Application Of Research Findings Research Articles

Foundations and Frameworks of ELT and Applied Linguistics Research: Principles, Processes and Practices

This article offers a comprehensive analysis of the core principles, processes, and practices that characterize research in English Language Teaching (ELT) and Applied Linguistics. The article highlights the key distinctions between scholarship, aimed at personal knowledge acquisition, and research, which generates socially useful knowledge. Research in applied linguistics is problem-oriented, focused on addressing practical language-related challenges such as language acquisition, teaching methodologies, and multilingual communication. The paper emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of applied linguistics, integrating insights from fields like psychology, sociology, and computer science to provide comprehensive solutions. Methodological diversity is a hallmark of this research, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative approaches, including case studies, surveys, and experimental studies. The research cycle, from identifying a problem to collecting and analyzing data, is systematically outlined. Key areas of ELT research-such as second language acquisition, curriculum development, and language assessment-are discussed, underscoring the field's contributions to both theory and practice. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of applying research findings to improve language education, develop policies, and enhance communication across diverse linguistic contexts Int. J. Soc. Sc. Manage. Vol. 11, Issue-4: 126-135.

THE RELEVANCE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH IN THE TRAINING PROCESS OF FUTURE PHYSICIANS IN INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER MEDICAL EDUCATION IN UKRAINE

This article delves into the critical role that medical research plays in the education and training of future physicians. Medical research is indispensable for the accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention of diseases, making it a cornerstone of modern medical practice. The involvement of medical students in research activities not only equips them with vital skills but also shapes their professional identity and ethical framework. Participating in medical research enhances students' critical thinking and analytical skills. It immerses them in the latest scientific advancements, ensuring they stay abreast of new developments in the medical field. This exposure fosters a scientific mindset, encouraging students to approach clinical problems with a research-oriented perspective. Moreover, engaging in research cultivates a sense of ethics and professionalism, which are essential qualities for any medical practitioner. The author advocates for the integration of medical research into the medical education curriculum. This integration can be achieved through various means, such as practical sessions, involvement in scientific projects, participation in conferences, and opportunities for publication. Practical sessions provide hands-on experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Scientific projects, whether individual or collaborative, encourage in-depth exploration of specific medical issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Conferences serve as platforms for students to present their research findings, engage with peers and experts, and receive constructive feedback. This interaction not only broadens their knowledge but also enhances their communication and presentation skills. Publications, on the other hand, offer students the opportunity to contribute to the body of medical knowledge, gaining recognition for their work and encouraging a culture of continuous learning and inquiry. The integration of research into the educational process is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about shaping a new generation of physicians who are well-equipped to utilize scientific advancements in their practice. By embedding research into the curriculum, medical schools can prepare students to become highly qualified doctors who are adept at applying research findings to improve patient health outcomes.

Training of Academic Neurosurgeons: Current Status and Challenges in Japan

The concept of translational research, which emphasizes the importance of applying research findings to clinical practice, was first introduced in the early 21st century. Since then, Japan has actively promoted translational research through government and academic institutions, fostering collaboration between basic scientists and clinicians. Despite this, Japan's academic competitiveness has declined globally, particularly in fields such as neurosurgery, due to unique training systems and reduced time for research and education amidst physician work reforms. Herein, we discuss the significance of academic pursuits among clinicians, particularly in Japan's neurosurgery landscape, alongside future challenges.

Unveiling the Confidence of Criminology Practitioners: Delving on Research Knowledge and Attitude

This study aims to investigate the level of confidence among criminology practitioners in their research knowledge and attitudes towards research. By examining both aspects, the study seeks to understand how these factors influence overall confidence in engaging with and applying research findings. Furthermore, this descriptive study explores whether there is a significant difference between practitioners' confidence levels related to their research knowledge and their attitudes towards research. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for enhancing the integration of research into criminology practice, thereby improving the effectiveness of interventions and policies. The study utilized a descriptive design having 128 qualified respondents using purposive sampling that answered the self-made questionnaire. Result shows that among the practitioner, academicians have higher level of confidence in terms of research knowledge and attitude. There is a significant difference between the level of confidence relative to research knowledge and attitude. Likewise, the research knowledge of the criminology practitioners has positive relationship among the scope of practice. Hence, the findings suggest that in order to improve the research culture within the field of criminology, a professional development plan might be created to address and cater to all criminology practitioners within the discipline, with guidelines based on the scope of practice under RA 11131.

Integrating Conventional and Innovative Practices: Enhancing Literacy Education in Diverse Contexts

The Spring 2024 issue of the Georgia Journal of Literacy highlights how traditional teaching methods and innovative practices can be merged to effectively address the needs of today’s diverse student population. Articles within this issue advocate for a dynamic approach to literacy instruction, combining decades of research with contemporary classroom realities. The contributors to this issue explore topics from the complexities of reading aloud to leveraging community-based literacy projects, each underscoring strategies to create more inclusive and engaging learning environments. The issue also examines the importance of empirical data in developing effective literacy practices and offers practical strategies that apply research findings to enhance teaching and learning. The nine articles in this issue deepen understanding and encourage educators to innovate and adapt in ways that improve student engagement and literacy outcomes.

Impact of Narrative Structure on Reader Interpretation in South Africa

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of narrative structure on reader interpretation in South Africa. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Narrative structure profoundly influences how readers interpret a story. Linear narratives, with a clear beginning, middle, and end, tend to guide readers through a predictable trajectory, offering a sense of closure and coherence. In contrast, nonlinear structures challenge readers by presenting events out of chronological order or through multiple perspectives, inviting them to actively piece together the story's meaning. The study suggest that while linear narratives may be more accessible and easier to follow, nonlinear structures often provoke deeper engagement and critical thinking, as readers grapple with the complexities of fragmented timelines and shifting perspectives. Additionally, the emotional impact of a narrative can vary depending on its structure, with nonlinear narratives often evoking heightened suspense and intrigue. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Reader-response theory, cognitive literary theory and narratology may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of narrative structure on reader interpretation in South Africa. Practical recommendations involve applying research findings to inform the creation, analysis, and teaching of literature. Policy recommendations entail advocating for initiatives that promote diverse and inclusive narratives and support research in literature and reader engagement.

Looking beyond the P-value

Many physiotherapists find it challenging to apply research findings in practice because there is uncertainty about statistical interpretation. This commentary aims to explain three statistics that are often seen in the results sections of research papers, i.e. probability values, confidence intervals and effect sizes. Additionally, the importance of considering these values together is discussed. A better understanding of statistical interpretation could help physiotherapists to use research more effectively to guide care.

ESL teachers’ experiences in engaging with published research findings: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose Despite the growing interest in the applicability and value of educational research for improving educational policy and practice, few studies have demonstrated how English-as-a-second-language (ESL) teachers apply research findings in their second language (L2) teaching. This paper reports on a study in which four Hong Kong ESL teachers were given research findings about L2 vocabulary teaching and learning and how they engaged in professional development (PD) sessions with a researcher specialising in vocabulary teaching and learning to make sense of the research findings. Methodology In addition to the dialogues between the researcher and teachers, individual semi-structured interviews with the participating teachers were audio-recorded and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Findings Our analysis revealed how ESL teachers made sense of the research literature to inform their L2 vocabulary teaching practices by (1) bridging the gap between the school culture and practices and empirical research findings; (2) connecting the researcher's explanations of the theoretical literature to real-life pedagogical practices; and (3) explaining how research findings can be applied to future classroom teaching and learning. Originality/Value Based on the findings, we argue that professional dialogues between teachers and a researcher can facilitate the creation of a dialogic space for teachers to deploy their knowledge, including but not limited to pedagogical knowledge and beliefs, prior language learning experiences, and teaching experiences, to better understand research findings, thereby challenging their existing thinking and teaching. Such a dialogic space provides an opportunity for teachers to reflect on their pedagogical practices, which can promote quality teaching.

Developing an online knowledge sharing platform and community of practice for health professionals: Experiences from C-WorKS developed in North East England and Yorkshire during COVID-19.

Although knowledge sharing online has been recognised as an important strategy for health professionals to apply research findings to their practice, limited research exists on how to develop and implement these platforms to help facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing. This study evaluated an online knowledge sharing platform and community of practice developed in the North East of England and Yorkshire during COVID-19 to support UK health and care professionals to reduce the impact of the wider consequences of COVID-19. Semi-structured interviews with stakeholders (n = 8) and users of C-WorKS (n = 13), followed by an online survey (n = 19) among a wider group of users to analyse knowledge use. Interview and survey findings highlighted several strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to support future development of online knowledge sharing platforms. Online knowledge sharing supports six 'pillars' of successful research and innovation partnerships. This requires distributed forms of leadership and linking of different knowledge sharing strategies, and careful combination of platforms with communities of practice. Online knowledge sharing provides pragmatic and timely strategies for health professionals in the UK to apply research evidence to their practice. Our study provides generalisable, practical insights in how to develop and implement a knowledge sharing platform.

Reading tea leaves or tracking true constructs? An assessment of personality-based latent profiles in eating disorders.

Eating disorder (ED) subtyping studies have often extracted an undercontrolled, an overcontrolled and a resilient profile based on trait impulsivity and perfectionism. However, the extent to which methodological choices impact the coherence and distinctness of resulting subtypes remains unclear. In this paper, we aimed to assess the robustness of these findings by extracting personality-based subtypes on a sample of ED patients (N = 221) under different analytic conditions. We ran four latent profile analyses (LPA), varying the extent to which we constrained variances and covariances during model parametrization. We then performed a comparative analysis also including state ED symptom measures as indicators. Finally, we used cross-method validation via k-means clustering to further assess the robustness of our profiles. Our results demonstrated a four-profile model based on variances in impulsivity and perfectionism to fit the data well. Across model solutions, the profiles with the most and least state and trait disturbances were replicated most stably, while more nuanced variations in trait variables resulted in less consistent profiles. Inclusion of ED symptoms as indicator variables increased subtype differentiation and similarity across profiles. Validation cluster analyses aligned most with more restrictive LPA models. These results suggest that ED subtypes track true constructs, since subtypes emerged method-independently. We found analytic methods to constrain the theoretical and practical conclusions that can be drawn. This underscores the importance of objective-driven analytic design and highlights its relevance in applying research findings in clinical practice.

Listening to the “noise” in the data

Abstract The term “noise” is often applied to the seemingly random variability that always appears in human data, and which is assumed to be of no interest to the researcher. Some of this variability is unavoidably due to measurement tools or the way in which we use them, and some is due to the unstable nature of human behaviour. In such cases, we may be justified in treating the variability as irrelevant noise. However, we cannot assume that all inexplicable variation is unimportant. Using examples from earlier research, I will argue that individual variability is a phenomenon worthy of study in its own right. Not only can it help us understand the nuances of the learning process, but giving it careful consideration can be a valuable step in determining how to effectively apply research findings in pedagogy.

Causality-Driven Efficient Feature Selection for Deep-Learning-Based Surface Roughness Prediction in Milling Machines

This paper studies the application of artificial intelligence to milling machines, focusing specifically on identifying the inputs (features) required for predicting surface roughness. Previous studies have extensively reviewed and presented useful features for surface roughness prediction. However, applying research findings to actual operational factories can be challenging due to the additional costs of sensor installations and the diverse environments present in each factory setting. To address these issues, in this paper, we introduced effective features for predicting surface roughness in situations where additional sensors are not installed in the existing environment. These features include feed per tooth, Fz; material removal rate, Q; and the load information. These features are suitable for use in highly constrained environments where separate sensor installation is not required, making it possible to apply the research findings in various factory environments. Additionally, to efficiently select the optimal subset for surface roughness prediction among subsets formed by available features, we apply causality to the feature selection method, proposing an approach called causality-driven efficient feature selection. The experimental results demonstrate that the features introduced in this paper are quite suitable for predicting surface roughness and that the proposed feature selection approach is more effective and efficient compared to existing selection methods.

Roadside air pollution and secondary organic aerosol seasonal trends from an oxidation flow reactor in Seoul

The aim of this study was to determine the seasonal trends in secondary aerosols (SAs) and urban pollutants formed in an oxidation flow reactor (OFR) at a key roadside location in Seoul, South Korea. Spring 2019 saw high primary concentrations overall, and all seasons saw high levels of NOx, SO2, and equivalent black carbon (eBC) trends in the early morning (6:00–7:00). This exhibited similarities to the trend in diesel vehicle traffic volume. During the campaign, the modified hydroxyl radical (OH) exposure in the OFR was ∼1.1 × 1012 molecules cm−3 s (∼8.5 days), and the potential organic aerosol enhancement (OAPE) was 0.4–57.7 μg m−3 (winter 0.4−1.6, spring 28.4−52.3, summer 40.5−57.7, fall 18.1−31.1). The highest OAPE/ΔCO value was 89.5–414.7 μg m−3 for 0.1−4 OH·day in summer, and the lowest level was 1.1–8 μg m−3 for 0.5−8.5 in OH·day winter (including holidays). OAPE in seasons without winter under ∼4.5 OH· day had a ∼5.5 times higher value compared to that of organic on the roadside, accounting for 50.9−70.2% of the total sum (organic + eBC + OAPE). This had a high contribution to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation and, for winter, a value of only ∼5.5%. The predicted SOA formation from intermediate volatile organic compounds (IVOCs) calculated based on literature was 11–47% during mornings (9:30–11:30), excluding the winter season. This value was higher than the SOA formation from anthropogenic VOCs (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and m,p,o-xylene) and biogenic VOCs (isoprene, monoterpenes, and sesquiterpenes), indicating the need for additional research into the domestic status of IVOCs. The marked seasonal change in South Korea's climate made applying research findings from other countries difficult. Therefore, further studies must be conducted based on realistic applicability, considering various environmental conditions, chemical speciation, and the classification of emission inventory components.

Suicidal Mortality and Motives Among Middle-School, High-School, and University Students

The suicide mortality rate per 100 000 population (SMRP) consistently decreased before the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in Japan and then unexpectedly increased during the pandemic. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To identify trends in and factors associated with suicidal mortality and motives among students in Japan from 2007 to 2022. In this cross-sectional study, data on SMRPs among Japanese middle-school, high-school, and university students were obtained from the government suicide database Suicide Statistics of the National Police Agency. Age-dependent and temporal fluctuations in annual SMRPs, disaggregated by suicidal motive (7 categories and 52 subcategories), sex, and school, were analyzed using linear mixed-effect and joinpoint regression models, respectively. Total suicide numbers from 2007 to 2022 were as follows: 760 male middle-school students, 635 female middle-school students, 2376 male high-school students, 1566 female high-school students, 5179 male university students, and 1880 female university students. The mean (SD) student populations from 2007 to 2022 were as follows: 1 752 737 (81 334) male middle-school students, 1 675 572 (78 824) female middle-school students, 1 648 274 (67 520) male high-school students, 1 614 828 (60 032) female high-school students, 1 652 689 (32 724) male university students, and 1 229 142 (57 484) female university students. Among male students, the leading motives were school-related factors (underachievement and worrying about the future), followed by family-related and health-related motives. Among female students, school-related and family-related motives decreased, but health-related motives showed an age-dependent increase. The SMRPs of middle-school male students and female students were almost equal (mean [SD], 2.7 [1.0] vs 2.4 [1.4]), but the age-dependent increase in SMRPs among male students was pronounced (mean [SD], high-school vs university male students, 9.1 [2.4] vs 19.6 [3.0]; high-school vs university female students, 6.1 [2.4] vs 9.6 [1.8]). However, the incidence of suicide among high-school students associated with health-related motives was greater in female students. The majority of suicides associated with major impactable suicidal motives (school-related, health-related, and family-related motives) began increasing before the pandemic. Changes in SMRP associated with interpersonal relationships, such as conflict with classmates or parents, were not significant, but the rates increased greatly during the pandemic. School-related, health-related, and family-related problems were major motives, whereas the impacts of health-related and family-related motives increased and decreased with age, respectively. Notably, most SMRPs associated with major impactable motives (underachievement, conflict with a parent or classmate, and mental illnesses) had already begun increasing in the late 2010s, indicating that recent increasing SMRPs among school-aged individuals were associated with pandemic-related factors and other factors affecting this generation before the pandemic. It may be inappropriate to uniformly apply research findings based on school-aged individuals to school-based suicide prevention programs for students in middle school, high school, and university.

Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of treated and untreated adults with bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder recruited for a large-scale research study

BackgroundEating disorders affect millions of people worldwide, but most never receive treatment. The majority of clinical research on eating disorders has focused on individuals recruited from treatment settings, which may not represent the broader population of people with eating disorders. This study aimed to identify potential differences in the characteristics of individuals with eating disorders based on whether they self-reported accessing treatment or not, in order to contribute to a better understanding of their diverse needs and experiences.MethodsThe study population included 762 community-recruited individuals (85% female, M ± SD age = 30 ± 7 years) with bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder (BN/BED) enrolled in the Binge Eating Genetics Initiative (BEGIN) United States study arm. Participants completed self-report surveys on demographics, treatment history, past and current eating disorder symptoms, weight history, and their current mental health and gastrointestinal symptoms. Untreated participants (n = 291, 38%) were compared with treated participants (n = 471, 62%) who self-reported accessing BN/BED treatment at some point in their lives.ResultsUntreated participants disproportionately self-identified as male and as a racial or ethnic minority compared with treated participants. Treated participants reported a more severe illness history, specifically, an earlier age at onset, more longstanding and frequent eating disorder symptoms over their lifetime, and greater body dissatisfaction and comorbid mental health symptoms (i.e., depression, anxiety, ADHD) at the time of the study. A history of anorexia nervosa was positively associated with treatment engagement. Individuals self-reporting a history of inpatient or residential treatment exhibited the most severe illness history, those with outpatient treatment had a less severe illness history, and untreated individuals had the mildest illness history.ConclusionsHistorically overlooked and marginalized populations self-reported lower treatment access rates, while those who accessed treatment reported more severe eating disorder and comorbid mental health symptoms, which may have motivated them to seek treatment. Clinic-based recruitment samples may not represent individuals with milder symptoms or racial and ethnic diversity, and males. Community-based recruitment is crucial for improving the ability to apply research findings to broader populations and reducing disparities in medical research.Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04162574 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04162574).

Applying research findings in practical settings

Applying research findings in practical settings

Investigating attitudes, skills, and use of evidence-based practice among Norwegian chiropractors; a national cross-sectional study

BackgroundEvidence-based practice (EBP) is essential in improving the quality of healthcare and of importance for all health care personnel. No study in Norway has investigated attitudes, skills and use related to EBP among chiropractors. The aim of this study was to describe Norwegian chiropractors’ attitudes, skills, and use of EBP, as well as the barriers and facilitators to their use of EBP.MethodsA national cross-sectional survey, the online version of the Evidence Based practice Attitudes & Utilisation SurvEy (EBASE), was sent by email to 770 Norwegian practicing chiropractors, all members of the Norwegian Chiropractic Association. Three EBASE sub-scores were generated (Attitudes, Skills and Use), and the demographic characteristics of the sample were reported. Linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between responses of the three sub-scores and demographic characteristics. Information on main barriers and facilitators of EBP was collected and described.ResultsA total of 312 (41%) chiropractors responded to the survey, and 95% agreed that EBP is necessary for chiropractic practice. While overall use of EBP activities was low participants were interested in learning and improving their skills to incorporate EBP into practice. Chiropractors’ attitudes, skills, and use of EBP were positively associated with being female and having spent more than one hour per week on research, but negatively associated with having practiced more than 10 years. Main barriers of EBP were lack of skills to critically evaluate, interpret, and apply research findings to practice. Main facilitators of EBP included access to the internet and free online databases in the workplace.ConclusionAlthough chiropractors in Norway reported positive attitudes and moderate skills in EBP, their use of EBP activities was limited. The main barriers and facilitators to EBP were primarily related to perceived skills deficits, whilst enablers of EBP were mostly related to infrastructure requirements.

Using theoretical frameworks in behavioral research

Behavioral research is primarily conducted within the silos of effect paradigms. As a result, theory is often developed at a granular level: theories are closely tied to the independent variable producing a given effect or to variables that moderate a given effect. Due to this granularity, findings and insights from one effect paradigm rarely inform research in another effect paradigm and application is difficult. This is a critical obstacle in building cumulative knowledge and applying research findings. Theorizing with greater explanatory scope is needed in the form of integrative theoretical frameworks that encompass multiple diverse effect paradigms and provide greater explanatory understanding about why effects occur. We develop one such framework—the Ambiguity-Adoptability-Accessibility (3A) framework. We illustrate how it enhances the explanation of four different effect paradigms and how the effect paradigms in turn inform the framework. Finally, we discuss how theoretical frameworks improve the applicability of behavioral research.

Information processing of food safety messages: what really matters for restaurant customers?

Purpose This study aims to examine how customers’ perceptions of the quality and credibility of restaurants’ food safety information influence customers’ information adoption and, consequently, their trust in the restaurant and purchase intention. It also explores the moderating effects of customers’ food safety knowledge and health consciousness. Design/methodology/approach Participants were asked to read a food safety message from a chain restaurant’s website before taking a self-administered online survey. Using a cross-sectional design, a total of 526 valid responses were collected in the USA through Amazon Mechanical Turk. A two-step approach consisting of a measurement model and a structural equation model was applied to test the direct and indirect effects. Additionally, hierarchical regression models were developed to test the moderating effects. Findings Results show that perceived information quality significantly affects perceived information credibility and has a significant direct and indirect influence on information adoption. Furthermore, information adoption has a direct positive influence on customers’ trust in the restaurant and an indirect effect on purchase intention (full mediation effect of trust). Finally, the moderation effects of health consciousness and food safety knowledge were supported. Practical implications Restaurateurs can apply research findings to increase the likelihood that customers adopt their food safety information and to enhance customers’ trust and, consequently, purchase intention in restaurants. Originality/value Reflecting on framing theory and information processing theory, this study examines the ways that customers process restaurants’ food safety information by developing an original conceptual framework with strong empirical data support.

Research findings and application in aquaculture and fisheries: bridge-building measures among lecturers of agricultural education in Nigeria

The reduction in the capture of wild fishes and other important aquatic organisms has created a wide gap between the quantity of aquatic products supplied by farmers and the quantity demanded by consumers in Nigeria. Meanwhile, agricultural educators are being encouraged to use their knowledge of aquaculture and fisheries to improve supply for sustainable food security. However, there are challenges in accessing and communicating such innovative research findings to the end users- farmers and prospective farmers- especially in the classroom. Hence, the study identified constraints and bridge-building measures among agricultural educators in accessing and applying research findings to teaching aquaculture and fisheries in Nigeria. The study adopted an exploratory sequential mixed method and a thematic approach. Sixty-three agricultural educators who are experienced specialists in aquaculture and fisheries were purposefully sampled. A validated online semi-structured interview guide and structured questionnaire were used to elicit qualitative and quantitative data, respectively, from respondents. A Cronbach’s alpha reliability index of 0.93 was obtained. A t-test was used to test the null hypothesis at a 0.05 level of significance. The study, among others, identified 13 thematic constraints to accessing research findings, 14 thematic constraints to applying research findings, and 5 thematic and 7 thematic bridge-building measures for accessing and applying research findings, respectively, to educate farmers and prospective farmers in aquaculture and fisheries in Nigeria. There should be collaborative efforts by the government, scientists, research institutes, international research organisations, producers, and agricultural education lecturers in accessing and applying research findings for updated and globalised aquaculture and fisheries education in Nigerian universities.