Educational Journey Research Articles

Exploring the Impact of Early STEM Education on Science and Visual Literacy

Early STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education plays a pivotal role in shaping children's science and visual literacy skills. However, in South Africa, there are notable challenges such as delayed initiation of science education and inadequate emphasis on visual literacy. This study aims to investigate the influence of early STEM education on science and visual literacy in South African educational contexts. Drawing upon the post-positivist paradigm and Mayer's cognitive theory of multimedia learning, this research employed a mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative analyses, integrating autoethnography to engage with lived experiences during my master's and doctoral studies. The findings suggest that children exposed to STEM education demonstrate higher levels of science and visual literacy. These findings have implications for curriculum design and educational practice, urging stakeholders to integrate STEM principles early in children's educational journey and to prioritize visual literacy to enhance communication and comprehension of scientific concepts. Recommendations are provided for educational institutions and policymakers to facilitate the implementation of effective strategies addressing these challenges and fostering a generation of learners equipped with essential skills for success in the modern world.

Understanding the AI Integrity in Academic Excellence: Bangladesh Perspective

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionary tools that have opened up a new technology-driven horizon in academic learning to enhance and accelerate the higher education journey. This article describes and discusses the convergence of academic integrity and AI, both of which are fundamental to our intellectual environment. An effective approach to AI-integrated learning can balance the use of AI-generated tools and techniques to stimulate students' creativity, analytical thinking, and real-life observation. As we strive for academic excellence, it is essential to integrate AI in academics and all other spheres of development with balance and rationality, through appropriate policies and regulated ethical and value-based use. Educational institutes should have many open platforms to discuss, debate, and smoothly integrate AI technology into academic practices while maintaining the integrity that underpins our scholarly pursuits. Investing in academic and policy debates and discussions regarding the ethicality of AI applications can create a brighter future for academia. This will allow us to leverage the power of AI to advance our knowledge and understanding and to build a stronger nation with greater impact.

Tanggung Jawab Terhadap Pendidikan Anak

The objective of this article is to explore comprehensively the obligations related to the education of children from the standpoint of Abdullah Nashih Ulwan as portrayed in his publication "Tarbiyatul Aulad Fi Al-Islam", whilst examining the assorted obligations outlined by Ulwan in his publication. This investigation utilizes a qualitative approach concentrating on a review of literature, with the intention of capturing the core of Abdullah Nashih Ulwan's ideologies. The research results reveal that Ulwan recognizes seven categories of obligations towards children's education, encompassing faith-based, ethical, physical, cognitive, emotional, communal, and sexual education. This educational process can be executed both in the familial setting, where both parents act as instructors, and in the school atmosphere, where educators assume a principal role in the educational journey.

Does Art Education Matter in Inclusiveness for Learners with Disabilities? A Systematic Review

The pursuit of fostering inclusive educational environments, particularly in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development 2030 Agenda, prioritizes the advancement of quality education. In this endeavor, there is a central emphasis on fostering equitable, inclusive, and high-quality education accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. Art education plays a relevant role within this agenda due to its multifaceted benefits and potential to contribute to inclusive educational environments, which are crucial for individuals with disabilities. This study contributes to this goal by investigating the intricate link between art education and inclusivity for disabled learners. In using the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) approach, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of literature sourced from reputable databases such as Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus. The timeframe for the literature review spanned from 2014 to 2023. Initially identifying 126 relevant publications, 28 research articles were deemed pertinent to the study objectives. The findings of this investigation unveil the significant impact of art education on various aspects crucial to the educational journey of learners with disabilities. Specifically, art education is shown to positively influence motivation levels, foster increased engagement in learning activities, and facilitate more effective learning outcomes. Building upon these insights, the study proposes a conceptual framework designed to cultivate inclusive classrooms. By synthesizing the empirical evidence gleaned from the analyzed literature, this research aims to inform educational practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders about the transformative potential of art education in creating genuinely inclusive learning environments for all learners, including those with disabilities.

“I Am Overworked and I’m Not Taking Care of Myself”: The Experiences of Black Men in Doctoral Programs Navigating Racial Battle Fatigue

ABSTRACT Historically, Black men encountered challenges related to race and racism throughout their educational journeys. Perhaps more pronounced at the doctoral level, Black men often experience racial microaggressions and feelings of isolation. This qualitative study utilized racial battle fatigue to explore the experiences of 20 Black men in social science doctoral programs. Utilizing Critical Race Theory and counter-storytelling, participants shared the effects of racial microaggressions and race related stress on their daily interactions and experiences. The study concludes by presenting implications, offering recommendations for future research, and suggesting strategies to better support Black men who facing and navigating racial battle fatigue in doctoral education.

Unveiling the Lived Experiences of Western Indonesian Students in Javan Higher Education Institutions: A Phenomenological Exploration

This qualitative research embarks on an exploratory journey into the lived experiences of a specific group of students—young minds from western Indonesia who are embarking on an academic journey in the dynamic ecosystem of higher education institutions in Java. In the literature synthesis, it is clear that while the experiences of international students have been studied extensively, the experiences of certain subgroups within a country remain relatively unexplored. This phenomenological exploration of the life experiences of West Indonesian students in Javanese institutions not only enriches academic discourse but also informs practical strategies for enhancing the educational journey of these students. The study identified several major challenges faced by these students, including language barriers, misunderstanding of culture and social norms, variations in academic expectations, adaptation to local cuisine, and the formation of social networks. While these challenges were formidable, the narratives of these students also reveal their resilience and capacity for personal growth. These findings offer valuable insights that go beyond academia. Recommendations include establishing a standardized and accessible cultural orientation program, fostering a network of peer support, and recognizing the need for academic guidance tailored to the unique challenges facing Western Indonesian students. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of cross-cultural adaptation and personal growth but also has practical implications for policymakers and educational institutions.

Education as a field of conflict with the cultural identity of the Roma. A study on Roma graduates from Greek universities

The Roma, constitute the largest minority in Europe. The percentage of young Roma who have graduated from university, ranges from 1% to 4% in the member states of the European Union, resulting that the majority is being categorized as NEETs (not in education, employment, or training). The purpose of the article is to explore the identity conflicts, experienced by Roma university graduates with their traditional identity, through their educational journey, from preschool to university, as well as their relationships with the Roma Community. The sample of the qualitative research, consisted of ten Roma graduates from Greek universities. The majority of the graduates declared they were proud of their origin, although they confirmed the concealment of their cultural identity, mainly during their university studies, but also after that, for reasons related to their integration into the labor market and their social acceptance.

Incorporating humour in the educational journey of young tourists

Humour for children has received attention from various academic domains. However, the topic is a less explored area in the field of tourism. Addressing this research gap, the present study aims to firstly, identify the main themes of humour which are discussed in the academic literature about children, and secondly to outline how the identified themes can be applied to children’s learning experiences in tourism settings. The study employs content analysis to systematically review 190 relevant publications from multidisciplinary fields sourced from ScienceDirect and Scopus. Five overarching themes were identified across studies of various disciplines: social, parents, play, teachers, and characters. The emerging themes were interpreted through the lens of Vygotsky’s Socio-Cultural Theory to develop a conceptual framework for children’s learning experiences in tourism contexts. The paper enhances our understanding of the children’s literature in the context of tourism by providing both theoretical and practical insights. It specifically focuses on how humour can be utilised to enrich children's learning in the realm of tourism.

KONSEP PENDIDIKAN HASYIM ASY’ARI; TIPOLOGI DAN RELEVANSINYA TERHADAP PARADIGMA PENDIDIKAN INDONESIA EMAS 2045

AbstractHasyim Asy'ari is better known as a cleric who transformed Islamic boarding school education, as well as being a fighter. Hasyim Asy'ari turned Tebuireng into a model Islamic boarding school for Islamic boarding schools throughout Indonesia. By using relevant literature data from the book Adab al-Alim wa al-Muta'allim by Hasyim Asy'ari, this research uses library research by collecting information through documentary methods. In the book Directions for Competency of the Indonesian Generation Towards a Golden Indonesia 2045 prepared by the National Education Standards Agency (BNSP), Indonesia will celebrate its 100th anniversary of independence in 2045. Indonesia will experience a golden age at that time. Education needs to be organized as a "Garden that Excites", "Garden that Grows", and "Garden that Strengthens", in accordance with the ideals of Ki Hajar Dewantara. Because there are no castes based on intelligence (ranking), all students feel safe and comfortable in the "Education Park". Each student feels valued for their individuality and uniqueness in the park. It is in gardens like this that humans mature into civilized creatures. His contribution of thought, whether in the form of works, or his work in establishing Islamic boarding schools and the Nahdlatul Ulama organization has proven his work and is valid evidence to attribute to him the figure of Indonesian Islamic education. As part of a conservative traditional education figure, Hasyim Asy'ari's contribution to educational thought was enormous to the journey of education, especially Islamic boarding school education. Hasyim Asy'ari's thoughts are very relevant to national education issues across eras and are suitable to be adopted in preparing Indonesia's golden generation in the future.

Cultivating insight and engagement: exploring the role of Trait Emotional Intelligence in Chinese art education.

BackgroundThe present study focuses on the unique role of insight and Trait Emotional Intelligence in the realm of art education in China. Insight, traditionally associated with clinical outcomes such as mastering symptoms, developing adaptive behaviors, and enhancing quality of life, is newly contextualized in this study within the framework of art education. The expansion of insight research into areas like Social Psychology reflects its relevance beyond clinical settings, particularly in educational environments where creativity and emotional intelligence are pivotal.AimIn Chinese art education, insight is crucial not just for personal growth but also for professional development, integrating the understanding of emotions, culture, and artistic expression. This study explores how Trait Emotional Intelligence fosters insight and engagement in art students, underscoring its transformative impact on their educational and professional journey in the art world.MethodsUsing a sample of Chinese art education students at University level (N = 881), that answered a quantitative self-report questionnaire, statistical procedures are applied to test the relationships between Trait Emotional Intelligence, Insight orientation, and students’ academic engagement.ResultsIn the structural model, the path from Trait Emotional Intelligence to Insight Orientation was significant, indicating a positive relationship. Students’ Engagement was significantly predicted by Insight Orientation and Trait Emotional Intelligence.ImplicationsThis finding corroborates theoretical assertions that individuals with higher emotional intelligence are more inclined to have enhanced insight. The findings of the present study extend beyond the field of Art education, allowing us to provide a broad spectrum of social implications for Higher Education institutions.

Parental Perception and Attitude towards Private Tuition: A Cross-Sectional Study among Daily Wage Earners

Parents' perception of private tuition significantly impacts a child's educational journey. Positive attitudes boost academic growth, boost confidence, address individual needs, foster responsibility, and reflect cultural and social factors. Positive attitudes also encourage collaboration with educators, aligning educational goals and fostering open communication. So, the present study aimed to assess the level of perception and attitude among the parents of daily wage earners. A cross-sectional survey method has been employed to accomplish the purpose of the study among the daily wage-earning parents of school-going children. The present study consisted of 267 samples, comprising daily wage earners parents, by employing a random sampling method from Nadia District, West Bengal, India. A standardized perception and attitude scale towards private tuition, with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.81 and 0.79, respectively, was administered to collect data from the sample (daily wage earners parents). The findings of the study indicate significant differences in perceptions and attitudes towards private tuition based on factors such as gender, location, and educational qualifications. It has been found that attitudes and perceptions of private tuition have a moderately positive correlation. This study contributes to our knowledge of the significance of private tuition in the educational landscape and provides insightful information for future studies and the formulation of societal policies.

Collaborative cultures: Ubuntu as a pedagogical foundation for educating independent film-makers

This case study centres on the Ubuntu Collaboration Model introduced to Bournemouth University in the UK in 2018. Initially focused on undergraduate teaching, the model is now embedded as part of the university’s practice-based and industry-focused Media Production master’s programmes (2019–ongoing). The goal of this initiative is to develop and install a practical approach to film teaching that deliberately fosters a consciousness of cross-cultural collaboration among emerging independent film-makers coming from diverse backgrounds. The model is founded on the principles of the African philosophical concept of Ubuntu, which suggests, among other things, that we can only progress productively through a shared value system that finds expression in respectful social interaction (that is, collaboration). Co-authored with master’s students, this case study contextualises and analyses the experiences of the master’s film production cohort who were part of this pedagogical journey in 2022/3.

Using Innovative Reading Programs in Preschool Age and their Impact on Child Development

Introduction. The concept of innovation can take on various meanings, especially when apllied to preschool education. It involves the introduction of new ideas, methods, techniques, strategies, and practices within the educational setting to enhance and improve the teaching and learning process. This research focuses on the essential element needed for development and self-renewal, which includes being receptive to fresh ideas, exploring new approaches, and incorporating technological advancements into education. Preschool teachers play a vital role in implementing innovative methods and activities within preschool settings to support learners on their educational journey. There are numerous innovative learning models in preschool education, such as project-based learning, which prioritizes individualization, dedication, and autonomy in teaching. This includes utilizing reading programs that make lessons enjoyable while reinforcing acquired knowledge. One of the notable tools is Raz-kids, which enriches students’ lives and aids in their reading development. Goal. The aim of this text is to highlight the importance and multifaceted nature of innovation in preschool education. It emphasizes the need for introducing new ideas, methods, techniques, strategies, and practices to enhance teaching and learning processes. The text underscores the role of preschool teachers in implementing innovative methods and activities, showcasing various learning models such as project-based learning and specific tools like Raz-kids to support and enrich students' educational experiences. The Results. Innovative learning models, particularly Raz-kids reading, have allowed for greater individualization in teaching. Students are given more autonomy, fostering independence and personalized learning experiences that cater to their unique needs and interests. These strategies and the use of technology in the classroom have been shown to improve learning outcomes. The learners have demonstrated better retention of knowledge, enhanced reading skills, and overall academic performance. Conclusions. Embracing innovation in preschool education is essential for creating a stimulating, effective, and personalized learning environment. The continued exploration and implementation of innovative practices will support the development of young learners and contribute to the overall improvement of educational systems.

Adaptive Learning: AI's Journey in Education and Beyond

Adaptive Learning: AI's Journey in Education and Beyond

The socioeconomic determinants of University dropouts: The case of Greece

This research paper aims to explore the issue of university dropouts in Greece, which has become a growing concern in recent years due to its impact on individuals, educational institutions, and society as a whole. One of the main contributing factors to students discontinuing their higher education in Greece is the choice of the wrong faculty. Financial challenges, unrelated to tuition fees, also significantly affect students’ ability to pursue their studies. Family background plays a crucial role, with students from families with higher educational attainment exhibiting greater persistence. The study found that gender, age, and academic performance can influence students’ perceptions of dropout factors, which can change as they progress through their educational journey. To address these challenges, the research proposes a multifaceted approach, including early intervention programs, expanded financial support, improved mental health and counseling services, flexible learning options, and strong academic advising.

Innovative Integration of Digital Content in Legal Education

The landscape of legal education is undergoing a profound transformation propelled by digital content, ushering in innovative methods to enrich both learning and teaching experiences. This paper delves into the myriad applications of digital content within legal education, encompassing online courses, e- books, legal databases, and virtual simulations. It scrutinizes the manifold benefits these digital resources confer, ranging from heightened accessibility and flexibility to immersive and interactive learning environments. Furthermore, the paper navigates through the challenges and constraints entwined with the integration of digital content in legal education, including concerns pertaining to digital literacy, access inequalities, and the imperative for pedagogical adaptations. Conclusively, the paper furnishes recommendations aimed at orchestrating the effective assimilation of digital content into legal education, thereby harnessing its full potential to enrich the educational journey.

The relationship between 'school readiness' and later persistent absenteeism.

Post-pandemic school absence is an increasing concern for governments worldwide. Absence is associated with poor academic outcomes and long-term illness (physical and mental). Absenteeism increases the risk of financial difficulties in adulthood and involvement in the criminal justice system. We hypothesized that early childhood problems might be an antecedent of absenteeism. We tested this hypothesis by investigating the pre-pandemic association between school readiness and persistent absenteeism using a population-linked dataset. Analyses included 62,598 children aged 5-13 years from the Connected Bradford database (spanning academic years 2012/13 to 2019/20). Special educational needs status, English as an Additional Language status, socioeconomic status, sex and ethnicity were covariates significantly associated with persistent absenteeism. Children who were not 'school ready' had increased odds of being persistently absent later in their education journey after controlling for these covariates. School readiness was associated with even greater odds of being persistently absent over two or more years. These findings show (i) the seeds of absenteeism are sown early in childhood; (ii) absenteeism shows the hallmark of structural inequities; and (iii) the potential of 'school readiness' measures to identify children at risk of long-term disengagement from the education system.

Advancing Higher Education with the Transition to Smart Universities: A Focus on Technology

This study explores the transformative journey of higher education towards smart universities, emphasizing integrating cutting-edge technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and biometric systems. This evolution responds to the evolving demands of society, aiming to significantly enhance the educational experience while reimagining campus life and community involvement. It sheds light on the creation of immersive, interactive, and personalized learning landscapes that accommodate a diverse array of student requirements, including those with disabilities, setting a new standard in educational inclusivity. The discourse extends to the pivotal role of smart campuses, which are instrumental in forging safer, more inclusive, and environmentally sustainable educational realms. Furthermore, the paper highlights the importance of digital platforms in nurturing social bonds and community engagement, especially through the potent medium of alumni networks. By transitioning into centers of innovation and technological excellence, universities are equipping students for a future shaped by technology. The review highlights the transition’s challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the need to balance technological advancements with human-centric values, ensure equitable technology access, and maintain privacy. It presents the rise of smart universities as a pivotal step towards more interconnected, intelligent, and sustainable communities, significantly influencing education and societal development.

Sustaining the ethos of togetherness in multicultural schools in Denmark: student teachers’ reflections and experiences

ABSTRACT In the Danish educational context, the concept of togetherness [Danish: fællesskab] occupies a unique position. It extends beyond mere fellowship, encompassing a profound sense of community and a common spirit. Utilising a twofold theoretical framework underpinned by critical multiculturalism and complemented by scholarship on the concept of togetherness, this paper explores the experiences and reflections of Danish student teachers concerning the notion of togetherness in the context of multicultural schooling. The data were derived from fourteen individual interviews with Danish student teachers who were in the final year of their educational journey through teacher education at the time of the study. The findings indicate that, on the one hand, the participants attached importance to establishing and sustaining the ethos of togetherness in their future classrooms, whilst on the other, they reported a deficiency in the practical knowledge required to actualise togetherness in contemporary multicultural educational settings.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF EMERGING ADULTS – STUDENTS OF HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Introduction. At present, understanding the psychological and social aspects of personality development among adolescents aged 17-21 is crucial. By this age, most have completed secondary education, with many continuing their studies at higher educational institutions. However, junior students often face challenges related to psychological maturity, readiness for independent work, and adaptation to the academic environment, leading to maladaptation and stress resistance issues. This study aims to investigate the key psychological characteristics of older adolescents to enhance their effectiveness in higher education. Materials and Methods. A thorough analysis of the main psychological traits of older adolescents in higher educational institutions was conducted based on data from recent domestic and international literature. Results. This study identified several psychological factors that influence the academic productivity and adaptation of older adolescent students in higher education. Some factors contribute to their success, such as adaptability to new social groups and recognition by peers and faculty. However, other factors can hinder or even prevent these processes for certain groups of students. Conclusion. Older adolescents demonstrate a deepening of their individual development compared to earlier stages. However, first-year students often exhibit traits of psychological immaturity and partial instability. Understanding these psychological characteristics is essential for effectively supporting and guiding older adolescents in their educational journey.