Discussion Groups Research Articles

Identifying Lower Extremity Deformities in the Coronal Plane: Lessons From Remote Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Introduction During the COVID-19 pandemic, the AO Foundation, an orthopedic education organization, had to transition its live education programs to an online format. Skills that were previously evaluated and corrected in person by educators were now assessed through online lectures and discussion groups. Our goal was to evaluate an online course designed to teach the skill of "leg length and coronal deformity measurement" and to assess participants' ability to demonstrate this skill using online software. Methods An IRB-approved study was conducted during an online osteotomy course. A total of 176 participants were instructed on how to measure length and angulation through the course lectures and planning tutorials. The Bonesetter App (Detroit Bonesetter, Detroit, Michigan, USA) was used as the digital planning tool. Participants analyzed four cases of coronal deformity using long-leg standing radiographs. They were required to identify any deformities present, specify the type of deformity, and determine whether it affected the femur, tibia, or joint. Additionally, participants needed to calculate the deformity as part of the osteotomy planning process. Their measurements and drawings were saved and subsequently evaluated by two independent observers. Results Out of 176 online participants, 76% (315 out of 417) correctly completed the four exercises. The most frequent errors occurred in measuring total deformity and joint deformity. The average standard deviation of length measurements was ±0.29 cm (based on 244 measurements), while for angular measurements, it was ±0.71 degrees (based on 688 measurements). The intraclass correlation coefficient was greater than 0.96. Conclusions The online course effectively taught coronal deformity measurement, although participants struggled most with measuring joint angles and total deformity. Future courses should provide more detailed explanations for these measurements.

FRAP 2.0: a community engagement method applied to cervical cancer disparities among Hispanic women

focused Rapid Assessment Process (fRAP) 2.0 is a community engagement approach combining geospatial mapping with rapid qualitative assessment in cyclical fashion within communities to capture multifactorial and multilevel features impacting...

Procedural simulators for teaching and learning vasectomy techniques: a scoping review.

Procedural simulators can facilitate teaching and improve learning vasectomy surgical techniques. The objectives of this scoping review were to identify available vasectomy simulators (scrotal models), and to assess their characteristics and potential suitability for optimal transfer of surgical skills of most recommended techniques in clinical practice. We performed searches up to December 2023 using PubMed and Google search engines to identify existing vasectomy simulators. Articles and Web pages reporting vasectomy simulators were also examined using a snowball strategy. In addition, we asked members of the Vasectomy Network, an international Google discussion group, if they knew any other simulators. Two members of the research team performed the initial evaluations of the physical and functional characteristics of retrieved simulators. All team members made consensus on final evaluations. We retrieved 10 relevant scrotal models through PubMed (n=2), Google (n=4), and the Vasectomy Network (n=4). Three were commercially available simulators produced by Gaumard® in the USA and seven were homemade models. All had limited visual and haptic realism of internal and external structures. Most, however, were suitable for simulating some basic skills of the no-scalpel technique to deliver the vas deferens. Fascial interposition could not be simulated with any model. Commercially available models had no advantage over homemade models. Most vasectomy simulators currently available allow learning some basic surgical skills of the procedure but have limitations for optimal learning of the recommended techniques and skill transfer in clinical practice. There appears to be a need to develop and evaluate new simulators with enhance visual and haptic characteristics for teaching and learning vasectomy techniques.

Uses and Appropriation of Technologies in Initial Teacher Training Centers: A Comparative Study in Uruguay and Chile

Objective. This article aims to compare the use and appropriation of digital technologies (ICT) by faculty in initial teacher training centers in Uruguay and Chile. Methodology. This research employed a mixed, sequential exploratory, quantitative-qualitative approach and data analysis, including two stages: (I) an online questionnaire administered to directors of centers in Uruguay and Chile; (II) interviews and discussion groups with members of selected centers in each country. Results. Results show that Chilean teachers most frequently use laptops, followed by cell phones. In Uruguay, the order is reversed. Concerning the use of ICT for pedagogical or professional development purposes, including videoconferencing, the creation of professional learning communities, and content creation, Chile is better positioned. Nonetheless, because of the pandemic and the adoption of other techniques, Uruguay has begun to increase its use of ICT for pedagogical purposes. Likewise, teachers have been identified both as facilitators of digital inclusion, thanks to their motivation, and as obstacles, due to fears, advanced age, and training. Conclusions. These findings show the relevance to keep intervening at the level of teacher education as a key focus to improve digital inclusion for pedagogical and professional development purposes.

Why did Taiwanese Youth Protest in 2014? Emergence of protests from the Perspective of Mobilization Structures and Shared Grievances

The purpose of the paper is to restudy the reasons for youth activism in Taiwan in 2014, which led to the so-called Sunflower Movement. The study is based on desk research and semi-structured interviews and expert interviews conducted by the authors, and in the framework of the Daybreak Project. Additionally the analysis on the social media posts during the movement was conducted. Data were analyzed through the Bert Klandermans’ model on reasons for collective mobilization. The supply side of mobilization was divided into the role of mobilizing structures and the appeal. The demand side was analyzed through: sociopolitical characteristics of the participants; social embeddedness; shared grievances and shared emotions; group identification. The paper assumes that participation in the protests was a result of mobilizational structures – student discussion groups and the sense that the authorities were violating procedural justice principles – mainly in connection with the processing of the CSSTA.

Application of PowerPoint Media-Assisted Demonstration Method to Improve Learning Outcomes of Islamic Religious Education at Cirebon Maritim Academy

This study examines the extent to which the application of power point assisted by the demonstration method for Islamic religious subjects at the Cirebon Maritime Academy. This research is based on the problem of the rapid development of the technological era in the era of globalization, of course the world of education will be affected, education now must refer to the pattern of 21st century education which focuses on students to think critically and be able to use information technology. Lecturers must be able to properly apply the PowerPoint-assisted demonstration method to Islamic religious subjects. This research uses descriptive qualitative research. The purpose of this study was to find out how the application of the PowerPoint assisted demonstration method was carried out in the eyes of the Islamic religion at the Cirebon Maritime Academy. This research was conducted with the following procedures: data collection, data compaction, data presentation and drawing conclusions. Data collection techniques by observing, interviewing and documentation. The conclusion from this study is that the application of powerpoint assisted by the demonstration method by lecturers can help the student learning process, so that students can receive good learning in class. The results of this study consist of the application and support of PowerPoint-assisted demonstration methods in Islamic religious subjects. At the implementation stage it is quite good, as evidenced by the presence of lecturers who carry out learning using PowerPoint media, lecturers who actively teach using several teaching methods and lecturers who always lead discussion groups. However, the support stage is not yet perfect because the media and facilities on campus are inadequate, such as limited computers on campus, limited projector equipment in class and the current lack of electrical installations or electrical connectors in class.

Analysis of the Design and Curricular Practices in an Educational Re-Engagement Program

<p style="text-align:justify">In this article, which is part of a broader investigation based on the study of the educational and socio-occupational re-engagement processes of young people in vulnerable situations, the curricular design of the vocational training programs (VTP) is described. Further, the curricular practices developed in the classrooms of these programs are analyzed, based, above all, on how the contents are selected, as well as the methodological approaches for their development. The research methodology that was followed responds to the conduct of multiple case studies with the integration of quantitative and qualitative processes. The data collection instruments used for this purpose were questionnaires, interviews, and discussion groups. The conclusions reveal the selection of contents that are relevant, interesting, and close to the reality of the students. The development of these contents is displayed through varied methodological strategies and diverse activities that enhance the students’ involvement and the practical sense of their learning.</p>

The Vision of University Students from the Educational Field in the Integration of ChatGPT

ChatGPT has significantly increased in popularity in recent months because of its capacity to generate novel content and provide genuine responses to questions. Nevertheless, like all technologies, it is crucial to assess its limitations and features prior to implementing it into an educational setting. A major obstacle associated with ChatGPT is its tendency to produce consistent yet occasionally unreliable and inaccurate responses. Our study provides students with training in this area, and its objective was to analyse the opinion of those same university students studying education-related degrees regarding the efficacy of the usefulness of ChatGPT for their learning. We used a mixed methodology and two instruments for data collection: questionnaires and discussion groups. The sample comprised 150 university students pursuing degrees in teaching and social education. The results show that the majority of students are familiar with the technology but have not had any formal training in a university. They use this tool to complete academic assignments outside the classroom, and they emphasise the need for training in it. Furthermore, following the training, the students highlight an increase in motivation and a positive impact on the development of generic skills, such as information analysis, synthesis and management, problem solving, and learning how to learn. Ultimately, this study provides an opportunity to consider the implementation of educational training of this tool at the university level in order to ensure its appropriate use.

CONSCIOUS ADOLESCENCE

The field research focused on teenage pregnancy had the general objective of sensitizing and educating the school community about the challenges associated with early pregnancy, promoting prevention, quality of life formation, and appropriate support. To achieve these objectives, the research utilized an exploratory and descriptive methodology, employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic. During the research, questionnaires and interviews were conducted to collect data on students’ knowledge about contraceptive methods, the consequences of teenage pregnancy, and the importance of family planning. Additionally, discussion groups were held to promote open dialogue about sexuality, prevention, and support for pregnant teenagers. The findings indicated significant gaps in understanding of contraceptive methods, family planning, and the implications of teenage pregnancy among the participants. Consequently, most participants expressed a need for more information and educational resources on the subject. The educational and awareness activities were well-received, and participants reported an improved understanding of the issues addressed. The research also highlighted the importance of adequate support for pregnant teenagers, emphasizing the need for emotional and social support in schools. Thus, the field research not only contributed to raising awareness about teenage pregnancy but also provided practical directions for future interventions, focusing on preventive education and support for pregnant teenagers within the school environment.

Optimization of National Zakat Management through the Effectiveness of the Role of Stakeholders of Zakat Management Organizations

This research shows that stakeholders are running the Zakat governance system effectively. There is a contradiction in the role between the regulatory and executive functions of the national zakat management institution. The research method used is descriptive qualitative, which compares ideal conditions with actual conditions through secondary data research, interviews, and group discussions. The data processed are in the form of zakat law documents, government regulations, BAZNAS regulations, zakat acquisition calculation index, data from the central statistics agency, minutes of discussion group forums and confirming interviews with sources of amil zakat, samples using the purposive sampling method by finding samples through snowball sampling techniques. The study results show that reforms need to be carried out immediately on the role of zakat governance stakeholders so that national zakat management is more optimal and effective and, in the end, can provide more comprehensive benefits for the community

Public perceptions of inequality in the UK: a summary of key findings from the qualitative research

Abstract Primary qualitative and quantitative research was commissioned to support the strand of the IFS Deaton Review of Inequalities addressing ‘public attitudes to inequalities’, to explore: people’s awareness and concerns about different types of inequality in society; the extent to which they personally support structural explanations for inequality; and what manifestations of inequality are of most and least concern to them. In order to do this, qualitative research was designed to take an exploratory approach, as well as to dig beneath surface opinions to uncover the values and beliefs, often rooted in personal experiences, that underpinned participants’ responses. This article presents findings from 12 online discussion groups with the general public in the UK conducted in April–May 2021.

Beyond the echo chamber: modelling open-mindedness in citizens’ assemblies

A Citizens’ assembly (CA) is a democratic innovation tool where a randomly selected group of citizens deliberate a topic over multiple rounds to generate, and then vote upon, policy recommendations. Despite growing popularity, little work exists on understanding how CA inputs, such as the expert selection process and the mixing method used for discussion groups, affect results. In this work, we model CA deliberation and opinion change as a multi-agent systems problem. We introduce and formalise a set of criteria for evaluating successful CAs using insight from previous CA trials and theoretical results. Although real-world trials meet these criteria, we show that finding a model that does so is non-trivial; through simulations and theoretical arguments, we show that established opinion change models fail at least one of these criteria. We therefore propose an augmented opinion change model with a latent ‘open-mindedness’ variable, which sufficiently captures people’s propensity to change opinion. We show that data from the CA of Scotland indicates a latent variable both exists and resembles the concept of open-mindedness in the literature. We calibrate parameters against real CA data, demonstrating our model’s ecological validity, before running simulations across a range of realistic global parameters, with each simulation satisfying our criteria. Specifically, simulations meet criteria regardless of expert selection, expert ordering, participant extremism, and sub-optimal participant grouping, which has ramifications for optimised algorithmic approaches in the computational CA space.

People, Programs & Personalities. Striking a Balance in Library-Led Justice-Oriented Initiatives

Open Educational Resources (OERs) seeks to overcome all barriers to learning through diverse actions, involving library work in a variety of initiatives oriented toward strong values. This column frames this work by putting people ahead of programs and programs above personalities. Doing so, it brings together reflective threads stemming from an online session hosted by ACRL’s Leadership Discussion Group, in April 2023. After weighing OE’s goals toward epistemic justice, the piece reserves space for readers’ own reflections and work assessing the value of Open Education as a tool for meaningful change.

Sosialisasi dan Edukasi Kesehatan Reproduksi bagi Remaja di SMA Yapim Biru-Biru

Adolescence is a critical period in a person's life, marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Adequate knowledge about reproductive health is essential to help adolescents face these changes in a healthy and positive way. However, the spread of formal education and the stigma surrounding this topic often results in low understanding and risky behavior among teenagers. The "Reproductive Health Socialization and Education for Adolescents at SMA Yapim Biru Biru" program aims to increase students' knowledge and awareness regarding reproductive health, prevent health problems that may arise, and equip them with the correct information and skills needed to make healthy decisions . This program includes outreach activities, discussion groups, use of interactive media, and counseling sessions. Program results showed a significant increase in students' understanding of reproductive health, with 90% of students successfully answering more than 80% of the post-test questions correctly, compared to 65% who had low understanding on the pre-test. In addition, there have been positive changes in attitudes and behavior towards reproductive health, as well as a decrease in mitosis and misinformation among students. Feedback from students and teachers also shows that this program is effective and relevant to their needs. It has not only succeeded in achieving its goals but also provides recommendations for further, more in-depth programs, as well as involving parents to support adolescent reproductive health education. It is hoped that the results of this program can become a model that can be applied in other schools to improve the quality of reproductive health education among adolescents.

Improving student–student interactions in early childhood classrooms using inclusive dance activities

ABSTRACT The social and functional diversity of public educational centres requires continuous assessment of the school organisation and searching for effective methods that generate new forms of communication between students. This case study aimed to evaluate an inclusive dance programme involving group activities included four public early childhood education centres in Spain from the public network where the Barenboim-Said Public Foundation (BSPF) implemented the Children’s Musical Education Project. The methodology used was based on a group interview and the formation of four discussion groups of a total of 15 preschool teachers and four BSPF specialists. The results correspond to the analysis and categorisation of the data collected and recorded in notebooks by teachers during fieldwork. These provide information on external and internal factors that improve student – student interactions and cooperative skills in the classroom and establish an ideal framework for using approaches involving physical contact, movement, and music by preschool teachers.

Brief transdiagnostic group Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for acute inpatients with complex mental health conditions: A randomised pilot study using an active social control

ObjectivesThe present study examined the feasibility and acceptability of a brief transdiagnostic group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT; Valued Living Program, VLP) versus an active social control condition (Social Discussion Group, SDG) for inpatients admitted for acute mental health conditions. MethodParticipants were group randomised to three sessions of the VLP (n = 17) or the SDG (n = 19) plus treatment-as-usual (TAU). The primary outcomes were service use data (emergency department presentations and inpatient admissions). Participants were assessed at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 4 and 12-months post-discharge on quantitative and qualitative secondary outcomes of psychological and behavioural functioning. ResultsBoth interventions were rated as acceptable and useful. Primary and secondary outcomes demonstrated a longitudinal pattern of improvement for the VLP condition relative to the SDG condition. Longitudinal drop-out was high, which reduced the reliability of quantitative secondary outcomes. ConclusionsThe VLP appears acceptable to inpatients experiencing acute mental health conditions. Positive initial outcomes support further investigation into the VLP's effectiveness. However, the feasibility of evaluating the VLP via RCT was limited by poor participant retention which might be improved with additional study resources. Further investigation into protocol engagement is also warranted prior to proceeding with a larger RCT.

Penggunaan Model Problem Based Learning Untuk Meningkatkan Komunikasi dan Kolaborasi Peserta Didik Kelas X

This study aims to improve communication and collaboration of students in class X-3 SMA Islam Sultan Agung 1 Semarang in learning Biology virus material through Problem Based Learning model. Problem Based Learning is a learner-centered learning model, where learners face real problems that require solutions through collaboration and active communication with discussion groups and classmates. This type of research is a class action research (PTK) consisting of two cycles, in each cycle there are two meetings. Each cycle has three stages, namely planning (Plan), implementation (Do), and reflection (See). The subjects in this study were X-3 class students totaling 30 female students. Each research cycle, students were given a problem relevant to the virus material and they were expected to work together in groups to solve the problem. During this process, they had to communicate with fellow group members, discuss, and design solutions to the problem. Data collection techniques used through observation sheets, and documentation as research data. Data analysis was made descriptively qualitative. The results showed that the application of Problem Based Learning can improve students' communication and collaboration skills on virus material. This can be seen from cycle 1 the recapitulation of communication results of 68.60% increased to 80.80% in cycle 2. The increase in collaboration skills from cycle 1 amounted to 71.60% to 89.67% in cycle 2. The conclusion of this study is that by using the Problem Based Learning learning model there is an increase in communication and collaboration skills of students.

Utilization of Organic Waste Into Compost Fertilizer: A Wise Solution to Manage Waste in Gebanganom Village, Kendal Regency

Activity Studying Work This is real (KKN) aiming For increase understanding and application use fertilizer compost in society Village Compost chosen as focus main Because its potential in support agriculture sustainable and reduce dependence to fertilizer chemistry . Through socialization This time , the KKN Posko 3 team invited Service Agriculture and Food Kendal Regency for can give education about benefit fertilizer compost , its production , and techniques its use in practice agriculture everyday. The method used For ensure effective knowledge transfer covering consultation , demonstration live , and discussion group . The results of activity This expected can increase awareness public will importance management rubbish organic and application fertilizer compost , so that in the end contribute to improvement productivity agriculture and sustainability environment in the village Gebanganom

PSYCHOLOGICAL SKILL ASSISTANCE FOR MARRIED COUPLES WHO ARE ALUMNI OF PRE-MARITAL COURSES AT BP4 - PARIAMAN CITY

This paper aims to see how far BP4 Pariaman City has a role in strengthening human psycho-social in the field of social welfare; services for alumni of post-marriage couples need to be followed up with a balanced program. The lack of psycho-social understanding of pre-marital post-marriage course graduates will have great potential to add to the long line of early marriage ages in Pariaman City. The fundamental problem that is most troubling is their ignorance of the responsibilities, rights and obligations of husband and wife in the household. To overcome this solution, the service team identified the problem of spaciousness. It mapped the problem to be treated (treatment) for the subject of service through two stages: family psychology guidance and Islamic family counseling. The first stage is pre-activity in the form of a Focus Discussion Group (FGD) presenting lecturers as participants to provide input for the mentoring action plan to be carried out. The second stage is action activities, including psychological skill assistance in family psychology and group counseling. This activity has generally received appreciation from stakeholders (BP4 Pariaman City management, pre-marital course alumni) because this program has offered various alternatives for their self-development in elaborating their knowledge to be applied in household life. The results of the reflection and evaluation of the program offered by the service conclude that they understand that a sakinah mawaddah wa rahmah household life is not achieved by material wealth but by the ability to accept oneself and have a correct understanding of an Islamic household. They understand that household problems cannot be measured only by logic. However, it includes religious and spiritual matters the human mind cannot reach. Therefore, they understand that household responsibilities are worldly matters and matters of the afterlife, which are related to God.

Pengaruh Penggunaan Metode Discussion Group terhadap Motivasi dan Hasil Belajar Siswa pada Pembelajaran IPS Kelas VIII di MTs Darussalam Kademangan

This research is motivated by the low motivation and learning outcomes of students in Social Studies. This issue arises because the teaching process is heavily dominated by the teacher, resulting in low student motivation and learning outcomes. Therefore, a teaching method is needed that provides students with the opportunity to construct their own knowledge, one of which is the Discussion Group Method. This method is developed to train students in questioning and answering skills. The Discussion Group Method is very effective for involving students in reviewing the material that has been taught. The research approach used is a quantitative approach with an experimental research type. The population in this study consists of eighth grade students at MTs Darussalam Kademangan. The sample used is 52 students, selected using Purposive Sampling technique. Data collection techniques in the study include questionnaires and tests. To measure both variables, validity and reliability tests of the instruments were conducted, along with prerequisite tests using normality and homogeneity tests, and hypothesis testing using the t-test. The results of the study conducted at MTs Darussalam Kademangan from April 25 to 30, 2024, are as follows: (1) There is a significant influence of the Discussion Group Method on learning motivation. This is evidenced by the t-test results with a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.001. Based on the decision-making criteria of 0.001 < 0.05, Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted. (2) There is a significant influence of the Discussion Group Method on learning outcomes. This is evidenced by the t-test results with a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000. Based on the decision-making criteria of 0.000 < 0.05, Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted. Keywords: Discussion Group Method, Learning Motivation, Learning Outcomes