Learning Content Research Articles

EMI pioneers

This study is part of a project aimed at mapping the implementation of English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) at the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM). EMI is the use of English in teaching and learning content in curricular courses at universities where the language of instruction is not English (Dearden, 2014). The interest in EMI at the UFSM is linked to national and local internationalization policies. Despite the absence of a specific EMI policy at the UFSM, isolated EMI initiatives have been mapped (Rodrigues, 2019). This study examines perspectives of three professors regarding these initiatives to identify motivations, conditions, concerns, positive and negative outcomes, and needs. Data were collected from three sources: professors’ answers to an online questionnaire, interviews, and information retrieved from their curricula on the Lattes platform. Results indicate that the main characteristics of the EMI experiences are confidence in professors’ attitudes, support from the disciplinary community, and a pedagogical approach that emphasizes flexibility and diversity in students’ English use. These findings are expected to inform institutional actions related to EMI, such as policies and projects to support EMI professors and students.

Development and Validation of Instructional Material in Nihongo

This study aimed to develop and create a module for teaching Japanese among university students of the Bataan Peninsula State University by taking into account the students’ proficiency level and the challenges they have encountered. In addition, the developed module has undergone expert validation. The study utilized a quantitative method, specifically the descriptive design, to assess instructional material development in Nihongo. The findings highlighted that the students indicated moderate competence in writing and speaking and lower proficiency in reading, listening, and grammar, particularly a weak grasp of grammatical aspects. Furthermore, the module evaluation highlighted high language clarity but identified a need for format improvement. Therefore, this study calls for tailored approaches addressing the challenges of demographic representation, academic diversity, and nuanced language learning in Japanese instruction. Although the developed module has revealed effective, refining each aspect is essential for the learning objectives, learning content, language, format, presentation, and usefulness.

Timely Quality Problem Resolution in Peer-Production Systems: The Impact of Bots, Policy Citations, and Contributor Experience

Online peer-production systems create value by enabling people to participate in the production of a common good such as an open encyclopedia by building freely on each other’s work. Fixing quality problems in peer production in a timely manner is critical because millions of people rely on peer-produced content for learning and decision making. The longer low-quality content remains in place, the more it can harm the reputation of a peer-production system and diminish the capability of the system to maintain its contributor base. We study different mechanism affecting the timeliness of quality problem resolution in Wikipedia and find that the speedy resolution of quality problems depends on the successful integration of software robots (bots) and the careful calibration of policy citations to the different levels of experience among contributors. Most control mechanisms found in firm-based production do not apply to peer production, and instead, quality control in peer production must leverage the strengths of different contributors and harness the benefits of technological support and adaptive policy frameworks to improve productivity and achieve high-quality outcomes.

A systematic review of research on emotional artificial intelligence in English language education

In learning English as a foreign language (EFL), students often experience foreign language anxiety. Artificial intelligence (AI) applications that provide emotional support and/or create emotional impacts on student learning, so-called emotional AI applications, have received increased attention. However, there is a lack of a systematic review of studies on emotional AI in EFL education. This paper presents a systematic review of research in this field. The results reveal five affordances of emotional AI in EFL education, namely (1) enabling human-like conversations, (2) providing personalized real-time feedback or instructions, (3) translating images into English text, (4) generating personalized learning content and tasks, and (5) recognizing and analyzing emotions. The first three affordances are more frequently used and have shown promising effects on improving students’ behavioral, cognitive, and affective learning outcomes. Moreover, the findings reveal that emotional support is often integrated with cognitive support; providing emotional support alone may not be enough to support student learning. Meanwhile, providing cognitive support alone can enhance both affective and cognitive learning outcomes. Finally, attention should be paid to the factors that might influence the adoption and effects of emotional AI in EFL education.

Multiculturalism and Gender Values in Arabic Language Learning in Islamic University

This study aims to explore the integration of multiculturalism and gender values in the Arabic language learning process at Islamic universities. Using qualitative research methods, the study analyzes learning content through observations and interviews. The findings reveal that multicultural and gender values are embedded in the textbooks used and are also reflected in the approaches, strategies, methods, and techniques employed by lecturers. These values are consistently emphasized throughout the Arabic language learning process. The results of this study provide valuable insights for further research on Arabic language education, particularly in the context of multiculturalism and gender equality. Unlike previous research, this study simultaneously addresses these two critical issues in education, highlighting that multicultural education cannot be fully effective without also considering gender equality as an integral part of the learning process.

Best Practice of Moodle Implementation for E-Learning: A Perspective of Public University Lecturers

Moodle is a popular open-source learning management system (LMS) used for online learning and course management. It provides educators with tools to create online courses, manage learning content, track student progress, conduct assessments, and facilitate communication and collaboration among students and instructors. Moodle is widely used in educational institutions, corporate training settings, and various other learning environments around the world. The aim of this article was to study the best practices for implementing Moodle in e-learning, as perceived by public university lecturers. This study employed a qualitative approach, utilizing Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) among lecturers from public universities. All data were meticulously transcribed and subsequently analyzed thematically. The results show, experts agreed that three best practices were i) Optimizing the task of e-learning manager, ii) Utilize the restriction option to uphold student integrity and, iii) Implementing regular data backups. Therefore, this study enriches the field by providing practical recommendations for implementing Moodle, drawing from the insights of public university lecturers.

Evaluating the students’ academic performance in the higher education sector through using social media platforms

Purpose This study aims to explore the factors that affect higher education students’ behavioral intention and use of social media for educational purposes in the COVID-19 era, where the UTAUT2 model was adopted. Design/methodology/approach Convenience sampling was used to collect the required sample size and 301 completed questionnaires were analyzed. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS4. Findings The analysis highlights in this study that eight hypotheses were supported, whereas six were not. The evidence from this study suggests that students in Oman have the needed resources that facilitate their adoption and use of social media for learning. Also, they have a more robust tendency level for the intention to use it in the future. With these in hand, higher education institutions must enforce the use of social media in education to take advantage of its availability where students can access valuable learning content at no cost. Originality/value This study offers empirical evidence on critical success factors underlying using online learning systems that can help system developers, higher education institutions and policymakers develop better strategies and systems that can support students' online learning and education.

Evaluasi Program Kelas Unggulan di MIN 1 Medan

This research aims to explore: First, evaluate the Superior Class Program Policy at MIN 1 Medan. Second, knowing the strategies that can be implemented to optimize the Superior Class Program at MIN 1 Medan. Third, find out the obstacles faced in the MIN 1 Medan Superior Class Program Policy. This research method is a qualitative type with a descriptive approach. The instruments used in this research were observation, interviews and documentation studies. This research evaluation model uses the CIPP evaluation model, namely context, input, process and product evaluation. The location of this research is MIN 1 Medan, North Sumatra. This research data analysis uses three steps, data reduction, data presentation and conclusion drawing. The research results show that: First, the implementation of the superior class program at MIN 1 Medan includes implementing different learning from regular ones, has more complete facilities than regular ones, and learning takes longer than regular ones. Second, the planning strategy for the superior class program, namely interactive digital learning media at MIN 1 Medan, is to be more practical and carried out as early as possible so that students can easily adapt in the future. The use of digital media also helps students develop technological skills which are very important in the modern era. And facilities such as TVs are available in superior classes so that they don't use projectors which take a long time to start learning. Third, the obstacle faced in the superior class program is Training Limitations: Even though intensive training has been carried out, there are still challenges in getting an adequate amount of training for all teachers in the superior class program. Insufficient Content: At times, the availability of appropriate, quality content to support learning in top class programs can be a challenge. Time Limitations: Implementing interactive digital learning media requires additional time for preparation and development of learning content in superior class programs. Student Engagement: Although digital learning media can increase student engagement, there are also challenges in ensuring that all students can access and use the technology effectively in accordance with excellent classroom programs.

EXPLORING INDONESIAN EFL PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS’ EXPERIENCES IN AI-ASSISTED TEACHING PRACTICUM: BENEFITS AND DRAWBACKS

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational settings is rapidly evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges for pre-service English teachers. This case study explored three Indonesian EFL pre-service teachers’ experiences in using AI technologies and the implications for their pedagogical practices during teaching practicum. Several AI tools, namely ChatGPT, Copilot, Twee, and Quizizz AI, were used to help the pre-service teachers in planning, creating learning content, and assessing students. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews, reflective reports, and artifacts from the three Indonesian pre-service teachers majoring in English language education joining a teaching practicum program in a local school for 6 weeks. The qualitative data analysis revealed that the Indonesian EFL pre-service teachers saw three essential benefits of AI-assisted teaching practicum: (1) AI assists them with brainstorming and ideation process, (2) AI makes teaching preparation more time efficient, and (3) AI assists them in crafting tailor-made English materials for students. Meanwhile, they also addressed some challenges in the process, namely (1) overreliance, (2) ethical violation, and (3) fabricated and misleading contents.

Revitalisasi Produk Tempe dalam Wisata Edukasi Keberlanjutan Melalui Hilirisasi Karpet Interaktif Muatan Pembelajaran Berbasis Game dan Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning

The revitalization of tempe products in sustainable educational tourism through the downstreaming of interactive carpets with game-based learning content and Problem Based Learning (PBL) models aims to enhance attractiveness and learning effectiveness. This program integrates interactive technology and problem-based learning approaches to create enjoyable and immersive educational experiences. Methods include developing game-based interactive carpets, providing technical training for tourism managers, and evaluating effectiveness through user feedback. Results indicate increased learning interest and visitor understanding of tempe production processes and sustainability concepts. The implementation of this program is expected to support the development of innovative educational tourism and promote environmental sustainability.

Optimalisasi Proses Pembelajaran Mahasiswa PPG Seni Budaya Melalui Implementasi Edukit Berbasis Interactive Surface

This research aims to optimize the learning process of PPG Arts and Culture students through the implementation of Interactive Surface-based education. The methodology used includes needs analysis, design and development of education, as well as evaluation of the effectiveness of its implementation. This education is designed to provide a more interactive and immersive learning experience, using Interactive Surface technology that allows direct manipulation of learning content. The research results showed a significant increase in student engagement and understanding of the learning material. Evaluation through surveys and in-depth interviews confirms that this education is effective in supporting more adaptive and innovative learning strategies. This research makes an important contribution to the development of modern learning tools that are relevant to today's educational needs.

Effect of Mastery Learning Combined with Mind Mapping Technique on the Students’ Sculpture Performance Ability for Junior University Students

Background and Aims: The Chinese government has issued a series of policy documents to support the development of the cultural industry, providing policy guarantees and guidance for the development of sculpture education. Traditional teaching methods usually use unified teaching content and teaching methods, which cannot meet the individual needs of students. The comprehensive application of "Mastery Learning with Mind Mapping" theory and methods can provide solid technical support and rich teaching methods for the reform of sculpture education. Through the application of personalized learning plans and mind mapping, students' learning content and space can be expanded, and their learning efficiency and learning quality can be improved. This comprehensive approach can not only meet students' learning needs but also stimulate their learning interest and creativity and promote their all-round development. Therefore, the promotion and application of this method in sculpture education are of great significance and value. This study aims to explore and evaluate the impact of mastery learning combined with mind mapping technique on college students' sculpture learning achievements and performance ability through mastery learning combined with mind mapping technique. Materials and Methods: The instruments for the experiment were four lesson plans. To evaluate the quality of a curriculum plan, it can be assessed using a Likert five-point scale. The quality of the scale can be measured using the Item-Objective Congruence (IOC) The assessment process involves analyzing each component of the lesson plan, attributing scores on the Likert scale, and then calculating the average score and the standard deviation (SD) for each component. The instruments for collecting data were two instruments needed to collect the sampling data, as the detailed list showed: sculpture score assessment and sculpture performance competency assessment. The sample was 30 students (one class) among the 120 junior students in the 2023 academic year. The procedures for data collection are as follows, the sample learning achievement before and after learning through Mastery Learning with Mind mapping and sculpture performance ability after learning through Mastery Learning with Mind mapping with the established 70 percent Results: The study evaluated the effectiveness of employing mastery learning combined with mind mapping techniques to enhance students' learning achievement and sculpture performance ability. Significant improvement was observed, with posttest scores surpassing pretest scores (t =13.06*, p =0.05). Furthermore, students' sculpture performance ability scores after mastering learning with mind mapping (81.1%) exceeded the 70% criterion, with statistical significance (t =11.05*, p =0.001). Conclusion: Compared with previous related studies, the results of this study showed that using mastery learning combined with mind mapping technique teaching had a significant positive effect on the sophomore research on sculpture performance ability. This is consistent with the findings of Chen Linsheng (2022), who found that the use of mind-mapping techniques in art education can improve students' learning achievement. Combining the findings of previous studies and the results of this study, we can conclude that mastery learning combined with mind mapping technique teaching has positive effects on the ability of sculpture performance in sophomore students. However, further research still needs to explore the impact of different teaching methods on students of different grades and specialties to get a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of mastery learning combined with mind-mapping technique teaching.

The impact of observing lecturer hand motor actions on the learning of cognitive skills in higher education

Class demonstrations where the lecturer's hand motor actions are observable generally have a positive effect on the learning of motor skills because they trigger an effortless process of embodied simulations. Whether the learning of cognitive skills is likewise affected by such visualisations is yet to be investigated and might depend on the learning content as well as other factors. This study aimed to investigate whether showing the lecturer's hand via a document camera during an introductory financial accounting class affects student learning (transfer performance), cognitive load responses, and note-taking behaviour compared to a writing pad where the lecturer's hand is not visible. The study utilised a quasi-experimental design in an in-person setting, with a pre-test and post-test comparison of two groups of participants: one group that viewed a lecture video without the lecturer's hand being visible (n = 509), and another group that viewed the same lecture with the lecturer's hand being visible (n = 571). The results showed that the with-hand group had a significantly higher increase in test scores compared to the without-hand group. However, the visibility of the hand did not significantly impact cognitive load or note-taking behaviour. The findings have important practical implications for education, as incorporating non-verbal cues such as the lecturer's hand may effectively enhance learning cognitive skills.

Perceived Enablers of and Barriers to Serious Game as Oral Histology Learning Strategy for Undergraduate Dental Students.

Previously, we reported the serious game HistoRM as an innovative learning approach for an oral histology course. This study aimed to examine the impact of HistoRM on summative assessment and the enablers and barriers factors affecting HistoRM as an interactive learning strategy in an oral histology course. A crossover randomized controlled trial was performed. Study participants were first-year dental students at the Universitas Indonesia. The average final grades of students who participated in HistoRM serious game were significantly higher than those of students who did not participate in this trial (p < 0.001). Positive responses of HistoRM were observed in the learning content, games and learning experience domains. The enabler factors most recognized by the students were the game method, which helped students to understand the learning materials; the immediate feedback provided following each gameplay; as well as the fun and interesting gameplay. The barrier factors most recognized by the students were some challenges of the gameplay, which resulted in a longer time needed to study. While the HistoRM serious game can stimulate student motivation and engagement in learning oral histology, overcoming the barriers is essential for the implementation of serious games as a complementary learning approach in the dental curriculum.

Effects of pecha kucha presentation pedagogy on nursing students’ presentation skills: a quasi-experimental study in Tanzania

IntroductionIneffective and non-interactive learning among nursing students limits opportunities for students’ classroom presentation skills, creativity, and innovation upon completion of their classroom learning activities. Pecha Kucha presentation is the new promising pedagogy that engages students in learning and improves students’ speaking skills and other survival skills. It involves the use of 20 slides, each covering 20 seconds of its presentation. The current study examined the effect of Pecha Kucha’s presentation pedagogy on presentation skills among nursing students in Tanzania.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to establish comparative nursing student’s presentation skills between exposure to the traditional PowerPoint presentations and Pecha Kucha presentations.MethodsThe study employed an uncontrolled quasi-experimental design (pre-post) using a quantitative research approach among 230 randomly selected nursing students at the respective training institution. An interviewer-administered structured questionnaire adopted from previous studies to measure presentation skills between June and July 2023 was used. The study involved the training of research assistants, pre-assessment of presentation skills, training of participants, assigning topics to participants, classroom presentations, and post-intervention assessment. A linear regression analysis model was used to determine the effect of the intervention on nursing students’ presentation skills using Statistical Package for Social Solution (SPSS) version 26, set at a 95% confidence interval and 5% significance level.ResultsFindings revealed that 63 (70.87%) participants were aged ≤ 23 years, of which 151 (65.65%) and 189 (82.17%) of them were males and undergraduate students, respectively. Post-test findings showed a significant mean score change in participants’ presentation skills between baseline (M = 4.07 ± SD = 0.56) and end-line (M = 4.54 ± SD = 0.59) that accounted for 0.4717 ± 0.7793; p < .0001(95%CI) presentation skills mean score change with a medium effect size of 0.78. An increase in participants’ knowledge of Pecha Kucha presentation was associated with a 0.0239 (p < .0001) increase in presentation skills.ConclusionPecha Kucha presentations have a significant effect on nursing students’ presentation skills as they enhance inquiry and mastery of their learning content before classroom presentations. The pedagogical approach appeared to enhance nursing students’ confidence during the classroom presentation. Therefore, there is a need to incorporate Pecha Kucha presentation pedagogy into nursing curricula and nursing education at large to promote student-centered teaching and learning activities and the development of survival skills.Trial registrationIt was not applicable as it was a quasi-experimental study.

Sociodemographic Factors and Students’ Attitudes towards Integrated Instruction

The primary objective of the study was to ascertain the attitudes of final-year students in undergraduate academic and master’s academic studies at the University of Nis Faculty of Sport and Physical Education and the University of Pristina - Kosovska Mitrovica Teacher Education Faculty in Prizren - Leposavic toward the possibilities of integrating the learning contents of the subjects Serbian Language and Physical Education. The study aims to investigate views about integrated instruction and the incorporation of Serbian Language and Physical Education in the integrative curriculum based on several demographic criteria such as gender, age, faculty major, overall grade point average, and socioeconomic status. The research was conducted on a sample of 179 students. Descriptive techniques were used to determine the level of expression of basic variables, while a Linear Regression Model was employed for statistical inference testing of established hypothesis. The results obtained indicate a statistically significant correlation between attitudes towards integrated instruction and the incorporation of the Serbian Language in the integrative curriculum in relation to sociodemographic characteristics (Hypothesis 1 and 2). However, no statistically significant associations were found for attitudes towards the incorporation of Physical Education in the integrative curriculum concerning sociodemographic variables (Hypothesis 3).

Use of Arabic Language Learning Media at Madani Islamic Boarding School Payakumbuh Integrated Islamic Junior High School

The use of learning media is important in improving the effectiveness of Arabic language learning at SMP-IT Madani Islamic Boarding School Payakumbuh. In today's digital era, the integration of technology in education is becoming increasingly relevant to create a more interactive and engaging learning environment for students. The purpose of this study is to find out the process of using technological media in improving students' understanding of Arabic, as well as to identify the challenges faced in its application. The research method used was descriptive qualitative with a case study approach. Data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews with teachers and students, and analysis of related documents. This approach enabled the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of the teachers' and students' experiences and perceptions of the use of technological media in learning. The result of this study is that the use of technological media has provided various benefits in Arabic language learning at SMP IT Madani Islamic Boarding School. Teachers use blended learning approach and utilise learning videos from YouTube to teach various Arabic language skills, especially speaking ability and vocabulary memorisation. The conclusion of this study is that technological media has great potential to improve the quality of Arabic language learning at SMP-IT Madani Islamic Boarding School Payakumbuh. To optimise its benefits, it is necessary to increase access to technology for all students, continuous training for teachers, and development of learning content in accordance with the curriculum. With these steps, it is hoped that the Arabic learning process can become more effective and enjoyable for students.

Learning outcomes for postgraduate education in anatomy based on national qualifications framework

Postgraduate education provides students with a higher level of education in their chosen subject of study. This study described and discussed learning outcomes for postgraduate education in anatomy, drawing on the author’s own experiences. Because learning at higher levels is contingent on acquiring prerequisite knowledge, skills, and competences at lower levels, learning outcomes based on lower-level qualifications were established for each degree. The arrangement of postgraduate programs varies greatly not only between nations but also among the universities within the same country. Having a uniform framework appears to be a useful and novel guideline for institutions. The National Qualifications Framework for Higher Education in Türkiye (NQF-HETR) provides specific explanations for degrees based on learning outcomes and content to build new qualifications. Learning outcomes reflect what a learner is expected to know, understand, and/or be able to do by the end of a learning period. There are three categories of learning outcomes: knowledge, skills, and competences. Learning outcomes for postgraduate education in anatomy provide a means of translating the goals of an anatomy course or program into a set of competences, as well as providing students with clear indications of their paths through postgraduate education and what levels of knowledge and skills will qualify them for degree awards. Learning outcomes also provide a useful language for communicating about a curriculum.

Feasibility of a problem-based social constructivism learning model to improve higher-order thinking skills among primary school students

This research aims to demonstrate the results of an experiment on how the Problem-Based Social Constructivism Learning Model (PBSCL) can be developed to effectively promote Higher-Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) among primary school children. The methodology employed in this study was developmental research which involved thorough preliminary studies, meticulous product development and comprehensive product testing stages. Respondents for this study included model experts, language experts, content specialists and practitioners. Data collection instruments used were detailed questionnaires served during the feasibility test. In addition, product testing involved rigorously confirming the findings of product development through extensive expert validation, including learning model expert validation, content or material expert validation, language expert validation and practitioner validation. The results of the assessment on learning design expert validators for the PBSCL learning model indicated that they had high qualifications with the average score being 3.29. Consequently, learning design experts ensured that the criteria were meticulously met by the PBSCL learning model for HOTS improvement. Additionally, subject matter specialists confirmed the appropriateness and effectiveness of using the PBSCL learning model for HOTS improvement. The findings suggest that the PBSCL learning model has significant potential to substantially enhance HOTS among primary school students. However, further investigation is needed to fully validate its effectiveness and practical application in diverse educational settings.

Development of an Interactive HOTS Gamified e-Module for Prospective Elementary School Teachers at the University Level

Background. The crritical thinking and creativity designing has not been applied and adopted in learning optimally. The HOTS e-modul learning for teacher training program will lead them to analize and maximize their learning achivment. The purpose of learning need to be improved as well as the conventional media design must be updated to help learners to teach creatively and hink critically. Purpose. The purpose of this study is to develop HOTS content in the science subject e-module of Pohuwato University, increase creativity in developing teaching strategies and methods, improve critical thinking in understanding learning content and develop the creativity of prospective teachers in designing materials, media and teaching modules that are in accordance with the conditions and abilities of students at the elementary school level. Method. The method used is R&amp;D with the DDDE (Decide, Design, Develop, and Evaluate) model which was chosen because it is in accordance with the purpose of developing HOTS-based interactive e-modules and gamification. The small-scale trial of the HOTS E-module was carried out by experts of teacher, lecturers and also a large-scale trial was carried out by 46 students. The test subject was determined using the purposive sampling technique. In collecting research data, it is carried out by providing questionnaire tests that have been collected descriptively. Results. Results shows that the interactive HOTS e-module based on gamification, developed using the DDD-E model, meets the validity criteria with an average score of 3.89, is deemed practical with an average score of 3.66, and demonstrates effectiveness, with 86.8% of students achieving a minimum test score of 70. Conclusion. The interactive HOTS e-module, developed using the DDD-E model, is valid, practical, and effective. It equips future teachers with innovative tools to enhance critical thinking and student engagement, promoting better learning outcomes through gamified educational experiences.