Contemporary Education Research Articles

The Relevance of Biblical Exegesis to the Study of the Dynamics of the Educational Relationship in Contemporary Pedagogy. An Example of the Biblical Story of the Calling of Levi

Pedagogues analysing the role of theology in pedagogical sciences often see theology as the basis for making moral recommendations derived primarily from the Revelation contained in the Bible. This approach minimises the relevance of biblical sciences to pedagogy while narrowing the perspective of its research areas. Biblical exegesis is now revealing a number of issues of great importance for contemporary pedagogy. One of these is the dynamics of the educational relationship, especially themutual influence and role of the educator and the student in the educational process. The main focus of this article’s analysis is the Gospel story of the calling of Levi (Matthew) and Jesus’ subsequent meal with sinners and tax collectors. The interpretative possibilities of this story, or rather of the one sentence linking the calling with the description of the meal (Mark 2:15), will be presented in the light of contemporary possibilities of biblical exegesis. The results of biblical studies do not conclusively resolve the question of whether, after the calling, the disciple followed the Master or the Master followed the disciple. This issue may be a symbolic exemplification of the problem of the subjectivity of the educator and the student in their educational relationship. The article deals with the meta-theoretical issue of pedagogy, demonstrating new possibilities for the use of biblical teachings in pedagogy. The aim of the study is to show close links between the dilemmas of contemporary biblical exegesis and issues of education. Sources for the analyses carried out include publications in the field of biblical exegesis as well as monographs and articles from the field of general pedagogy (concerning interdisciplinary research as well as the language of pedagogy) and Christian pedagogy.

How can we more efficiently train new users of echocardiography?

Abstract Background/Introduction Improving uptake and accessibility of echocardiography necessitates more efficient training. Current training programmes are focused around expert mentorship, clinical practicals, and lectures. All of these are resource-intensive, and difficult to scale. Research into the way humans learn has consistently found that techniques such as spaced testing and interleaving of subjects, deliver superior retention - even of complex topics. These can be most easily and cost-effectively delivered online. Purpose To test how quickly students learn using an online platform, utilising contemporary teaching methods, made freely available to individuals within the NHS. Methods We designed our platform to facilitate interactive questioning of medical images, and performing interpretive and measurement tasks within echocardiography (Picture 1). We piloted it in two phases. In phase one, to establish the acquisition of knowledge and skills without our platform, we recruited non-cardiology trainee doctors with daily access to a handheld cardiac ultrasound device, but without formal teaching. They received 5 consecutive 21-question quizzes, delivered by email and text at weekly intervals. Each quiz was balanced to include knowledge questions, such as anatomy identification; and interpretive questions, including grading ventricular function, chamber size, and valve disease severity. No feedback was provided. To provide a benchmark, 3 experts undertook the same quizzes. In phase two, we opened up to anyone interested in learning echocardiography. In addition to the optimised quizzes, these participants received daily 21-question training modules. Results 7 participants enrolled in phase one. They showed no improvement in test performance across the 5 weeks (+2% per week, 95% CI -2% to 6%, p=0.33). Questions which proved to be properly constructed (scores of 100% for experts) yet "too easy" (scores of 90% or higher for learners) were eliminated, and not used for the testing phase. 12 participants enrolled in phase two. All worked through the modules at their own pace (of those who did all 19 quizzes, time taken ranged from 6.6 to 15.6 weeks; median 14.3 weeks). Participants showed significant improvement over time (+11% per week, 95% CI, p<0.001). Those who took the quizzes later into any training programmes they were undertaking in parallel did not outperform those who took them earlier (p=0.89). For LV function, participants showed little improvement over time (+9% per week, 95% CI -13% to +51%, p=0.23); but after undertaking a 5-quiz module on LV function, test scores increased 36% (95% CI 0% to 74%, p=0.05) from the previous week. Conclusions Our findings suggest that key skills in echocardiography can be efficiently learnt outside of the lecture theatre or clinical environment. Furthermore, precious time spent in the echo lab or on clinical placement might be more efficiently utilised by completing our online modules ahead of time.

Implementation of the Prophet Muhammad's Teaching Methods in Tarbawi Hadiths: A Study of Islamic Educational Values and Their Relevance to Modern Learning

The teaching methods of Prophet Muhammad SAW, as reflected in tarbawi hadiths, offer universal Islamic educational values that remain relevant across various contexts, including modern learning. This study aims to examine the implementation of the Prophet's teaching methods, highlighting Islamic educational values and their relevance to contemporary education. A qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytic method was employed. Primary data consisted of hadiths from standard collections such as Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, while secondary data included tafsir (Qur'anic exegesis) and sharh (commentary on hadith). Data collection was conducted through literature study, and thematic content analysis was utilised for analysis. The findings identified four main teaching methods of the Prophet: questioning, role modelling, storytelling, and hands-on practice. The questioning method fosters critical and analytical thinking, while role modelling is pertinent to character education. Storytelling facilitates understanding of concepts through narrative techniques, and hands-on practice aligns with experiential learning approaches. The study concludes that the Prophet’s teaching methods are highly relevant to modern learning, including problem-based learning, role modelling, and project-based learning. The study recommends integrating the Prophet’s methods into Islamic education curricula and developing educational technology grounded in Islamic values to support digital learning. Practical implications include educator training and technological innovation to enhance the quality of education in Islamic institutions. Future research is recommended to empirically test the application of these methods to measure their impact on learning quality and character development.

Application of Learning Pass Information Technology Platform in Blended Teaching Module on Integrated Moral-art Education

The in-depth integration of modern information technology with contemporary education and teaching is a major development strategy for China's education and a trend in the development of world education. This study takes Learning Pass information technology platform as the teaching platform and introduces blended teaching into the classroom teaching of Chinese moral education course. Then the construction of resources and the design of blended teaching process are carried out to explore the effect of blended teaching based on Learning Pass information technology platform. Through specific teaching practice, the problems in the design and application of blended teaching can be improved to enhance the effect of moral education teaching. This study adopts a quantitative research approach to collect and analyse receipts. Questionnaires were distributed to learners and interviews were conducted to obtain more accurate data. It was found that the blended teaching module on integrated moral-art education implemented on the basis of Learning Pass information technology platform was significantly better than the traditional classroom teaching. The blended teaching approach with the help of information technology not only enhances students' independent learning ability, but also stimulates students' interest in learning and enables them to master the knowledge of the course more comprehensively. Teachers can better grasp the learning status of students through the Learning Pass information technology platform and provide personalized services to students.

White Christian nationalism and contemporary education: implications for theory, policy, and practice–introduction

White Christian nationalism and contemporary education: implications for theory, policy, and practice–introduction

The art of Naqd: communicating critique in Arabic thought for teacher training in Arabia

ABSTRACT This article explores Naqd, critique in Arabic thought, emphasizing its significance for teacher training in the Arab Gulf countries. Naqd, a practice grounded in Arabic intellectual tradition, has almost slipped into obscurity due to the overwhelming influence of the Westernization of higher education. The article responds by re-examining Naqd’s historical and conceptual origins and relevance to contemporary pedagogy. It addresses the urgent need to re-integrate Naqd into teacher education programs to offset the prevalence of Western approaches. It explores key concepts such as Tamhis, Tamyeez, and Taqyeem and Taqweem. By tracing Naqd’s development from pre-Islamic oral traditions to its role in Islamic scholarship and jurisprudence, the article proposes a pedagogical and conceptual framework to revitalize Arabic epistemes and foster a culturally responsive approach. The aim is to restore the balance by integrating Naqd’s dialectical lexicon with culturally and epistemologically relevant practices into teacher education programs in the GCC academia.

Inclusive Education and the New Paradigms For Life in Society

Objective: The objective of this study is to understand how the inclusion processes in contemporary education have contributed to the paradigm shifts regarding life in society. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical foundation is based on documents and legislation related to inclusion, such as the Salamanca Statement (1994), the Inclusion Law (2015), and authors like Pletsch et al. (2007), Mantoan (2026), and Nunes (2015). These authors indicate that over the last few decades, the understanding of the needs of people with disabilities has evolved, resulting in a new proposal for life in society, which directly reflects in school contexts and, particularly, in educational practices that were previously centered around a segregated system and selective integration. Method: From a methodological standpoint, it is emphasized that the research was carried out through a bibliographical study of a qualitative nature. Following the methodological approach, several steps were taken, namely: selection of legislation related to Inclusive Education; selection of studies from the Scielo database between 2010 and 2024, focusing on the thematic of paradigm changes related to inclusive education; and, finally, a descriptive analysis of the collected material, in order to identify strengths and/or weaknesses related to the inclusion process. Results and Discussion: The results indicate that many educational practices have been developed and are moving towards ensuring these rights, contributing to inclusion processes. In this sense, it is emphasized that the inclusion paradigm proposes the transformation of educational and social structures so that everyone can participate fully, regardless of their conditions. Research Implications: The implications of this research draw attention to the fact that, although official documents aim to ensure rights, much still needs to be done, especially in the school context, to move beyond the mere inclusion of people with disabilities and, in fact, achieve true inclusion. Originality/Value: This study allows for the exploration of complex issues that have increasingly been at the center of discussions regarding life in society, especially because discussions on inclusion go beyond school settings and reach the workplace, relationships, and all aspects of life in society.

Promoting Children’s Participation in Early Childhood Education and Care

Children’s participation is a fundamental principle of contemporary education. To ensure children’s participation, a Model for Promoting Children’s Participation in Early Childhood Education and Care has been developed that enables educators to self-reflect on their practice, analyse children’s participation, listen to children’s and parents’ voices, and link children’s participation to the quality of early childhood education and care. The aim of the paper is to present findings regarding the importance of the model for promoting children’s participation in early childhood education and care and the current state of children’s participation. The qualitative study is based on the multi-perspective participatory approach to promoting children’s participation in action. The findings suggest that the model has great potential for researching and promoting children’s participation in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings, especially children’s expression and teachers’ professional reflection.

Teacher Academic Training Systems in Greece and Serbia

This study examines the teacher preparation paradigms of Serbia and Greece, two countries with similar histories and religions but different educational ideologies influenced by their social and cultural backgrounds. The study aims to determine the effect of various settings on teacher preparation, with a particular emphasis on pedagogical approaches and curriculum designs. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study assesses how each system affects student results and teacher effectiveness by combining quantitative data from educational tests like PISA with qualitative views from educators and policymakers. Concerns have been raised regarding the influence of Greece’s reliance on a centralized curriculum on developing critical thinking and practical application abilities in aspiring teachers. On the other hand, Serbia’s adaptable strategy incorporates contemporary teaching approaches, boosting students’ capacity for analysis and practical problem-solving. The report emphasizes the value of stakeholder participation, highlighting Serbia’s successful interactions with parents and educational institutions, which help create a climate conducive to educational change. The study emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge pedagogical approaches and standardized assessments, underscoring the necessity for systemic transformation in teacher training processes to satisfy contemporary educational demands. It also asks for fair resource distribution and sufficient funding to enable enhanced teaching approaches that comply with European standards. Ultimately, our research aims to promote international understanding and cooperation, increase teacher preparation programs, and raise education standards globally.

Contemporary approaches to science and engineering pedagogy: A perspective from Nigerian engineering education

Ensuring access to quality education and career training is a crucial challenge, especially in developing nations. Vocational, scientific, technological, and engineering education are essential for active participation in any community and play a significant role in shaping life perspectives. The ability to sustain competitiveness depends on receiving high-quality vocational, scientific, technological, or engineering education and professional growth. These factors are vital for the long-term growth of prosperous economies and nation-building. Hence, this perspective review attempts to provide information on some contemporary pedagogies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) vis-à-vis scientific and engineering education in Nigeria. The study zooms into the challenges and possible solutions that will promote and enhance pedagogies in scientific and engineering education in Nigeria. The study adopted a perspective review approach in overviewing prior accessible studies (literatures) as well as a methodological framework. It is believed that this perspective review study will serve as a way forward for other developing nations.

Second Nature: Adorno and Contemporary Education

The paper aims to provide a conceptual basis for reconciling the radical resistance to totality posed by Adorno’s negative dialectics with contemporary considerations of the environment, capable of developing a more symbiotic educational approach in the context of contemporary crises. This is done by exploring the notion of ‘second nature’, the significance of which is underlined by its rootedness in the dialectical tradition of German philosophy and Adorno’s emphasis on the nonidentical as an essential condition for critique and a link between subjectivity and what is understood as nature and history.

FACTORS INFLUENCING STUDENTS' INTERACTION AND ADOPTION OF DIGITAL VIRTUAL REALITY IN CHINESE HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS: A TAM-BASED APPROACH

This study investigates the factors influencing students’ willingness to engage in digital virtual reality environments within Chinese higher education institutions. Utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical framework and employing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of virtual reality adoption among first-year college students at Gansu Hexi University. A total of 1456 students participated in the study, with data collected through validated and reliable structured questionnaires. The findings demonstrate the pivotal role of attitudes as a mediating factor, establishing a causal relationship between key variables—Perceived Ease of Use (PE), Perceived Usefulness (PU), and Willingness (W)—and interaction behavior. Specifically, Perceived Usefulness significantly influences attitudes (path coefficient = 0.721), which, in turn, impacts interaction (path coefficient = 0.363) and willingness (path coefficient = 0.387). Furthermore, Perceived Ease of Use directly influences attitudes (path coefficient = 0.205), underscoring the significance of user-friendly systems in fostering positive engagement. Additionally, the results highlight the critical interplay between willingness and interaction, demonstrating how students’ intentions directly drive actual engagement in virtual environments. These findings align with established TAM literature, reinforcing the importance of perceived utility and usability in shaping technology adoption behaviors. This study provides actionable insights for educators, designers, and policymakers seeking to enhance the integration of virtual reality in educational settings. By addressing the factors that drive interaction and willingness, this research contributes to the optimization of immersive learning experiences, ensuring that technology serves as a transformative tool in contemporary education. The findings pave the way for future research to further refine virtual reality applications, promoting engagement and experiential learning in the digital era.

Role of Virtual Reality in Contemporary Education: Examining How Virtual Reality is Impacting Academic Self-Efficacy, Educational Cost, Cross-Cultural Education and Interactive Learning Environments

Role of Virtual Reality in Contemporary Education: Examining How Virtual Reality is Impacting Academic Self-Efficacy, Educational Cost, Cross-Cultural Education and Interactive Learning Environments

Effect of PBL Supported by QR Code on Developing Intellectual over Excitability, and Creative Thinking

Contemporary education systems emphasize the need to develop CTS, especially in the early stages of education, Given that children's creativity is linked to their level of intellectual over excitability, the current study aims to explore the impact of PBL supported by QR codes on activating their level of intellectual over excitability and developing their CTS. CTS test and intellectual over excitability test were applied on students, and observation card was applied by the classroom teacher, on a sample of 40 sixth-grade students. They were then divided into two equivalent groups. PBL supported by QR codes was applied on the experimental group in ten sessions, included real problems; this group was internally subdivided into cooperative groups. The control group studied in a traditional manner. Finally, both groups were evaluated by using the same tools, and they were assigned an individual task assessed by experts to measure their creative performance. The results revealed that PBL supported by QR codes served as a supportive context for students' intellectual over excitability, it also had a positive impact on students' creative performance. Moreover, it positively affected specific sub skills of CT—flexibility and originality—but did not significantly impact fluency, details, or overall CT level.

A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW TO IDENTIFY THE FACTORS INFLUENCING STUDENT MOTIVATION AND ENGAGEMENT IN HIGH SCHOOL VOCAL MUSIC EDUCATION IN CHINA

This study presents a narrative literature review aimed at identifying the key factors influencing student motivation and engagement in high school vocal music education in China. Given the growing significance of music education in fostering creativity and holistic development, understanding what drives students to remain motivated and engaged is crucial for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers. The review synthesizes existing literature on educational psychology, student engagement, and music pedagogy, focusing on factors such as teacher-student interaction, curriculum design, peer influence, cultural context, and technological integration. Findings indicate that effective teaching strategies, a supportive learning environment, opportunities for performance, and the use of digital tools play a significant role in enhancing motivation and engagement. The study also highlights the challenges faced by educators in balancing traditional and contemporary teaching methods in a rapidly changing educational landscape. Recommendations for future research include empirical studies that explore specific interventions and the longitudinal impact of these factors on student outcomes. This review contributes to the broader discourse on improving music education and provides valuable insights for advancing student-centered approaches in Chinese high schools.

The Impact of the Transatlantic Educators Dialogue on the Contemporary Educational Process in Schools Collaborating in the United States and Europe

The Impact of the Transatlantic Educators Dialogue on the Contemporary Educational Process in Schools Collaborating in the United States and Europe

Educational Policy Analysis: Examining Pesantren Policies and Their Implications on the Independence of Kyai and Pesantren in the Contemporary Era

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the autonomy of “Kyai” (religious teachers) within Pesantren in making education policy. In examining these policies, it focuses on the evolution of teaching and the implementation of the “Asas Tunggal Pancasila” in Indonesian educational institutions, the struggles of Pesantren policies that led to the birth of Law No. 18 of 2019, and the dark side of the politicization of religion that has implications for educational policies. Design/methods/approach – This type of research uses qualitative research with a case study of two Islamic boarding schools in East Java (research objects). Primary data sources come from observation and interview results. Secondary data sources come from library sources such as laws, scientific articles (journals), books, etc. Data collection used observation techniques, semi-structured in-depth interviews, and documentation (document analysis). Data analysis techniques used qualitative data analysis techniques, namely data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Findings – The research reveals that the law empowers Pesantren and Kyai to shape their institutions in alignment with societal demands, traditions, and evolving times. Though the Kyai’s independence significantly affects the Pesantren’s trajectory, it does not singularly define its identity. The law underscores the imperative for contemporary teaching methods, curriculum evolution, and infrastructure enhancement, urging Kyai to eschew rigid and authoritarian stances. Research implications/limitations – The research has theoretical implications that two contrasting views concerning Pesantren policies’ influence on Kyai’s independence vis-à-vis political elites. Proponents (“Yes”) highlight Alignment of Interest, Empowerment and Development, and Community Engagement. Opponents (“No”) cite the Preservation of Autonomy, the potential for manipulation, and an inherent distrust of political parties. Originality/value – The research provides direction for the complex interplay between religious education and the political domain in Indonesia.

Business Studies in Secondary Schools: Exploring the Teaching and Learning Strategies in Oyo State, Nigeria

The aim of this research was to investigate the teaching methods used by teachers to effectively teach business principles to high school students in the Oke-ogun region of Oyo State, Nigeria. The study includes all the teachers and students in the secondary schools of Oyo State, Nigeria. According to the Post Primary School Management Board (PPSMB), there are 342 secondary schools in Oyo State for the 2023/2024 academic session. The research was conducted in the Oke-ogun region of Oyo State, Nigeria, which comprises 10 local government areas. The researchers purposefully chose 2 pilot schools from each local government, making a total of 20 secondary schools. The JSS 3 students were the target respondents. The study used a well-structured questionnaire and a simple random sampling technique to draw a sample size of 400 (20 students per school). The data collection instrument used was the “Business Studies in Secondary Schools: Exploring the Teaching and Learning Strategies in Oyo State, Nigeria Questionnaire.” The research questions were analyzed using Mean and Standard Deviation. It was found out in the study that the students had not been introduced to the innovative and effective methods mentioned in this research. The teachers were less familiar with strategies like experiential learning, financial literacy, cooperative learning, and integration of soft skills, as indicated in this study, and as a result, these strategies were not in use. Teachers of business studies in Oyo State secondary schools should be provided with more effective contemporary teaching strategies through regular conferences, workshops, seminars, lectures, and symposia, among others to ensure effective service delivery

Taṭhwîr al-Mawâd al-Lughah al-‘Arâbiyyah ‘alâ Asâsi al-Wasaṭiyyah ad-Dîniyyah fî al-Jâmi’ah al-Islâmiyyah

The purpose of this study is to apply the values of religious moderation through Arabic language courses in Islamic religious colleges, where this course is a type of institutional course that must be taken by all students without exception, of course this is a great opportunity for the campus to maximize efforts to prevent cases of radicalism and intolerance in the campus environment through Arabic language materials outlined in Arabic textbooks either through readings and texts related to religious norms that are tolerant, inclusive, and respectful of differences. The research method used is research on the development of a descriptive procedural model developed by Borg and Gal. The results of the study show that the development of value-based Arabic teaching materials through the four pillars of religious moderation is very important in the context of contemporary education. Materials designed with a holistic approach not only improve language proficiency, but also shape students' personalities according to the values of religious moderation. Thus, this research makes a significant contribution to Islamic education practically and theoretically and strengthening literature by adding a new dimension in the form of integrating moderation values through Arabic teaching materials.

A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF ENGINEERING EDUCATION IN THE METAVERSE

The Metaverse is a persistent and shared digital environment that blends physical and virtual reality, allowing for advanced multisensory interactions. Its acceptance has grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, despite its potential benefits for education, there are notable gaps in assessing learning processes within the Metaverse, especially concerning legal limitations and government oversight. This study aims to enhance the educational experience by promoting innovative, interactive, and engaging learning environments in various engineering disciplines, thereby equipping students with the skills necessary for success in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.This paper investigates the use of the Metaverse in engineering education through bibliometric analysis to identify key trends, challenges, and opportunities. By employing advanced tools like Publish or Perish and VOSviewer, the study analyzes bibliographic networks and statistical data to map the scholarly landscape and impact of this technology. The bibliometric analysis offers quantitative insights into research trends, citation counts, and author influence, which are presented in tables and charts for better visualization. This paper aim to enhance our understanding of how digital and immersive technologies are reshaping educational practices and boosting student engagement, motivation, and outcomes. The analysis underscores the importance of ongoing research and investment in the Metaverse as a vital resource for contemporary education, especially in engineering disciplines that thrive on interactive and hands-on learning environments. This research, despite certain limitations, lays important groundwork for understanding how the Metaverse can transform engineering education. By thoroughly analyzing and delineating the current landscape, it seeks to provide valuable insights that will guide future investigations and practical applications.