support for both male and female students. This study contributes to the existing research about gender equality in education by emphasizing the need for strategies to support diverse student needs and an inclusive academic environment.

Equitable Access for Blind, Visually Impaired, and Print-Disabled (BVIPD) Students in Online Learning

Equitable Access for Blind, Visually Impaired, and Print-Disabled (BVIPD) Students in Online Learning

Inclusive Access Course Materials: An Analysis of a Technical College’s Inclusive Access Program

Abstract: The rising costs of course materials have higher education stakeholders looking for alternatives to the traditional course materials acquisition model. Two models of interest are open educational resources and inclusive access. Open educational resources have been widely studied. However, inclusive access has had a sudden rise in adoption across the country. This quick rise has left gaps in the literature as to the efficacy of such programs. A review of the literature on the efficacy of inclusive access course materials models returned only four published studies. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of an inclusive access course materials model on student outcomes at a Technical College. The Technical College provided student outcome data for 7110 students across six courses. The analysis documented significant differences between the before and after inclusive access samples for five of the nine categories examined. Results of this study fall in line with previous studies that have examined the impact of inclusive access course materials models on student outcomes.

The Use of E-Learning Tools for Teaching English in High School

The study was devoted to the analysis of impact of using e-learning tools for teaching English in high school. The special attention was paid towards the implementation of e-learning at the Ukrainian institutions of secondary education. The purpose was to explain the peculiarities of using e-learning tools for teaching English in high school and to evaluate their efficiency in different classroom conditions. The study had to solve the following tasks: (1) explain the usage of e-learning tools in Ukrainian high school and to evaluate their efficiency; (2) assess the level of foreign language competence among high school pupils; (3) describe learners’ perceptions towards using e-learning tools; (4) outline the key challenges when e-learning tools are integrated into the curriculum. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were applied to answer the research questions. The purposive sample involved 78 high school pupils representing one institution of secondary education of universal profile where English is an obligatory subject and is taught 3 hours per week. The findings showed that a number of e-learning tools are used in the process of teaching English, particularly Learning Management Systems, virtual classrooms, interactive whiteboards, games and simulations, online libraries, communication tools, language learning application. It was found that Zoom, Moodle, Google classroom, SMART board, Kahoot!, and Quizlet are the most preferrable by pupils when they study English. According to the respondents, pupils appreciate the possibility to access course materials at any time, using interactive elements, improved assessment activities, better engagement, increased motivation, enhancement of learning experience. But the survey showed that Ukrainian high school pupils face technical issues, time management problems, home distractions, limited interaction, lack of motivation and unclear assessment procedures. The findings will be useful for learners, educators, parents, school administrators, curriculum developers, and technology providers to make the appropriate improvements within the educational process.

Cap or no cap? Development of an application for 18-25 year olds: a fun, autonomous and accessible course of cognitive restructuring to help young people restore their sense of confidence in the light of neuroscience

Accompanying adolescents and young adults in their learning path and career and specifically on questions of trust and self-confidence has occupied my professional life since 2012 as a school director and teacher. The meeting of these fields with the theoretical contributions of the CAS in educational neurosciences, under the supervision of Dr. Cherine Fahim (2021-2022) at the University of Fribourg, gave birth to the idea of ​​creating an application intended for young adults, in the continuity of the work that has been built for 10 years around the Cap sur la Confiance method. In summary, this Cortica Incubator is a continuation of the Cap ou pas Cap? The objective is the development of an application for 18-25 year olds looking for a fun, autonomous and accessible course of cognitive restructuring at all times to help them restore their sense of confidence in the light of a better understanding of their brain under stress

Science Education for Preschoolers Based on Superstar Learning Access Course Blended Teaching Practice

The rapid development of information technology is changing and even subverting the traditional mode of education and teaching practice. Mixed teaching is an effective way to reform the teaching mode, realize resource sharing and improve the quality of talent training. Based on the concept of hybrid teaching definition, this paper to master learning theory and active learning theory as the theoretical basis, based on super learning online platform of preschool children science education course hybrid teaching practice, further discussed before class, class, after class three stages of teachers and students, in order to provide the experience of mixed teaching reform.

Hearing Loss in Children: Critical Medical Education Delivered as Massive Open Online Course (MOOC).

Although early identification of pediatric hearing loss is crucial, a formal online training course has not been freely accessible to a global audience. In response, we created a novel course for health professionals worldwide. Course development occurred from February 2019 to May 2020. Seventeen multidisciplinary experts provided video lectures and demonstrations, including a tour of ear anatomy, operating footage of cochlear implant insertion, and demonstrations of children undergoing hearing testing. Content also included steps for interpreting audiograms, an overview of early screening programs, interviews with Deaf/Hard of Hearing children, and an introduction to public health/educational infrastructure. The course was hosted on Coursera and launched on May 4, 2020. The course was approved for 11.5 Continuing Medical Education (CME) and American Board of Pediatrics Maintenance of Certification (MOC)-Part 2 credits and spanned five modules comprised of 50 video learning segments: 1) Ear Anatomy, 2) Hearing Loss and Assessments, 3) Hearing Loss Diagnosis and Impact on Speech and Language Development, 4) Interventions for Hearing Loss, 5) Pediatric Vestibular System and Balance. Since its launch, 6,556 learners have enrolled and 1,540 have fully completed the course; Fifty percent were 25-34 years old, 62% were female, and 43% were from Asia. Average rating was 4.9/5 (n=180 reviews). We created a freely accessible course for a global audience that provides a broad overview of pediatric hearing loss. Our multidisciplinary approach addresses an educational gap and can serve as a model for developing other online courses.

Enhancing Engineering Electromagnetics Education: A Comparative Analysis of Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning Environments

This study evaluates implementation of asynchronous learning in teaching engineering electromagnetics module. A group of first-year engineering students participated in the study. The instruction was divided into two periods, with the first period using asynchronous online mode and the second period using synchronous face-to-face mode. The performance evaluation was based on essay questions on class tests, and the data variances were statistically analysed. In addition, student feedback was gathered through interviews conducted at the end of the semester. In terms of overall performance, the results indicate that synchronous and asynchronous learning methods were equally effective, as no significant difference was found. However, individual student grades revealed a variety of outcomes for the asynchronous learning method, suggesting that students have different learning preferences and levels of adaptability. Positive feedback for asynchronous learning included the ability to adjust the pace of learning and conveniently access course materials. Students valued the availability of recorded lectures for reviewing difficult subject matter. Students with lower study motivation or limited experience with independent learning were negatively affected by the absence of scaffolding and immediate feedback in the asynchronous learning approach. Some students emphasized the importance of face-to-face interaction with the instructor, especially in a subject like electromagnetics that requires intuitive thought and elaboration.

Schuwer, R., Gil-Jaurena, I., Aydin, C. H., Costello, E., Dalsgaard, C., Brown, M., ... & Teixeira, A. (2015). Opportunities and threats of the MOOC movement for higher education: The European perspective. International review of research in open and dist

The MOOC model (Massive Open Online Course, for its acronym in English) has emerged as an innovative alternative for university education, allowing massive access to online courses taught by renowned institutions. This model is characterized by its open, flexible and autonomous nature, which has generated a significant impact on the educational landscape. One of the main advantages of the MOOC is its ability to broaden access to university education. Through online platforms, anyone can enroll in courses taught by professors from world-renowned institutions. This has democratized education by removing geographic and economic barriers that often limit access to traditional education. In addition, the MOOC model offers flexibility in terms of hours and location. Students can learn at their own pace, access course materials anytime, anywhere, and tailor their learning process to their individual needs. This promotes autonomous learning and self-regulation, valuable skills in an ever-evolving educational environment. MOOCs cover a wide range of topics and disciplines, giving students the opportunity to explore various fields of study and gain knowledge in areas of specific interest to them. This encourages the diversity of content and the personalization of learning, since students can choose the courses that best suit their needs and educational goals. However, the MOOC model also presents challenges. The lack of interaction and personalized feedback, due to the large number of participants, can make it difficult to deepen the concepts and resolve specific doubts. Additionally, MOOC course completion rates are often low, raising questions about student engagement and motivation. Despite these challenges, the MOOC as an alternative model for university education has proven to be a valuable tool. It has allowed access to education to people from all over the world, promoting flexibility, diversity of content and autonomous learning. As MOOCs continue to be explored and improved, it is expected that they will continue to play an important role in the educational landscape, providing enriching and transformative learning opportunities.

Tips for Supporting Students with Social Skill, Mental Health, and Communication Disabilities in Digital Settings

Teaching online learners with social skill, mental health, and communication disabilities requires post-secondary instructors to become more than content experts. The purpose of this article is to provide recommendations for postsecondary instructors for building inclusive communities, focusing on accessible course design, and increasing specialized professional knowledge that serves all learners, saves planning time, and diminishes frustration from excessive individualization of instruction.

Analysis of Associated Factors that Influence the Accessibility of Online Higher Education

Online distance education is one of the fastest-growing sectors of postsecondary enrollment, and accessibility is becoming a more prominent issue. This study used a descriptive quantitative survey methodology to explore the characteristics of institutions and individuals who are responsible for implementing accessibility. Overall, the findings indicate growth in the implementation of accessible course design practices. The results revealed the association of several factors focused on institutional accessibility support and accessibility compliance support. Although no models or inferences can be made from these associations, they do suggest that institutional accessibility practices may have a key role in accessible online course design.

Accessible Online Learning: A Preliminary Investigation of Educational Technologists' and Faculty Members' Knowledge and Skills.

Colleges and Universities have a more diverse student body than ever before—this includes a growing number of students with disabilities. Many of these students are attracted to the flexibility and anonymity of learning online. However, research suggests that students with disabilities often face barriers learning online. Given this, we set out to investigate how faculty and educational technologists are prepared to design accessible online courses and instructional materials. We surveyed 95 educational technologists, directors, and disability access personnel in this exploratory study. In the following paper, we report the results of our inquiry into these professionals’ perspectives on faculty and educational technologists’ knowledge and skills in creating accessible courses and instructional materials. We conclude by discussing the implications for research and practice.

Online learning experiences of adult applicants to a university in Ghana during the Covid-19 outbreak

The outbreak of Covid-19 led to the migration of 1729 adults, who had applied to the University of Ghana to go through an access course for writing the Mature Entrance Examination for admission into undergraduate programmes. A survey was conducted to explore the experiences of the students. The study revealed that over 90% of the respondents were proficient in the use of ICTs. They used the Sakai learning management platform, zoom, and emails for their teaching and learning engagements. Four in five (84%) respondents preferred 50% online tuition and 50% face-to-face tuition. They, however, had issues with poor internet connectivity, the high cost of data for the internet, and limited contact time. Basic support systems such as the provision of high-speed but affordable internet services and increased online interactions will be of help to such students.