Acquisition Of Competence Research Articles

Behavioral guidance for improving dental care in autistic spectrum disorders.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) impair many aspects of everyday life and may prevent access to dental care, often limiting it to emergencies. Impaired oral health has long-lasting negative consequences on health status and on the acquisition of oral habits (e.g., oral respiration and grinding) or competencies (e.g., proper speech production). Children with ASD may be scared in the dental setting, which is rich in sensory stimuli and requires physical contact. Due to their behavioral manifestations, they represent a challenge for dentists and hygienists. We created a dedicated pathway with behavioral support for children with ASD to allow dental care and possibly limit the use of general anesthesia. We evaluated the effects of behavioral support in a quasi-experimental design by comparing two groups of children with ASD. The first group (n = 84) was visited every 2 months for 3 years and received additional support (visual aids, caregiver training, and longer visit duration). A control group, matched for age and sex, was visited at least twice a year or more, if needed, according to standard healthcare guidelines. Compliance with the schedule was high throughout the 3 years. The degree of collaboration significantly improved after 1 year in the supported group, while the control group did not change. At the end of the study, collaboration remained significantly higher than at the beginning in the supported group. Half of dental treatments were possible without general anesthesia in supported children. No adverse effect was apparent on collaboration due to COVID-19 restrictions. Behavioral techniques improved the compliance of ASD children to regular dentistry visits and treatment. Furthermore, oral hygiene at home was similarly improved, addressing oral health from a lifelong perspective.

The role of first-language heterogeneity in the acquisition of online interaction self-efficacy in CSCL

The acquisition of online interaction competencies is an important learning objective. The present study explored the relationships between the first-language heterogeneity of computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) groups and the development of students’ online interaction self-efficacy via a pretest–posttest design in the context of a nine-week CSCL course. The research participants were 1525 freshmen receiving distance education who were randomly assigned to 343 CSCL groups. Independent of their own language status, students in CSCL groups featuring first-language heterogeneity exhibited lower precourse–postcourse gains in online interaction self-efficacy than students in groups without heterogeneity. Consistent with a theoretically derived moderation model, the relationships between first-language heterogeneity and self-efficacy gains were moderated by the amount of time that the groups spent on task-related communication during the initial collaboration phase (i.e., the relationships were significant when little time was spent on it but not when a great deal of time was spent on it). In contrast, the amount of time that groups spent on communication related to getting to know each other was ineffective as a significant moderator. Follow-up analyses indicated that time spent getting to know each other in first-language heterogeneous CSCL groups seems to have had the paradoxical effect of increasing rather than decreasing perceptions of heterogeneity among group members. Apparently, this effect impaired online interaction self-efficacy gains.

Conceptualizing "Preparedness for Practice": Perspectives of Early-Career Family Physicians.

Competency based medical education (CBME) aims to produce graduates prepared for independent practice. Many equate the outcome of "preparedness for practice" with acquisition of competence. As educators evaluate the outcomes of CBME, being clear on the concept of preparedness for practice will clarify the results that are measured and assessed. This study examined how preparedness for practice is conceptualized in the literature and by family physicians (FPs) in Canada. This multimethod qualitative descriptive study included (1) rapid review and narrative synthesis, and (2) focus groups with early-career FPs using maximum variation sampling until thematic saturation was reached. Focus groups explored the FPs' conceptualizations of preparedness for practice. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded before content analysis. Thirty-four articles met the inclusion criteria, and 59 early-career FPs participated in the focus groups. We found no consensus on the conceptualization of preparedness for practice in the literature; however, the concept often was described as acquiring competencies for program requirements. In the literature and focus groups, we identified four themes for the conceptualization of preparedness for practice. These themes included competence, self-confidence (self-efficacy, self-concept), capability, and adaptability. Preparedness for practice involves an interplay of dynamic and complex constructs from competence, self-confidence, capability, and adaptability. Preparedness is more than possessing several competencies; it calls for integrating and applying competencies in complex and changing environments. This study aimed to start a discussion on what end point is desirable for residency education and proposed that the end point needs to move beyond competencies.

Digital Innovation in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises: A comparative analysis between Albania and EU countries

Abstract Innovation has always been one of the drivers of competition and for the long-term success of companies. The implementation of new digital technologies stimulates the development and acquisition of new skills, competences and knowledge, which are relevant factors in companies’ innovation activities, especially in SME’s. Albania stays between the first 10 European Countries where its citizens take 95% of public services online. Also, Albania is the first country not only in the region but also in Europe to have a dedicated law for the development of start-ups. The study purpose is to present a comparative analysis for the level of digital innovation for EU Countries and Albania. The research question is: Are there differences between Albania and European Countries regarding the Key indicators of Digital Economy and Society Index? We have conducted a review of the literature and a secondary data analysis. This study has a descriptive nature, and its main contribution is to present the comparative results between EU Countries and Albania regarding digital innovation. The results show that there are differences between Albania and European Countries regarding these indicators.

Evaluación de la simulación de alta fidelidad con actores en cuidados paliativos y estudiantes de Enfermería: un estudio de método mixto

ObjectiveThe most effective training methods are experiential, including those focused on experiences and emotions. Clinical simulation, especially high-fidelity simulation, is one of the most effective methodologies for the acquisition of competencies in care like palliative care. The simulation with actors can train future healthcare science professionals in technical, intellectual, or interpersonal skills. The objective is to evaluate high-fidelity simulation with actors as a tool in palliative care training for nursing students. MethodOver three years, the study was conducted in the Faculty of Nursing of Murcia with nursing students. A mixed methods study with sequential explanatory design in three moments was conducted: 1)Quasi-experimental study in a single group (n=12) before and after attending the palliative care course with clinical simulation with actors to assess the communication skills (CICAA scale). 2)Qualitative study with phenomenological perspective after clinical simulation (174 reflective students’ narratives). 3)Cross-sectional observational study, one year later, to assess the transfer of knowledge and skills to the clinical practice (71 students). ResultsStudents who interacted with actors in clinical simulation improved their communication skills and the ability to establish an effective helping relationship with both end-of-life patients and their families. The students perceived the clinical simulation as an innovative learning methodology that is useful to encourage reflection and transfer of learning during their clinical internship. ConclusionsStandardization of the use of active learning methodologies is recommended for a better acquisition of transversal skills such as communication skills in palliative care.

Adquisición de competencias en ECV en el grado en Medicina: percepción de médicos residentes de cardiología

Introduction and objectivesUniversity education during the degree in Medicine must ensure the acquisition of essential knowledge and skills necessary for the performance of the medical profession. The objective of this study was to analyze the perception of Cardiology resident doctors in Spain regarding the acquisition of competencies in cardiovascular pathology during their university training, and its usefulness in daily clinical practice. MethodsA telematic questionnaire was developed targeting 814 cardiology residents in Spain between January and February 2023. The acquisition of competencies during the medicine degree and the implementation of teaching innovations in the subject of cardiovascular diseases were evaluated. ResultsThe survey was completed by 69 (8.5%) cardiology residents (mean age of 29, 43% women). The competencies that a larger number of respondents considered acquired during their university training were knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors (91.2%), while the interpretation of major diagnostic tests was considered acquired by a smaller number of respondents (27.9%). The majority of participants stated that university training was only useful for passing the subject. The most commonly implemented teaching innovations were clinical practices (96.2%), and their implementation received positive evaluations from the majority of participants. ConclusionsCardiology residents participating in the survey reflected that university education in cardiovascular pathology in Spain primarily emphasizes the acquisition of theoretical knowledge. However, the inclusion of teaching innovations could facilitate the development of practical competencies and skills, which are crucial in the foundational training of a physician.

Implementation of School Literacy Movement Program at the Level of Junior High School Education Units

The School Literacy Movement (SLM) is a program designed to facilitate the acquisition of student literacy competencies. Schools that implement this government program will undoubtedly have an impact on the literacy abilities of their students, including reading literacy, scientific literacy, digital literacy, numeracy, and so on. This forms the basis for conducting research with the aim of describing the implementation of SLM in Junior High Schools throughout the Kefamenanu Sub-District. The respondents in this study include school principals, SLM administrators, library heads, Mathematics teachers, and Indonesian Language teachers. Data collection techniques employed are interviews and observation. Subsequently, data is analyzed using the flow model by Miles and Huberman, which involves data reduction, data presentation, data verification, and conclusion drawing. Findings from the research indicate that junior high schools in the Kefamenanu Sub-District have implemented SLM from the habituation stage to the development and learning stages; however, the implementation is inconsistent and not yet optimal. Thus, the execution of SLM requires maximum attention from stakeholders, involving teachers, parents, alumni, and community members.

Analysis on the Application of Communicative Language Teaching in Senior High School English Class

Communicative Language Teaching method is one of the main teaching methods in foreign language teaching. According to CLT, the foreign language classroom should be a place which is full of communication, and the final destination of English learning is communication. Compared with traditional teaching methods, communicative teaching method has its unique charm and characteristics. English is a language. The purpose of English teaching is to let students learn to communicate in English. As language becomes a means of communication, the acquisition of foreign language knowledge and communicative competence depends on specific communicative activities such as listening, speaking, reading and writing. The English syllabus also clearly requires that English teaching should cultivate students' communicative competence. However, looking at the current situation of English Teaching in China, it can be found that the vast majority of students' ability to communicate in English is relatively weak. In order to improve students' ability to communicate in English, communicative teaching method has been paid more and more attention by teachers. However, it is undeniable that everything has two sides. There are also many deficiencies in the implementation of communicative teaching method, which need us to further explore. Therefore, this thesis focuses on the evaluation and analysis of the application of Communicative Language Teaching of teaching practice.

Postgraduate medical education in Colombia. Proposals to improve it

After 70 years of the formalization of medical specialties in Colombia, very little progress has been made in the educational models for the acquisition of clinical competencies in these postgraduate programs.
 Furthermore, although there is already a law on human resources in health, the Colombian medical education system lacks specific regulations on the training of health professionals (physicians) in the different medical specialty programs offered in the country.
 Likewise, at present, factors such as the financial crisis of public hospitals, the limited number of accredited hospitals and the growing number of medical schools and specialization programs, affect the comprehensive and equal development of medical competencies of professionals who are trained as specialists in the different postgraduate medical programs offered in Colombia. 
 In view of the above, the purpose of this article is to present a proposal for postgraduate medical education that prioritizes the adequate acquisition of competencies over compliance with the time required to complete the curricula of the different medical specialties. However, this involves several prerequisites: a regulatory body in charge of overseeing and monitoring the training of medical residents or specialists in the country; strong training in university teaching for professors practicing in medical schools and university hospitals; the standardization of the graduates profile; adequate financing of university hospitals, as well as appropriate support in the process of accreditation as such, and the self-evaluation and continuous improvement of postgraduate medical programs.

Enhancing English Acquisition: Effects of among us Game-Based Gamification on Language Competence, Motivation, Attention, and Attitude towards the English Subject

This study aimed to ascertain if there was a significant impact on the acquisition of English language competence, motivation, attention, and emotions towards English as a Second Language (ESL) after the development of gamification based on the famous Among us game with primary education students aged 7–8 years (n = 24) from a state school in Ciudad Real (Castilla-La Mancha). An experimental method with a pretest–post-test design was considered, in which the control group followed a transmission instructional model, and the experimental group underwent an eight-session gamified experience using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Four ad hoc tests were designed and implemented to assess writing, reading, speaking, and listening skills, while various test adaptations were used to measure attention and motivation variables. The results show that gamification helped to improve the variables analyzed, showing significant enhancements in reading from the experimental group, as well as a more positive attitude towards the English subject, increased active participation, and fewer negative inclinations towards mistakes. The study suggests that incorporating gamification can have a positive impact on learning outcomes and may serve as a means of bridging linguistic inequalities and promoting equitable access to language learning opportunities. However, further research is necessary to explore the potential of gamification in this regard.

Assessment of high fidelity simulation with actors in palliative care in nursing students: a mixed methods study

ObjectiveThe most effective training methods are experiential, including those focused on experiences and emotions. Clinical simulation, especially high-fidelity simulation, is one of the most effective methodologies for the acquisition of competencies in care like palliative care. The simulation with actors can train future healthcare science professionals: in technical, intellectual, or interpersonal skills. The objective is to evaluate high-fidelity simulation with actors as a tool in palliative care training for nursing students. MethodOver three years, the study was conducted in a Faculty of Nursing of the south of Spain with nursing students. A mixed methods study with sequential explanatory design in three moments was conducted: (1) Quasi-experimental study in a single group (n = 12) before and after attending the palliative care course with Clinical Simulation with actors to assess the communication skills (CICAA scale), (2) Qualitative study with phenomenological perspective after Clinical Simulation (174 reflective students’ narratives), (3) Cross-sectional observational study, one year later, to assess the transfer of knowledge and skills to the clinical practice (71 students). ResultsStudents who interacted with actors in Clinical Simulation improved their communication skills and the ability to establish an effective helping relationship with both end-of-life patients and their families. The students perceived the Clinical Simulation as an innovative learning methodology that is useful to encourage reflection and transfer of learning during their clinical internship. ConclusionsStandardization of the use of active learning methodologies is recommended for a better acquisition of transversal skills such as communication skills in palliative care.

Simulation in Anesthesia for Perioperative Neuroscience: Present and Future.

The brain's sensitivity to fluctuations in physiological parameters demands precise control of anesthesia during neurosurgery, which, combined with the complex nature of neurosurgical procedures and potential for adverse outcomes, makes neuroanesthesia challenging. Neuroanesthesiologists, as perioperative physicians, work closely with neurosurgeons, neurologists, neurointensivists, and neuroradiologists to provide care for patients with complex neurological diseases, often dealing with life-threatening conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, brain tumors, cerebral aneurysms, and spinal cord injuries. The use of simulation to practice emergency scenarios may have potential for enhancing competency and skill acquisition amongst neuroanesthesiologists. Simulation models, including high-fidelity manikins, virtual reality, and computer-based simulations, can replicate physiological responses, anatomical structures, and complications associated with neurosurgical procedures. The use of high-fidelity simulation can act as a valuable complement to real-life clinical exposure and training in neuroanesthesia.

Teacher involvement in the use of digital tools in conservatory, municipal music school and university classrooms

The paper’s objective is to depict the current situation regarding the use of digital tools on the part of musical education teachers and students to teach and learn music. The research tool used is a questionnaire designed and validated psychometrically by the authors, focusing on eight types of technological musical tools. The questionnaire was distributed through social networks, providing a valid sample of 274 participants in Spain. The analysis of the results reveals very little knowledge regarding digital tools for present-day musical education. It also highlights that the age of the participants does not correlate with the type of technological resources used in classrooms, leading to the conclusion that said resources are not a factor that impede acquisition of digital competence. However, substantial differences are observed depending on the sample’s professional profile. This study intensifies the need to provide training solutions in order to improve the quality of music education systems.

Virtual interprofessional (VIP) education, a family medicine-occupational therapy-physiotherapy collaborative experience: the perspectives of patients, learners and providers on the opportunities and challenges

ABSTRACT This study examined the experiences of patients, Occupational Therapy (OT), Physiotherapy (PT) and Medicine learners, Providers, and Faculty, in implementing a Virtual Interprofessional (VIP) education initiative in two academic Family Medicine (FM) collaborative clinics. A qualitative descriptive study drew on a strength-based approach as part of the evaluation of the interfaculty VIP initiative. Participants involved in VIP care were conveniently sampled. Interviews were conducted with four patients, and focus groups were held with a total of 16 providers, preceptors and learners in OT, PT and FM. Data were analyzed using content analysis and managed using NVivo12. Four main categories emerged: 1) Challenges in implementing VIP care in FM; 2) Operational challenges, 3) Facilitators of VIP care in FM; and 4) Experiential learning outcomes and benefits of VIP care. This innovation supported knowledge and insights on interprofessional competencies acquired during practice, provided inclusive and comprehensive access to care for patients, and identified opportunities to enhance medical, OT and PT education in VIP care in FM. A collaborative approach with faculty from different disciplines (FM, School of Health Professions: OT and PT) can provide ongoing opportunities for VIP care for patients, and foster IP learning and acquisition of competencies for FM, OT and PT learners and providers.

Achievements and prospects of digitization of public administration spheres in Ukraine

The article analyzes the legal documents of conceptual and strategic nature, as well as the existing state mechanisms aimed at digitization of the sphere of public management and administration in Ukraine. In this context, conceptual tasks aimed at the implementation and further development of digitization tools for the activities of state administration bodies, in general, and in certain spheres of public activity have been defined. The prospects for the development of digital potential, which should be implemented by key government institutions in such areas of digital transformation as: telecommunication services and digital infrastructure; e-commerce and virtual assets; innovations, information and communication technologies and startups; the field of health care; development of digital potential, acquisition of skills and competencies of citizens, digitization of education and e-learning, have been identified. The results obtained allow us to conclude that, for an effective public administration, digital technologies are an effective tool that requires thorough study and practical testing

Informal Social-Emotional Learning in Gaming Affinity Spaces: Evidence From a Reddit Discussion Thread on Elden Ring

Background Over the past few years, there has been extensive discussion and research on social-emotional learning (SEL) in formal educational settings. However, there is limited research on SEL in informal learning contexts, including online sites such as gaming affinity spaces. Aim This qualitative study aimed to investigate the social-emotional competencies demonstrated by players in a Reddit discussion board focused on Elden Ring, a video game known for its challenging difficulty. Methods The study utilized theoretical qualitative thematic analysis on a focal thread at r/Eldenring. The thread had been upvoted over 18,000 times, included 2,363 comments encompassing 116,911 words, and had 997,765 readers when we extracted it for data analysis. Inductive codes were identified and grouped under preconceived themes based on the conceptual framework of the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), which comprises five components: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Findings The analysis revealed promising social-emotional competencies demonstrated by players across all five components of the CASEL framework. Players exhibited self-awareness by reflecting on their emotions and self-management by regulating their frustration and persevering through challenges. Social awareness was displayed by showing empathy and encouragement towards others, relationship skills by offering support and advice to fellow players, and responsible decision-making by analyzing situations, solving problems, and reflecting on gameplay experiences. Conclusion This study highlights the potential for informal SEL in gaming affinity spaces, as evidenced by players exhibiting social-emotional competencies during a Reddit discussion thread on Elden Ring. Future research should examine, among other aspects, the learning processes that facilitate the acquisition of social-emotional competencies in gaming affinity spaces and other informal learning environments, both online and offline. Additionally, special attention should be paid to the unique features of online platforms (like Reddit’s upvoting/downvoting) and their influence on users’ interactions and SEL.

ICT Based Examination Reform: An Ultimate Solution to Conduct CBCS Pattern of Assessment in India

Examination is a fundamental instrument to assess the level of acquisition of knowledge and intellectual competence of a student for a particular course or program. The present study highlights a comparative account of annual mode of examination and semester pattern of examination under Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) mode. The study also indicates notable constrains faced in conduction of examination i.e., data management for pre- examination works like preparation of eligible students’ details, examination center management, accurate question statistics, evaluation of answer scripts, marks processing, preservation of grade reports etc. through manual intervention. The ultimate solution is to develop a dedicated examination management system by integration of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for transformation of the traditional education system to the Outcome Based Education (OBE) system by way of the reformation of examination process.

Parental Intervention Program for Preschool children with Rare Diseases – a mixed methods evaluation of parents’ experiences and utility

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was twofold: (i) To assess the parents’ experiences and perception of participating in a “Parental Intervention Program for Preschool children with Rare Diseases” (PIPP-RDs). (ii) To evaluate which elements of the PIPP-RDs that the parents emphasized as important for improving their health literacy related to facilitating the transition of their children from kindergarten to school.MethodA mixed methods evaluation study was conducted ten and eleven months post-intervention, integrating an online quantitative survey combined with individual semi-structured interviews. Twenty-two parents participated in individual interviews, of these 18 also responded to the online questionnaire survey.ResultsAll parents that participated in this study reported that the information conveyed at the program was of great value and utility, 88% reported significantly alleviated stress associated to their child`s school-start, 84% indicated had improved the school-home collaboration and 84% reported that it had encouraged them to establish contact with the school prior to school commencement. From the qualitative data five main themes emerged: (i) Competence and Knowledge Acquisition, (ii) Becoming more Prepared and Relaxed, (iii) Achieved Realistic Expectations, (iv) Enhanced Communication Skills, (v) Increased Health Literacy and Self-Efficacy. The evaluative findings suggest that this invention program has notably improved the parents’ aptitude for school interaction, enhanced the adaptions according to children`s needs for accommodations, and has provided reassurance in the school-home collaboration. Parents also described increased self-confidence and self-efficacy in managing the school start for children with RDs.ConclusionThe highly positive response of participating in PIPP-RDs may not only reflect the merits of the program`s content, but also underscore the significant needs for such support during the transition to school for parents of children with RDs. Comparable initiatives, oriented towards enhancing the health literacy and empowering the parents, are anticipated to yield similarly favourable results. We argue that intervention program amalgamate pertinent information, group discourse, and workshops on school-related issues, alongside opportunities for parents to meet other parents in similar situations.

Akademische Lesekompetenz in der L2 Deutsch

Given that reading German scientific texts is an essential skill for international students in German-language degree programs, one would not expect that this key competence for academic success is hardly promoted at German universities. That is why the question arises of how international students can achieve the level of academic reading competence required in German-language degree programs. This paper focuses on findings from a study using educational design research to investigate the academic reading competence in L2 German of international students in humanities and social sciences. Through the development and implementation of an academic reading program for international students, valuable insights into the acquisition of this key competence were gained in authentic learning situations.

PROFESSIOGRAM AND THE SPECIALIST PROFILE IN THE FIELD OF PHYSICAL CULTURE IN THE NEW ECONOMY

The development of professionally - applied physical culture as an integral part of the general one has not lost its relevance, although the world in which we live generates essential changes in the profession of the specialist in the field of physical culture. The emergence of modern technologies, innovative scientific discoveries, the development of fields of activity, imposed, on the one hand, the approach of pragmatism in the professional training of future specialists, and on the other hand, required the acquisition of new knowledge, skills and competences. New professions appeared in all spheres of human activity, thus changing the system of professional training of specialists at different levels. Therefore, at present, the main obligation of education is the orientation towards professionalism, and which is actually part of the mission of middle and higher level institutions, respectively colleges and universities. Vocational training has become more unified and compact with the emergence and refinement of professional levels. The existence of a large number of national and international scientific works regarding the practical use of professional-applicative means and methods in the training of specialists from different fields of activity, increasing the level of their professional training, identifying new professionally oriented approaches to the realization of human capabilities represent factors that allow us to state that the most difficult problem is the compilation of a generalized description of the profession (professiogram of the efficient specialist - PES). Moreover, a process that differentiates us as individuals is highlighted by the motivation that characterizes us and by the ability to know and improve ourselves. Therefore, the reference (profile) of the specialist in the field recommends essential changes in his professional development and requalification, as the change also involves adjustments in the participants thinking way to education, the elimination of outdated stereotypes of the instructive-educational process and the transition to innovative education, focused on quality and performance.