Active Engagement Research Articles

Unlocking the key to HPV prevention: Exploring factors influencing HPV vaccination decisions among young people and their parents.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is a recognised preventive measure against HPV-related cancers. Despite the availability of vaccines, challenges persist, including limited awareness and gender disparities in vaccination. Addressing the challenges necessitates a comprehensive approach involving knowledge advancements, understanding societal needs and cultural beliefs, and improving vaccine communication. This study aimed to determine young people's information needs, facilitators and barriers, influential messages, and thoughts on improving vaccine communication between youth & healthcare professionals (HCPs) and parents regarding HPV vaccination. Qualitative SWOT analysis. This report is part of Work Package 2.1 within the EU4Health project PROTECT-EUROPE. A multi-methodological approach involved data collection through open-ended questionnaires disseminated to European youth organisations. The data underwent content and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis. The SWOT analysis of HPV vaccination communication efforts highlighted strengths, such as using educational institutions to disseminate information and vaccination. Primary obstacles to HPV vaccination include a lack of awareness among key demographics and logistical challenges for youth accessing vaccination services. Weaknesses included barriers created by the use of technical jargon. Opportunities were seen in HCPs engaging directly with students in educational settings and open dialogue, ensuring confidentiality to the target population. Threats encompassed cultural sensitivities to HPV. These insights underscore the importance of developing communication strategies that are effective and sensitive to cultural contexts and of creating accessible and adaptable vaccination programs. The findings suggest that targeted education and active engagement strategies can mitigate these issues. Moreover, prioritising open communication between HCPs and young individuals is critical for increasing vaccination uptake.

UNDERSTANDING ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT EXPERIENCE AMONG RESIDENTS WITH DEMENTIA IN LONG-TERM CARE HOMES

Abstract Recreational and meaningful activities in long-term care homes are crucial in promoting well-being among residents with dementia. While existing research primarily focuses on planned activities facilitated by staff, little attention has been given to self-directed activities initiated by residents themselves, reflecting their intrinsic motivation, lifestyle, and lifelong interests such as walking, gardening, meal preparation and other household activities. In this study, activity is defined as personally meaningful behavior, including both programmed and self-directed activities, and supported by social and/or physical environmental stimuli. Utilizing critical ethnography in a long-term care home in Canada, our research aims to: 1) gather descriptive data on the types, diversity and process of residents’ activity engagement, and 2) examine the care home setting in its natural context to uncover the social practices, built environmental features and underlying organizational discourses that influence activity engagement. Observations will focus on residents’ engagement in various activities and their interactions with staff and the physical environment. Interviews will be conducted with activity staff and non-activity staff (e.g., care aides, nurses) to explore their perspectives on activity engagement, person-centered approach, and their respective roles in promoting engagement. This study offers insights into residents’ experiences with both structured and self-directed activities, and the influence of the care home’s social and physical environments on engagement. The study addresses the knowledge gap in meaningful engagement through self-directed activities and the role of social and physical environments. Fieldwork will be completed in summer and preliminary findings based on interviews and initial observations will be presented.

SHORT-TERM ASSOCIATIONS OF ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT WITH COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE

Abstract Prior research showed that activity engagement had short-term effects on numerical working memory over hours in German-speaking older adults. However, it is unclear whether these effects could be generalized to other cognitive outcomes and populations. This study examined short-term associations of activity engagement with cognitive performance using data from two studies that included adults of different demographic backgrounds in the US. That is, 16 days’ data from 282 older adults aged 70 to 90 years (M = 76.62, SD = 4.68; 66% women; 44% White, 40% Black, 11% Hispanic White, 3% Hispanic Black) from the Einstein Aging Study (EAS) and 14 days’ data from 260 participants aged 25 to 65 (M = 46.49, SD =11.09; 65% women; 8% White, 63% Black, 18% Hispanic White, 6% Hispanic Black) from the Effects of Stress on Cognitive Aging, Physiology, and Emotion Project (ESCAPE). For 4 or 5 times per day, participants reported whether they engaged in different social and cognitive activities (e.g., social interactions, TV watching) and completed smartphone cognitive assessments (i.e., processing speed, spatial working memory). Using hierarchical continuous-time dynamic modeling, we did not find any time-lagged associations between activity engagement and cognitive performance. Additionally, age, sex, and race-ethnicity did not moderate the time-lagged associations. Our results suggest that activity engagement did not have short-term effects on processing speed and spatial working memory in young and older populations with ethnic and racial diversity.

Students Engagement in Classroom Teaching by Innovative Pedagogy: A desk-based Review of Existing Literature

The use of modern teaching methods in the social sciences classroom under higher levels of education is presently required to increase learning achievement through student participation. The pace of change in educational structures, curricula, teaching-learning activities, and learning outcomes should be able to keep up with all kinds of developments taking place in the world. Innovative is one of the newly developed approaches that can be used to increase students' active engagement, particularly in social science disciplines. A thorough literature search technique was employed to find the literature relevant to this study. The datasets up to 2024 were utilized for descriptive analyses of effective instructional techniques. The research-based articles and reports were used from digital and physical libraries. The easily accessible web search engine Google Scholar and other freely accessible databases such as Academia, ResearchGate, NAPJOL, JSTOR, ProQuest, and Elsevier were used. The findings indicate that innovative teaching methods promote the active participation of students through hands-on experiences. This approach significantly enhances learning outcomes in social science and helps for applying theories in real life. This technique promotes a more dynamic learning environment by encouraging teachers to adopt innovative and creative teaching methods, which in turn increases student engagement, motivation, and academic achievement. Integrating innovative pedagogies into activity-based instruction techniques empowers teachers to cultivate pupils' success, equipping them with essential skills for thriving in the 21st century.

FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH LIFE SATISFACTION IN VETERANS IN THE HEALTHY AGING PROJECT: BRAIN PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL CLASS

Abstract The Healthy Aging Project-Brain (HAP-B) was developed to encourage engagement in activities associated with successful aging. Across 6 sessions, HAP-B targets sleep, socialization, physical, and cognitive activity through myth-busting, developing SMART goals, and tracking behavioral change. This study aims to examine associations between physical and mental health factors with life satisfaction. Veteran participants (n=50, mean age = 70.6 years) were predominantly male-identity (88%) and White (76%). Linear regressions examined associations between physical and emotional functioning factors and life satisfaction at baseline, covarying for age. Results indicate that higher life satisfaction is significantly associated with lower depressive symptoms, higher emotional well-being, and higher self-efficacy in our sample. HAP-B is effective in facilitating behavioral change that has downstream positive effects on emotional functioning. It is feasible, accessible, and scalable, supporting a model of care among older adult Veterans that combines psychoeducational and skill-based approaches. Future groups may emphasize emotional well-being as a direct intervention target. There is a significant need to prioritize engagement with, and accessibility of, mental healthcare services to improve both emotional well-being and overall satisfaction with life. Healthcare providers are well-positioned to encourage engagement with activities that are protective against adverse cognitive aging.

BEYOND PHYSICAL ABILITY: PROMOTING INCLUSION IN DEFINITIONS OF SUCCESSFUL AGING

Abstract Physical function and the absence of disability have long been conceptualized as key components of successful aging in most frameworks. However, prior work in disability studies and psychology have suggested that physical functioning is not necessary for successful aging and that this conceptualization may be ableist in nature. Specifically, this definition implies that people with congenital disabilities are not able to age successfully and reinforces society’s view that able-bodied lives are better, happier, or more worthy than disabled people’s lives. This stands contrary to prior research demonstrating high engagement and wellbeing among individuals with disabilities. Moreover, this definition fails to acknowledge the role of inclusive environments (e.g., no stairs, wide doors/walkways) in promoting participation and successful aging. All these factors may lead to increased disability shame, stigma, and discrimination, which can decrease wellbeing, health, and longevity for people with disabilities. In this conceptual presentation, we draw from research in psychology, gerontology, and disability studies to suggest a broader and more inclusive definition of successful aging as continued engagement in activities one needs and wants to participate in. We describe how this definition promotes inclusion by acknowledging that participation can take many forms (e.g., through adaptive devices) and recognizing the power of the environment for promoting successful aging. In this way, we argue that this definition of successful aging takes the onus of functioning off the individual and places it on society to create inclusive environments, allowing all individuals the potential to age successfully, regardless of physical ability.

The Effectiveness of an Imagery-Based Behavioral Activation Intervention for Depressive Symptoms

Background: Behavioral activation treatment (BAT) is an evidence-based treatment for depression. However, depressive symptoms can make it difficult to engage in activities crucial for the success of behavioral activation. Mental imagery may assist with activity engagement. This study examined the effectiveness of imagery-based BAT (BAT-I) compared to standard BAT in reducing depressive symptoms and improving behavioral activation, activity anticipation, activity motivation, and activity completion rates.Methods: Thirty adults with moderate to severe depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to either the BAT-I or BAT groups. The participants received eight sessions of twice-weekly BAT intervention, with an additional four-eight mental imagery sessions provided for the BAT-I group.Results: Repeated measures analysis of variance indicated that participants in both groups showed reductions in depressive symptoms and improvements in behavioral activation, activity anticipation, and activity motivation. However, the BAT-I group demonstrated significantly higher activity motivation (6.1＞ 5.1) and activity completion rates (93.17%＞66.18%) than the BAT group.Conclusions: While use of imagery appears to support activity engagement, further research is needed to explore how imagery can be utilized to enhance the BAT effectiveness.

LEISURE ACTIVITY AND POSITIVE MOOD ACROSS ADULTHOOD: RESULTS FROM THE KOREAN TIME USE SURVEY

Abstract Adults in middle and later life may look forward to dedicating more time to outdoor leisure activities, which can contribute to their health and well-being. This study utilized 2-day time diaries from the 2019 Korean Time Use Survey (respondent N = 22,821; age 20−84) to examine how Korean adults engage in various outdoor activities (e.g., social visits, attending cultural events, and exercising) and whether their activity engagement (indicated by outdoor activity diversity and total hours of outdoor activity) is associated with positive mood. Further, we investigated whether these associations varied by age groups (age 20–39, 40–64, and 65–84), considering differences in family and work demands. We accounted for respondents’ total TV viewing hours, total “doing-nothing” hours, and sociodemographic characteristics as control variables in the models for positive mood. The findings showed that total hours of outdoor activities and watching TV were positively associated with a positive mood in younger adults, supporting the psychological benefits of detachment from work. Yet, for older individuals, diversity in outdoor activities was positively associated with positive mood, while total hours of outdoor activities were not significant—which indicates that engaging in various activities throughout the day can be beneficial for psychological well-being in later life. Notably, we found that total TV viewing hours were negatively associated with the positive mood of older adults. This study sheds light on the differential impacts of leisure activities based on life stages, underscoring the importance of diverse leisure activities for the psychological health of older individuals.

Learning English through Drama-Based Approach (DBA): A Pedagogical Stylistic Experiment with Pygmalion

This study explores the effectiveness of using a new approach called drama-based approach in helping to learn English language. This approach was pioneered by Dorothy Heathcote in 1950. Heathcote, a drama teacher, developed this technique to help young children communicate confidently in English. In this research, the same theatrical method is employed to enhance students' spoken English skills. The chosen medium for the dramatic activity is George Bernard Shaw's play Pygmalion (1916), focusing on selected passages relevant to English language learning. The research incorporates both qualitative and quantitative methods, demanding active participation from students in the play. They engaged by taking on various roles of characters, as opposed to being passive listeners under a teacher's direction. This research took place in Dera Ismail Khan at Government College No. 1, involving 5th semester students who were divided into two groups: a control group and an experimental group. The experimental group performed the play through role-play and dialogue reading, while the control group read the play through traditional methods without any active engagement. The experimental study unfolded in three stages: a questionnaire, an intervention combined with improvisation, and an exam. Results were statistically measured and compared across both groups. The experimental group outperformed the control group in spoken English, demonstrating that a drama-based approach effectively facilitates the students in learning English language. This method allowed students to easily grasp themes, central message, linguistic elements, and character relationships, enhancing their understanding as well as their accents. The heightened engagement and enjoyment expressed by the students indicated a positive reception of this learning activity.

Policy Strategy to Accelerate Digitalization in the era of revolution 5.0 in developing countries

The rapid advancement of technology in the era of Industry 5.0 necessitates accelerated digitalization in developing countries to enhance economic growth, improve competitiveness, and reduce socio-economic disparities. This study employs a quantitative research method, utilizing survey data collected from 230 respondents representing diverse sectors, including government, private enterprises, and educational institutions. The primary objective is to assess the effectiveness of policy strategies in fostering digital transformation, with a focus on identifying key drivers and barriers. The results emphasize the critical role of robust digital infrastructure, targeted government incentives, and active engagement in public-private partnerships. Additionally, the study highlights the significance of digital literacy programs in bridging skill gaps and promoting innovation. Findings suggest that countries prioritizing comprehensive digital policies, workforce upskilling, and inclusive technology adoption demonstrate marked progress in their digitalization efforts. This paper concludes by recommending the implementation of adaptive regulatory frameworks, increased investments in emerging technologies, and strengthened collaboration across sectors to drive long-term, sustainable digital growth and development in the context of Industry 5.0.

Integration of local wisdom literacy based on flipbook worksheets to enhance students' creative problem-solving in the foundation phase of the independent curriculum

Background: The lack of innovative teaching materials relevant to local wisdom hinders the learning process. Flipbook worksheets serve as an innovative educational medium that effectively integrates local wisdom into instructional material delivery. This medium not only offers aesthetic appeal but also enhances interactivity, thereby fostering student engagement in reflective problem-solving activities during the learning process.Aim: The research aims to integrate flipbook worksheets enriched with local wisdom to improve students' creative problem-solving skills.Method: The study employed Research and Development (R&D) methodology, involving 40 participants, with a Likert scale used to assess student engagement.Results: The analysis yielded an F-value of 5.34 and a p-value of 0.028, indicating that the implementation of local wisdom-based flipbook worksheets has a substantively positive impact on enhancing students' problem-solving skills.Conclusion: The development of flipbook worksheets integrated with local wisdom effectively enhances students' creative problem-solving competencies. Recommendations for local wisdom-based education include integrative activities with folklore materials, visuals of traditional games, and reflective problem-solving tasks that incorporate local values such as mutual cooperation, deliberation, and responsibility.

Cross-sectional associations between patterns of cultural engagement and indicators of biological dysregulation

Background Research has shown that cultural activities may bring about improved health. However, large-scale quantitative analyses on cultural engagement and biomarkers are lacking to date. As a result, the mechanisms through which cultural activities may be associated with health are unclear. Aim Test quantitative associations between cultural engagement pattern (including active and passive engagement in arts, sports, and heritage activities) and indicators of biological dysregulation in a large dataset. Subjects and methods Understanding Society data were used to conduct cross-sectional linear regression analyses between a data-driven latent class model of cultural engagement and indicators of anthropometric, cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and neuroendocrine function. Analyses were adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, childcare responsibility, urbanicity, leisure time satisfaction, capacity-related factors, socioeconomic position, social and economic capital indicators, physical activity, and medication use. Results More culturally participants had better indicators of biological health, such as lower waist circumference and fibrinogen blood concentration. Specific associations between cultural engagement pattern and the different biological outcomes were also observed. The associations were explained in part by correlated factors (accounting for around half of the association). Conclusions Cultural engagement is cross-sectionally associated with biomarkers, although the characteristics of people who engage with culture are an important consideration when interpreting these findings.

Analysis of Student Needs for the Use of Anonymous Chatting in Liberal Arts Education

This study explores the impact of using anonymous open chatting systems in university liberal arts courses on learning quality, efficiency, and student satisfaction, while identifying the demands of learners. Data were collected through an online survey of 588 undergraduate students at Sangmyung University, comprising 39 questions about usage experience, pros and cons of anonymity, efficiency, satisfaction, learning quality improvement, technical aspects, and demands. The findings indicate that anonymous open chatting enhances the efficiency of large lectures, fosters interactions between instructors and students, and significantly improves student satisfaction. Anonymity was found to reduce the burden of class participation and facilitate active engagement in discussions. Meanwhile, the risk of inappropriate behavior due to anonymity was minimal. The study also revealed that anonymous open chatting is beneficial in diverse subjects and large-scale classes. These findings suggest important implications for adopting and expanding anonymous open chatting systems in liberal arts education.

The positive impact of introducing public engagement as a self-directed learning strategy in undergraduate nervous system education

ABSTRACT Undergraduate medical education in China has shifted from educator-centered learning to self-directed learning (SDL) over the past few decades. Careful design of public engagement activities can enable SDL and empower medical students to pioneer public health and patient safety education. In this study, we aimed to innovate nervous system education by implementing a public engagement model that empowers students to learn about the nervous system by teaching the public. Our goal was to generate greater interest in the nervous system at the undergraduate stage, inspire students’ enthusiasm to pursue a career in neurology, and ultimately, contribute to health promotion. During the nervous system module of the second year of the undergraduate curriculum, students were given the option to participate in the public engagement model. Participants were tasked with the creation of educational videos focusing on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors associated with the prevention and management of neurological diseases and their complications. The videos were made accessible to the general public through the university’s official channel at the end of the semester. A total of 117 students (67.24% of all students) chose to participate in the public engagement model. Female students and those with higher Grade Point Averages in the present semester were more likely to participate. The model received strong positive feedback from participants, as students found the public engagement task helpful in learning about the nervous system module as well as in enhancing their public engagement skills. Despite the time and effort consumption, participating in the public engagement task did not affect students’ exam scores. The public engagement task is an innovative model in the nervous system curriculum and has the potential to be integrated into a broader range of undergraduate courses. It empowers medical students to pioneer public health and patient safety education.

EFFECTS OF ADVANCE CARE PLANNING TRAINING ON STUDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE, COMFORT, AND CONFIDENCE

Abstract Students report feeling unprepared to engage in advance care planning (ACP). Methods A 2-hour, interprofessional workshop was held in-person in April 2018 and 2019, and virtually in 2021 and 2022 for students from medicine, nursing, physician assistant, speech pathology, counseling psychology, biomedical sciences, communication, and sociology (N=223). The workshop aimed to educate students about ACP, foster exploration of personal preferences for end-of-life care, and empower them to initiate ACP conversations with others. It incorporated highly engaging activities including personal reflection, drawing, writing, video clips, case presentations, as well as small and large group discussions. A Qualtrics survey, using a retrospective post- then pre- questionnaire design, elicited feedback 1-day post-workshop. Results Regardless of delivery format, respondents rated the workshop highly (97% excellent or good) and liked interacting with peers from other disciplines in small group discussions best. Paired-samples t-tests revealed statistically significant differences following the workshop in four of five areas (p< 0.001) i.e., increased understanding of advance directives, comfort completing their own advance directive, comfort talking with their family and/or personal doctor, and confidence in starting an ACP conversation with others. No significant change was detected in students’ comfort exchanging ACP ideas in a team discussion (p=0.19). Discussion A workshop can increase students’ self-reported knowledge, comfort, and confidence with ACP, as applied to themselves and/or family. However, results suggest working in an interprofessional healthcare team requires additional training and experience. These findings can help guide ACP curricula in health professions education.

PERAN PERPUSTAKAAN DALAM MENINGKATKAN MINAT BACA SISWA DI SD NEGERI 1 MUARA TELADAN

This study aims to determine the role of the library in enhancing students' reading interest at SD Negeri 1 Muara Teladan. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach. The informants in this study consist of librarians, teachers, and students at SD Negeri 1 Muara Teladan. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews, observations, and documentation. The data were analyzed to identify themes related to students' reading interest. The results show that the library plays a very important role in increasing students' reading interest by organizing several activities, such as accessible book lending, scheduled library visits, and literacy activities. However, challenges were identified, including low student interest in reading, insufficient budget for library facilities, and a lack of library staff. Facilities such as bookshelves, tables, and chairs need to be improved to support reading activities. Despite these challenges, students showed high enthusiasm for the activities organized by the library, highlighting the library's potential even with its limitations. With improvements in library facilities, increased budgets, and additional library staff, students' reading interest can continue to grow, positively impacting their academic achievements. The library at SD Negeri 1 Muara Teladan plays a crucial role in fostering students' reading interest, but optimizing facilities and more engaging activities are still necessary to achieve better outcomes.

Pro-Environmental Behaviors and the Prioritization of Environmental Protection over Economic Growth

This study investigates the impact of individuals' pro-environmental behaviors on their preference for either environmental protection or economic growth. The analysis utilizes the most recent wave of the World Values Survey (WVS), the 7th wave, which includes data from 66 economies. Logistic regression is employed for empirical analysis. The marginal effects of the model highlight the significant role of pro-environmental behavior and confidence in environmental movements in shaping individuals' preferences for environmental protection over economic growth. Whether active or inactive, memberships in environmental organizations positively influence the likelihood of prioritizing environmental protection by fostering awareness and alignment with sustainability values. Active members exhibit a stronger effect, reflecting the impact of deeper engagement in environmental activities. Similarly, confidence in environmental protection movements plays a crucial role in promoting pro-environmental attitudes, as individuals with greater confidence are more likely to trust and support collective efforts to address environmental challenges. The findings underscore the importance of fostering participation in environmental organizations and building trust in environmental movements to encourage sustainability-oriented decisions and attitudes at a societal level.

The effects of risky behaviors and social factors on the frequency of fraud victimization among known victims

Abstract Background and Objectives Routine activity theory (RAT) asserts that a suitable target’s exposure to a motivated offender in the absence of capable guardians increases their likelihood of crime victimization. We use these principles to assess the extent to which engaging in risky routine activities—e.g., entering sweepstakes drawings, answering unknown calls—is associated with victimization frequency among older adult mass marketing fraud victims across five types of scams: investment fraud, sweepstakes and lottery fraud, romance and family/friend imposter scams, fake products and services, and charity scams. We also examine whether financial and social vulnerability characteristics (loneliness, preference for taking financial risks, financial fragility) are associated with victimization frequency in older adults. Research Design and Methods A survey was administered to households that the United States Postal Inspection Service identified as having recently responded to one or more mail scam solicitations. Respondents answered questions on their behaviors, financial risk preferences, social and demographic characteristics, and number of past year victimization experiences with five types of fraud. Results As predicted based on RAT, routine activities that increase a target’s exposure to motivated offenders are positively associated with fraud victimization frequency, although more frequent online activity was negatively associated with victimization frequency contrary to hypotheses. Precarious financial and emotional states such as financial fragility and loneliness also were associated with greater victimization frequency, and more frequent social engagement and living with others (the presence of capable guardians) had no effect. Discussion and Implications Target suitability factors such as loneliness, financial fragility, and risky financial preferences and behaviors are associated with a higher frequency of fraud victimization among older adults. Consumer education should include information on reducing risky behaviors that can increase fraud exposure. More frequent social engagement may not be protective. Older adults who are financially fragile and experiencing loneliness require more safeguards.

Engagement in moderate-intensity physical activity supports overnight memory retention in older adults

AbstractPreserving the ability to vividly recall emotionally rich experiences contributes to quality of life in older adulthood. While prior works suggest that moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA) may bolster memory, it is unclear whether this extends to emotionally salient memories consolidated during sleep. In the current study, older adults (mean age = 72.3 ± 5.8) completed an overnight polysomnography assessment with emotional memory tested before and after sleep and a self-report questionnaire assessing habitual PA. Results show that better negative emotional memory consolidation was associated with the frequency and duration of MPA. Statistically replacing 30 min of lower-intensity activity with MPA was associated with better negative emotional memory consolidation. MPA may enhance sleep-dependent consolidation of negative memories in older adults, with modest increases in MPA yielding significant consolidation benefits. Findings may guide interventions and inform public health recommendations by demonstrating that substituting even short durations of low-intensity activity for MPA could produce significant cognitive gains in older adulthood.

The Implementation of Human Resource Management Policies in Increasing Student Participation and Engagement in Academic Activities

This research aims to analyze the implementation of Human Resource Management (HRM) policies in increasing student participation and engagement in academic activities at the Faculty of Cultural Management and Business. The study utilized a qualitative approach, including interviews, surveys, and document analysis to gather data. Results indicated that effective HRM policies positively impacted student involvement, particularly through training programs, resource provision, and a supportive learning environment. Key challenges included the gap between theory and practice, along with limited access to advanced training due to time constraints. The findings emphasize the need for continuous evaluation and integration of flexible training opportunities to improve student engagement and academic achievement.