Al-Balqa Applied University Research Articles

Attitudes of Vocational Education Students toward using the Internet to Achieve Academic Motivation for Self-Learning from their Point of View

The study aimed to identify the attitudes of vocational education students towards using the Internet to achieve academic motivation for self-learning from their point of view and the relationship of this to some variables such as gender and the number of hours of daily use. The descriptive approach was used, in addition to the questionnaire, which consisted of (16) items as a tool for the study, It was applied to (150) male and female students majoring in vocational education at Al-Balqa Applied University in Jordan in the first semester of the academic year (2023/2024). The results showed that the attitudes of vocational education students toward using the Internet to achieve academic motivation for self-learning came at a high level, with a mean of (2.71) and a standard deviation of (0.60). The results also showed that there were statistically significant differences attributed to the gender variable and in favor of males. The results also indicated that there were no statistically significant differences between the estimates of the study sample due to the variable number of hours of use.

The Design of a PV System of a Multi-Location Large Consumer: A Case Study from Al-Balqa Applied University

This research applies the suggested photovoltaic solar system design to Jordan’s Al-Balqa Applied University. Twelve of the twenty-four college buildings are located on the main campus, while the remaining twelve remote colleges are dispersed throughout Jordan’s many geographic locations, ranging from the far north to the far south. Azimuth angle, irradiation effect, building size, location, power consumption, and student population are all taken into account in the suggested design. Additionally, in-site generation and remote-wheeling generation are two types of solar system installation designs that are taken into consideration. A method for calculating the optimal location of remote-wheeling generation is proposed based on the centroid mass theory. The proposed method is applied in four scenarios. The first three scenarios are single-point, two-point, and three-point centroid locations. The fourth scenario is based on three single points, considering the power distribution regions in Jordan, which cover three regions. The results of the four scenarios will be discussed and demonstrated along with a comprehensive comparison between in-site generation, single-centroid-point remote-wheeling generation, and three-centroid-point remote-wheeling generation.

The Impact of WhatsApp Groups on Improving Jordanian University Students’ Vocabulary Learning

The current study aimed at investigating the effectiveness of using WhatsApp groups to improve university students’ vocabulary learning. The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design. It consisted of 60 male and female EFL students from Ajloun College University at Al-Balqa Applied University. The participants were assigned evenly into a control group, which was taught via conventional teaching methods, and an experimental group, which was taught via a researcher-administrated WhatsApp group. The teaching material included the first three units of the curriculum specified for the English Language 1 course at Ajloun University College. The study used vocabulary pre- and post-tests. The findings of the study revealed that the experimental group members performed better than the control group in the vocabulary post-test results. The findings demonstrated the effectiveness of using the WhatsApp group method to improve vocabulary learning among undergraduate EFL students at Ajloun University College. The study concluded that using group instant messaging mobile applications significantly improves the vocabulary teaching and learning process.

The Effectiveness of Practical Training in Social Work on Improving the Skills of University Students

The purpose of this research was to determine whether or not social work students' communication, problem-solving, critical-thinking, teamwork, and professional abilities were enhanced by practical training. Additionally, it aimed to compare these abilities across students at Jordan's Al-Zaytoonah University and those at Al-Balqa Applied University. One hundred twenty male and female students from two Jordanian universities—Al-Zaytoonah and Al-Balqa Applied University—made up the study's sample. Mathematical means and standard deviations were utilized to analyze the findings of a questionnaire that assessed the various skills. The results demonstrated that students at Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan had better practical communication skills on average, with an average score of 4.567 (±0.398) on the "Communicating Clearly" ability test, compared to 4.123 (±0.462) at Al-Balqa Applied University. The average score for problem-solving strategies applied by students at Al-Zaytoonah University was 4.678 (±0.481), whereas the average score for students at Al-Balqa University was 4.234 (±0.532). In the paragraph "Working effectively within teams," students from Al-Zaytoonah University had an average score of 4.567 (±0.463) while students from Al-Balqa University had an average score of 4.123 (±0.484). As for professional skills, the results demonstrated that students at Al-Zaytoonah University outperformed their counterparts at Al-Balqa Applied University. The former had an average skill of "Applying academic knowledge" of 4.567 (±0.420), while the latter had 4.123 (±0.472).

Utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Technologies in EFL Classrooms: A Novel Approach to Improve Vocabulary Learning and Retention

This study investigates the potential for EFL courses to benefit from VR and AR technologies to enhance vocabulary learning and retention. The study included 220 English language and literature students from English departments at colleges, including Al Balqa Applied University and Al Yarmouk University in Jordan. The implications and data generated from this study aim to provide insights into how new immersive technologies can be applied, compared to traditional methods, in an educational context to enhance vocabulary acquisition. Pre- and post-tests measured vocabulary acquisition, and the delayed post-test was conducted weeks after the study was completed to measure the acquisition and retention of vocabulary. The study demonstrates significant differences in vocabulary acquisition following the intervention using VR and AR technologies compared to traditional learning methods. The average scores before the pretest were similar in all groups, with VR at 45.2, AR at 46.0, and control at 44.8. The results of the post-test, however, had average scores for VR at 78.5, AR at 75.3, and control at 58.4. The direction of the measures indicated significant improvements in vocabulary acquisition among the students in the English departments at the universities who used VR and AR technologies. The study is prospective; VR and AR technologies significantly improve vocabulary acquisition in EFL learning environments.

Difficulties and Solutions of Reading English Facing Freshmen Students at Al-Balqa Applied University

Difficulties and Solutions of Reading English Facing Freshmen Students at Al-Balqa Applied University

Energy and time characterization of the newly acquired clover detector in Jordan

A comprehensive overview of the Balqarad clover detector acquired by Al-Balqa Applied University in Jordan is given in detail. The detector consists of four high-purity germanium crystals, accompanied by a composite scintillation active shield. Through meticulous testing involving a range of radioactive sources such as 137Cs, 60Co, and 241Am, we evaluate the performance of the clover detector. The associated digital data acquisition system incorporates specialized and unconventional time registers, operating in event-by-event mode. Our objective is to elucidate the energy and time characteristics exhibited by the new system under different operational modes, employing specifically designed offline software. Our findings encompass vital aspects. These aspects include the determination of the optimal time window value for processing data obtained from gamma detection measurements. Another issue that has been considered is the analysis of hit pattern distribution within each individual crystal. Additionally, we calculate the addback factor for the 60Co source, accounting for gamma energies of 1173 keV and 1332 keV while also considering the influence of time window increment.

A Syntactic and Discoursal Analysis of halaʔ ‘Now’ in Jordanian Arabic

This study investigates the syntactic behavior and the discoursal roles of halaʔ in Jordanian Arabic, which corresponds to the English ‘now’ and is frequently used as a discourse marker. Specifically, the syntactic distribution of this discourse marker in everyday conversations, its function in establishing coherence between discourse units, and its communicative and discoursal meanings are scrutinized. The data necessary for the study was obtained from almost a 15-hour corpus of naturally-occurring conversations recorded by the researchers through 30 interviews with 80 (40 males and 40 females) Jordanian students from Al-Balqa Applied University. The data analysis revealed that halaʔ can be used as an adverb conveying temporal meaning and as a discourse marker conveying coherence-related meanings. Semantically, it is a temporal adverb that has a semantic meaning parallel to that of its English adverbial counterpart ‘now’. However, it was found that halaʔ can also serve six pragmatic functions: Changing a topic, introducing a contrast or comparison, marking disagreement, initiating reasons, explanations or clarifications, listing, and marking shifts in participation framework (Marking a change in the speaker’s orientation and marking a change of footing). The study concludes with a suggested grammaticalization path for the development of this discourse marker from a lexical source.

A Linguistic Investigation Into False Friends in Arabic and English: The Students of Al-Balqa Applied University as a Model

The present study investigates the concept of false friends in two genetically unrelated languages: Arabic and English. It provides explanations for the source of possible confusion and misunderstanding caused by false friends in contemporary Arabic and English. It also highlights the nomenclature related to false friends where they can be classified into two categories: absolute false friends and partial false friends. The study explicates how false friendship, as a linguistic phenomenon, can be a real hurdle to communication among the learners and teachers of a certain language. The etymological development of some words is very important to explain how false friendship occurs. Morphologically, some special cases of intralingual morphological false friends are explored in so far as they are related to the concept of false friendship to put them into a certain linguistic framework.

Employing of the Social Media from Faculty Members at Al-Balqa Applied University into E-Learning and the Challenges Faced During the Corona Pandemic

The study aimed to reveal the use of social media in e-learning by faculty members at Al-Balqa Applied University and the challenges they faced. During the Corona pandemic, the study population consisted of all faculty members working at Al-Balqa Applied University in all colleges specializations, and academic ranks, and it was applied during the second semester of the academic years 2022-2023. The study sample consisted of (30) faculty members Teaching from Princess Rahma University College at Al-Balqa Applied University. They were selected by a simple random method, and a questionnaire was developed consisting of items distributed over two areas. To achieve the objectives of the study and verify the answers to its questions the researcher used the descriptive survey method, and appropriate statistical methods were used to analyze the data results. The study found that most of faculty members at Al-Balqa Applied University used social media in e-learning during the Corona pandemic. They also directed students toward educational resources through social media. The study intended to develop the administrative systems of Jordanian universities to transform communication with faculty members from traditional communication to electronic communication via social media. Educating university professors about the importance of using social communication in university education.

The Effectiveness of the (Jigsaw II) Strategy in Cooperative Learning in Developing Thinking Skills and Cognitive Assessment Competencies among Female Students Specializing in Child Education

The Effectiveness of the (Jigsaw II) Strategy in Cooperative Learning in Developing Thinking Skills and Cognitive Assessment Competencies among Female Students Specializing in Child Education

The Effectiveness of a Training Program Based on Psychoanalytic Theory in Developing Psychological Adjustment among Students with Motor Disabilities at Al-Balqa Applied University

This study investigated the effectiveness of a psychoanalytic theory-based training program in enhancing psychological adjustment among students with motor disabilities at Al-Balqa Applied University. A quasi-experimental design was employed, with 33 participants (male and female) from various faculties. A newly developed, 25-item psychological adjustment scale assessed five key dimensions. The program's impact was evaluated through pre- and post-application assessments in both the experimental and control groups. The results revealed statistically significant improvements in psychological adjustment within the experimental group (pre- vs. post-application). Additionally, significant differences were found between the control and experimental groups in the post-application assessment, with the latter demonstrating higher levels of psychological adjustment. These findings suggest that the training program based on psychoanalytic theory may be beneficial for promoting psychological well-being among students with motor disabilities.

Perceptions of Vocational Education Students at Al-Balqa Applied University toward Vocational Education

This study aimed to explore the perceptions of vocational education students at Al-Balqa Applied University toward vocational education. The sample of the study comprised 768 students enrolled in the second semester of the academic year 2021/2022. To achieve the objectives of the study, the descriptive survey methodology was used.A questionnaire consisting of 32 items was designed. The questionnire items fell into four categories: Syllabi, vocational advising, educational environment, and local community viewpoint about vocational education. Results of the study revealed that students’ perceptions toward vocational educations are within a ‘medium’ level. Further, the study revealed no significant statistical differences at (∝=0.05) value in the responses of the subjects of the study attributed to the two variables of academic year and university college and there were statistically significant differences at the significance level (∝ = 0.05) in the responses of the study sample due to the gender variable and in favor of females. Considering these results, the study recommended raising the community awareness about the significance of vocational education and improving the way people perceive it.

Assessment of Knowledge of Communicable Diseases Among Medical Students at Al-Balqa Applied University.

Medical education is the foundation of knowledge among medical students. This study aims to investigate the knowledge of medical students at Al-Balqa Applied University, exploring their awareness of five communicable diseases, namely, leishmaniasis, hepatitis B, tuberculosis, measles, and cholera. This cross-sectional survey included 271 participants who answered a structured validated questionnaire with varying questions on causes, symptoms, complications, transmission routes, and preventive measures for each disease. Knowledge of all five communicable diseases was low. Leishmaniasis knowledge was notably low (mean=6.07, SD=1.43), with participants grappling with misconceptions about transmission modes, symptoms, and preventability. Hepatitis B knowledge was also low (mean=10.46, SD=1.67), especially regarding transmission modes, revealing that 76% of students were unaware of how the virus spreads. Tuberculosis knowledge unveiled gaps (mean=7.007, SD=1.90), particularly in recognizing the causes, symptoms, and transmission routes. Measles knowledge (mean=9.56, SD=1.92) indicated a robust understanding of symptoms but unveiled misconceptions about complications and transmission routes. For cholera (mean=14.50, SD=1.98), a knowledge of symptoms was demonstrated, but confusion about causative agents, transmission routes, and preventive measures was highlighted. The findings of the study emphasize the critical need for enhanced educational strategies including curriculum revisions, increased practical exposure, engaging awareness campaigns, and the integration of interactive learning methods to increase knowledge about communicable diseases.

Enhancing Investigative Cognitive Abilities: The Impact of PDEODE Strategy in Scientific Research Methodologies for Early Childhood Education Students

This research explored the efficacy of the six-Dimensional Strategy (PDEODE) in cultivating investigative cognitive abilities among female students specializing in Early Childhood Education at Al-Balqa Applied University. A quasi-experimental approach was employed. A purposive sampling method yielded two groups: a control group of 25 students taught conventionally and an experimental group of 25 students instructed using the PDEODE strategy. The investigative thinking skills test served as the primary research tool. Findings demonstrated statistically significant variances in students' responses on the test, attributable to the teaching methodology. The experimental group showed marked superiority, with a pronounced effect size of 71.3%. This underscores the potency of the PDEODE strategy in fostering investigative cognitive skills in the Scientific Research Methodologies course for the study's participants.
 
 Received: 8 November 2023 / Accepted: 30 January 2024 / Published: 5 March 2024

Knowledge, attitudes, practices and barriers of medical research among undergraduate medical students in Jordan: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundIntegrating medical students in research at an early stage of their program is a crucial step to enhance the ability of future physicians to employ critical thinking and problem-solving processes, which in turn improves patients’ health outcomes.MethodsA cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was administered to medical school students at Al-Balqa Applied University. This study aims to analyze the attitudes, practices, and barriers faced by medical students in regard to engaging in medical research.ResultsA total of 333 students participated in the study with a mean age of 21.2 ± 1.5 years. A total of 60.1% were females. Female students had significantly higher knowledge scores (µ = 3.97, SD ± 1.81, P = 0.009) than males (µ = 3.44, SD ± 1.69). As students progress to higher academic years of their clinical program, their knowledge in research significantly increases in comparison to their knowledge in basic medical years (P < 0.001). Student age and academic year significantly correlated with the knowledge scores; each additional year of study increased the knowledge score by 0.25 (β = 0.25, P < 0.001, R2 = 0.63). The percentage of students who correctly answered each question on the knowledge scale was 37.5% (SD ± 12.5%). The most reported barriers to research participation were insufficient training in medical research, lack of sufficient research opportunities, and lack of stimulation and support from faculty.ConclusionsMedical students demonstrated a positive attitude toward research starting from their second year of study, despite having limited knowledge on the topic. They identified barriers that could be utilized to promote greater involvement of students in research. The implications for clinical practice suggest that policymakers and educators should consider the outcomes of this study and implement improvements in medical education, specifically by encouraging the early participation of students in the research process.

Applied Arabic Textbook Readability Level for University Students at Al-Balqa Applied University

Readability is considered one of the main indicators of students' ability to understand reading texts. The purpose of this study was to define the level of Applied Arabic textbook readability for university students at Al-Balqa Applied University in Jordan. In order to do so, Cloze Test was administrated on four texts that students didn't read before taken from the Applied Arabic textbook. A sample of (54) university students participated in the study. The results showed that the four texts were within the frustration level, as the students' results on the four texts ranged between (0.46-0.66). There were no statistically significant gender differences on the readability level; indicating that both male and female students are facing difficulty in reading and understanding the texts of books. The study suggested the need for experimentation of textbooks on students to determine their readability level before implementing them to students to be appropriate to students’ reading levels in order to address the problems students face while reading a text.

Exploring English Major Students' Readiness and Its Influence on the Students’ Motivation for Online English Courses

The intent of this study is to explore the views of EFL undergraduate readiness to e- learning. More precisely, it probes how readiness will affect students’ motivation to learn online and whether the students’ gender and year of study have a relation with their readiness and online learning motivation. The researchers have administered an online survey with a 5-Likert scale (Microsoft Form) to259 EFL undergraduates from Al-Balqa Applied University of various study levels of English. The scale for data collection was adopted from a study by Hung et al. (2010). Results showed a positive relation between online learning readiness and online learning motivation, and the most significant predictor of online learning motivation was learner control readiness. Moreover, results revealed no significant relation between students’ e-learning readiness and their learning motivation due to the students’ gender and their year of study variables.

Academic Burnout and its Association with Undesired Behaviors among Faculty Members at Al-Balqa Applied University from Students’ Perspectives

The present study aims at identifying the association between university students’ academic burnout and undesired behaviors among faculty members at Al-Balqa Applied University from students’ perspectives. A cross-sectional design was used in this study. To collect data, convenience sampling was used to collect data from the study sample. The sample size consisted of 350 undergraduate students from different academic majors at Al-Balqa Applied University. The research instruments included the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which consists of 22 statements distributed over 3 domains: “emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment”, in addition to the scale of the unwanted behavior developed by Magableh and Abu Ghazal (2013) that covers the following domains: “teaching method, personal characteristics of faculty members, relationship with faculty members, faculty members' efficiency, classroom management and organization, motivational stimulation, and evaluation”. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) (v. 26, IBM Corp. New York City, USA). Descriptive statistics and parametric tests were used to analyze the gathered data. The results of the study showed that there is a significant statistical association between faculty members’ undesired behaviors and students’ academic burnout (r=0.361). The study concluded that faculty members’ undesired behaviors should be addressed to alleviate their impact on student's academic and psychological status. The study recommended conducting further awareness campaigns about coping strategies to alleviate the levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment. Keywords: academic burnout, undesired behaviors, emotional exhaustion, university students

Difficulties of field training among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic

&lt;span lang="EN-US"&gt;This study aimed to uncover the difficulties that special education students face in field training at Al-Balqa Applied University during the corona pandemic. The study investigated whether these difficulties were affected by gender (males-females). To achieve the objectives of the study, the researcher designed survey consisting of 36 items. The sample of the study consisted of 30 male and female students enrolled in the field training course in the first semester of the academic year 2020/22021. The results showed that field training difficulties associated with the subscale of the students and supervisors were high. However, the difficulties related to the training center were medium. The study also showed no statistically significant differences in the difficulties between students due to the gender variable.&lt;/span&gt;