Curriculum For Students Research Articles

Integrating Single-Case and Qualitative Approaches: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of a Science Comprehension Intervention for Students with Extensive Support Needs

Despite advances in inclusion and access to the general curriculum for students with disabilities at large, students with extensive support needs (ESN) continue to receive instruction that is disconnected from the general curriculum and general education peers. One area of the general curriculum that students with ESN have historically lacked access to is science. However, ongoing research in this area has identified several evidence-based and promising practices that support the science learning of students with ESN. This project used a convergent mixed-methods single-case research design, specifically a single case adapted alternating treatments design paired with qualitative methods, to explore how an intervention to support comprehension of science content supported student learning and engagement for four middle school students with ESN. Implications of the study findings, as well as the value added from the mixed-methods approach, will be discussed.

Message from the Editor-in-Chief

The IJHE continues to be the choice of journal for many global researchers. As such, the strength of the IJHE journal is reflected in this issue’s five research articles from Canada, South Korea and Saudi Arabia. This issue has a strong focus on improving the online curriculum and learning space for students. Global events continue to dominate media outlets and present everyday challenges for some with seemingly no end or resolve. With significant political change in the air, it is important that we continue to prioritise education and lifelong learning, researching areas that will improve educational access and strategies for success. The IJHE provides an important platform for the development of theory, the addressing of policy questions, and the dissemination of innovative practice in the field of tertiary education, specifically widening participation and lifelong learning.

Tutorial on Umbrella Sampling Simulation with a Combined QM/MM Potential: The Potential of Mean Force for an SN2 Reaction in Water.

We present a tutorial to carry out umbrella-sampling free-energy simulations with a combined quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical (QM/MM) potential, which may also be used in a computational or biophysical chemistry curriculum for first-year graduate and undergraduate students. In this article, we choose the Type II SN2 Menshutkin reaction between ammonia and chloromethane to construct the potential of mean force (PMF) for the reaction in aqueous solution. In this exercise, we wish to accomplish three tasks: (1) an understanding of the concept of PMF and the umbrella-sampling free-energy simulation method, (2) the use of a combined QM/MM potential in molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions, and (3) an understanding of solvent effects and intermolecular interactions on chemical reactions through comparison with gas-phase results. Analysis of the simulation results allows students to appreciate the difference between the transition state along a PMF from statistical simulations versus the optimized saddle point in the gas phase, the shift of transition state with respect to solvation, and the significance of electronic polarization. Through this tutorial, students will gain the necessary skills to carry out free energy simulations of chemical reactions in solution and in enzymes both in a classroom and in the laboratory.

Developing Competencies and Milestones: Putting the Pieces Together for Student Success

Abstract Competency-based medical education has become a means in physician assistant (PA) education to ensure learner readiness for practice; align educational expectations; and assess knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Competency-based education may also serve to meet accreditation requirements. Creating program-defined competencies and associated milestones can help a PA program align with their mission and vision, developmentally guide learners through the curriculum, and ensure program assessments measure the tasks required of practice-ready graduates. This review provides an overview of a single program's process for developing program-defined competencies and associated milestones. Beginning with a literature search, the program was able to develop a working list of competencies that was then further refined into competencies with building block milestones that support the development of competency in various domains. Involving faculty in defining a program's competencies is an Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant requirement that can be done from the ground up or by using previously published competencies that are refined and tailored for the program. The process of creating the competencies provides significant insight into a program's curriculum, goals and expectations for students, and assessment methods.

Exploration of STEM Education Curriculum Construction in Normal Universities

To fully meet the societal demands for future teachers, this paper comprehensively designs the STEM education curriculum for science education students from multiple dimensions including teaching content, teaching models, and instructional design. Through the designed instructional process, student teachers are effectively trained to develop their capabilities in delivering STEM education. The integrative curriculum design enables student teachers not only to impart knowledge but also to stimulate students' innovative thinking and problem-solving skills, laying the foundation for nurturing future innovative talents.

Adapting a human sexuality curriculum for students with disabilities

Background: The US Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education. However, it does not specifically include the subject of health education. Currently, 30 US states require public schools to teach sexuality education as a part of the health education curriculum, but 36 do not include youth with disabilities in their sexuality education requirements. Objective: The current situation is particularly concerning due to the higher rates of unplanned pregnancy, sexual abuse, and sexually transmitted infections experienced by teenagers with disabilities. Students from across several disability groups report societal barriers, physical barriers, and poor educational outcomes with respect to sexuality education. Results: This review article sought to investigate the current state of sexuality education for students with disabilities, as well as best practices to support the learning of sexuality education content. Conclusion: Focusing sexuality education classes on practical ways so as to develop relationships, promote self-advocacy and self-determination, and incorporate privacy messages, can support students with disabilities to make healthy choices.

Peran Operator Sekolah dalam Peningkatan Pelayanan Publik di Era Digital di SD Negeri 6 Watampone Kabupaten Bone

This research discusses the role of school operators in enhancing the effectiveness of public services in the digital era at SD Negeri 6 Watampone, Bone Regency. The research method used is qualitative. This study aims to understand the role of school operators in improving public services at SD Negeri 6 Watampone. The approach taken is a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collection techniques including interviews and observations. The results of the study show that the role of school operators in the effectiveness of public services in the digital era at SD Negeri 6 Watampone, Bone Regency, can be observed through their performance in carrying out their duties as school operators. School operators handle educational administrative activities at SD Negeri 6 Watampone, starting from student administration, curriculum administration, teacher and staff administration, to facility and infrastructure administration. In terms of management, school operators meet the requirements through recruitment, followed by training and development processes. The development of the school operator’s performance focuses on their main duties in the area of educational administration at SD Negeri 6 Watampone. Additionally, school operators are granted data access rights related to SD Negeri 6 Watampone. Furthermore, the services provided by the school operators have been adequately fulfilled, as evidenced by their performance. Despite facing unexpected and undesired obstacles, the school operators were able to overcome these challenges and deliver good results.

The international education association of Australia’s first 20 years: strengthening public diplomacy and social licence through professional development, advocacy and research

PurposeThe article examines the ways in which professional associations representing those working in international education are able to shape national systems and thereby change the ways in which the country engages internationally. This is particularly significant for Australia, which has one of the world’s most internationalised higher education systems.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents a case study of the International Education Association of Australia, which since 2004 has played a central role in shaping international education policy and practice. It provides an insider account of three authors who have held senior roles in the Association, drawing on first-hand knowledge of institutional history.FindingsThe case study illustrates the ways in which the Association’s professional development, research and policy advocacy activities have helped to broaden Australia’s engagement in international education from a narrow commercial focus. The resulting deeper engagement with a broad range of issues associated with international engagement, including student welfare, outbound mobility, curriculum, migration and transnational education, has transformed policy and practice in Australia.Originality/valueAlthough international education is coming to play an increasingly significant role in many systems, little has been written about the role of professional bodies in influencing the character and quality of international engagement. This paper makes a valuable contribution by demonstrating the practical measures that can be employed by international education professional bodies to strengthen public diplomacy and the social licence for global engagement.

Current status and the future trajectory of geriatric services in Nigeria

The world population of people aged 65 and above, termed as older persons, is increasing rapidly. The number of people aged 65 years or older worldwide is projected to more than double, rising from 761 million in 2021 to 1.6 billion in 2050. The number of people aged 80 years or older is growing even faster. Population ageing is an irreversible global trend. It is the inevitable result of the demographic transition – the trend toward longer lives and smaller families – that is taking place even in countries with relatively youthful populations. In 2021, one in 10 people worldwide were aged 65 or above. In 2050, this age group is projected to account for one in six people globally [1]. People are living longer because of better nutrition, sanitation, healthcare, education, and economic well-being. With increasing age, older adults become at greater risk for diseases, disability, and side effects of medications. The common geriatric syndromes suffered by older persons include degenerative joint diseases, falls and mobility issues, sensory impairments (visual and hearing), dementia, sleep disturbances, frailty, and urinary incontinence. These syndromes are described as ‘Giants of Geriatrics’ on account of the impact on quality of life, and functional status of older persons. Geriatricians provide person-centered holistic care that attempts to preserve function and maintain a good quality of life by deploying the comprehensive geriatrics assessment and management approach which involves a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Nigeria has an increasing ageing population that will benefit from a healthcare system that is aligned to their peculiar care needs in the different settings care will be sought. This can be achieved by building capacity in the various disciplines involved in providing comprehensive care to older persons, and including geriatric medicine in the training curriculum for medical students, nurses and all allied health workers.

An evaluation of practice supervisor training for final-year healthcare students.

Practice supervisors are fundamental in the development and upskilling of the future workforce in health care. This article outlines a new initiative for one higher education institution, which integrated practice supervisor training into the curriculum for third-year students across several healthcare programmes. The training consisted of two pre-recorded sessions, which were delivered by the students' personal tutors. A final face-to-face session was then facilitated, where students were supported to consolidate their learning and build on their knowledge. Evaluation data were collected via an anonymous questionnaire. In total, 352 questionnaires were returned. Data were managed and analysed using descriptive statistics within Excel. The qualitative comments received were collated and analysed using simple thematic framework analysis. Most attendees found the content and the delivery of the programme and their opportunity for discussions to be good, very good or excellent, showing overall that content was positively evaluated by 98.4% of attendees, delivery at 97.4% and opportunity for discussion at 97.9%. The evaluation data results show that practice supervisor preparation can be effectively delivered when located in the final year for undergraduate healthcare students. The importance of the content being interactive and allowing for plenty of opportunities for group discussions has been highlighted by the feedback.

Enhancing Integration of Technology in Authentic Assessment for Education: A Structured Review

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the seamless integration of technology into authentic assessment practices has become a transformative force, reshaping how students are both evaluated and engaged. Authentic assessment, characterized by its emphasis on the real-world application of knowledge and skills, has gained prominence for its ability to gauge students' comprehension and foster deeper learning experiences. As technology continues to infiltrate the educational field, a pressing need arises to assess the effectiveness of these digital tools in promoting genuine understanding and critical thinking among students. This structured review of the PRISMA approach was applied to find the primary data based on keywords such as Technology, Science, and Authentic Assessment. Based on advanced searching on SCOPUS and Web of Science, we found (n=55). Expert scholar decided to develop 3 themes, which are (1) Online Assessment and Technology- Enhanced Learning, (2) Educational Practices and Student Engagement, and (3) Assessment and Curriculum Development. The findings underscore technology's immense potential in elevating authentic assessments for students, offering new avenues for engagement and skill development. It is evident that when wielded thoughtfully and integrated into pedagogy, technology can empower young learners to explore, inquire, and excel in the fascinating world of education. This study not only bridges existing gaps in the literature but also serves as a valuable resource for educators and policymakers alike, providing insights into harnessing technology's power to enhance authentic assessment practices and, consequently, the overall educational experience.

Digital prosthodontics in near future: Awareness among the dental students on intraoral scanners and its probability of replacement over conventional method in the near future of prosthodontics: A cross-sectional survey

Aims: The aim of the study is to analyse the awareness and knowledge about IOSs among the dental students of Tamil Nadu. Settings and Design: A cross sectional survey – questionnaire study. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was carried out to assess the knowledge, awareness, and practice of IOSs among dental students through a questionnaire of five domains, with five questions in each domain. This is sent to various dental students of Tamil Nadu through mail and othersocial media platforms. Statistical Analysis Used: It was performed using a statistical package for the social sciences’ [SPSS] software version 22. Descriptive statistics were performed for demographic variables. Chi square test was performed for all the qualitative data. Results: Most of the answers were statistically significant with P < 0.05 and few results were not significant indicating less knowledge and awareness about digital prosthodontics among the dental students. Conclusions: Thus, the addition of digital dentistry in the curriculum of dental students and giving them more knowledge helps in the flourishment of the future prosthodontic field with much accuracy of treatment and with less patient discomfort replacing the conventional methods.

Otolaryngology Simulation Curriculum Development and Evaluation for Medical Education in Rwanda.

This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a new low-cost otolaryngology simulation training curriculum for medical students in Rwanda. Given the limited access to hands-on training and equipment in low-middle-income countries, building confidence in performing basic otolaryngology skills is vital for all medical students, especially where all graduates initially serve in primary care before specializing. Preintervention and postintervention assessments of simulation training. Conducted at the University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda. The simulation program comprised 3 primary components: (1) a low-cost, moderate-fidelity model for cricothyrotomy and tracheostomy practice, (2) a low-cost, low-fidelity ear model for foreign body and cerumen removal, and a high-fidelity manikin for practicing, (3) epistaxis management, and (4) nasal foreign body removal. Students underwent pretest and posttest assessments measuring their knowledge, experience, perceived skill, and confidence in performing these procedures. A survey collected feedback on the program. A total of 29 medical students participated in the simulation program, integrated into a 1-week otolaryngology "boot camp" preceding a 3-week clerkship rotation. All models were created using basic, locally available materials, at a total cost of $1.02 for cricothyrotomy and $0.20 for foreign body models. Knowledge and perceived confidence increased for all 3 simulations. All students found the simulations useful, enjoyable, and anticipated using these skills in future training. The study's results demonstrated that the low-cost otolaryngology simulation was well-received and enhanced knowledge, interest, and confidence in performing basic otolaryngology skills across all simulations.

Bearing witness: Medical education and reflecting on the Holocaust then and now.

Despite advocacy from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and The Lancet Commission on medicine, Nazism, and the Holocaust, Holocaust education is lacking in medical education. To address this gap, students at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM) viewed an Association of American Medical College (AAMC) webinar about medicine during the Holocaust as part of the required curriculum for first year medical students introduced in 2022. As part of their doctoring course, Physician and Patient Centered Care (PPCC), students viewed the AAMC webinar "The legacy of the role of medicine during the Holocaust and its contemporary relevance" and participated in two structured reflections: a written reflection on how webinar topics inform students' professional development and a verbal reflection on learning from the Holocaust to develop a sense of moral courage, advocacy, and activism in medicine. Researchers conducted qualitative analysis of written reflections and analyzed session surveys to determine key themes and impact of the session. Of the 108 enrolled in PPCC, 59 (54.6%) completed a post session Likert scale survey assessing the impact of the webinar on their personal and professional development. As an average, respondents moderately agreed that the webinar impacted their personal and professional development, with 91% slightly, moderately, or strongly agreeing. Additionally, thematic analysis of required written reflections indicated a majority of students (62.5%) identified the need for additional medical humanities education about the Holocaust and its relevance to medicine. Holocaust education encourages medical students to bear witness to past medical atrocities and critically assess the profession and their personal-professional growth. Continued structured integration of the Holocaust in medical education supports critical self-reflection and the development of morally courageous physicians who endorse and practice social accountability in medicine.

The internalization of religious moderation values in aqidah and akhlaq courses at the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FTIK) of IAIN Kerinci

The diversity of Indonesian society is reflected in the variety of ethnicities, religions, races, and social groups spread across the archipelago. Religious moderation is recognized as a key approach to addressing issues of radicalism and extremism. This study aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process of incorporating religious moderation values into the curriculum for students in the Islamic Education Management Department at IAIN Kerinci, Jambi Province. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The validity of the data was ensured through internal validity measures, including data triangulation, member checking, repeated observations at the research site, peer debriefing, involvement of informants in various stages of the research, and researcher bias clarification. The results reveal that the teaching style of lecturers at the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FTIK) of IAIN Kerinci plays a crucial role in shaping students to become moderate, tolerant, and peace-loving individuals. Lecturers employ interactive and participatory teaching approaches, integrating religious moderation values into the curriculum using various instructional methods. Factors contributing to the internalization of these values among students include participation in extracurricular activities and campus organizations that promote interfaith dialogue, as well as involvement in social service activities with communities of different religious backgrounds.

Creating an effective curriculum for cosmetology students to promote early detection of melanoma in salons and barber shops: a scoping review

This scoping review aims to summarize available research literature on previous skin cancer educational programs among hair professionals or cosmetology students to inform the creation of an effective cosmetology school curriculum that will promote early detection of melanoma on the scalp and neck. Cutaneous melanoma on the scalp and neck is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, and the number of new cases continues to rise. Hair professionals can detect this cancer by regularly inspecting the skin under these hair-bearing areas. Providing skin cancer education to cosmetology students can potentially affect significant changes in screening and referral practices, improving the stage at which this cancer is treated. All articles in this study involved hair professionals or cosmetology students in the context of hair salons, barbershops, or cosmetology schools. These articles included a focus on skin cancer or melanoma education. A systematic search of electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Science Direct, and Google Scholar) for full-length, peer-reviewed journal articles written in English in the last 20 years was performed in August 2022 and January 2023. Articles were initially screened by title, abstract, and keywords, followed by full-length review and reference scanning. Data were systematically extracted from included articles, summarized, and presented in narrative and table form. Search terms included “hairdressers, barbers, cosmetology students, salons, barbershops, cosmetology schools, education, curriculum, intervention, knowledge, skin cancer, and melanoma.” Thirteen sources of evidence were included in the review, all of which were empirical research studies. Nine studies evaluated the effectiveness of a skin cancer educational intervention for hair professionals or cosmetology students, and 4 assessed skin cancer knowledge, attitudes, or beliefs in this population. All interventions improved knowledge, confidence, screening behaviors, or referral practices in hair professionals or cosmetology students. No specific educational modality was more effective than another, no apparent difference was seen with different intervention lengths, and the type of information included within each educational modality was rarely discussed. Most hair professionals believe they lack adequate training or confidence in skin cancer detection and are interested in becoming educated on this subject. Short videos or live lectures were the preferred skin cancer educational modalities among hair professionals and cosmetology students. Brief skin cancer educational programs improve cosmetology students and hair professionals’ knowledge about melanoma and screening practices. This population has a perceived and measured need for skin cancer education. Including this type of program in the cosmetology school curriculum can effectively disseminate information to these individuals, leading to earlier diagnosis of melanomas on the scalp and neck, thus decreasing the mortality rate of this disease. Further research, including larger, diverse samples and more rigorous study designs, is needed to bolster the results of the review findings.

Balancing Tradition with Innovation: Reform and Practice of Genetics Experiments for International Students in the Aeronautics and Astronautics and Civil Aviation

Genetics experiments are an integral part of the core curriculum for undergraduate students in the life sciences, and are essential for cultivating innovative talent in line with the evolving demands of contemporary higher education. This research explores innovative reforms and practices in genetics education for international students against the backdrop of ‘San Hang’ (Aeronautics, Astronautics, and Civil Aviation). By combining traditional experiments with the latest advances in genetic research and technology, the study enhances the exploratory and practical dimensions of the experiments. The introduction of open-ended experimental design empowers students to independently identify problems, formulate hypotheses, and conduct experimental verification, thereby fostering their innovative thinking and practical skills. The results show that these reforms have improved the quality of teaching, refined the content of experiments, and established a distinctive ‘San Hang’-oriented genetics teaching system that fosters a holistic set of innovative competencies in students.

The role of technology in the development of higher education in Ukraine in the context of global challenges

The article examines the role of technology in the evolution of higher education in Ukraine, with a particular focus on the challenges posed by global change. The author analyses the impact of digitalisation on the learning process, the organisation of educational activities and the interaction between students and teachers. The article discusses both the positive aspects of the introduction of digital tools, such as increased student engagement, curriculum flexibility and effective management of educational resources, and potential problems, such as technical difficulties, the need to improve the digital literacy of teachers and students, and the possible decline in the quality of education due to the use of low-quality teaching materials. The article is based on an empirical study of the introduction of digital technologies in higher education institutions, as well as on the results obtained in EU countries in 2022. The practical and theoretical implications of the study are discussed separately. This includes the development of recommendations for the integration of digital technologies into the educational process, as well as the development of educational theory in the context of digitalisation.

PEMANFAATAN KEARIFAN LOKAL DALAM PEMBELAJARAN EKONOMI UNTUK MENINGKATKAN RELEVANSI KURIKULUM

This study aims to examine the utilization of local wisdom in economic education in Nias and its impact on curriculum relevance. The local wisdom in Nias, which includes traditional economic practices, barter systems, and natural resource management, has significant potential to enhance students' understanding of economic concepts. Using a qualitative approach, this research analyzes various literature sources and case studies to identify how local wisdom can be integrated into the educational curriculum. The findings indicate that the utilization of local wisdom not only increases student interest and engagement but also strengthens cultural identity and character development. Furthermore, the study identifies implementation challenges that need to be addressed to achieve these goals. It is hoped that this research can contribute to the development of a more relevant and contextual curriculum for students in Nias.

Didactic possibilities of scientific and educational LabXchange online platforms for genetics learning in the pedagogical ZVO

Aim. Highlight the possibilities of the scientific and educational platform LabXchange for distance learning of genetics for students of higher education in the specialties 014 Secondary Education (Biology and Human Health) and 091 Biology. Methods. Content analysis, survey, generalization. Results. LabXchange, an online educational platform created by scientists, provides users with free access to high-quality scientific education through a variety of online tools. LabXchange's Comprehensive General Genetics Curriculum for Higher Education Students includes content types that transform standard science material into engaging interactive visualizations that promote better understanding of complex concepts, provide the opportunity to conduct genetic experiments in virtual laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment, help personalize the learning process, making it interesting and accessible opens up new opportunities for developing critical thinking skills, creativity and independence. Conclusions. The LabXchange online scientific and educational platform is an innovative resource for the study of genetics for students of higher education, as it performs important didactic functions. The experience of its use by students of a pedagogical university is useful for the formation of their professional competences.