Development Of Learning Skills Research Articles

Learning to Learn Independently: Guiding Students to Develop Self-Directed Learning Skills During Medical Student Independent Research Projects—Findings from an Australian University

Abstract Introduction Most medical schools offer students the opportunity to conduct independent research projects in order to learn about evidence-based medicine. This study aimed to explore the experience of students, graduates, and supervisors during an independent research project through the lens of self-directed learning. Methods Students and recent graduates were asked to complete an anonymous survey about their experiences. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with a purposeful sample of 11 students, 14 graduates, and 25 supervisors. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted and themes were refined through the lens of self-directed learning. Results Most participants agreed that the independent research project could enable students to develop valuable self-directed learning skills. Participants commented on the importance of the research mentor, faculty support structures, and membership of a research team. Participants who were not well supported described feeling distressed and isolated. Discussion Medical student involvement in independent research projects can develop self-directed learning skills in the presence of a one-to-one mentoring relationship with a research supervisor, structured guidelines and support from the faculty, and membership of a research team. The development of self-directed learning skills should be part of the learning outcomes of any independent student research project.

Barriers to clinical learning skills development among midwifery students and newly qualified midwives in Morocco: A qualitative study.

In Morocco, despite various initiatives to improve the quality of reproductive healthcare, the indicators remain unfavorable. To strengthen the skills of midwives and support the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 4 and 5 by 2030, Morocco has developed and implemented a competency-based training framework. However, there is a lack of information on the successful implementation of this program and its impact on the quality of student midwives' preparation for practice. This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding and explore the barriers affecting the development of clinical learning skills among midwifery students and newly qualified midwives. This study employed a descriptive, exploratory qualitative approach. Data were collected through nine focus group discussions with 30 midwifery students and 24 newly graduated midwives between April and June 2023 from six higher education institutions in northern and central Morocco. Inductive content analysis was used to analyze the transcribed discussions. The barriers varied between locations. Overall, the internship design was inadequate, and the clinical environment was insufficient. Participants highlighted limited opportunities to experience the full range of midwifery skills. However, most midwifery students and new graduates had deficient competencies in managing high-risk situations and emergencies. This work provides an overview of the nature and extent of the challenges faced by many student midwives in Morocco, resulting in newly graduated midwives being poorly prepared for the full range of midwifery practice. These findings can inform various initiatives to strengthen midwifery education at the global, regional, and national levels.

Approaches for sustainable professional skill development for vocational education students in Thailand

Background This article presents a research study that aims to explore sustainable approaches for developing professional skills in vocational education students in Thailand. This is the second phase of the research, which utilizes a qualitative research methodology. Methodology The key informants in this study are administrators of vocational education institutions, teachers, and students currently enrolled in vocational education institutions in Thailand, totaling 36 participants. The research uses a purposive sampling method and snowball sampling method. Data collection methods include document analysis, in-depth structured interviews, and observation. The results of the interviews are analyzed, and the content analysis is summarized. The research process consists of 4 steps: 1) literature review, 2) data collection, 3) data analysis, and 4) verification and confirmation. Results The research findings highlight several key considerations, including: 1) factors influencing the development of professional skills among vocational education students, such as curriculum design, support and counseling, practical training in workplaces, interactive learning, problem-solving and analytical thinking skills development, practical learning, and supportive learning environments, 2) approaches for sustainable professional skill development involve employing the appropriate approaches for self-development. The steps include setting clear goals and plans, active learning and training, technology skill development, experiential learning, problem-solving skill development, participation in professional activities, self-reflection, and continuous self-improvement. Conclusion These approaches aim to enhance the competencies of vocational education students, ensuring quality and efficiency as part of lifelong learning and sustainable development.

Evaluating Satisfaction and Self-Confidence among Nursing Students in Clinical Simulation Learning.

Clinical simulation is effective in nursing student education, fostering autonomous learning and critical skill development in safe environments. This method is adaptable to dynamic educational approaches and integrates technology. Satisfaction and self-confidence are key elements in its evaluation. The general objective of this research was to describe the levels of satisfaction and self-confidence among undergraduate nursing students regarding the use of clinical simulation in the field of family and community nursing. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the University of Jaén, Spain, during the 2023/2024 academic year. Data on sociodemographic aspects, satisfaction, and self-confidence were collected using a validated instrument. The statistical analysis included central measures, dispersion, and frequencies, with confidence intervals. The study involved 96 students in scenario 1 (family assessment) and 97 in scenario 2 (family intervention), with the majority being women. In scenario 1, the mean satisfaction score was 4.38 out of 5, and self-confidence was scored 4.44 out of 5. Prior preparation time correlated significantly with higher levels of satisfaction and self-confidence. In scenario 2, the mean scores were slightly higher but not statistically significant. Our study demonstrated high levels of satisfaction and self-confidence among nursing students following clinical simulations. Prior preparation was associated with better outcomes, and the quality of the simulation positively impacted the results.

Prolonged contact does not reshape locals' attitudes toward migrants in wartime settings

AbstractDespite record numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs) globally, we know little about the causal effects of intergroup contact between migrants and locals in active conflict settings. We conduct a randomized controlled trial of a vocational skills‐training program implemented by Mercy Corps that enrolled 2597 locals and migrants in near equal numbers in Kandahar, Afghanistan, where IDPs face daily prejudice and discrimination. Courses lasting up to 6 months emphasized collaborative learning and soft skills development. We surveyed participants at endline and followed up 8 months later. While the program provided the most sustained duration of intergroup contact (360–720 h) experimentally evaluated to date, we find no evidence of reported behavioral or attitudinal change by locals (N = 1276) toward migrants generally, regardless of classroom demographics or course duration. Our findings suggest that prolonged contact through vocational training programs is insufficient to improve relations in conflict settings.

Evaluating Students' Experiences with Project-Based Learning in Online Educational Contexts

In the contemporary landscape of education, integrating Project-Based Learning (PjBL) within online educational environments has emerged as a prominent pedagogical approach, aiming to foster students' critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. This study seeks to evaluate students' experiences with Project-Based Learning in the context of online education, recognizing the significance of understanding the effectiveness and challenges associated with this instructional method. The primary aim of this research is to assess the perceptions and experiences of students engaging in Project-Based Learning within online educational settings. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to capture students' perspectives comprehensively. The study sample comprised students enrolled in diverse online courses across various disciplines, ensuring a broad representation of experiences and insights. The study's main results reveal a nuanced understanding of students' experiences with Project-Based Learning in online educational contexts. Quantitative analysis indicates overall positive perceptions regarding the effectiveness of PjBL in enhancing learning outcomes and fostering student engagement. Qualitative findings further elucidate the multifaceted nature of students' experiences, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of implementing PjBL in online settings. In conclusion, this research underscores the potential of Project-Based Learning as a valuable instructional approach within online education, offering opportunities for meaningful learning experiences and skill development. However, it also identifies several considerations and areas for improvement, such as adequate technological support, clear guidelines, and enhanced facilitation to optimize the PjBL experience in online environments. This study contributes to the field of education by providing empirical insights into implementing Project-Based Learning in online educational contexts. The findings offer valuable implications for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers seeking to effectively integrate innovative pedagogical approaches into online learning environments, ultimately enhancing the quality and efficacy of online education.

Develop Project Management Skills in the OIDECCA Learning Model in Universities

Project skills are skills to be able to manage projects that are instilled in students through the learning process. To find out the development of students' project learning skills in the OIDECCA learning model in the Biology Education Study Program, Islamic University of Riau. This research is quantitative descriptive. Sample selection used group sampling techniques. Data collection techniques are carried out by observation and documentation. Data on student project learning skills were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The results of the analysis can be explained as follows: 1. Student activities in learning projects are in the active category, such as activities in determining ideas in the active category (66.76%), activities in designing activities in projects in the active category (83.33%), activities in providing evidence in the category active (50%), activities to communicate the results of project activities in the active category (66.67%). 2. The development of students' project learning skills in the good category, namely 1) establishing well-developed ideas in the good category (66.67%). 2) Making an activity plan consisting of: a) preparing project activity steps in the very good category (50.0%), b) preparing a schedule in the very good category (50.0%), c) making a job description in the category very good (50.0%), d) designing product designs is in the very good category (50.0%). 3) making products, namely showing proof of making products in the good category (66.67%). 4) communicating and reflecting consists of a) preparing a presentation in the very good category (50.0%), b) presenting project results in the good category 50.0%

The Effect of Digital Platforms and Artificial Intelligence on the Development of Engagement Skills in Learning and DigitalTrust among University Students

The current study sought to develop engagement skills in learning and digital trust among university students by designing an interactive e-learning environment based on integrating the edX digital platform with some artificial intelligence applications. It was achieved by a random sample of undergraduate students at the College of Education, King Khalid University, was selected and divided into two groups: The first empirical group numbered (28) students and used the edX platform with some AI applications, and the other empirical group numbered (29) students who used Blackboard platform. A scale of engagement in learning was prepared, and a scale of digital trust and a t-test were used to analyze the study’s findings. The study found a statistical significance between integrating the edX digital platform with some AI applications and the Blackboard platform in developing engagement skills in learning in favor of the edX digital platform. The calculated T-value for both groups was 7.923, statistically significant at p<0.05. The T-value for integrating the edX digital platform with some AI and the Blackboard platform applications in developing digital trust skills in both groups was 1.368, which was insignificant at p<0.05.

Exploring of the gender variations in 4Cs skills among primary students

The development of 21st-century learning skills must prioritize collaborative problem-solving abilities. These include critical thinking, creativity, cooperation, and communication (4Cs) and the gender-based difference in the proficiencies of these skill have been reported in literature. The purpose of this study was to explore gender differences in 4Cs skills between males and females among the primary students after the execution of an informal program. This research provides an example of a STEM program that uses a problem-solving methodology to encourage students interested in environmental sustainability. The research was conducted with 43 female students and 93 male students. The study used a mixed-method involving qualitative observations of facilitators feedback, quantitative paired t-test and SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis to evaluate students’ 4C skills. Results of the study revealed that there were statistically significant differences between males and females. The Shapiro-Wilk test for normality revealed that the data did not have a normal distribution, non-parametric analysis, such as the Mann Whitney U test, Spearman's Rho correlation were used. Findings from the Mann-Whitney U test illustrated that males received significantly greater mean score than females on the critical thinking and communications after the program. The females received more score than males on the collaboration and creativity (p < 0.05). The Spearman's Rho correlation analysis reveals that there is a positive correlation between students’ critical thinking and creativity (both male and Female) (p < 0.001). The development of advanced thinking abilities and creativity through facilitation is argued in this study. In summary, a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis has demonstrated the effective use of the 4Cs skills throughout the duration of a week-long course. It, thus, can be concluded that the Integrated Problem-solving approach can be used as an alternative approach for empowerment of students’ 4Cs skills. Future research should look at the effects of participants' 4Cs on long-term development in formal education.

Using staged teaching and assessment approaches to facilitate inter-university collaboration and problem-based learning.

This article describes the segmented module design and problem-based learning approaches employed to enable parts of a higher education environmental health module (course) to be shared between universities in Wales, Northern Ireland, and Australia. The module requires students to identify the needs and assets of a community then design community-based interventions to address problems and undertake an evaluation of those interventions. Accreditation body and the degree program learning outcome requirements in the UK and Australia were found to hold many comparable knowledge, skills, and graduate attribute criteria, eliminating a potential barrier for international learning and teaching collaboration between higher education institutions. Instead, barriers to collaboration were associated with institutional issues and practicalities such as timetabling and assessment requirements. Taking a segmented approach to module design allowed staged and varied levels of collaboration between participating institutions, all delivering modules (courses) with similar learning outcomes. This provided a more sustainable environment to facilitate shared learning and teaching and fostered closer relations between programs, within these constraining factors. Students using problem-based learning and its group-working component exhibited the development of leadership, communication, and independent learning skills.

Integration between Digital Platforms and Artificial Intelligence Applications on the Development of Engagement Skills in Learning among University Students

The current research seeks to develop engagement skills in learning and digital trust among university students by designing an interactive e-learning environment based on the integration of the edX Digital platform with some artificial intelligence applications. To achieve this goal, a random sample of undergraduate students at the College of Education, King Khalid University, was selected and divided into two groups: The first empirical group numbered (28) students and used the edx platform with some artificial intelligence applications, and the other empirical group numbered (29) students who used Blackboard platform. A scale of engagement in learning was prepared, and a scale of digital trust, and a “T” test were used to analyze the findings of the research. The study indicated that there is a statistical significance between the integration of the edx Digital platform with some artificial intelligence applications and the Blackboard platform in developing engagement skills in learning in favor of the edX Digital platform. The findings also indicated that there is no statistically significant difference between the integration of edx Digital platform with some applications of artificial intelligence and the Blackboard platform in developing digital trust skills among students at the College of Education.

Dezvoltarea inteligenței lingvistice a școlarilor mici: cercetare empirică a experienței cadrelor didactice din România și din Republica Moldova

Linguistic intelligence represents the ease in expressing and perceiving the nuances of verbal language, the ability to learn foreign languages and to use language effectively. This develops if the student has the opportunity and the necessary time to express his ideas through the words. The role of every teacher is to guide students to the key aspects of the subject, to structure and present its content in a way that facilitates the development of learning skills. In this sense, the article comes to elucidate the essential aspects of linguistic intelligence (phonetics, lexicon, semantics, praxis), to identify the experience of teachers from Romania and the Republic of Moldova focused on practicing the stated dimensions of linguistic intelligence in the process of teaching and learning English to students.

Designing our Thinking: Examining the Effects of Experiential Learning and Design Thinking on Creativity, Innovation, and Collaboration Skills Development in the Undergraduate Classroom

This paper shares initial findings from a study of the way that design thinking and experiential learning informed approaches to teaching can help programs and institutions in the higher education community meet the teaching and learning objectives identified by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as critical for our global future. The project surveyed undergraduate students in a large first year introductory course to learn more about how design thinking based learning practices might serve to extend an experiential learning pedagogical approach toward the successful development of innovation, creativity, interpersonal, self-paced, problem-based and lifelong learning skills. Results from the survey of 600 students reveal that using a design thinking model of learning as part of an experiential learning curriculum may be an effective way to enhance the development of the identified skills and approaches within an experiential learning framework. Students who experienced the addition of design thinking based learning practices to an experiential learning framework reported higher levels of confidence in their innovation and creativity skills and were more likely to seek opportunities for collaboration and self-paced learning than those who participated in an experiential learning focused section of the same class. This article provides an illustration of the impact of using design thinking as an extension of experiential learning in an undergraduate higher education class and offers recommendations for institutions and professional programs seeking to meet World Economic Forum Education 4.0 Initiative goals.

Integrated Framework for Experiential Learning: Approaches &amp; Impacts

Purpose: The paper aims to provide a robust foundation for understanding the significance and application of experiential learning as an attractive alternative for classroom learning. Through the identification and evaluation of various types of experiential learning, the research seeks to elucidate the diverse approaches and their impacts on student learning outcomes, skill development, and career readiness. Furthermore, by focusing on the integration of curriculum and faculty training to foster an innovation culture, it aims to delineate strategies for enhancing educational practices to align the objectives of higher education with real-world applications. By predicting future trends in experiential learning, considering the influence of technological advancements, global collaboration, and integration with emerging learning models, thereby providing insights that can inform educators, administrators, and policymakers in enhancing the effectiveness and inclusivity of experiential learning in higher education. Methodology: This paper presents the multifaceted landscape of experiential learning within the context of higher education. The primary objectives of the paper include gaining a comprehensive understanding of the concept and principles of experiential learning, identifying and evaluating various methods of experiential learning and their impacts in higher education, and exploring the integration of curriculum and faculty training to foster an innovation culture based on exploratory research methods. Results/Analysis: The paper aims to assess the impact of experiential learning adoption on student learning, skill development, and career readiness, emphasizing the importance of aligning educational practices with real-world applications. Furthermore, the paper seeks to address critical issues related to equity and inclusivity in experiential learning, along with identifying faculty training needs. By examining challenges and proposing solutions, the chapter contributes to creating an inclusive environment that benefits a diverse student body. The analysis takes a forward-looking approach by predicting future trends in experiential learning, considering the influence of technological advancements, global collaboration, and integration with emerging learning models. Originality/Value: This holistic exploration serves as a valuable resource for educators, administrators, and policymakers seeking to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of experiential learning in higher education. Type of paper: Exploratory Research.

The use of elements of neuropedagogy in the creation of virtual simulators for in-depth study of chemistry in higher education

This study investigates the efficacy of incorporating neuropedagogical elements into virtual simulators for advanced chemistry education in universities. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, it uses questionnaires completed by 50 organic chemistry students. These questionnaires included both general and Likert scale questions, focusing on students' experiences with the PhET Interactive Simulation. The results highlight the positive impact of neuropedagogy on students' learning attitudes, cognitive abilities, and skill development, particularly in areas like critical thinking, analytical skills, and social competencies. A significant portion of students reported enhanced educational outcomes: 76% observed improved training effectiveness, 88% better understood the subject, and 96% found the virtual simulator-based learning more engaging. Furthermore, the study notes improvements in students' problem-solving abilities (68%), logical reasoning (92%), and comprehension of chemical processes (94%). These findings emphasize the value of integrating neuroscience principles in chemical education, potentially benefiting both tertiary and secondary education sectors. They indicate the necessity for educational adaptation in line with interdisciplinary research in cognitive and neurological sciences. This research not only serves as a valuable resource for chemistry teachers but also sets the stage for future empirical studies exploring neuroscience's role in teacher education. The study underscores the importance of further investigation into how teachers implement neuropedagogical techniques and the effectiveness of such applications, advocating for continuous development in educational methodologies.

Influences on student motivation and independent learning skills: cross-cultural differences between Hong Kong and the United Kingdom

IntroductionThis study examined the ways in which different influences on student motivation and the development of independent learning (IL) skills might be constituted across students learning within different educational cultures. Previous studies on student motivation and IL have suggested the potential for differing conceptualizations of IL and its strategies (ILS), prompting questions as to the sources of these distinctions. One theory is that they might be influenced by differing cultural constructions of these concepts or may be linked to different motivations with respect to the purposes and outcomes of education.MethodsThis study addressed a research gap with respect to these differences in the British and Chinese contexts by examining the responses of students sampled from a university in Scotland and a university in Hong Kong. Through mixed-methods research comprising quantitative analysis of questionnaires and thematic analysis of interview data, this research project compared conceptualizations of IL and ILS across both these contexts and highlighted the role that student motivation might play in either context.ResultsThe analytical results showed differences in the conception of IL and the implementation of ILS potentially due to differing cultural contexts.DiscussionFurther cross-cultural comparative research is needed with a study design that excludes the influence of institutional and demographic factors to better isolate the influence of culture on perception of IL and use of ILS.

The impact of a Personal Learning Environment on Chinese postgraduates’ online self-regulated learning skills / Impacto de un Entorno Personal de Aprendizaje en las aptitudes de aprendizaje autorregulado en línea de estudiantes de posgrado en China

This study investigated the impact of Personal Learning Environments (PLE) on the development of self-regulated learning (SRL) skills among postgraduate learners in China. 213 participants, divided into an experimental group ( n = 113) using a researcher-designed PLE platform and a control group ( n = 100) employing face-to-face instruction, joined a course on International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS). A mixed-methods approach was adopted, utilizing the Online Self-Regulated Learning Questionnaire (OSLQ) to explore SRL experiences, and weekly goal-achievement reports. Results demonstrated improvement in SRL skills in both groups, with the experimental group exhibiting significantly greater gains. Quantitative and qualitative results revealed that participants excelled in goal fulfillment but struggled with time management, help-seeking and self-evaluation skills. The study confirmed the positive influence of the PLE on postgraduates’ SRL skills, with implications for online learning design and the potential for PLEs to effectively promote SRL skills in online learning contexts.

Impact of Problem‐Based Learning Coaching and Neuroeducation in the Development of 21st Century Lifelong Learners

AbstractOver the past century, health knowledge has advanced dramatically, so it is expected that future health professionals will need to learn effectively in the workplace and adapt to novel situations that cannot yet be predicted. Simultaneously, the demographics of university students have changed significantly in regard to age, gender, and socioeconomic background. Health educators must adapt their teaching methods to foster in each student the development of lifelong learning skills. This perspective article examines the concept of neuroeducation through the lens of Problem‐Based Learning (PBL), with an emphasis on PBL coaching. Furthermore, it demonstrates the benefit of implementing a PBL coaching approach, using knowledge from neuroscience findings to enhance students' learning and well‐being. Following targeted professional development aiming to consolidate the understanding of the brain's structures and functions that increase student learning capacity and build group coaches' skills, existing PBL academics could be an integral part of such a program.

Developing learning skills through game-based learning in complex scenarios: A case in undergraduate logistics education

This study investigates the impact of game-based learning (GBL), an increasingly popular educational approach, on the development of self-directed learning (SDL) skills in complex scenarios, particularly in undergraduate logistics education. A key component of the three year study is LOST (Logistics Education Simulator), a serious game platform, deployed in an undergraduate engineering course in Mexico. An extensive literature review was carried out using Scopus to examine recent works published between 2019 and 2024, providing a state-of-the-art overview of the field. Subsequently, a survey based on the scale created by Fisher, King, and Tague (2001), known for its extensively evaluated internal consistency, revealed five distinct factors of self-directed learning. The findings underscore that the LOST platform significantly enhances self-directed learning, promoting the development of Self-management Skills, Openness to Learning Opportunities, Initiative and Independence in Learning, Self-concept as an Effective Learner, and Love of Learning. The students demonstrated a significant increase in their perception of these skills over the course of the study, highlighting the effectiveness of GBL in promoting such learning skills. These findings highlight the multidimensional nature of learning skills that can be fostered through GBL. The study concludes by discussing the vital role of GBL in complex scenarios, particularly in enhancing the development of self-directed learning skills in undergraduate logistics education.

Problems and Development Strategies of Music Education in Primary and Secondary Schools Based on Network Information Technology

Music education has traditionally followed a one-size-fits-all approach, often failing to address the diverse needs and preferences of individual students. A recommender system for music education is a specialized software or algorithm that helps students, educators, or music enthusiasts discover and access relevant music content, learning materials, or educational resources. This paper introduces the Graph Theory-based Information Technology(GTIT) music learning system, a revolutionary platform designed to personalize music education. The GTIT system leverages advanced technology, data-driven recommendations, and social learning networks to enhance the musical journey for students. The proposed GTIT model uses the graph theory-based music education model for the estimation of the data features with information technology. The proposed GTIT model comprises the stacked recommender model for the classification of the appropriate features in the music education data. The data for the analysis of the proposed GTIT model is collected for the existing sources. With the extracted features the recommender system is designed for the classification and recommendation of the features related to the music education. The proposed model explores the key components of the GTIT system, including the assessment of students' musical preferences, skill levels, and learning patterns. These factors are analyzed to provide tailored music recommendations that keep students engaged and motivated. Additionally, the GTIT system employs graph theory to create connections among students, fostering collaboration and social learning. Simulation results reveals that students who engage with the learning system experience significant improvements in their musical skills and knowledge. The personalized recommendations and collaborative learning environment contribute to enhanced skill development and musical progress. Moreover, the sense of community established by the system encourages peer interaction and mentorship. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the GTIT music education system's impact on students' learning experiences, skill development, and collaborative efforts. The analysis expressed the transformative potential of personalized recommendations and networked learning environments in music education. The GTIT system serves as a model for the future of music instruction, offering a promising approach for educators and institutions seeking to provide engaging and personalized music education.