Educational Activities Research Articles

Game at School? Italian Teachers' Perceptions of the Introduction of Games in the Classroom

The growing awareness that games can be a very valuable training support, both as a resource to engage and motivate and to promote acquisition of disciplinary knowledge and skills, has not been accompanied by an effective diffusion of games in Italian schools. From primary school to university, an ambivalent behaviour is manifested: a widespread appreciation of games as a learning environment is contrasted with a limited application, often reduced to the use of games or online software of a behavioural matrix. An analysis of research on the use and diffusion of games in Italian schools and universities highlights the lack of recent studies on the basic didactic-pedagogical knowledge, level of acceptance and confidence of teachers regarding the introduction of games in the classroom. The goal of this contribution is to provide an updated understanding of Italian teachers' competencies related to the formative use of games. To this aim, we developed a survey adapting to the Italian context one of the most established competence frameworks for game-based learning (GBL): the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge-Games (TPACK-G), a variant of TPACK specifically modified for the analysis of games. This new tool extends to non-digital games and integrates the sections on aspects related to game-based instructional design, game scenarios, and the role of the teacher in the instructional activity. This research will not only provide an updated look at how the prevalence of play in the classroom is changing, beyond simple manifestations of interest and trends, but also reveal how the approach to games is changing in the design of educational activities and what is the degree of awareness of the game pedagogical-educational skills necessary for the introduction of games in education. This, in turn, is instrumental for the development of new and more focused teacher training programs to promote the use of games in classrooms.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF LIFE VALUES AND EDUCATIONAL MOTIVATION IN PRIMARY SCHOOL AGE

The article reveals the definitions of the concepts of “motivation for educational activity” and “life values”. The research of both domestic and foreign scientists on the formation of motivation and value orientations is analysed. Special attention is paid to the fact that it is primary school age that is a sensitive period for the formation of motivation and life values. It is also proved that there is a close relationship between educational motivation and attitude to life values.

Transformation of Adults as Transformational Learners

Thesis. The aim of this study is to investigate at the ground level how transformational learning within the framework of adult education (andragogy) occurs in the lives of adults who experience this process. The research was designed as a qualitative study based on phenomenological approach and carried out with eight adult participants from Izmir-Turkey, Bratislava-Slovakia, Cersak-Slovenia and Lecce-Italy. Concept. Transformational learning is a process that enables individuals to question their feelings, thoughts and frames of reference and to gain a new perspective as a result of these questions. The research examined the stages and conceptual framework of this process based on Mezirow's transformational learning theory. Semi-structured interviews with participants were aimed at understanding how this learning process was triggered and how it was experienced. Results and Conclusion. According to findings adults went through a transformation process in line with the theoretical information obtained in the literature, experienced a dilemma before the transformation, gained a new perspective by criticizing the sources of feelings, thoughts and references they had in their previous lives, benefited from the experiences of people who went through this process, developed critical thinking skills, mostly made a plan, acquired new knowledge and skills, new roles according to their experiences, and it is understood that they have adopted a new worldview. The obtained data will contribute to the development of adult learning programs, the contribution of adult learning institutions to educational activities, researchers who will conduct research on adult learning and the literature in more detailed examination of transformational learning in adult learning.

School health services in the Southern District of Israel—between privatization and nationalization

BackgroundFor decades, Israel’s economic policy has favored either outsourcing or privatization of public services, including healthcare, generating an ongoing and prolonged debate of this approach. In 1997 school health services (SHS) for elementary and middle school pupils was outsourced to a sub-contractor firm, reducing budget, but also standards, for nurses and physicians. Consequently, the service has dwindled and was focused more and more on vaccinations. Between 2007 and 2012, under full private contractor delivery, SHS quality diminished substantially, leading to a significant decline in vaccination coverage in the Southern District. In 2012, a decision was made to return SHS to state control.MethodsThis study analyzes the delivery parameters of SHS between the period when the service was operated by a private contractor from 2011to 2/2012, and the subsequent provision of the service directly by Ministry of Health (MoH) between 3/2012 and 2013. We compared the rates of vaccination coverage, screening tests and health education programs.ResultsA statistically significant increase in SHS delivery for vaccinations and screening was observed in the Southern District of MoH after the transfer of service from contractor. The increase was variable in different population subgroups, and especially notable in the Bedouin schools of the District, where the MMRV vaccination rose from 19.3% to 96.8%. However, a substantial and significant reduction in health education activities was also noted, overall from 24.9% to 5.0%.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that substantial benefits can be derived from direct provision of SHS by MoH and its regional offices, especially in the areas of reduced accessibility and lower socio-economic status. The case study of SHS in the Southern District of Israel can serve as an important example highlighting the impacts of privatization vs nationalization, with potential implications in other fields. These insights should be integral to future discussions of healthcare service provision.

COMPENSATION OF UNFORMED GRAPHIC SKILLS AS A PREREQUISITE FOR FUNCTIONAL LITERACY IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The article deals with the problem of prerequisites for functional literacy of children in the transition to school-type education. It is noted that existing diagnostic techniques allow us to record the insufficient readiness of older preschoolers to carry out graphic activities, which in the future will negatively affect their attitude to educational activities. The experience of compensatory learning is presented, in which it is possible to significantly reduce the severity of this problem.

Pemberdayaan Siswa-Siswi SMA Negeri 3 Kota Sibolga tentang Pelatihan Sederhana Bantuan Hidup Dasar (BHD) dalam Upaya Memberikan Pertolongan Pertama

Community service by the D-III Nursing Study Program in Central Tapanuli, Medan Ministry of Health Polytechnic, was carried out in the form of material presentations and demonstrations to students of SMA Negeri 3 Sibolga about Basic Life Support as first aid. Basic Life Support (BHD) is a series of first aid that is carried out to help anyone who experiences respiratory or cardiac arrest. One solution for first aid is to educate the public about Basic Life Support so that the possibility of brain cell damage will be smaller and give the victim enough time to be taken to the hospital on time. The target of service activities is 100 students of SMA Negeri 3 Sibolga. The aim of this Community Service is to realize community service as one of the Tri Darma activities of Higher Education, increasing the knowledge and skills of students in providing basic life support as emergency first aid. The methods used are counseling, training and question and answer/discussion and evaluation. After the counseling and demonstration of Basic Life Support was carried out, the results showed that the majority of respondents had sufficient knowledge at 58%, 35% had good knowledge and 7% had less knowledge. Competency evaluation is carried out by giving participants the opportunity to demonstrate directly the implementation of BHD using a phantom. The results obtained were that 63% had capable category skills and 37% had less capable skills, meaning that students still received assistance.

The Impact of Education Management Digitalisation on the Quality of Student Learning

The study presents an analysis of the educational process model based on a web application for creating a custom work schedule by adding individual events or modules. The study focuses on the distance learning process that took place in 2021 and involved 358 students from the first and fourth years of three universities in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Participants were interviewed about their readiness to learn using digital management tools, their average annual academic performance was analyzed, and their assessment of the importance of the resources they allocate to achieving learning outcomes using digital management was studied. The study found that there were no significant differences in the understanding of key aspects of educational service quality and the impact of digital management on learning between first- and fourth-year students with different levels of performance. The results of the study can be utilized to develop proprietary models for digitalizing education management, creating additional modules to automate educational activities, and introducing new tools to enhance digital interaction capabilities.

Myopia; Epidemiology, Prevalence, Incidence, Genetics and Risk Factors

Myopia is a common refractive disorder worldwide that usually begins in childhood. In recent years, its prevalence and incidence has increased significantly, especially in developed or developing countries of East and Southeast Asia. Its incidence is higher during childhood and adolescence. Although genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of myopia, data obtained from genome studies explain a small part of the genetic background of myopia. The risk is higher in individuals with a familial history of myopia. Environmental factors are much more effective in the formation of myopia today. Factors such as increase in educational activities, long-term computer use, and decrease in outdoor activities increase the risk of myopia. It is important to know and prevent risk factors to control myopia.

The Benefits of Self –Assessment

The article examines the benefits of self-assessment and emphasizes its paramount importance in the teaching process. Our work analyzes the purpose of self-assessment, which is accompanied by numerous benefits when coupled with teachers’ feedback. The primary aim of this article is to highlight the role of students in educational activities, who are equipped with the opportunity to involve in self-assessment through different approaches. Providing constructive feedback and setting adequate goals for the learning outcomes are also indispensable components in this process. Notably, students with low self-esteem often experience anxiety and depression, which is closely intertwined with academic performance and assessment. Modern educational standards offer a plethora of possibilities to integrate innovative practices into the teaching process, establishing engaging and welcoming environment for all students. Hence, constructive and appropriate self-assessment can significantly contribute to improving students’ self-esteem, sharpening their skills, and promoting academic success. The article employs various methods, including self-reflective rubrics, self-assessment questionnaires and direct observation. Using these methods proves to have positive results in students’ academic life. The final results and conclusions of our research, conducted at Bahcesehir International University Batumi (BAU) are thoroughly discussed and conceived in the study. These findings underline the powerful impact of self-assessment on students’ academic development, marking its role in personal and educational outcomes. Results revealed that the majority of students gained autonomy and identified their strengths and areas for improvement in the learning process.

Mind the Gap Between Chemistry and Outdoor Education: Primary and Lower Secondary Preservice Teachers’ Beliefs During an Outdoor-Based Introduction to Chemistry in Science Education

ABSTRACT Outdoor education is rarely used to teach chemistry, despite its potential benefits for students. This paper investigates preservice teachers’ (PSTs) beliefs about the domain of chemistry in science education. Sixteen primary and lower secondary PSTs were asked to draw their perception of chemistry in science education and mind maps about outdoor education before being exposed to a novel, student-active approach. This approach introduced chemistry outside the classroom, demonstrating how outdoor environments can be used with students to learn about basic chemical concepts. Six participants were selected for in-depth interviews after the introduction. An abductive approach was applied to analyze the data. Results indicate that prior beliefs about teacher-centered laboratory activities dominate, with few links to everyday or natural phenomena. The interviews showed that these beliefs stem from secondary school experiences, often associated with challenges such as difficulties in remembering the content of experiments. Some PSTs had prior teaching experiences and wished to include the outdoor environment in their future teaching practice. These unique and diverse beliefs influenced direct encounters with chemical phenomena outdoors. Activities that created visible links between familiar phenomena and chemistry were embraced, especially if they solved prior challenges from school. Nevertheless, the diversity of outdoor phenomena led some PSTs to question their prior chemistry knowledge. This challenge may hinder future integration of outdoor activities unless these questions are addressed. The findings suggest that regularly incorporating chemistry related outdoor activities in teacher education may prove beneficial. However, reflecting on emerging challenges is essential.

Home environments in an age of precarity

Environment-behavior research prior to the 2000s often portrayed homes as relatively self-contained, insular settings that provided residents refuge from the demands and distractions of the outside world—a kind of safe haven for domestic activities and family life. Residential security was viewed largely in relation to personal assets and the nearby environment, including one's capacity to afford high quality housing, defensible space design of the dwelling, and the absence of nearby threats such as fire and flood hazards, seismic risks, and undesirable land uses like oil drilling sites, landfills, and congested roadways. These proximal sources of residential precarity still play a role in people's lives, but their impacts on people are amplified nowadays by a variety of increasingly pervasive threats situated at societal and global levels such as climate change and extreme weather events, disease pandemics, rampant cybercrime, and growing worries about the spread of nuclear weapons. Also, the modern home has become a polyfunctional hub for both household and non-domestic activities, owing to the infusion of work, educational, and recreational activities into residences via their online connections to the outside world. We offer a social ecological analysis of the changing meanings and functions of home environments in the early 21st Century, and a conception of domestic precarity that highlights its links to broader existential concerns driven by societal and global forces. Future policies and environmental interventions to effectively curb residential precarity will require collaboration among individuals from multiple fields and between diverse organizations and institutions working at municipal, state, national and international levels.

The consequence of the digital economy on energy efficiency in Chinese provincial and regional contexts: Unleashing the potential

The digital economy, driven by advanced technologies, is becoming a new force for economic growth and sustainable development. This study investigates how the digital economy influences energy efficiency and its spatial spillover effects across 30 Chinese provinces from 2011 to 2020 using spatial econometric models and Moran's index analysis. While prior research focused on industrial value and micro-mechanisms, this work examines geographical impacts and regional synergies overlooked previously.The findings reveal urbanization and digital economy growth significantly enhance energy efficiency. However, the effects of economic structure, education, infrastructure development, and patent activity exhibit more nuanced patterns. Notably, the spatial spillover effects of the digital economy on energy efficiency operate through a "market + geographical comprehensive mechanism" rather than direct geographic transmission between neighbors. This study contributes to the literature by uncovering the complex relationships between the digital economy, technological innovation, industrial structure, and energy efficiency while accounting for spatial dynamics. The results underscore the importance of focused policies supporting sustainable energy practices based on regional contexts. By providing insights into the intricate interplay of factors influencing energy efficiency, this research informs strategies for optimizing energy utilization and transitioning towards a sustainable, secure, and affordable energy future aligned with net-zero objectives.

Study of indoor and outdoor noise in primary schools in the city of São Paulo - Brazil

Noise pollution has been treated by the World Health Organization as the cause of several diseases, in addition to being the second largest environmental polluter, being surpassed only by air pollution. For schools, excessive noise, in addition to causing illness, is responsible for low levels of cognition and low productivity for both students and teachers. In general, Brazilian public schools are built on land provided by the government, in places that are not suitable for their siting. Thus, in Brazilian schools, students are exposed to noise from the surroundings, as well as noise generated indoors, which is not negligible, reaching levels that can be harmful to health and incompatible with educational activities. This study shows the evaluation of the level of indoor and outdoor noise in classrooms of five primary schools in the city of São Paulo, in the pre-pandemic period of COVID-19, comparing the results with those established by legislation, in addition to evaluating other descriptors such as LAeq, L10, L90, and SIL. The results show that classroom users are exposed to noise levels that complicate the communication of the teacher's message to the student, disrupt concentration and can even be affecting their health

Türkiye’s Vision for Africa: Humanitarian Diplomacy and Development Cooperation

This article aims to analyze Türkiye’s humanitarian diplomacy and development cooperation strategies toward Africa within a theoretical and conceptual framework, assessing their impact and significance on the continent. The research problem addresses how Türkiye’s unique approach, which integrates historical ties, cultural interactions, and development efforts, distinguishes it from other global and regional actors. The arguments presented highlight that Türkiye’s humanitarian diplomacy strategy, based on mutual benefit and sustainable development goals, has effectively enhanced its positive image and influence in Africa. The hypothesis posits that Türkiye’s humanitarian diplomacy and development cooperation efforts have strengthened its position as a humanitarian actor on the continent and contributed to achieving sustainable development goals. The findings suggest that the country’s activities in healthcare, education, agriculture, and socio-cultural fields have created significant impacts, improving local communities’ living conditions and fostering sustainable development. Furthermore, Türkiye’s distinct approach, unlike traditional Western policies, is characterized by an emphasis on mutual interdependence and cooperation, positioning it as a reliable partner in Africa.

Ochrona informacyjna konsumenta w umowach ubezpieczenia

The article discusses issues related to consumer information protection in insurance contracts. The consumer’s right to information is explained and the legal nature of the insurer’s information obligation is presented. As a result of analyzing the information obligations constituting the basic instrument of consumer protection, appropriate conclusions were made regarding the implementation of these obligations. According to the author, the consumer information protection system is only partially implemented because the practice has shown shortcomings in its implementation. However, it must be agreed that the idea of protection through information is an appropriate assumption. Undoubtedly, the right direction is to increase the level of consumer information protection by clarifying regulations and such educational and information activities as recommendations issued by designated bodies.

Maladaptive eating behaviors and health-related quality of life in Spanish children

In children, assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and identifying the factors that can influence it are essential to understanding their overall health and well-being. Although eating disorders in children have been associated with reduced HRQoL, the impact of maladaptive eating behaviors, such as external eating, emotional eating and restrained eating, on children's HRQoL has not yet been prospectively explored. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether external, emotional and restrained eating at baseline was associated with HRQoL in children after 14.65 months (95% CI: 14.57–14.73) of follow-up. The study involved 690 boys and 681 girls aged between 8 and 10 years, recruited from primary schools in Catalonia (Spain). To assess the relationship between external, emotional and restrained eating behaviors at baseline and HRQoL at follow-up, the Dutch Eating Behavior and KIDSCREEN-10 questionnaires were used, respectively. After adjusting for sex, age, intervention allocation group, school, maternal education, zBMI and physical activity, external and emotional eating behaviors at baseline were negatively associated with HRQoL at follow-up (p < 0.01). These associations were attenuated after final adjustment for HRQoL at baseline. Furthermore, a composite score of maladaptive eating behaviors at baseline was created by summing the individual scores for emotional, restrained and external eating behaviors. This composite score showed a significant inverse association with HRQoL at follow-up, even after adjusting for baseline HRQoL (p = 0.024). In conclusion, external and emotional eating behaviors seems to negatively affect HRQoL prospectively in Spanish children. The composite score of maladaptive eating behaviors showed a stronger inverse association with HRQoL than each eating behavior individually. Trial registration numberISRCTN registry: ISRCTN68403446; Date of registration, August 01, 2014 ′Retrospectively registered'.

Bulbul Memorial Museum as a Center of Cultural and Historical Memory

The aim of the article is to study and introduce into scientific circulation information about the current activities of the Bulbul Memorial Museum regarding the preservation of the musical heritage of the founder of the professional vocal art of Azerbaijan. The material base of the study consists of the exposition of the Bulbul Memorial Museum and archival sources. Results. The article examines the history of creation and the current activities of the Bulbul Memorial Museum in Shusha after the occupation. The exposition of the museum is characterised, which presents Bulbul’s personal belongings, materials reflecting his creative, scientific, educational and social activities. The article provides a brief overview of the artist’s creative achievements, and also examines Bulbul’s documents and works. In particular, the article begins a discussion about such a peak of Bulbul’s work as the opera “Keroglu”. The activities of the Research Music Cabinet, which plays an indispensable role in the history of the musical culture of Azerbaijan, are highlighted. Information is provided on the unique exhibits known as phonograph records, which are well preserved at the Bulbul Memorial Museum. Scientific novelty. For the first time, the role of information technologies in the presentation of the Bulbul Memorial Museum is studied through the prism of preserving the musical heritage of the founder of professional vocal art of Azerbaijan. Conclusions. The Bulbul Memorial Museum in Shusha contains a powerful display of personal things and documents highlighting Bulbul’s musical legacy as the founder of professional vocal art in Azerbaijan. The use of information technologies for the presentation of the museum’s exposition meets modern requirements of museum activity. The use of a modern technological tool in the Bulbul house-museum — a monitor with a touch screen — is an important feature that arouses interest in the museum.

Modern Approaches to Attracting Personnel to Medical Organizations in Rural Areas on an Example of the Voronezh Region

INTRODUCTION: The importance of this study stems from the necessity to search for an effective solution to the problem of provision of the rural healthcare with medical personnel to increase the quality of medical care and its availability for the population. AIM: To scientifically substantiate and develop proposals for attracting and developing the human resources potential of rural medical organizations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To assess the state of provision of healthcare in the Voronezh Region (VR) with human resources, the data from statistical accounting forms No. 17 and No. 30 were used. The comparative analysis method was used to study the provision of medical organizations of the VR with medical personnel and staffing with medical positions, and the main parameters of the activity of medical organizations in rural areas of the region. To study the factors contributing to the attraction of young specialists to medical organizations in rural areas, an anonymous online survey was conducted. RESULTS: The analysis of provision of healthcare organizations of the VO with personnel showed a satisfactory level of provision with medical workers. The personnel shortage is more pronounced in rural areas the staffing of full-time positions is decreasing, the influx of young specialists is decreasing, the proportion of people of retirement age is increasing. In-depth analysis permitted to identify ‘weak points’ in the formation of the personnel reserve and take them into account when forming the regional personnel policy. Based on the data obtained during the study, a multi-level model of reproduction of human resources was created using the cluster approach. A mechanism for interaction between potential employers and subjects of the educational system was developed. CONCLUSION: The pooling of resources within the framework of cluster interdepartmental interaction led to the expansion of the career guidance space and permitted to build practice-oriented educational activities based on continuity of general, secondary vocational and higher education. The findings of the study can be used in the formation of an effective personnel policy aimed at advanced forecasting of the process of their reproduction in the healthcare system.

The Performance of Italia Chamber Vocal Music

This Article aimed to study this paper aims to analyze the impact of professional skills involved in singing on performers by studying the environment, conditions, and historical development when performing Italian chamber vocal music works, clarifying the skills and knowledge that performers need to master. This study will delve into the diversity of Italian chamber vocal music works and extract their unique values and characteristics. Through a mixed research method combining qualitative and quantitative research, this study helps researchers better understand the characteristics and musical value of Italian chamber vocal music and provides methodological guidance for other researchers. The sample was two parts: one part consists of 110 teachers and students specializing in chamber vocal music at Italian music and other part is 200 amateurs with a strong interest in Italian chamber vocal music in society academies. They was selected by learn the art of Italian chamber vocal music performance through educational activities. The instrument for collecting data was by questionnaire Format. Analysis data by Descriptive statistics and Content Analysis. The research results were found as follows: 1.The Italian chamber vocal music has grown over time, with evolving techniques, styles, and cultural traits enriching its legacy. 2.In the 21st century, globalization and technological advances easy to promote Italian chamber vocal music. New media technologies offer opportunities for its dissemination. 3.The talent pool for Italian chamber vocal music is aging and shrinking. As a specialized art form with a limited audience, it's challenging to attract new talent. Therefore, nurturing new vocal talents is crucial.

How does the use of modern technologies affect students’ perception of information? The effectiveness of holographic projection technology in music education

ABSTRACT The article studies the holographic projection technology in an innovative music classroom during full-time education. The study addresses the influence of this technology on the effectiveness and efficiency of learning, as well as on the perception and memorisation of educational material by students. It describes an innovative music classroom with equipment for using a 3D Hologram (3DH) for face-to-face lectures. An educational experiment was conducted within a three-month course. The experiment enrolled 111 foreign students in the first year of studying at higher educational institutions in China. The evaluation of the emotional background of the learning environment in the innovative music classroom indicates a positive attitude of students towards educational activities. The activities aroused their interest, admiration and trust; the environment was friendly and joyful. The findings can facilitate the search for innovative solutions to improve pedagogical activity or foster the introduction of holographic innovations into teaching practice.