Assessment Practices Research Articles

Determining the possibility of passage through narrow alleys using ultrasonic sensors

The complex road topography of South Korea presents significant challenges to the timely arrival of emergency vehicles. Compounding the issue, obstacles such as legally or illicitly constructed structures, and improperly parked or stationary vehicles, frequently obstruct the path of emergency vehicles. To address these challenges, this study introduces a novel system aimed at enhancing emergency response times. The system employs ultrasonic sensors that can be integrated into personal devices to measure the width of the numerous narrow alleys prevalent in Korea's densely populated regions. Experiments demonstrate that within a 1-meter range in front of a narrow alley with widths varying between 270 cm and 450 cm where vehicle maneuvering is possible, it's possible to accurately gauge the width using two ultrasonic sensors, achieving a precision within a 5 cm margin of error. This level of accuracy enables the practical assessment of whether emergency vehicles can access the area in real-time by identifying the alley's narrowest point. The proposed system is a cost-effective method using easy-to-buy devices for augmenting emergency preparedness and enhancing emergency response times by ensuring that emergency vehicles can navigate through alleys, thereby fostering a safer living environment.

Types of formative feedback provided by technology teachers during practical assessment tasks

Technology learners require formative feedback from their teachers to aid them in structuring and solving design problems. Without such feedback, learners often do not explore sub-problems and are inclined to reproduce known and existing solutions. Due to a paucity of literature on formative feedback in technology classrooms, this study investigated the formative feedback types that teachers provide to learners during the problem-structuring and problem-solving phases. A qualitative case study design was employed to investigate such feedback from five technology teachers who supported their learners in solving ill-structured design problems. The findings indicate that teachers’ formative feedback consists predominantly of low-level questions, while generative design questions and low-level comments were the least observed. A deeper understanding of how formative feedback unfolds in a technology classroom may help teachers guide learners through problem structuring and solving. Further research is needed to determine the influence of formative feedback on learners’ design outcomes.

Psychometric Evaluation of the Persian Version of Spiritual Self-Care Practice Scale in Iranian Patients with Cancer.

Spiritual self-care is defined as a set of patient-centered or family-centered spiritual activities aimed at promoting health and well-being. In chronic diseases such as cancer, the responsibility for care typically falls on the patient or their family, necessitating an accurate assessment of the patient's self-care practices to achieve this goal. The objective of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and examine the psychometrics of the Persian version of the spiritual self-care practice scale (SSCPS) in cancer patients. This scale is designed to be administered directly to patients to assess their spiritual self-care practices. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the oncology ward in Afzalipoor Hospital, Javad Al-Aemeh Clinic, and Physicians Clinics affiliated with Kerman University of Medical Sciences in Kerman, southeast Iran. The study included qualitative and quantitative assessments of face validity, content validity, item analysis, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (construct validity), and reliability. Data collection took place between March 20, 2023, and December 30, 2023. The scale's content validity index was calculated to be 0.948, with mostly minor revision comments for most items. The item-content validity indices ranged from 0.7 to 1. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-factor solution with 23 items, explaining 61.251% of the total variance. The identified factors were labeled as 'personal and interpersonal spiritual practices,' 'shaping and strengthening relationship practices,' 'religious practices,' 'physical spiritual practices,' and 'reshaping relationship practices.' Most of the confirmatory factor analysis indices were satisfactory (χ2/df = 1.665, CFI = 0.934, IFI = 0.935, RMSEA = 0.058). The Cronbach's α coefficient for the total scale was 0.89, while it ranged from 0.596 to 0.882 for the subscales. The Persian version of SSCPS with 23 items demonstrates reliability and effectiveness in assessing the spiritual practice performance of Iranian cancer patients. Compared to the original version, the Persian adaptation of SSCPS is concise, making it a suitable instrument for future research and practice on spiritual self-care among Iranian cancer patients.

Long-term effectiveness and generality of practical functional assessment and skill-based treatment.

There are several considerations to address when conducting functional communication training for challenging behavior in a school setting, such as the need for schedule thinning and maintenance across staff and the need to establish a variety of appropriate classroom skills. There are several strategies for conducting schedule thinning following functional communication training and for transferring effects across people or settings. However, there are few examples of these processes in natural settings with relevant caregivers and with long-term maintenance of effects. We implemented a functional assessment and skill-based treatment process with six children with autism in a specialized school setting and extended treatment until challenging behavior was reduced to near-zero levels across multiple staff and settings. Follow-up data indicate that effects were still observed 1 year posttreatment and the use of crisis procedures (e.g., physical restraint) was eliminated for all participants.

Examining the Predictive Capacity of School-based Assessment on Students' Mathematics Performance in Large-scale Examinations

This study underscores the importance of school-based assessment (SBA) in predicting students' mathematics performance in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in Ghana. The study was conducted using 150 mathematics teachers from public junior high schools in Ghana's Central Region, the research employed a quantitative approach, using surveys to gather data on internal examination scores, SBA practices, teaching experience, and gender. Regression analysis revealed a strong predictive relationship between internal exam scores and BECE performance (R² = 0.663, B = 0.374, SE = 0.006, t = 67.24, p < .000), while ANOVA showed significant variations in SBA practices based on teaching experience (F (3, 146) = 6.99, p < 0.05). However, t-tests indicated no significant gender differences in SBA practices among teachers (t (148) = 1.100, p = 0.273). These findings highlight the critical role of internal assessments and teaching experience in enhancing educational outcomes and suggest that educational policies should support effective SBA practices and professional development for teachers. Based on these findings, it is recommended to enhance formative assessment practices by focusing on continuous and comprehensive internal assessments, provide ongoing professional development for teachers to improve their skills in implementing SBA, and allocate adequate resources for mathematics education to support effective teaching and learning environments.

The knowledge, attitudes, and practices of arteriovenous access assessment among hemodialysis nurses: A multicenter cross-sectional survey.

Hemodialysis nurses' cannulation technique, monitoring, and management methods can affect patients' vascular access longevity. An arteriovenous access assessment comprises a medical history and vascular assessment through physical examination and surveillance. However, further exploration is needed to fully understand hemodialysis nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in this area. Between June and July 2023, we recruited hemodialysis nurses from 21 cities in Guangdong Province using a convenience sampling method. Four questionnaires-the General Data Questionnaire, the KAP Scale of Arteriovenous Access Assessment among Hemodialysis Nurses, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and the NASA Task Load Index-were utilized for data collection through the Questionnaire Star platform. Of the 530 hemodialysis nurses participating in the study, 458 (86.4%) had a valid response. The participants demonstrated moderate knowledge and practice levels regarding arteriovenous access assessment and exhibited positive attitudes. We identified several factors related to arteriovenous access assessment that predict KAP in hemodialysis nurses. These factors included years of experience as a hemodialysis nurse, whether a nurse's knowledge of physical examination was sufficient to meet clinical needs, whether a nurse had received training in performing physical examination, whether a nurse's department regularly checked the quality of physical examination, and nurses' levels of work engagement and mental workload. All factors explained 32.4% of the variance in participants' KAP regarding arteriovenous access assessment. Improving hemodialysis nurses' assessment of arteriovenous access is crucial to ensure optimal patient care. Dialysis center managers and educators should prioritize understanding hemodialysis nurses' KAP of arteriovenous access assessment and any factors influencing these areas.

Assessment of post-myocardial infarction lipid levels and management: Results from a tertiary care hospital of Pakistan

BACKGROUND Lipid treatment practices and levels in post-acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, which are crucial for secondary prevention. AIM To evaluate the lipid treatment practices and lipid levels in post-myocardial infarction (MI) patients at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed patients who had experienced their first AMI event in the past 3 years. We assessed fasting and non-fasting lipid profiles, reviewed statin therapy prescriptions, and examined patient compliance. The recommended dose was defined as rosuvastatin ≥ 20 mg or atorvastatin ≥ 40 mg, with target total cholesterol levels set at < 160 mg/dL and target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) at < 55 mg/dL. RESULTS Among 195 patients, 71.3% were male, and the mean age was 57.1 ± 10.2 years. The median duration since AMI was 36 (interquartile range: 10-48) months and 60% were diagnosed with ST-segment elevation MI. Only 13.8% of patients were advised to undergo lipid profile testing after AMI, 88.7% of patients were on the recommended statin therapy, and 91.8% of patients were compliant with statin therapy. Only 11.5% had LDL-C within the target range and 71.7% had total cholesterol within the target range. Hospital admission in the past 12 months was reported by 14.4%, and the re-admission rate was significantly higher among non-compliant patients (37.5% vs 5.6%). Subsequent AMI event rate was also significantly higher among non-compliant patients (43.8% vs 11.7%). CONCLUSION Our study highlights that while most post-AMI patients received the recommended minimum statin therapy dose, the inadequate practice of lipid assessment may compromise therapy optimization and raise the risk of subsequent events.

Investigating the Writing Skills Alternative Assessment Strategies used in Moroccan ESP Classrooms: Teachers’ Perceptions and Prevailing Practices

Assessment is the backbone of the learning-teaching process. Several studies have proven that assessment goes hand in hand with learning. Classroom assessment can be either traditionally of learning or formatively an ongoing process for learning. The current study explores the writing skills alternative assessment strategies used by Moroccan English for Specific Purposes (ESP) teachers in their classrooms. To reach this, the study seeks to explore Moroccan ESP practitioners’ perceptions and prevailing practices of writing skills alternative assessment strategies. Similarly, the study tries to identify possible challenges that impede the proper implementation of alternative assessment pedagogy in the Moroccan ESP context. Following a qualitative research design, the current paper deploys semi-structured interviews to collect data from 10 ESP instructors working in different higher institutes and universities in Morocco. The findings reveal that the participants possess favorable opinions regarding alternative assessment methods of writing skills. Nevertheless, these optimistic viewpoints are not clearly reflected in their assessment practices. The research paper can benefit both practitioners and policymakers in the field of education.

Optimizing Assessment Techniques for Students with Diverse Special Needs in Schools

This study investigates effective assessment techniques for students with diverse special needs in school settings. Background research highlights the importance of individualized assessment strategies to ensure equitable education opportunities. The study aims to identify optimal methods and practices that enhance the evaluation process for these students. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data from observations, surveys, and interviews with educators and specialists. Analysis focuses on assessing different techniques' impact on student engagement, academic performance, and adaptive skills. Findings indicate that tailored assessments, incorporating a variety of methods such as adaptive testing and alternative response formats, significantly benefit students with special needs. These techniques enhance understanding and provide actionable insights for personalized education plans. The study concludes that a multifaceted approach to assessing students with special needs is essential for their success. Emphasizing the implementation of individualized assessment practices can lead to more inclusive and effective educational experiences. Readers are encouraged to consider the potential benefits of adapting their assessment methods to better support diverse learning needs.

Families as Healing Partners: A Collaborative Approach to Addressing Suicidality in Child Counseling

Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the United States for youth ages 12 to 17; thus, child counselors are encouraged to gain knowledge and skills to address this public health crisis. A major component of all child counseling practices, and particularly crisis counseling, is family collaboration. Given the dearth of research and scholarship regarding family counseling practices for addressing youth suicidality, we propose a five-week model to support counselors’ systemic healing work: Family Collaboration in Suicide Prevention ( FCSP). In this article, we introduce the model through providing (a) strategies for family rapport building, (b) engaging in means reduction with families, (c) developmental considerations for response and assessment practices, and (d) an overview of the model objectives and weekly curriculum.

A qualitative assessment of community perceptions and practices towards schistosomiasis prior to introduction of a potential novel treatment option for preschool-age children in Kenya

BackgroundOver 50 million preschool-age children (PSAC) in Africa need treatment for schistosomiasis but are excluded due to lack of a suitable child-friendly medication. The Paediatric Praziquantel Consortium has developed a novel paediatric formulation for PSAC. In advance of its roll-out, we conducted a social science study to draw lessons to inform implementation.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study in eight villages in two purposively selected highly endemic Kenyan counties (Homa Bay and Kwale). We conducted 17 in-depth interviews with community opinion leaders and 21 with parents/guardians of PSAC. Twelve focus group discussions with parents/guardians of PSAC were also held. The aim was to assess their knowledge, perceptions, practices and willingness to participate in the medication’s roll-out for schistosomiasis. Thematic data analysis was performed.ResultsMost participants had heard of schistosomiasis and perceived it to be a serious disease whose treatment should be prioritised. Others felt it was a common disease that should not cause concern. Some people believed schistosomiasis was caused by witchcraft while others regarded it as a sexually transmitted infection. In addition, some practices like poor human waste disposal and water contact were thought to contribute to continued transmission of the disease.ConclusionCommunity members know and perceive schistosomiasis to be serious, but misinformation about its cause is prevalent. The study suggests the need for increased awareness creation to change the perceptions of communities in relation to schistosomiasis prevention and control. Community sensitisation should be prioritised in advance of medication roll-out.

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) among older individuals of rural Bangladesh: findings from a face-to-face interview

IntroductionCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) stand as the foremost contributor to global mortality, claiming roughly 17.9 million lives each year, constituting 32.1% of total fatalities. Their impact is notably profound in economies such as Bangladesh, exacting a substantial economic burden. Consequently, grasping the landscape of knowledge, attitudes, and practices is essential for timely identification and prevention strategies.MethodsThis cross-sectional study, carried out between January and May 2023 in the rural regions of Zirani, Savar Upazila, Dhaka, Bangladesh, utilized convenient sampling and conducted face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. It encompassed socio-demographic factors, as well as knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning CVDs. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analyses, utilizing both the R programming language and SPSS (Version 26).ResultA total of 424 participants aged 60 years and above were included. The majority were male (60.8%), and the mean age was 71.21 ± 9.21 years, 57.3% were between 60 and 70 years old. Factors such as education, monthly family income, high blood pressure, diabetes, and non-smoking. Were significantly associated with higher knowledge, attitudes and practices scores.ConclusionThis study illuminates CVD-related KAP among rural Older Individuals in Bangladesh, revealing significant associations between factors such as education, monthly family income, high blood pressure, and non-smoking, with higher scores in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cardiovascular health. These insights underscore the importance of addressing socio-economic factors and health behaviors in developing targeted interventions for the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases in this demographic.

Perceived formative assessment and student motivational beliefs and self-regulation strategies: a multilevel analysis

Based on an integrated theory of formative assessment and self-regulated learning, this study investigated the relationship between students’ perceived formative assessment practices of teachers and their motivational beliefs (self-efficacy and incremental beliefs of ability) and self-regulation strategies (metacognitive self-regulation and adaptive help seeking). Participants were 1,939 secondary school students (nested in 94 classes) from Singapore, who completed an online questionnaire. After controlling for gender, stream, and grade, we conducted a multilevel path analysis to examine the hypothesised relationships at both student and class levels. We found that at the student level, perceived formative assessment was associated positively with self-efficacy, incremental beliefs of ability, metacognitive self-regulation, and adaptive help seeking; at the class level, perceived formative assessment was associated positively with incremental beliefs of ability and adaptive help seeking. The findings highlight the importance of investigating formative assessment as a multilevel construct and its role in developing self-regulated learning of students.

#1637 Diverging trends in kidney replacement therapy (KRT) incidence in Madrid and Catalonia in the past decade

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the fastest growing global causes of death and the number of persons on KRT is increasing. A critical assessment of current clinical practice across regions may identify best clinical practice, providing a benchmark to improve outcomes. Given the long life expectancy in Spain and its high proportion of the population over 65 y/o, analysis of Spanish data may provide insight for the future for other European countries. Catalonia (Cat) and Madrid (Mad) are two of the most populated Spanish Autonomous Communities, have similar life expectancy (above 83 years) and GDP per capita, and together account for 30% of Spanish population and 38% of GDP. The aim was to set the basis for benchmarking in CKD care and KRT initiation by comparing the evolving KRT incidence of two representative Spanish Autonomous Communities. Method We compared the KRT incidence in Cat and Mad from 2012 to 2021, using data from European Renal Association (ERA) Registry annual reports and the Spanish Instituto Nacional de Estadistica's (INE) census. Results From 2012 to 2021, the incidence of KRT (day 1) adjusted for age and sex increased by 69.7 pmp (59% increase) in Cat (from 118.7 to 188.4 pmp) and by 14.2 pmp (12% increase) in Mad (from 115.5 to 129.7 pmp). The differential incidence of KRT between Cat and Mad increased from 3.2 to 58.7 pmp, i.e., 1734% increase (Fig. 1A). As a result, the incidence of KRT was 45% higher in Cat than in Mad in 2021 (up from 3% higher in 2012). During the same period, the median age to start KRT increased from 67.0 to 69.6 years (2.6 years, 3.9%) in Cat and from 66.1 to 66.9 years (0.8 years, 1.2%) in Mad. Median age at KRT initiation in 2021 was 3 years older in Cat in both men (Cat 70.0 (58.4-77.8), Mad 67.3 (56.9-76.2)) and women (Cat 69.0 (58.4-77.2), Mad 66.1 (51.7-75.8)). In subgroup analysis by age and sex, the largest difference in KRT incidence in 2021 was observed for women and for those aged 75+ years: Cat/Mad KRT incidence (pmarp) ratio was 1.79 in women 75+, 1.62 in men 75+, 1.49 in women <75 y/o, 1.34 in men <75 y/o (Fig. 1B). The gap between Cat and Mad increased progressively with age in both men and women and the slope was steeper for women. The contribution of diabetes to the overall incidence of KRT ranged from 16.8% to 23.2% in Cat and from 24.3% to 29.0% in Mad between 2012 and 2021, remaining grossly stable or decreasing slightly over time. For most causes, the incidence adjusted for age and sex in Cat and Mad was similar, with largest differences observed for unknown cause (the most common cause in Cat: Cat 45.9 pmp, Mad 7.9 pmp) and missing (the 3rd most common cause in Cat after unknown and diabetes: Cat 25.4 pmp, Mad 0) (Fig. 1C). Together, unknown and missing causes of CKD accounted for 38.1% of incident KRT cases in Cat in 2021. Pre-emptive transplantation was 3-fold more common in Cat in 2021 (7.6% vs 2.7%), while incidence of haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis were similar (Fig. 1D). Conclusion In conclusion, trends for KRT incidence differed for two Autonomous Communities from the same country, broadly comparable in terms of population, life expectancy and GDP. The incidence of KRT was higher in Catalonia, and the gap increasing over time, especially among the elderly and older women, with unknown cause of CKD being the leading cause of incident KRT. An in-depth analysis of the drivers of these differences may bring interesting insight into best practice for CKD prevention, treatment to slow CKD progression and prescription and initiation of KRT.

#1611 Diverging epidemiology of kidney replacement therapy (KRT) prevalence in Madrid and Catalonia between 2012 and 2021

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the fastest growing global causes of death and the number of persons on kidney replacement therapy (KRT) is increasing. A critical assessment of current clinical practice in different regions may identify best clinical practice and provide a benchmark to improve outcomes. Given the current long-life expectancy in Spain and its high proportion of elderly population, analysis of Spanish data may provide insight of interest for the future for other European countries. Catalonia (Cat) and Madrid (Mad) are among the three most populated Spanish Autonomous Communities and have similar life expectancy, gross domestic product (GDP) and GDP per capita, accounting for 30% of Spain's population and 38% of GDP. The aim was to set the basis for benchmarking in CKD care and KRT initiation and care by comparing the evolving prevalence of KRT in Cat and Mad. Method We compared KRT prevalence in Cat and Mad over the past years using data from European Renal Association (ERA) Registry annual reports and Spanish Instituto Nacional de Estadística's (INE) census. Results From 2012 to 2021, the adjusted prevalence of KRT per million population (pmp) increased by 275.8 (1221 to 1479, 22.6% increase) in Cat and by 134.8 (1046 to 1118, 12.9% increase) in Mad. The difference between Cat and Mad increased from 175 to 316 pmp (60% increase), resulting in a 26.8% higher KRT prevalence in Cat than in Mad in 2021 (up from 16.7% higher in 2012) (Fig. 1A). During the same period, the median age of prevalent KRT patients increased from 63.2 to 65.4 years (yrs) (2.2 yrs, 3.5%) in Cat and from 62.2 to 63.8 years (1.6 yrs, 2.6%) in Mad. In 2021, median age for prevalent patients on KRT was 1.6 yrs older in Cat (65.4 (53.9, 75.3)) than in Mad (63.8 (52.6, 74.1)), this difference being of 2.5 yrs in women (Cat 65.5 (53.6, 75.7), Mad (63 (51, 73.8), difference) and 1.1 yrs in men (Cat 65.3 (53.9, 75); Mad 64.2 (53.4, 74.3)). In subgroup analysis by age and sex, prevalence of KRT per million age-related population (pmarp) in 2021 was always higher in Cat than in Mad, except for women aged 20-44 yrs (363.7 in Cat, 370.5 in Mad, Cat/Mad ratio 0.98), and the largest gap was observed for women <19 yrs (Cat 77.4, Mad 41.5, Cat/Mad ratio 1.86). The Cat-Mad ratio increased with age in women >45 yrs, but not in men (Fig. 1B) The contribution of diabetes to KRT prevalence remained stable or increased slightly in both Cat (13.9-15.5%) and Mad (17.4-17.7%) between 2012 and 2021. In 2021 for most causes of KRT the prevalence adjusted for age and sex was higher in Cat, except for hypertension and miscellaneous. The largest differences were observed for unknown cause (most common cause in Cat: Cat 330.8, Mad 85.5, difference 245.3 pmp), miscellaneous (most common cause in Mad: Cat 165.9, Mad 271.5, difference −105.6 pmp), and missing (Cat 53.8, Mad 0, difference 53.8 pmp) (Fig. 1C). Prevalence of kidney transplantation in 2021 was higher in Cat than Mad (60.0% vs 54.9%), while prevalence of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis was higher in Mad (39.6% and 5.5%, respectively) than in Cat (36.2% and 3.9%) (Fig. 1D). Conclusion In conclusion, a stark difference in prevalence trends and in current KRT was observed for two Autonomous Communities within the same country which are broadly comparable in terms of population, life expectancy and GDP. An in-depth analysis of the drivers of these differences may bring insight into best practices for CKD prevention, treatment to slow CKD progression, timing and criteria for initiation of KRT and standard of care for KRT.

#2205 Varying practice patterns in prevention, screening and treatment of diabetes early after kidney transplantation: a European survey

Abstract Background and Aims Although post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a common complication after kidney transplantation, there is no consensus on preventive measures, nor on the optimal screening and treatment strategy. Method The European Renal Association—DESCARTES working group—distributed a web-based survey to transplant centers across Europe to gather information on the risk assessment, screening procedures and management practices for the prevention and treatment of PTDM in kidney-transplant recipients. Results Answers were obtained from 121 transplant centers across 15 European countries. Screening practices for pre-existing diabetes during the transplant work-up varied considerably, with only 13% of centers using the recommended oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), while 14% did not screen at all. At transplantation, 19% (n = 23) of centers tailored the immunosuppressive regimen based on perceived PTDM risk, employing strategies like cyclosporin use (12/23), or early steroid withdrawal (2/23). Fifty-two percent adopted strict glycemic control with long-acting insulin in the first days post-transplant. Sixty-eight percent had defined screening protocols for early PTDM (45 days—six months), mostly based on fasting glycemia and/or HbA1c, while only 8/82 incorporated an OGTT. Changes in immunosuppression were considered by 41% in cases of early hyperglycemia (<45 days) and by 58% in established PTDM (>45 days). Besides insulin therapy, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors and metformin were most frequently used to manage early hyperglycemia (<45 days) and PTDM (>45 days). Conclusion This European survey underscores significant variation in PTDM prevention, screening, and treatment practices, emphasizing the imperative for clearer guidance in approaching this complication.

Secondary School Teachers’ Use of Formative Assessment Practice to Create Co-regulated Learning

AbstractBy applying formative assessment in the classroom, many teachers want to stimulate students to self-regulate their learning. Co-regulation in formative assessment can stimulate students’ self-regulated learning. However, teachers could apply formative assessment to create co-regulation in the classroom in different ways. This study investigates two research questions: (1) How much teacher and student formative assessment behaviour is planned or unplanned and implemented in the classroom, when formative assessment is implemented to stimulate students’ self-regulated learning? and (2) What do these teacher and student formative assessment behaviours that create co-regulation of learning look like? The formative assessment cycle was used as a framework to describe the formative assessment process in five phases: (1) Clarifying expectations, (2) Eliciting student responses, (3) Analysing and interpreting responses, (4) Communicating about responses and (5) Taking follow-up actions: adapting teaching and learning. Fourteen teachers planned and implemented formative assessment that created co-regulated learning to stimulate students’ self-regulated learning. Teachers’ analysed lesson plans, audio reflections and colleague observations showed that teachers and students used more formative assessment during the lesson than that was planned beforehand. In most of the formative assessment practices, students were stimulated by their teachers to actively engage in, and take responsibility for, formative assessment practice. This resulted in students showing formative assessment behaviour that included self-regulated learning. The results of this study can help teachers and researchers to better recognise and implement formative assessment that creates co-regulated learning to stimulate student self-regulated learning.

Trainee ANPs' experiences of having a clinical practice facilitator introduced into a Hospital at Night team.

The role of the advanced nurse practitioner (ANP) within Hospital at Night (H@N) teams has emerged in line with the demands of the service and the needs of patients in the out-of-hours period. The majority of ANPs with H@N teams are recruited as trainees. There is a high volume of trainees needing support against a low number of experienced ANPs. Introduction of the clinical practice facilitator (CPF) role is one way of addressing these issues. Within this evaluative study of one H@N service, the CPFs are experienced ANPs who have received additional training in the delivery of practice assessment and learner feedback. To explore the experiences and perceptions of those trainee ANPs who have had or are currently receiving support and supervision from the CPFs in an H@N service in one Scottish NHS health board. The CPFs undertook a service evaluation following introduction of the role. Purposive sampling was undertaken whereby a descriptive questionnaire was sent to 22 eligible participants. 16 questionnaires were returned. Qualitative data from the questionnaire generated several themes from the participants' responses: validation of competencies, supporting wellbeing, accessibility of support, designated prescribing practitioner role and support post-qualification. CPFs are ideally placed to meet the required needs of trainees. Organisational commitment is key to ensuring ANPs are in optimal positions to provide support and supervision for the next generation of trainees.

Maternal Ambivalence Questionnaire (MAQ): Development and preliminary validation.

Maternal ambivalence refers to the simultaneous experience of both negative and positive feelings about motherhood and the child. It has been suggested that maternal ambivalence exists on a continuum from manageable (healthy) to unmanageable (problematic) and can have wide-ranging psychological consequences. However, there are currently no empirically validated measures for examining manageable or unmanageable maternal ambivalence. In this article, we outline the development and initial validation of the Maternal Ambivalence Questionnaire (MAQ). An online study was conducted to evaluate the factor structure, construct validity, reliability, and relationships of the MAQ with demographic characteristics. The participants included a community sample of 502 mothers living in the United Kingdom with at least one child aged 0-11 years. Statistical analyses demonstrated a good fit for the 20-item measure and suggested five theoretically consistent factors. These factors are assessment of one's perception of self as a mother, awareness of conflicting feelings about motherhood, suppression of negative feelings about motherhood, internalization of negative feelings about motherhood, and externalization of negative feelings about motherhood. These factors were related in theoretically expected ways to parental reflective functioning capacity, parenting stress and guilt, and symptoms of depression. The study's findings indicate that the MAQ is a robust and reliable measure that contributes to a theoretical understanding and practical assessment of maternal ambivalence, facilitating insight into emotional challenges of motherhood. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

The Nexus of Cybercrime and Money Laundering: A Conceptual Paper

The nexus between cybercrime and money laundering poses significant challenges that require a holistic understanding and strengthened global efforts to address. Cybercrimes provide financial motivation for criminals to engage in illicit activities. Techniques like cryptocurrency laundering and exploiting online payment systems allow criminals to disguise illegal proceeds. Investigating these modern financial crimes faces hurdles from rapid technological advancements, encryption, international jurisdiction issues, and lack of standardized information sharing between agencies and sectors. Gaps exist in current anti- money laundering legal frameworks in properly criminalizing emerging cyber threats and prosecuting related offenses effectively, as seen in the Malaysian context. Reforms are needed to enhance enforcement mechanisms, risk assessment practices, and the role of regulatory authorities like the Financial Intelligence Unit. A comprehensive approach combining updated laws, improved inter-agency coordination, public-private collaboration, and adaptive strategies is crucial to counter the evolving nexus between cybercrime and money laundering in today's digital landscape.