University Training Research Articles

Mental training for college athletes

This paper examines the development of mental training in sports, emphasizing the differences between China and other countries in terms of training methods and research approaches. The study employs a literature review method to analyse existing domestic research and draw conclusions. Numerous studies have shown that mental training is crucial for enhancing athletes' performance. By investigating the definitions of mental training in various regions and assessing the current state of mental training in Chinese universities, this study highlights these differences. The findings reveal several gaps between China and other countries in this field: 1) China's research on mental training started relatively late, with limitations in both content and depth; 2) deficiencies in research design, including limited scope in subject and sample selection, unclear operational definitions of variables, and insufficient control of extraneous variables; and 3) a lack of empirical research and methodological innovation in mental training. These findings suggest that China needs to expand and enhance research in mental training, with a particular focus on empirical studies and methodological innovation, to bridge the gap with other countries.

Analysis of the Success of Sino-French University of Lyon in the Training of College Teachers

The Sino-French University of Lyon, founded in 1921, is the first and only university founded by Chinese abroad in Chinese history. From 1921 to 1951, when it was closed, the Sino-French University of Lyon had a total of 473 registered students, of which 127 obtained doctoral degrees, accounting for 27% of the registered students, nearly one-third. One of the original intentions of the establishment of the Sino-French University of Lyon was to train college teachers for China, and most of the doctoral graduates of the university did return to China to teach in colleges and universities. Based on the relevant historical materials of the Sino-French University of Lyon in the Lyon Municipal Library, this article explores the success of the Sino-French University of Lyon in the training of college teachers.

Subject Olympiads as an effective tool of management personnel training in universities in modern conditions

The present article studies the issue of using subject Olympiads in higher education institutions for effective training of managerial personnel on the example of the intra-university Olympiad in English language, held in November 2023 at the State University of Management. The quantitative and qualitative composition of participants by training areas and educational programs has been studied, sociological and didactic and methodological aspects of the Olympiad have been highlighted, individual tasks descriptions have been given, demonstrating their high practice-orientedness and relevance. The article concludes that participation in subject university Olympiads stimulates the interest of students of management specialties to the subject of study and increases their competence level. The competitive nature of the Olympiads contributes to a more successful subsequent adaptation of students to a highly competitive professional environment, creating conditions of healthy competition. Conducting subject competitions in universities solves the problems facing the system of higher education in terms of forming a creative educational environment that meets the challenges of the time, and training management specialists capable of effectively solving professional problems against the background of constantly changing economic and political situation in a tough external and internal environment.

School leaders’ innovation-related self-efficacy: professional development and learning networks make a difference

ABSTRACT Many studies point to the relevance of school leaders’ self-efficacy for the successful organisation and management of schools. However, to date, there are only a few findings on which factors have a positive influence on this characteristic. This study therefore examines the extent to which the use of formal and informal learning opportunities, in addition to the antecedents mentioned by Bandura (mastery experience, vicarious experience, social persuasion, physiological and emotional states), have a direct positive effect on school leaders’ innovation-related self-efficacy, as well as an indirect effect on self-efficacy mediated by mastery experience. Analyses of a survey with a representative sample of N = 405 school leaders in Germany using structural equation models confirmed the effect of mastery experience (i.e. perceived achievement), vicarious experience (i.e. encouragement from a team), and emotional states (i.e. exhaustion) on school leaders’ self-efficacy. Regarding professional development, the analyses revealed a direct positive effect of participation in university training and professional learning networks, which were not mediated by mastery experience. Our results demonstrate the value of leadership preparation programmes that enable the participants to explore different work-related tasks and promote feelings of mastery, as well as the importance of team coherency and potential value of distributed work.

Higher education in the USSR: students’ study documents and legitimations

In the USSR, vocational training in universities and institutes was carried out according to a standardized concept. The typicality of the form and the similarity of the content of the Soviet higher education was manifested not only at the level of educational processes, but also in relation to the study documents, which legitimized the student status of their holder throughout the academic path. This was due to the fact that: 1) Soviet higher education was based on the same educational paradigm, which projected the same relational and actional frameworks for all actors of the educational process; 2) higher education institutions had the same social mission, achieved the same objectives and operated according to the same strategic plans; 3) the training process, regardless of the specialty and the field of vocational training, was carried out according to the same educational models. Documents of personal importance to students had the same concept and the same form in all institutions of higher education in the USSR, their importance varying according to significance and usefulness. The uniqueness of the form, along with the conceptual and functional similarity of the educational processes, became an attribute and a sign of the educational system in the USSR.

Auburn University trains well-balanced, resilient veterinarians.

Auburn University trains well-balanced, resilient veterinarians.

Knowledge and Practice Towards Cleaning Medical Equipment among Nursing Students in a Malaysian Public University

Background: Healthcare-associated infections are infections acquired by patients during stay or receiving treatment within healthcare facility. High cases of healthcare-associated infections are contributed by poor medical equipment disinfection among healthcare workers, including nurses. It could be due to poor practice and awareness during their training in universities and colleges. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices regarding cleaning medical equipment and their association with socio-demographic characteristics among nursing students at International Islamic University Malaysia Kuantan Campus. Methods: A total of 252 nursing students were recruited using stratified random sampling. Data of socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, and practices related to medical equipment disinfection were collected using an online questionnaire. Descriptive analysis and chi-square test were used to assess the level of knowledge and practice on medical equipment contamination and disinfection, and their association with socio-demographic characteristics. Results: Most respondents (84.1%) have a good level of knowledge regarding disinfecting medical equipment. Meanwhile, 50.8% of respondents have a good level of practice regarding disinfecting medical equipment. Further analysis revealed a significant strong association between academic year and level of knowledge (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study showed that most of the nursing students have good knowledge and practice regarding medical equipment disinfection. The significant strong association between academic year and level of knowledge indicates the knowledge improvement among nursing students as their academic years increasing. Though, a larger study comprising of more universities are needed to gain the better insight on influence of nursing students on healthcare-associated infections in Malaysia.

Chinese EFL Learners’ Emotional Intelligence, Academic Boredom and Class Participation

This study investigates the relationship among emotional intelligence, academic boredom, and classroom participation of Chinese non-English major college students in English learning. Utilizing a quantitative and descriptive design, data was gathered from freshmen and sophomores majoring in economics, management, and fine arts at a regional university in Yuncheng, China through a questionnaire survey. The questionnaire comprised sections on emotional intelligence, academic boredom, and class participation, aligning with emotional intelligence theory, academic boredom theory, and class participation theory, respectively. The findings reveal significant correlations: emotional intelligence is inversely related to academic boredom, indicating higher emotional intelligence corresponds to lower academic boredom levels. Affective intelligence positively correlates with class participation, suggesting higher affective intelligence is linked to increased participation. Conversely, academic boredom negatively impacts class participation, as greater boredom is associated with reduced engagement. These results hold vital implications for enhancing English learning effectiveness and student well-being, offering valuable insights for educators. The study proposes a language-learning program focused on enhancing emotional intelligence and engagement to alleviate academic boredom. Recommendations include incorporating emotional intelligence training in universities, diversifying classroom activities, fostering cross-cultural communication opportunities, and leveraging technology for emotional intelligence and engagement promotion. Future research should expand sample sizes and school majors to deepen understanding and integrate technology tools into teaching practices and curriculum design.

Experiences of students with disabilities in technical vocational education and training colleges

Background: Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in South Africa is often viewed as the ‘Cinderella’ of higher education, with many matriculating students choosing mainstream universities instead. This preference stems from stigma and misconceptions that label TVET students – often from poorer working-class backgrounds – as less intelligent than their university peers. The lived experiences of students with physical and learning disabilities in these institutions are particularly underexplored.Objectives: This study aimed to illuminate the experiences of students with disabilities at five TVET colleges in Gauteng, South Africa.Method: Using a phenomenological approach, the study conducted story exercises and individual interviews with a convenience sample of 40 students with disabilities.Results: The findings reveal that TVET education predominantly serves black students from marginalised backgrounds, with students with disabilities facing significant barriers in accessing both the curriculum and the physical environments of the colleges. Despite numerous challenges, a resilient narrative emerged among these students, rooted in African traditional values.Conclusion: This article contributes to knowledge on disability inclusion in higher education by showcasing the challenges and resilience of students with disabilities in South Africa’s TVET system.Contribution: The study employed innovative methodologies, such as picture stories, to co-create knowledge with students living with disabilities.

The Effect of Digital Social Influence on Attitudinal Change and Purchase Behavioral Intention of Consumers

Objective: The objective of our research is to study the phenomenon of digital social influence through a set of determinants linked on the one hand to the characteristics of the influencer, such as credibility, congruence and parasocial interaction, and on the other hand to the content disseminated, which must combine originality, uniqueness, reliability and argumentative force. Theorical framework : The article highlights the various theories used to study the crucial role of the social influencer in changing the attitudes and purchasing intentions of Moroccan consumers, such as the credibility model, the electronic word-of-mouth (E-WOM) model, the SOR model and the theory of reasoned action. Method : The methodology adopted to explain this topical phenomenon is based on descriptive methods supported by documentary analysis techniques in order to draw out the various theoretical concepts to clarify and provide answers to the many questions raising the issue of the credibility, homophily and popularity of the source, as well as the nature of the arguments presented in its content and their role in the process of forming consumer attitudes and purchase intentions. Results and Discussion: The results obtained show that the para-social interaction that exists between the influencer and the members of his or her community, social and physical attractiveness, homophily and credibility are basic criteria that, each in their own way, influence the subscriber's attitude and intention to buy. This work also confirms the idea that the perceived uniqueness and quality of publications appear to be crucial in strengthening the perceived trust between influencers and subscribers. Research Implications: This research will be of unprecedented managerial use, firstly by encouraging the regulation of the legal status of the digital influencer in Morocco, secondly by setting up specialised and in-depth university training in content production and social media management, and lastly by encouraging investment in scientific research in this rapidly expanding field, the direction of which is still emerging. Originality/Value: The originality of this research lies in its interdisciplinary nature, combining, on the one hand, the theories of persuasion from social psychology and, on the other, the theories of attitude and purchase intention from management sciences. The added value is the proposal of an appropriate conceptual model to respond to our problem linked to the role of the social digital influencer in the attitudinal change of his subscribers.

Assessing the Reliability and Validity of a Questionnaire Evaluating Medical Students’ Attitudes, Knowledge, and Perceptions of Antibiotic Education and Antimicrobial Resistance in University Training

The misuse and overuse of antibiotics represent a critical global issue and one of the most pressing public health challenges of the 21st century. Training future healthcare professionals effectively is essential for ensuring responsible antibiotic use. This study aimed to validate a questionnaire designed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of medical students regarding the education they receive on infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and antibiotic stewardship during their university studies. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was developed and distributed to medical students at the University of Santiago de Compostela. Comprising 44 items, the questionnaire assessed eight key dimensions: “infection diagnosis”, “criteria for not prescribing antibiotics”, “initial antibiotic therapy”, “re-evaluation of therapy”, “quality of care”, “communication skills”, “antibiotic resistance”, and “teaching methodology”. Validation was carried out in two stages: Phase 1 involved content and face validity, while Phase 2 focused on reliability analysis. Results: A total of 295 students completed the questionnaire, with a mean age of 23.15 ± 1.78 years. The sample included 86 male (29.2%) and 209 female (70.8%) respondents. Content and face validity were established by a nominal group of five experts and a focus group of medicine and pharmacy students to ensure consensus on item understanding in the Spanish language. The questionnaire demonstrated high internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.92 and satisfactory item discrimination. Construct validity was confirmed through principal component analysis, which supported the presence of the eight predefined dimensions. Conclusions: The validated questionnaire exhibited strong reliability and validity, making it a valuable tool for assessing medical students’ training in antibiotic-related topics. Its application will enable the identification of areas for improvement in university curricula, ultimately contributing to the promotion of appropriate antibiotic use and the reduction of antimicrobial resistance.

The COOL e-Research and Researcher Development Experiences: A Mentor and Mentee Perspective

As information and communication technologies (ICTs) continue to advance, research projects and processes increasingly adopt ICTs, and terms like ‘e-research’ gain popularity. However, disparities in access to ICTs and users’ technology proficiency affect the adoption of e-research technologies. Despite these constraints, the COVID-19 pandemic forced many researchers (including postgraduate students), in diverse and unequal contexts, to take their research activities online. This paper reports on the ‘e-research’ experiences of the principal investigator, a research mentor and a researcher after the adoption of ICTs during the pandemic. This research took place in the context of the Cases on Open Learning (COOL) research project, commissioned by, and conducted jointly with, the Department of Higher Education (DHET) in South Africa. This was a multi-researcher (10 researchers located across the country, with varying degrees of research experience), multi-site qualitative social science research that took the form of 15 case studies, conducted across seven technical and vocational education and training colleges, six universities, two DHET sites, and a desktop study. The national lockdowns that were announced shortly after our first and only face-to-face project meeting forced us to conduct all aspects of the project entirely online. We used the Google suite for collaboration and Zoom for COOL team building, researcher knowledge and skills development sessions, and online interviews conducted by the researchers. WhatsApp played a dual role – supporting ongoing communication within the research group, and as a data collection tool. The paper highlights our experiences on what it meant to be part of a research team, as well as the opportunities and challenges of conducting research of this nature. It shed light on the COOL team building and researcher development strategies. Drawing on insights from our experiences, we recommend that higher education institutions (HEIs) develop both technical and human-oriented guidelines for conducting e-research. This paper could provide insights for independent researchers, postgraduate students, principal investigators, and supervisors considering a cohort-supervision model, comprising diverse students, who may be in dispersed geographical locations.

Design and Testing of Brush Robot as Innovation in Improving STEM Instructional Out-Come in Pre-Service Teachers in Plateau State.

In this study, an experimental research design was used to design and test brush robots with pre-service teachers in Federal College of Education Pankshin Plateau state. This intends to solve the problem of innovation deficit in classroom instruction. The population for the study consisted of all NCE one students in the department of early childhood offering the course Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics STEM in the 2023/2024 session. A Sample of 30 Pre service NCE teachers participated in the research. A robot brush was constructed using low cost kits in the robot design stages. The instruments used consisted of Robot Parts test and the Solve-It tasks (design and functionality test) with Cronbach alpha reliability of 0.81. Treatment lasted for 6 weeks. Data was collected and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated that pre-service teachers have poor knowledge of robot parts such as DC motors. This implies that pre-service teachers are novice to robot part and use Also, participants were very competent in robot design process activities and robot base cutting. Participants also showed average competence in Robot stage cutting, construction of rollers and fixing of robot parts. They however showed only fair competence in coupling of robots parts. Findings indicate that the teachers designed robots have high educational value. The robots are averagely complete in form, ease of use motion and durability. The designs however have low compliance to safety. It was recommended amongst other that Teacher training colleges should organised in-service training to improve teacher competent in handling engineering and technology parts and programming of STEM robots.

Enhancing online learning quality: a structural equation modeling analysis of educational technology implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic

This study investigates the execution of online education at the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training in Islamic State Universities in Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic. It assesses the platform's efficacy and quality, particularly regarding system, information, and service excellence. The study employs descriptive statistical analysis and structural equation modeling to discern strengths and weaknesses in the online learning environment, emphasizing system dependability and user satisfaction. It underscores the necessity for improvements in delivering timely information and enhancing responsiveness to fulfill consumer expectations better. The results highlight the necessity of strategic improvements emphasizing adaptability and service quality to enhance the online learning experience. These developments are especially vital in emergencies, where the adaptability and resilience of instructional technologies are evaluated. This study provides actionable recommendations for educational institutions to enhance the quality, resilience, and effectiveness of online learning for both students and educators, offering essential insights to address current challenges and contribute to the broader discourse on the future of online education.

Postoj studentů sociální pedagogiky k homoparentálním rodinám

The paper is focused on the research of the attitude of the students of the Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes in social pedagogy from the J. E. Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem, University of Ostrava and Masaryk University in Brno (N = 107) towards the issue of homoparental families and in a broader context towards homosexuality as such. Furthermore, we also focus on the students' perspective on how the issue of homoparental families is reflected in the educational content of the subjects in their curriculum. An accessible type of research sampling was used. The author's questionnaire constructed on the principle of Likert scales was used as a research instrument. The questionnaire includes items aimed at identifying attitudes towards gay marriage, the causes of homosexuality, the upbringing of children by homoparental parents, and the space devoted to this topic in the university training of future social educators. The data obtained were processed using descriptive methods of statistical analysis and further analyzed. The findings show that a significant majority of the respondents are in favour of homosexual couples receiving the same rights as heterosexual couples, including the possibility of marriage. Furthermore, the majority of respondents appear to be in favour of the naturalness of homosexual couples raising children. From the answers we can conclude that the students interviewed consider homosexuality as natural as heterosexuality and their attitudes are mostly positive.

Exploring the Role of Coordinating Centre Tutors in Implementing Early Grade Reading Initiatives in Wakiso District, Uganda

The adoption of Early Grade Reading (EGR) Methodology in 2013 in Uganda brought on board different stakeholders to effectively implement it in the education eco-system. With reference to this particular study, we examined the crucial role of Coordinating Center Tutors (CCTs) in Wakiso District, Central Uganda in the effective implementation of EGR methodology. Wakiso District’s socio-economic and cultural diversity necessitates an adaptive approach to EGR, making CCTs indispensable in tailoring instructional methods. Specifically, we set out to scrutinize how CCTs assess EGR instructional practices, and effectiveness of their training programs on effective implementation of EGR in primary schools in Wakiso district. Data was collected from six purposively selected CCTs through face-to-face interviews. Key findings reveal the multidimensional role of CCTs as trainers, mentors, and community engagers. Their instructional practices, range from center-based training to partnered reading, showcasing a holistic strategy. Positive impacts on literacy development, including enhanced comprehension and confidence among learners, under-score the effectiveness of these practices. Continuous professional development initiatives and targeted training contribute significantly to CCT competency, bridging gaps in their earlier college training. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the dynamic role of CCTs in carrying out ongoing support and targeted training programs. The recommendations encompass mentorship programs, collaborative learning environments, diverse instructional methods, continuous professional development, strengthened partnerships, increased community involvement, a structured referral system, and a dynamic learning environment. This study contributes to the understanding of the intricate dynamics surrounding EGR implementation, providing insights for educational policy-makers, practitioners, and researchers aiming to optimize literacy outcomes in diverse contexts.

Leadership Development in Women STEM Students: The Interplay of Task Behaviors, Self-Efficacy, and University Training.

This study explores the relationship between task-oriented behaviors, self-efficacy, and leadership emergence in women STEM students, grounded in the context of prototypical leadership theory and self-efficacy theory. Prototypical leadership theory emphasizes the alignment of leadership behaviors with group expectations, which, in STEM fields, are often task-oriented. The research examines how task-oriented behaviors, such as planning, decision-making, and supervision, influence women's self-perception of leadership ability and their subsequent emergence as leaders. Our results show a positive relationship between task-oriented behaviors and self-efficacy and a positive relationship between self-efficacy with leader emergence, with academic experience further ngthening this link. As students' progress through their programs, engaging in more teamwork and leadership tasks, their self-efficacy enhances, leading to stronger leadership emergence. Also, we found an indirect effect from task-oriented behavior to leader emergence via self-efficacy. These findings have significant implications for fostering leadership in women, particularly in STEM. The study calls for educational programs to enhance opportunities for women to develop these behaviors early on, ensuring their growth into leadership roles in STEM fields.

A comparative study of university training of sports and physical activity kinesiologist

BackgroundIn Italy, Legislative Decree No. 36/2021 and Ministerial Decree (MD) No. 1649/2023 have redefined the professional landscape of the physical activity and health sectors, emphasizing interdisciplinary and wellness-oriented education. The current disparity in the weighting of formative elements among the biomedical, psycho-pedagogical, and Exercise and Sport Sciences (ESS) fields in the configuration of degree courses in ESS has led to a need for reform. MD No. 1649/2023 offers an opportunity to reform these courses to emphasize interdisciplinary and wellness-oriented objectives, including at least 20 ECTS credits of practical activities in ESS disciplines. However, the impact of practical and laboratory activities on future kinesiologists has never been studied. This study aims to evaluate the impact of physical activity habits on the performance and self-assessment of ESS students.MethodA sample of 56 students enrolled in the Master of Science in Sport Science and Techniques at the University of Salerno was divided into “active” and “inactive” groups based on their physical activity levels, according to WHO guidelines. Both groups underwent anthropometric and functional tests, including the Squat Jump (SJ) and Countermovement Jump (CMJ). Descriptive statistics and t-tests assessed the differences between and within groups.ResultsThe “active” group exhibited significantly higher performance in SJ (15.7% higher) and CMJ (18.5% higher) compared to the “inactive” group. Both groups showed significant improvements in jump height from SJ to CMJ, with the “active” group improving by 11.04% and the ‘non-active’ group by 7.38%.ConclusionContinuous physical activity enhances functional efficiency, with significant gains in explosive and reactive strength. Practical, evidence-based training is crucial for future kinesiologists to provide specialized services and promote health, underscoring the importance of integrating substantial practical activities in ESS degree courses.

The Use of Computer Technologies in Special Education Teacher Training Programs in East Jerusalem: Students' Perspectives and Its Impact on Practical Applications"

Abstract: This research aims to explore the degree of use of computerized technologies in the special education teacher qualification program in East Jerusalem, and the extent of its impact on their performance in practical applications from the students’ point of view, explore students’ opinions about the effectiveness of computerized technologies in improving their educational experience and teaching skills, and reveal the differences in the use of computerized technologies. In qualifying special education teachers and its impact on their performance according to the variables of gender, number of years of experience, and experience in using computerized technologies, the descriptive approach was used, and the questionnaire was used as a tool for collecting data after ensuring its validity and reliability. The study population consisted of all students in special education teacher training colleges, numbering (680) teachers, distributed among 3 main colleges. The study sample consisted of (245) students selected by the available method, and the results were based on the reality of using computerized techniques in rehabilitation programs as a whole (3.80) and to a large degree, and the absence of statistically significant differences ( = 0.05) due to the effect of variables (gender, age, or experience in The use of computerized techniques) for the impact of the use of computerized techniques in the special education teacher qualification program in East Jerusalem on performance in practical applications from the point of view of students in all fields and the overall grade. Based on the results of the study, the researcher recommends strengthening the training of special education teachers within education teacher qualification programs. Specialize in the use of computerized technologies to ensure their effectiveness.

Positive Influences of Integrating Information Communication Technology in Teaching English at a Technical and Vocational Training College

The paper investigated the positive influence of integrating Information Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching English to National Certificate NC (V) students at a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. A qualitative research approach was used in this research to explore and determine ways in which ICT can be used in teaching English. The research’s participants were fifteen NC (V) lecturers offering English. Semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews were conducted with Heads of Departments (HODs), Senior Education Specialists (SES), Education Specialists (ES), and NC(V) English lecturers. This paper found that there are barriers when it comes to integrating ICT in teaching English, and these were teacher-level barriers, student-level barriers, and school-level barriers. It is hoped that this research will contribute towards strategic ways that will ensure that ICT is integrated in teaching English at Nkangala TVET College, as this will improve students’ class attendance and enhance teaching and learning.