Contemporary Education Research Articles

The mundane governance of education through time: the case of national testing in Norway

ABSTRACT This article explores national testing in Norway by analyzing technical and bureaucratic documents steering the process of data production. By examining documents through sociological perspectives on time, as well as attuning to the form and genre of the documents, we identify bureaucratic, sociotechnical, and genre-specific ways in which data production is structured to ensure a smooth process of testing. We find that national tests govern (through) time and by ordering time: their time rules produce simultaneity and synchronicity that in turn gently nudge schools and municipalities into alignment. Thus, time rules and routines enable forms of mundane governance that mirror how contemporary education policy happens through short but more prescriptive (and increasingly digital) policy texts. This is how national authorities may make themselves less detectable, but ever more present and productive of national unity. While recent conversations on time and temporality focus on the emergence of complex, non-linear (e.g. networked) time enabled by the digital transformation of society and education, our article attests to the persistence and significance of linear temporalities in and for education governance, and shows how quantification, assessment, bureaucracy and the affordances of digital technologies together play pivotal roles in upholding a linear time order.

Comparison among Three Articles of Instructional Pedagogies : A critical Review on Three Journal Articles Reporting Research about Contemporary Teaching Methods and Current Pedagogical Issues)

Comparison among Three Articles of Instructional Pedagogies : A critical Review on Three Journal Articles Reporting Research about Contemporary Teaching Methods and Current Pedagogical Issues)

An encounter with God’s honored partner: Karl Barth’s Christ-centered philosophy of education

Karl Barth is regarded as one of the most preeminent theologians of the 20th century. While much attention has been given to Barth’s theological writings, little attention has been paid to his teaching practices. However, analyzing a historical narrative of Barth’s teaching career—culled from two highly regarded biographies on Barth—through the lens of Barth’s theology yields a robustly Christian philosophy of teaching that is theologically rooted and practically demonstrated. Viewed in this way, the narrative of Barth’s teaching provides a model for contemporary teachers on how they might connect their Christian faith with their pedagogical practice.

Relationship between Teacher Professional Development and use for ICT in Teaching and Learning in Primary Schools in Sabuli Sub-County, Wajir County

Information and communication technology use in education has become an indispensable aspect in the contemporary education system. This explains why many governments including Kenya government have invested in information and communication technology to foster the quality of education. However, despite efforts to avail information and communication technology resources, their use and impact on instructional delivery has been minimal, especially in primary schools in Kenya. Consequently, there has been concern on relationship between availability of information and communication technology and teacher professional development in primary schools. This situation has necessitated the proposed study which is aimed at assessing the relationship between teacher professional development and use for ICT in teaching and learning in primary schools in Sabuli sub-county, Wajir County, Kenya. The study used correlation research design. The target population 94 teacher comprising 30 head teachers and 64 teachers of primary schools in Sabuli sub-county, Wajir County. Given the small number of teachers in public primary schools in Sabuli sub county, the study purposively selected all teachers and head teachers as participant to avoid reducing the ambiguity of a study. Thus, the sample population was 94 respondents. The researcher gathered data using questionnaires from teachers and used semi-structured interview for head-teachers. Data was analysed using descriptive and regression statistics. The findings highlight a statistically significant positive relationship between teacher professional development and ICT use, indicating a direct relationship between the two variables.

Constructive alignment of materials in tertiary programs

With the increasing adoption of blended learning, tertiary programs are becoming ever more varied and complicated. Laying at the heart of a range of complex learning activities, the role of blended materials once again comes into discussions concerning learning outcomes. But how do contemporary educators design and use blended materials to support pedagogical goals? In this study, we examine the constructive alignment of blended materials with the learning outcomes of modern language programs. Using pedagogical claims analyses with data gathered in two case studies, we found that educators tend to align materials to the curriculum, student interests, a research agenda and contemporary culture. We conclude our work with a discussion of constructive alignment of materials design and use in tertiary blended learning.

The role of interactive learning in mathematics education: fostering student engagement and interest

This article examines the role of active learning in mathematics and its impact on stimulating students' interest in the subject. It analyses contemporary methods of active learning, such as group projects, discussions, and problem-based tasks, and considers their applicability in teaching mathematics. The article discusses different methods of stimulating students' interest in mathematics, including the use of practical examples, interactive teaching methods, and support for independent research. Based on the analysis conducted, recommendations are provided for creating a learning environment that fosters the maximum development of students' interest in mathematics and enhances the effectiveness of their learning. The article highlights the significance of contemporary teaching methods in mathematics. These methods concentrate on fundamental mathematical concepts and foster critical thinking, communication skills, and independent research skills. The article discusses the importance of studying formal geometry in mathematical education and proposes original methods for solving classical and authorial problems based on new dependencies that were previously unknown. In conclusion, the article highlights that active learning is a crucial component of successful mathematics education. It promotes not only the assimilation of material but also the development of skills necessary for successful adaptation and application of knowledge in various life spheres and careers.

Shifting the paradigm: a critical review of educational approaches for fostering learner wellbeing

This critical review explores how contemporary education is undergoing a paradigm shift by integrating learner wellbeing as a core objective. The review delves into the potential shortcomings of traditional, exam-driven educational approaches, which can inadvertently contribute to stress, anxiety, and a sense of alienation among learners. Studies have shown positive correlations between SEL programs and improvements in student mental health, academic performance, and social skills. Mindfulness interventions have also demonstrated promising results in reducing stress and anxiety while promoting emotional resilience and focus among learners. On the other hand, student-centred pedagogies have been linked to increased student engagement, motivation, and self-efficacy. However, the review acknowledges that challenges remain in fully integrating wellbeing into educational practices. Teacher training and professional development are crucial for successfully implementing these approaches. Additionally, ensuring consistency and alignment between wellbeing initiatives at the classroom level and broader school policies remains a concern. Furthermore, standardized testing and high-stakes assessments can continue to create pressure and anxiety, potentially undermining efforts to foster wellbeing. In conclusion, this critical review highlights the growing recognition of learner wellbeing as a core educational objective. By exploring various theoretical frameworks, the limitations of traditional approaches, and the potential of emerging practices, the review underscores the need for a paradigm shift in education. Ultimately, integrating wellbeing into the educational experience has the potential to nurture not only academically successful individuals but also well-rounded, resilient, and thriving learners.

The Effects of Digital Divide on the Educational Rights of Marginalised

The contemporary education system in Kerala, India, has adapted to the online teaching-learning process with the inevitable integration of technological advancements. Within the diverse socioeconomic-politicall and scapes in India, the gapin various forms of capital available for individuals also expands to the realm of digital engagement. The aim of the current study is toanalyse how spatial locations intersect with digital access to education. This paper showcasesmultiple factors responsible for creating the crisis of digital divide among geographically estranged communities. The current study employs a descriptive design and presents its findings through athorough narrative review of the existing literature.

Cross-cultural instructional design: A framework for multilingual and interdisciplinary education

This review paper presents a comprehensive framework for cross-cultural instructional design, aiming to seamlessly integrate multilingual education with interdisciplinary teaching approaches. With globalization fostering diverse classroom demographics, educators face the challenge of creating inclusive learning environments that cater to students from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Recognizing the importance of addressing cultural and linguistic diversity in education, this framework explores strategies for curriculum designers to incorporate these elements into lesson plans and learning materials effectively. Drawing upon insights from both the humanities and STEM fields, the review elucidates how educators can harness cultural and linguistic diversity to enrich students' learning experiences. By infusing cross-cultural perspectives into educational content, curriculum designers can foster critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness among learners. The paper emphasizes the inherent benefits of exposing students to diverse cultural viewpoints, thereby promoting a more holistic understanding of the subject matter. Furthermore, the review discusses best practices for creating culturally responsive educational content that resonates with learners from diverse backgrounds. It advocates for the development of instructional materials that not only accommodate linguistic variations but also celebrate cultural nuances. Through the incorporation of authentic cultural artifacts, texts, and examples, educators can cultivate a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity while enhancing students' engagement and learning outcomes. Overall, this review underscores the significance of adopting a cross-cultural instructional design framework in contemporary education. By embracing cultural and linguistic diversity as integral components of the learning process, educators can empower students to navigate an increasingly interconnected world with sensitivity, empathy, and proficiency. This framework serves as a roadmap for educators seeking to create inclusive learning environments that foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Keywords: Cross-Cultural, Instructional Design, Multilingual Education, Interdisciplinary Approaches, Cultural Diversity, Linguistic Diversity.

Inclusive curriculum design: Meeting the diverse needs of students for social improvement

Inclusive curriculum design is a critical framework in contemporary education aimed at addressing the diverse needs of students for fostering social improvement. This review explores the foundational principles and practical strategies of inclusive curriculum design to enhance educational equity and societal progress. Inclusive curriculum design prioritizes the creation of learning environments that accommodate the varied backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles of all students. It recognizes the importance of representation, diversity, and inclusivity in course content, instructional methods, and assessment practices. By embracing diversity and equity as core values, inclusive curriculum design seeks to dismantle barriers to learning and promote equal opportunities for academic success. Central to inclusive curriculum design is the concept of universal design for learning (UDL), which emphasizes flexible instructional approaches that cater to individual differences. UDL encourages educators to provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression to support diverse learners effectively. Moreover, inclusive curriculum design promotes the incorporation of culturally responsive teaching practices that validate students' identities and experiences. By integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum, educators can foster empathy, understanding, and respect among students, contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious society. Through the implementation of inclusive curriculum design, educational institutions can play a pivotal role in advancing social improvement by cultivating inclusive learning environments where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. By embracing diversity and equity in curriculum design, educators can nurture the next generation of compassionate and socially conscious citizens who are equipped to contribute positively to a more inclusive and equitable society. Keywords: Education, Curriculum Design, Social Improvement, Diverse Needs, Students, Review.

Sitting on all sides of the table? OECD’s role in Icelandic Education Policy 2030

ABSTRACT The OECD is an inevitable force in contemporary education. This paper illustrates how the OECD affects recent education policy-making in Iceland with a particular focus on recent documents establishing the new Education Policy 2030 in Iceland and on OECD reports that directly relate to this policy. We illustrate the relationship between these documents both topically and chronologically and use Marilyn Strathern’s (2006) reasoning about policy making by bullet-points to understand these policy products. Our conclusions are that education policy 2030 is a clear step into a more Nordic tradition of policymaking, in terms of basing policy in previous works and official reports as well as increasing involvement by stakeholders. However, they are characterized by politically admirable, albeit lofty, formulations of ambitions and focus areas, rather than measurable, actionable and implementable policies. The OECD is given a great influence not only as a referential point and a tool to legitimate particular policies, but also a post-hoc policy-implementation adviser and auditor of the policy. Even though the OECD is asked for evaluation of the visionary policy and seems to be the solution to the perceived lack of professional procedure in Icelandic governance, the time-frame seems not to have allowed a thorough use of their advice.

Formation of students’ research thinking: the key goal of modern education

This article explores the imperative role of fostering research-oriented thinking among students in contemporary education. Educators facilitate the development of student's analytical skills, creativity, and independent inquiry by adopting various pedagogical methods such as problem-based learning, research projects, engagement in scientific endeavors, cultivation of critical thinking, and technology integration. This paper underscores the significance of integrating these strategies to nurture a generation equipped to tackle the complexities of the modern world emphasizing active learning and interdisciplinary approaches.

Designing and testing an Integrated Study Strategy: Core Concepts in physiology and Mind Maps

This abstract shows the result of an innovative approach for learning physiology by combining two widely recognized methods: Core Concepts in physiology and Mind Maps. The objective is demonstrating the graphic product that visualize conceptual relationships holistically (mind map) combined with core concepts in cardiovascular physiology generated by a group of students enrolled to the integrative physiology course (2nd-year medical students, medical bachelor's degree, Professional Studies Faculty, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, México) during the semester august to December 2023. Methods: the curriculum content of cardiovascular physiology includes excitation-contraction coupling of the heart, the heart cycle, determinants of arterial pressure and peripheric vascular characteristics, including special circulations. The development of the mind map was according to the academic content of the course (4 weeks). The group of students worked with a training physiology teacher (including core concept training) for one 2-hour session per week (total= 4 sessions). The result is a mind map that includes the aspects of cardiovascular physiology addressed by the core concepts tool. Conclusion: Contemporary education faces increasing challenges in information retention and comprehension., and in this context, the integration of these two strategies emerges as a promising solution. This combination of learning tool is applicable in environments of low socioeconomical status because not involve doesn´t involve any monetary investments. Curricular Commission and the Academy or Clinical and Basic Sciences belonging to the bachelor´s degree of the Professional Studies Faculty, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, México. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

La formación del docente de Educación Primaria. Reflexiones y perspectivas

Contemporary teacher training in Mexico is conditioned by the demands of the Educational Reform of the New Mexican School, in terms of the promotion of knowledge in the new generations, which transcend to situations of the socio-educational context in which they live. This implies a critical reflection based on a self-analysis that accounts for the exercise of self-diagnosis and a self-critical awareness that implies the recognition of continuous training needs throughout professional life, in order to generate better dynamics and instruments to detonate in educational alternatives that meet the own training needs and generate better links with the educational community. Some background students on teacher training are presented, as a support for initial and continuous understanding, from which professionalization processes are triggered, in which individual and collegiate reflection is revitalized, based on the experiential knowledge that emerges in the field of the processes of how to teach to learn, in order to activate cognitive processes in students, which condition the internalization and significance of their learning, as a support for continuous training processes. Therefore, different studies on the subject have been reviewed in order to identify references in the field of initial and continuing education, which allow rethinking the organization of teacher training programs in light of the demands of today's society.

Philosophy in Contemporary Education: Foundation or Instrument?

Philosophy in Contemporary Education: Foundation or Instrument?

Unveiling the Pedagogical Paradigm: Exploring the Significance of Project-Based Learning in Contemporary Education

Unveiling the Pedagogical Paradigm: Exploring the Significance of Project-Based Learning in Contemporary Education

Cross-cultural instructional design: A framework for multilingual and interdisciplinary education

This review paper presents a comprehensive framework for cross-cultural instructional design, aiming to seamlessly integrate multilingual education with interdisciplinary teaching approaches. With globalization fostering diverse classroom demographics, educators face the challenge of creating inclusive learning environments that cater to students from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Recognizing the importance of addressing cultural and linguistic diversity in education, this framework explores strategies for curriculum designers to incorporate these elements into lesson plans and learning materials effectively. Drawing upon insights from both the humanities and STEM fields, the review elucidates how educators can harness cultural and linguistic diversity to enrich students' learning experiences. By infusing cross-cultural perspectives into educational content, curriculum designers can foster critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness among learners. The paper emphasizes the inherent benefits of exposing students to diverse cultural viewpoints, thereby promoting a more holistic understanding of the subject matter. Furthermore, the review discusses best practices for creating culturally responsive educational content that resonates with learners from diverse backgrounds. It advocates for the development of instructional materials that not only accommodate linguistic variations but also celebrate cultural nuances. Through the incorporation of authentic cultural artifacts, texts, and examples, educators can cultivate a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity while enhancing students' engagement and learning outcomes. Overall, this review underscores the significance of adopting a cross-cultural instructional design framework in contemporary education. By embracing cultural and linguistic diversity as integral components of the learning process, educators can empower students to navigate an increasingly interconnected world with sensitivity, empathy, and proficiency. This framework serves as a roadmap for educators seeking to create inclusive learning environments that foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Inclusive curriculum design: Meeting the diverse needs of students for social improvement

Inclusive curriculum design is a critical framework in contemporary education aimed at addressing the diverse needs of students for fostering social improvement. This review explores the foundational principles and practical strategies of inclusive curriculum design to enhance educational equity and societal progress. Inclusive curriculum design prioritizes the creation of learning environments that accommodate the varied backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles of all students. It recognizes the importance of representation, diversity, and inclusivity in course content, instructional methods, and assessment practices. By embracing diversity and equity as core values, inclusive curriculum design seeks to dismantle barriers to learning and promote equal opportunities for academic success. Central to inclusive curriculum design is the concept of universal design for learning (UDL), which emphasizes flexible instructional approaches that cater to individual differences. UDL encourages educators to provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression to support diverse learners effectively. Moreover, inclusive curriculum design promotes the incorporation of culturally responsive teaching practices that validate students' identities and experiences. By integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum, educators can foster empathy, understanding, and respect among students, contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious society. Through the implementation of inclusive curriculum design, educational institutions can play a pivotal role in advancing social improvement by cultivating inclusive learning environments where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. By embracing diversity and equity in curriculum design, educators can nurture the next generation of compassionate and socially conscious citizens who are equipped to contribute positively to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Exploring the Evolution of Educational Methods: Perspectives from Imaginative Culture and Human Nature

Education is a fundamental pillar in human development, and its evolution throughout history has been influenced by a variety of factors, including imaginative culture and human nature. In this study, we explore how educational methods have evolved in response to the interaction between these two aspects. We look at how human creativity, imagination, and adaptation have influenced the way we teach and learn, from early forms of knowledge transmission to more contemporary approaches focused on active student engagement and the development of practical skills. Our research is based on a comprehensive review of the academic literature in the fields of education, evolutionary psychology, cultural anthropology, and imagination studies. We explore how societies have used imagination as a tool to transmit knowledge and values, as well as to foster creativity and individual expression. We also examine how adaptive aspects of human nature, such as the ability to learn collaboratively and adapt to changing environments, have influenced the way educational methods are designed. Our results show a clear evolution in educational methods over time, from approaches focused on the one-way transmission of knowledge to more interactive and participatory models that encourage exploration and discovery. We identify common patterns in the way societies have used imagination and adaptation to promote learning and socialization and discuss the implications of these findings for contemporary education. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between imaginative culture, human nature, and education. It provides a solid foundation for the design of educational methods that harness the innate creativity and adaptability of human beings and offers guidance for educators and policymakers on how to promote meaningful and lasting learning in today's world.

The Relevance of Ibn Khaldun's Educational Methods to Contemporary Education

The increasingly developing pattern of education certainly cannot be separated from the thoughts of Islamic figures, one of whom is Ibnu Khaldun, who contributed his thoughts to the development of education. This research aims to analyze the relevance of Ibn Khaldun's educational methods to contemporary education, especially Islamic religious education. This research uses a qualitative method with a library approach, data sources are taken from several books, journals, articles, and writings related to the research problem being studied so that the data obtained is more accurate. The results of research on the educational methods proposed by Ibnu Khaldun show that eight methods are suitable for current educational methods that can still be applied to contemporary education, namely; 1) Tadarruj, 2) Tikrari, 3) Alqrub wa Almuyana, 4) Determining maturity in learning, 5) Physical and psychological adaptation, 6) Potential development, 7) Mastery of one field of knowledge, 8) Widya Wisata, 9) Tadrib, and 10) Book Summarization. Based on these findings, Ibnu Khaldun's thoughts are still used in contemporary education because suitability in the world of education cannot be separated from the methods and creativity of educators, and Ibnu Khaldun's thought methods are also still relevant to education in this modern era.