Curriculum Assessment Research Articles

52116 Assessment of an Evidence-Based Dermatology Curriculum for Primary Care Medical Education

52116 Assessment of an Evidence-Based Dermatology Curriculum for Primary Care Medical Education

Infant bronchial tree simulator: Success of a built-from-scratch model for single lung isolation

BackgroundOne-lung ventilation in infants is a high-risk procedure. Complications include endotracheal tube occlusion, with grave consequences. Although there are commercially available bronchoscopy simulators, there are no realistic models of infant patients. This limits access to training opportunities that would ensure safe and efficient lung isolation. To bridge this gap, we developesd a realistic infant bronchial tree model for single lung intubation and evaluated preliminary validity evidence of its features and clinicians’ ability to perform critical skills associated with pediatric one-lung ventilation. MethodsUsing computed tomography imaging, a stereolithography file of an infant airway was generated to 3D print a model. This model was inserted into a commercially available airway trainer to allow lung isolation using standard bronchoscopy techniques. Ten experienced pediatric anesthesiologists independently evaluated the simulator’s physical attributes, realism, value, and relevance using a 29-item paper survey and rated using 4-point rating scales (4 = highest). Participants’ ability to complete 5 critical tasks was self-reported using 5-point rating scales (5 = too easy). Item and domain mean ratings were calculated, and comments reviewed. ResultsOverall, reviews were positive, with mean scores indicating adequate realism and high value. Specific challenges were associated with right mainstem bronchus and upper lobe takeoff. Performance scores indicated that most tasks were “somewhat easy to perform,” suggesting that the model’s anatomy did not hinder physicians’ ability to perform one-lung ventilation. ConclusionPreliminary findings indicate that the novel simulator holds promise for training in lung isolation techniques after refinement. Future research will target refinement, expanding evaluation, and developing a comprehensive curriculum and competency assessment program.

Effect of Organisational Climate and type of Autonomous Colleges on Academic Achievement of the Students

This article examines the independent and interaction influence of organizational climate and the type of autonomous colleges on the academic performance of students. Organizational climate encompasses various elements such as leadership styles, communication patterns, and staff morale, collectively shaping the institutional environment. Autonomous colleges, with their capacity for innovation in curriculum design, pedagogical methods, and assessment practices, provide a unique context for this analysis. To explore the effect, researchers employed a quantitative approach, surveying 480 students across 12 colleges (both government and non-government) in Odisha, India. Questionnaires assessed student perceptions of organizational climate and academic achievement. Additionally, researchers collected student result sheets and surveyed college staff to gain a wellrounded perspective on the college climate. Data analysis using ANOVA and Scheffe tests identified significant effects. Major Findings of the study confirm that a positive organizational climate, regardless of college type, is associated with higher student academic achievement. Interestingly, students in government autonomous colleges achieved higher scores than those in non-government ones. The most significant finding, however, is the interaction effect. Students in governmentautonomous colleges with a strong learning environment achieved the highest scores, while those in non-government autonomous colleges with a weak environment achieved the lowest.

Facilitation of practical work in Natural Sciences: experiences and approaches of junior teachers

Background This study delved into the experiences and approaches employed by junior teachers in facilitating practical work in Natural Sciences during the teaching and learning process. In South Africa, Grade 7 marks the final year of primary school education, with learners typically aged between 11 to 13. The researchers noted significant challenges faced by junior Grade 7 teachers in preparing, organizing, and carrying out practical work within the context of teaching and learning in Natural Sciences. Methods In the present study, a qualitative multiple-case study design was employed. Three grade 7 Natural Sciences junior-level teachers were purposefully selected as participants. Data was gathered through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Results The study findings revealed that certain grade 7 junior Natural Sciences teachers found it challenging to manage practical work during teaching and learning. Some teachers also faced difficulties in maintaining discipline during practical work and demonstrations, both inside and outside the classroom. To cope with the demands of facilitating practical work in Natural Sciences teaching and learning, teachers employed various approaches, such as group work, observations, demonstrations, illustrations, projects, and inquiry-based scientific investigations. Conclusion It is recommended that teachers should receive professional training on effectively facilitating practical work to support the new teaching and learning methods outlined in the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement. They should also be equipped with pedagogical content knowledge to help them achieve the goals of practical work in teaching and learning Natural Sciences.

Development of scale to measure teachers curriculum assessment

Development of scale to measure teachers curriculum assessment

APPLYING BLOOM’S TAXONOMY IN NEUROSCIENCE: A PRACTICAL EXAMPLES

Bloom's Taxonomy serves as a structured framework in neuroscience education, guiding educators in designing, implementing, and assessing learning objectives across various cognitive levels.This abstract explores the practical application of Bloom's Taxonomy in teaching neuroscience concepts, offering insights into effective student engagement.In neuroscience education, Bloom's Taxonomy is invaluable for curriculum development, instructional strategies, and assessment methods. At the foundational "remembering" level, students recall neuroanatomical structures, physiological processes, or terminology. For example, they identify brain regions or recall neurotransmitter functions.Progressing to the "understanding" level, students comprehend neuroscientific principles.This entails explaining action potential propagation or neural pathways in sensory perception. Educators use case studies, discussions, or multimedia for deeper understanding.At the "applying" level, students apply neuroscience knowledge to solve real-world problems. They analyze clinical cases and propose interventions based on neuroanatomy and physiology understanding."Analyzing" prompts critical evaluation of neuroscience theories or research. This involves literature reviews, study critiques, or experiment design.Finally, at the highest level of "creating," students are challenged to synthesize their understanding of neuroscience concepts to generate novel ideas, designs, or solutions. This could entail developing research proposals, designing educational materials, or proposing innovative treatments for neurological disorders.

The Importance of Teaching Resources on Physical Sciences Learners' Academic Achievement in Rural Schools: A Case of South Africa

The purpose of the article is to explore the importance of teaching resources on the academic achievement of physical science learners in selected rural secondary schools. Qualitative research was undertaken and data were collected from physical sciences teachers, principals and curriculum advisers, through in-depth face-to-face interviews. A multiple-case study design was used and the Activity Theory acts as a theoretical lens, offering a broad approach to analysing the availability of instructional resources and the context of teaching and learning in rural secondary schools. The study revealed three important aspects: resource availability, the quality of textbooks and the value of information, communication and technology (ICT). The availability and quality of resources were found to impact the effectiveness of science teaching in rural schools significantly. The resources make it possible for learners to do practical work, which could contribute to comprehension and possibly improve learner's performance. It is therefore recommended that the Department of Basic Education should address interlocking frameworks for change that include, providing Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) aligned textbooks, well-equipped laboratories, use of ICT and develop teachers’ skills and knowledge in rural secondary schools.

Phenomenological Study of English Language Teachers in Pakistan

English language education in Pakistan holds significant importance, serving as both a medium of instruction and communication. Firstly, the study seeks to identify the professional traits; secondly, to explore the opportunities for professional development, available to English language teachers; and thirdly, the research seeks by addressing these objectives, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding English language teaching in the Pakistani context and offers valuable insights for enhancing teaching effectiveness and teachers’ competency. The study was qualitative in nature. Population of the study were all teachers those are serving on post graduate level. The researcher selected 30 participants for the research study. For the collection of data researcher constructed the interview according to the objectives of the study. Researcher conducted the interview of the participants. By using thematic analysis, the researcher analyzed the data and the results of the study indicated that majority of participant reported that effective English teachers have good verbal and written communication skills, which allow them to convey complex concepts and ideas clearly and understandably. Furthermore, they used group activities, discussions, and projects that engage students and encourage them to take ownership of their learning. Majority of participants reported that technological proficiency is one of their salient features. Incorporating technology into the teaching process can enhances engagement and provides access to a wealth of online resources. It helps the students to take part in classroom activities effectively. Additionally, most of the ELTs mentioned that various educational activities such as workshops to train the teachers for curriculum development and assessment techniques can be helpful for English language teachers. Enhancement of professional skills among English teachers will play an important role to promote English Language in Pakistan. Teacher may have the discussion and exchange the ideas for better teaching in English Language Teaching Workshops, conferences, and seminars.

Foot and Ankle Curricular Guidelines in Entry-Level Physical Therapist Education: How Are We Doing?

The Foot and Ankle Curricular Guidelines for Physical Therapist Professional Degree Programs (FACG) provided recommendations regarding essential entry-level content and skills. Eight years later, the extent of its implementation is unknown. This study characterizes entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs' foot and ankle curriculum with reference to the FACG. Curricular guidelines offer recommendations to professional degree programs striving for excellence. Review and revisions of guidelines are important to keep pace with and reflect evolving evidence and practice. One faculty member from 116 of 250 DPT programs participated (46.6% response rate). Participants were an average of 50.8 years old and taught a mean of 14.5 years. A cross-sectional 25-item online survey assessed foot and ankle contact hours, coverage of FACG recommended content, coverage of surgical procedures, and the use of FACG for curricular assessment, modification, and development. Foot and ankle content was covered in physical therapy curriculum for a mean of 48.2 hours (range 12-120 hours). Eleven of the 25 recommended diagnoses, 29 of the 49 examination skills, 6 of the 7 intervention skills, and 3 of the 14 surgical procedures were covered by most (≥90%) of the programs. Reported use of FACG for curricular processes averaged 50.1-51.5 (0-100 numerical scale). Across a wide range of contact hours, coverage of FACG recommended content was approximately 57% (46/81 recommended elements in ≥90% of programs). Although not specifically recommended by FACG, surgical procedures were less commonly covered by programs. Study findings question FACG implementation and may reflect differences across programs in depth and breadth of content. Identified curricular gaps may warrant addressing in future guidelines.

Effect of short-term intensive design-based STEM learning on executive function: an fNIRS study of the left-behind children.

Design-based STEM learning is believed to be an effective cross-disciplinary strategy for promoting children's cognitive development. Yet, its impact on executive functions, particularly for disadvantaged children, still need to be explored. This study investigated the effects of short-term intensive design-based STEM learning on executive function among left-behind children. Sixty-one Grade 4 students from a school dedicated to the left-behind children in China were sampled and randomly assigned to an experimental group (10.70 ± 0.47years old, n = 30) or a control group (10.77 ± 0.43years old, n = 31). The experimental group underwent a two-week design-based STEM training program, while the control group participated in a 2-week STEM-related reading program. Both groups were assessed with the brain activation from 4 brain regions of interest using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and behavioral measures during a Stroop task before and after the training. Analysis disclosed: (i) a significant within-group time effect in the experimental group, with posttest brain activation in Brodmann Area 10 and 46 being notably lower during neutral and word conditions; (ii) a significant between-group difference at posttest, with the experimental group showing considerably lower brain activation in Brodmann Area 10 and Brodmann Area 46 than the control group; and (iii) a significant task effect in brain activity among the three conditions of the Stroop task. These findings indicated that this STEM learning effectively enhanced executive function in left-behind children. The discrepancy between the non-significant differences in behavioral performance and the significant ones in brain activation implies a compensatory mechanism in brain activation. This study enriches current theories about the impact of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning on children's executive function development, providing biological evidence and valuable insights for educational curriculum design and assessment.

The Alignment of Accounting Curriculum with Market Requirements: The Iraqi Case

This research investigates the alignment between Iraqi university accounting courses and industry demands to enhance the standard and relevance of accounting education. The primary research method was a questionnaire, aiming to understand how well accounting courses at Iraqi institutions meet market requirements. The study's methodology comprised two parts: examining the current accounting curriculum and conducting a follow-up survey using diverse sources and analytical techniques. A total of 350 surveys were distributed to academics and employers, yielding 87 responses from academic staff and 102 valid responses from employers. The study analyzed the latest accounting curriculum, demographic data, relevance ratings for courses, and assessments of essential work skills using SPSS software. Results revealed diverse demographics, with significant responses from academics (58%) and employers (51%). Findings indicate both convergence and divergence in the perceived importance of specific accounting courses, suggesting gaps between theoretical concepts and practical applications. The report underscores the need to align Iraq's accounting curriculum with business needs. Recommendations include systematic curriculum assessments, increased industry-academia collaboration, continual professional development for educators, and a broader focus on skills. This study provides evidence-based suggestions for improving accounting education in Iraq to meet evolving market demands.

An Evaluation of the Experimental Science Teaching Program for Primary Education from the Teachers’ Perspective: An Educational Design Research Journey

The concerns about ensuring scientific literacy for all are underpinned by international recommendations from organizations such as the UN and the OECD for science education. They advocate for science education from a contextualized, sequential, systematic, and active perspective on the students’ learning process, starting from the early years of schooling. It is based on these pedagogical principles that the research project the “Experimental Science Teaching Program” (PEEC) was founded. This article aims to disseminate an evaluation of the PEEC for primary education, which includes a science teaching curriculum proposal, teaching activities and resources (e.g., digital games), and assessment record instruments for learning. This program was developed using an Educational Design Research methodological approach based on iterative cycles, with the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team (e.g., teachers, researchers, and children). For a final evaluation of the PEEC components, we consulted the ten participating teachers through a questionnaire survey one year after the end of their official collaboration. The main results highlight the relevance and appropriateness of the proposals presented for the targeted age group and the assumptions and objectives of science education in terms of the curriculum, teaching resources, and digital assessment games. Teachers also mentioned continuing to use the PEEC resources after their participation in this study. These results underscore the need to expand and promote projects of this nature to contribute to more practical science education in Portugal and, consequently, to increase children’s levels of scientific literacy.

A protocol for neoWONDER: Neonatal whole population data linkage to improve long-term health and wellbeing of preterm and sick babies.

Early-life medical and surgical interventions in babies born preterm and/or with surgical conditions influence later life health and educational outcomes. Obtaining long-term outcomes post-discharge to evaluate the impact of interventions is complex, expensive, and burdensome to families. Linkage of routinely collected data offers a feasible and cost-effective solution. The NeoWONDER research programme aims to describe the short and long-term health and educational outcomes for babies born preterm and/or with surgical conditions and evaluate the impact of neonatal care and interventions on later health and educational outcomes. We will include babies who received care in neonatal units in England and Wales, born between 2007-2020 with a gestational age below 32 weeks (approximately 100,000), and/or born between 2012-2020 (all gestations) with any of six surgical conditions: necrotising enterocolitis, Hirschsprung's disease, gastroschisis, oesophageal atresia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and posterior urethral valves (approximately 8,000). A detailed list of surgical condition codes is shown in S3 File. We will obtain long-term health and education outcomes through linkage of the National Neonatal Research Database, which contains routine data for all babies admitted to NHS neonatal units, to other existing health and educational datasets. For England, these are: Hospital Episode Statistics, the Office for National Statistics, Mental Health Services Dataset, Paediatric Intensive Care Audit Network, National Pupil Database; and for Wales, the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage databank. Analysis will be undertaken on de-identified linked datasets. Outcomes of interest for health include mortality, hospital admissions, diagnoses indicative of neurodisability and/or chronic illness, health care utilisation; and for education are attainment (using national curriculum assessments), school absence and special educational needs status.

Content Analysis of Bahasa Indonesia Textbook for Indonesian Language

As the official language, Indonesian language has a key position in the curriculum of Indonesia, including in from the language policy, education system, class schedule, the national main curriculum assessment, etc. The Indonesian language textbooks for first grade Junior High School is compiled based on the curriculum objectives and contents stipulated in the constitution of the country. The compilation and development of this Indonesian language textbooks also refer to the teaching design of content and Integrated Language Learning (CLIL) to prepare and design the content of textbooks. The four aspects in the subtopics, i.e., ‘language comprehension ability’, ‘language summary or restatement ability’, ‘language analysis ability’ and ‘language listening, speaking, reading, writing and practice ability’, are consistent with the four factors of ‘content’, ‘cognition’, ‘communication’, and ‘culture’ in CLIL.

Merdeka Curriculum Formative Assessment: Analysis of Teaching Modules

This research attempts to describe how accurate the implementation of formative assessments designed by teachers is through reviewing the learning plans or 'teaching modules' of the Merdeka curriculum.Methodologically, this research uses a descriptive qualitative approach to explain the position and function of formative assessment in a sample of teaching modules as well as reviewing the management and interpretation of formative assessment results. The data in this research is in the form of learning flows in teaching modules as formative assessment content of the learning process. As a research sample, the data source for this research took teaching modules from SMA Negeri 1 Tanjungbalai, SMA Negeri 1 Rowosari, and SMA Negeri 7 Medan. The data was analyzed using an application balance review process using the Merdeka curriculum assessment guidelines. The data is reconstructed if there is a discrepancy between the formative assessment applied by the teacher in the teaching module and the theory and principles of formative assessment. Then, the results of the review and reconstruction of the comparison results in the preparation of formative assessments produce conclusions in the form of a series of learning process flows which are the core of formative assessment in the teaching module.The results showed that the position of formative assessment in the three learning modules had different proportions. The proportion of formative assessment in the first module looks very small, so the reconstruction of the flow of formative assessment is carried out for five learning activities. In the second and third modules, the proportion of formative assessment is already large, so the second module only reconstructs the flow of formative assessment in one learning activity. While in the third module, the formative assessment flow was reconstructed for two learning activities.

Development, Implementation, and Assessment of an Online Modular Telehealth Curriculum for Health Professions Students.

Several national health profession organizations endorse or have developed competencies for telehealth, yet there is no standardized curriculum for teaching telehealth to health professions students. Additionally, implementing telehealth curricula is challenging due to limited curricular space and differing needs of various health profession programs. We describe the development, implementation, and pilot assessment of an online, modular telehealth curriculum for health professions students. An online, modular telehealth curriculum for health professions students was developed in 2021-2022. Nine modules were created, focusing on the logistics of performing a telehealth visit and system-based virtual assessments. In academic year 2022-2023, course directors from the Duke doctor of medicine (MD), physician assistant (PA), and nurse practitioner (NP) programs utilized modules in their courses. For modules taken, students were surveyed and self-assessed their confidence, knowledge gained, and likelihood of utilizing the telehealth skills taught in the module(s). During the 2022-2023 academic year, MD, NP, and PA students at Duke participated in one or more of the telehealth modules in an existing course. The median responses to self-assessed confidence questions for all health profession students to be in the "moderately" or "very confident" range. Similarly, students reported a median response of "moderate knowledge gained" for each module taken. NP students reported slightly lower levels of confidence and likelihood of utilizing telehealth skills than other professions. No other significant differences in the remainder of responses were observed between health professions. Exposure of health professions students to telehealth through utilization of online, interactive modules may result in increased telehealth skill confidence and knowledge, and furthermore, a belief that they will utilize these skills in future practice. Larger scale implementation of the telehealth curriculum and development of outcome measures which assess clinical application of skills conveyed will provide more information about the efficacy of the curriculum.

Curriculum Assessment on Navigation 1 among Students, Instructors and Administrators

The Curriculum Assessment on Navigation 1 at the Merchant Marine Academy of Caraga Inc. is crucial for ensuring the competence and safety of future mariners. This quantitative research involves maritime students in their 2nd and 3rd years, instructors, and administrators as respondents. The study aims to evaluate the Navigation 1 curriculum, focusing on students' study habits, academic performance, teachers' profiles, instructional delivery modalities, and perceptions of the curriculum by students, administrators, and instructors. Data collection includes questionnaires and statistical analyses like frequency distribution, weighted mean, and chi-square tests. Initial findings indicate a high level of agreement and positive perceptions across various aspects of the curriculum, with an overall weighted mean of 3.72. The study suggests that the Navigation 1 curriculum effectively meets its objectives. Future research should assess the long-term effectiveness of the curriculum by tracking graduates' performance, gathering industry feedback, and integrating new technologies to enhance student preparation for real-world navigation challenges.

Curriculum Development Strategies in Facing Competency Demands at Sepaso Bengalon Junior High School

This study aims to describe the curriculum development strategy at Sepaso Bengalon Junior High School and what obstacles the school will face when developing the curriculum. This research utilizes data collection techniques in terms of document analysis, interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of this data research can be concluded that in the framework of the implications of curriculum development strategies, there are several stages, namely assessing the needs in accordance with the school situation, conceptualizing curriculum planning, developing plans to implement the curriculum, implementing the curriculum in the field, carrying out curriculum assessment and monitoring, and carrying out improvements according to the evaluation results when developing the curriculum. Meanwhile, in developing the curriculum, there will definitely be some obstacles that will be experienced by the school. For example, inadequate facilities and infrastructure so that an educator cannot maximize the teaching and learning process. By updating and improving the curriculum system continuously, it will help especially for an educator in order to keep the material taught relevant to the times and the needs of the community.

Study on Teaching Reform of Urban Design Course for International Students Majoring in Urban and Rural Planning: A Case Study of Inner Mongolia Normal University

Urban design is the main course of the urban and rural planning major. Professional training of international students in China is faced with problems in teaching objectives, curriculum teaching, curriculum assessment system, and other aspects. This paper explores the characteristics of international students in teaching reform methods of China to solve the current talent training problems faced by international students in the urban and rural planning major.

Reflection: A Tool for Learning and Assessment in Competency-Based Curriculum

Reflection: A Tool for Learning and Assessment in Competency-Based Curriculum