Educational Practice Research Articles

Práctica reflexiva del profesorado en formación de la carrera de Historia, Geografía y Ciencias Sociales de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso

Introduction: The objective of the research is to identify what type of reflection the pre-services teachers in the History, Geography and Social Sciences program at the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso develop at the end of their professional practice, in order to recognize challenges and training opportunities for the promotion of reflective practice. Methodology: Qualitative descriptive research that analyzed the performances of 33 pre-service teachers in their reflection protocol, identifying the type of reflection carried out: descriptive, comparative or critical. Results: The majority pre-service teachers, when evaluating the impact of their teaching, based on their students' learning and reflecting pedagogically, develop a descriptive reflection, to the detriment of a comparative and critical one. When it is requested to analyze the impact of pedagogical practice from the opinions of the students, this is of the comparative type. Discussions: Systematic reflection on educational practice constitutes a possibility for the formation of teaching identity. Conclusions: It is important to understand reflective practice as a key competence of teaching practice, which is consolidated as a space for continuous learning and reflection par excellence due to its approach and experience of teaching work.

Reverse Transfer in Chinese Adolescents: Implications for Language and Cultural Identity Preservation

This literature review examines the phenomenon of reverse transfer (RT) among Chinese adolescents, focusing on its implications for the preservation of their mother tongue and cultural identity. Reverse transfer, a subtype of cross-linguistic influence (CLI), occurs when a later-acquired language affects an earlier one, challenging the traditional view of language learning as unidirectional. The study of RT is particularly pertinent for Chinese adolescents, who are often exposed to multiple languages due to globalization and educational policies, potentially impacting their linguistic and cultural heritage. This article employs the method of a formal literature review. The review synthesizes recent research on RT among Chinese adolescents, with a focus on how additional languages, particularly English, influence their Mandarin proficiency. Findings suggest English has had a significant impact on the mother tongue of Chinese adolescents. Moreover, RT’s impact extends to cultural identity, with some adolescents navigating multicultural spaces effectively, while others experience cultural dissonance, suggesting RT’s role in shaping cultural self-perception and connections to Chinese heritage. The paper underscores the complexity of RT’s effects on language and cultural identity, highlighting the need for educational practices that support multilingual development without compromising the mother tongue. It concludes with a call for longitudinal studies to explore the long-term effects of RT on language and cultural identity among Chinese adolescents, aiming to inform language education and cultural preservation policies.

Utilizing Language-Generating Artificial Intelligence (LGAI) in Educational Planning: A Case Study

The integration of Generative AI (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT in education, while promising, remains underexplored. This study investigates the use of language-generating AI (LGAI) within K-12 instructional planning through a case study of a middle school science teacher using the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework. Findings reveal that effective use of LGAI involves detailed contextual input, iterative dialogue, and selective adoption of AI-generated suggestions. The teacher’s engagement with LGAI not only enhanced lesson planning efficiency but also supported adaptive teaching methods and personalized learning experiences. This integration led to improved confidence and strategic decision-making in instructional planning. The study highlights the potential of LGAI to transform educational practices and underscores the importance of professional development to equip educators with the skills necessary to harness AI technologies effectively. These insights contribute to understanding how GenAI can augment instructional design, offering a framework for integrating technological innovations into pedagogy.

Assessing the Quality of an Innovative Learning Path for BIM Education: The DIGITAL DECATHLON

The Erasmus+ funded project DIGITAL DECATHLON addresses the urgent need to modernize educational practices in the construction industry, especially in the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM). This study investigates how interdisciplinary, international and game-based learning can improve the BIM skills of students from different academic backgrounds and institutions in Europe. The study investigates whether an immersive simulation game involving students from five universities in Germany, Finland, Italy and Poland can effectively develop BIM skills and promote international and intercultural collaboration. The research uses a mixed methods approach that includes observational analysis, expert evaluations and surveys to assess the effectiveness of learning methods used in the game, to exploit for the optimization of the second game experience foreseen by the project. The results show that the simulation successfully engages students and improves their practical BIM skills. Nevertheless, there are areas that need improvement. Key challenges include harmonizing disciplines, improving the understanding of project management and ensuring consistent and equal communication between teams. These findings emerge from both qualitative feedback and quantitative performance data. This makes it clear that the existing simulation game is well suited to teaching the basics of the BIM methodology, but that some improvements are still needed, which will be incorporated in a second run, again subject to evaluation for capitalization and future replication.

LINES OF ACCESS TO THE RIGHT TO DEAF EDUCATION AND CULTURE

Legal guarantees ensure access to education for deaf students, notably, based on some official documents (national/international) that encouraged the publication of specific laws on the educational process for deaf students, considering their differences and cultural identities, and thus the recognition of natural sign language as the language of instruction. This study analyzed several official documents and laws that provide support for the education of deaf students in Brazil, in light of studies dedicated to this educational practice under the theoretical contribution of authors such as Lage et al. (2020), Santos et al. (2015), Perlin and Souza (2015), Quadros et al. (2008), Lodi (2011), Perlin and Strobel (2008), Miorando (2006), Quadros and Schmiedt (2006), among others who are dedicated to the topic in question. The research is characterized as exploratory, from the point of view of its objective, bibliographical and documentary by its procedures. The results of the research showed that there are several legal guarantees and some effectiveness of these guarantees, but they still do not offer full access to teaching and learning in accordance with current legislation.

Global aspirations of Chinese universities: towards a world-centred tianxia (all under heaven) imaginary of global higher education?

AbstractThis article explores the global aspirations of Chinese universities by examining the Chinese scholarly conceptualisation of guoji yingxiangli (literally meaning international influence) and its connection to the world-centred idea of tianxia. We interviewed 22 Chinese experts in education and conducted a documentary analysis of relevant Chinese academic publications. Findings show that there is no English equivalence of the Chinese term guoji yingxiangli of universities, which encompasses two aspects: the intrinsic capacity of universities and their external reputation and relations. Chinese universities’ agential pursuit of guoji yingxiangli embodies their commitment to both national ambitions and global common good. The study then argues that the world-centred tianxia imaginary, characterised by interdependency, reciprocity, and diversity, is more effective in explaining the higher education practices and relations in China and globally than methodological globalism or nationalism. It also highlights the need for further research and critical reflections on the tianxia imaginary while calling for reciprocal collaboration, diverse and mutual development, and the production of global common goods among worldwide universities.

The Effect of Learning Environment on Students' Motivation in Learning

This study investigates the relationship between the learning environment and students' motivation through qualitative analysis of interviews and focus groups. Key themes emerged highlighting the influence of various environmental aspects on motivation. Participants emphasized the importance of supportive teacher relationships, noting that teachers who demonstrate genuine interest and provide constructive feedback foster higher motivation levels. A positive classroom climate characterized by respect, collaboration, and inclusivity was also identified as crucial for engagement. Peer interactions, particularly through collaborative learning experiences, enhanced motivation by creating a sense of belonging and accountability. Additionally, access to diverse resources and learning tools was vital for maintaining motivation, with students expressing a desire for engaging materials. The physical characteristics of learning spaces, such as seating arrangements and lighting, significantly impacted motivation, with flexible and organized environments contributing to comfort and engagement. While many students appreciated technology's role in facilitating interactive learning, concerns about distractions underscored the need for balanced integration. Overall, the findings align with existing literature, offering new insights into factors influencing motivation across educational levels. The study underscores the necessity for educators to foster supportive relationships, promote a positive classroom climate, provide diverse resources, and thoughtfully integrate technology, ultimately enhancing student engagement and success. Future research should further explore these dynamics, particularly in the context of evolving educational practices and technological advancements.

Reflexiones acerca de la inclusión, la inclusión educativa y la educación inclusiva

This article attempts to show some reflections on inclusion, educational inclusion, and inclusive education. These concepts play an indispensable role in the educational practices of different academic systems. The diversity of students has demanded the creation of new forms of pedagogical work in classrooms. Due to this, new policies have been created, designed, planned, and implemented to benefit educational inclusion and inclusive education. Moving towards educational inclusion and inclusive education, as educators, will allow us to continue thinking about new ways to achieve a full and quality education for all students.

The impact of a block-based visual programming curriculum: Untangling coding skills and computational thinking

Backgroundand Context: Computer programming is increasingly being taught to young children worldwide. Quality programming curricula are needed to enable students to explore computer science concepts and develop a positive attitude towards programming. However, few studies have been conducted on the available curricula for young learners. ObjectiveThis study aims to provide an evidence-based, public, and free computer science curriculum for early childhood education by investigating the efficacy of the CAL-ScratchJr curriculum, among second graders. MethodA cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 11 schools and 21 second-grade classrooms was conducted to examine the impact of the 24-lesson curriculum on students’ coding proficiency and computational thinking. FindingsThe results indicated that the CAL-ScratchJr curriculum intervention had a medium positive effect on second graders’ coding skills, but no significant impact on computational thinking. ImplicationsResults caution against incorporating disconnected abstract computational thinking practices in education. The features of the curriculum were discussed.

Reshaping Educational Leadership Learning: Adding Politics to Practice

AbstractDuring a distinguished academic career, Professor Martin Thrupp alerted diverse audiences to the politics shaping educational practice in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. The focus of this commemorative article is on Martin’s teaching legacy, in particular, the re-design and enduring impact of a compulsory postgraduate leadership paper at Te Kura Toi Tangata, University of Waikato. Key themes include the three neoliberal policy technologies of markets, managerialism and performativity, and the contested notion of context. Qualitative data from this year’s online student cohort illustrate in representative ways the profound influence that adding politics to practice has had on their educational leadership thinking and practice. This attests to the ongoing importance of sociopolitical insight in informed, responsive and successful leadership praxis.

Education’s primary motive of overall human development in India: Case based perspective of Dayalbagh Educational Institute

The Indian higher education system faces significant challenges in integrating value-based education, sustainability, and consciousness, often prioritizing academic achievements over holistic development. This case-based research explores how Dayalbagh Educational Institute (DEI) effectively addresses these challenges by incorporating sustainability, value, and consciousness into its educational framework. DEI was selected for its distinctive approach, which emphasizes moral and social responsibility, fostering not only academic success but also the ethical development of students. The study draws on document analysis and observations to illustrate how DEI’s educational practices serve as a model for other institutions. The research underscores the urgent need for educational reforms in India that go beyond traditional metrics of success, addressing the gaps in moral education and sustainable practices. By fostering critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility, DEI demonstrates how an education system can prepare students for future challenges while promoting a deeper consciousness about their role in society. The findings suggest that integrating value-based education with sustainability and consciousness not only enhances students’ holistic development but also contributes to broader goals of national development. DEI’s model offers practical insights and evidence for other educational institutions to adopt similar strategies, ensuring that future generations are better equipped to address societal challenges with a strong ethical foundation. This research thus provides a comprehensive view of the essential elements needed in modern education to create responsible and conscious global citizens.

Kendra's journey: an intrinsic case study of a deaf autistic child.

This study used an intrinsic case study to investigate how interventions from applied behavior analysis impacted language development, academic progress, and the reduction of severe challenging behaviors for an 8-year-old child who is Deaf and autistic. 3 main themes were identified: language acquisition, behavioral change strategies, and academic performance. Additionally, 2 common threads wove in and out of each and connected all 3 themes: language access and qualified providers, including Deaf professionals. This study expands the literature about using behavioral strategies with children who are Deaf and autistic and discusses implications for clinical and educational practice.

Mediating Role of Aesthetic Experience between Environmentally Aesthetic and Sustainable Development in Primary School Education System

Researchers in Guangxi Province, China, are doing research on primary school teachers to investigate the relationship between environmental aesthetics, aesthetic experiences, and sustainable development. To conducting an analysis of the data collected from 435 elementary school teachers who participated in a structured survey, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SMART PLS software was utilized. According to the conclusions of the study, there is a large and beneficial association between environmental aesthetics, aesthetic experiences, and sustainable development. Based on the findings, it is possible that enhancing environmental aesthetics could result in an increase in the number of aesthetic experiences, which could be beneficial to educational sustainable development. The research is restricted to a narrow geographic area and relies on self-reported data, both of which may restrict its capacity to be generalized. The research demonstrates that environmental aesthetics influence the educational experiences of primary teachers, notwithstanding the constraints that have been mentioned. The knowledge of this fact may have an impact on educational practices and policies pertaining to sustainability. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-SIED1-013 Full Text: PDF

A narrative review of the potential use of generative artificial intelligence in educational research practices in higher education

A narrative review of the potential use of generative artificial intelligence in educational research practices in higher education

Enhancing Digital Education: A Model for Effective Mobile Learning Implementation in Malaysian Higher Education

This study investigates the implementation of mobile learning (m-learning) services in the smart environment at Kolej Poly-Tech MARA (KPTM) in Malaysia, focusing on establishing effective practices for digital education. Despite the potential of m-learning as an educational tool, its adoption in Malaysia remains limited, with the COVID-19 pandemic highlighting the need for innovative approaches to learning. The research employs a mixed methods approach, gathering quantitative data from 365 respondents, including students, lecturers, and administrators, through Likert-scale questionnaires distributed via Google Forms. Qualitative data were obtained through interviews with 10 selected participants. The study identifies existing practices in m-learning, explores its benefits, and examines challenges faced during implementation. Utilizing descriptive analysis, one-way ANOVA, Independent T-Test, and Regression Correlation, the findings reveal a positive perception of m-learning among stakeholders, alongside challenges related to infrastructure and training. The primary contribution of this research is the development of a model of good practice that provides guidelines for KPTM and other higher education institutions aiming to enhance the quality of mobile learning services. This model emphasizes the importance of accessibility, professional development, and stakeholder collaboration, positioning KPTM toward a more effective digital education landscape. Overall, the study underscores the critical role of m-learning in fostering flexible and engaging learning environments while addressing the barriers to its implementation in Malaysia.

Rediscovery and Restoring Forgotten Principles: Returning to the Past to Transform and Shape VET for the Future. Back to the Basics in VET

The article explores the historical foundations and contemporary practices of Vocational Education and Training (VET), uncovering a cyclical relationship between past and present methodologies. It begins by analysing the traditional apprenticeship systems of medieval Europe and their counterparts in Asian contexts, demonstrating how these early models laid the groundwork for modern vocational education. The article then traces the historical origin of VET in response to shifting economic conditions and technological advancements, identifying key contemporary practices—such as competency-based education, work-based learning, and experiential learning—as rebranded versions of historical approaches. The analysis emphasizes that many of these so-called “innovations” are not entirely new but are instead adaptations of time-tested methods that have been revitalized to address current educational demands. This historical perspective underscores the importance of integrating traditional practices to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of modern VET systems. The discussion stresses the importance of learning from historical experiences to inform future developments in vocational education, suggesting that a deep understanding of VET’s historical context can provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers alike. The article also addresses the potential pitfalls of renaming and rebranding educational approaches, which can lead to misleading perceptions and adverse effects, hindering educators and policymakers from recognizing foundational principles that remain pertinent today. Additionally, the uncritical dismissal and rejection of past educational principles signifies a denial of the cultural and educational traditions that informed their development and shaped them. Acknowledging and recognizing these historical influences can enrich contemporary educational frameworks and promote a more nuanced understanding of the current educational landscape.

Empowering Future Bilingual Educators: Integrating Trauma-Informed Approaches in Bilingual Teacher Education

The impact of trauma on children's social, emotional, and academic growth is profound, yet teacher preparation programs, particularly in bilingual and multicultural contexts, often lack comprehensive training in trauma-informed practices. This qualitative study investigates the integration of trauma-informed approaches into a bilingual teacher education course at a university in West Texas. The study included 59 undergraduate pre-service teachers enrolled in a course on bilingual and multicultural education. Data were collected through preliminary and concluding written interviews, alongside ongoing instructional interventions, including discussions, case analyses, and trauma-informed strategies. Initially, participants demonstrated a limited understanding of trauma, associating it primarily with extreme events such as accidents or death. Post-course assessments, however, revealed a broadened understanding, recognizing everyday traumas like poverty, bullying, and family instability. Findings suggest that integrating trauma-informed approaches significantly enhances pre-service teachers' ability to identify and apply practical strategies to support trauma-affected students. The study introduces the Trauma-Informed Bilingual Teacher Preparation Model, focusing on key components such as foundational trauma knowledge, recognizing trauma symptoms, culturally responsive teaching, creating supportive environments, and fostering teacher resilience. By embedding trauma-informed practices in teacher education, this model prepares future educators to cultivate compassionate, inclusive classrooms, particularly in bilingual and multicultural settings. The study emphasizes the importance of curriculum reform to equip teachers with the necessary skills to support both students' emotional well-being and academic success.

Simulation learning: exploring its transformative influence on nursing practice.

Simulation in nursing education enables nursing students to develop and practise their clinical, critical thinking and decision-making skills within the safety of a realistic learning environment. Evidence suggests that this method of learning can enhance nursing students' confidence, enabling them to navigate the current challenges in healthcare and consider new ways of working. This article outlines the benefits and challenges of simulation and discusses the implications of the use of this learning technique in nurse education for future nursing practice.

Exploring Pharmacists’ Perceptions of Text-Based Artificial Intelligence in Resident and Student Education

Introduction: As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into various professional fields, understanding its impact on pharmacy education is crucial. This study explores pharmacists’ perceptions of AI’s role in enhancing educational and professional practices, particularly focusing on the generation of educational content and analytical tasks. Objectives: The primary objective was to assess pharmacists’ concerns and perceived benefits regarding the use of AI in pharmacy education, examining variations across different age groups and years of practice. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed by 446 pharmacists who actively precept pharmacy residents and students. Respondents practiced across 35 states with over half (53.4%) being in Ohio. The survey included items on concerns about AI’s quality and accuracy, human interaction, plagiarism, and its potential benefits in data analysis and research literature summarization. Responses were analyzed to identify trends across demographic categories, including age and years in practice. Results: Of the respondents, 67.9% expressed concerns about the quality and accuracy of AI-generated content, while 50.9% were concerned about plagiarism. Younger pharmacists (73.8% of those aged 20-29) showed heightened concern about accuracy compared to older groups (56.8% of those aged 60+). In contrast, 57.8% of respondents recognized AI’s potential benefits for data analysis, with experienced pharmacists (>20 years in practice) being more likely to see these advantages (62.2%). Conclusion: The findings indicate a need for targeted educational strategies to address AI literacy and ethical use in pharmacy education. Integrating AI tools that support educational objectives while addressing these concerns could enhance the efficacy and acceptance of AI in pharmacy practice. Further research should explore the development of training programs that align with the evolving expectations and technological competencies of different pharmacist demographics.

Exploring a New CPD Model for Promoting Chinese Teachers’ Success: A Review Paper

People's ideas are constantly evolving with changes in society and the times. This attracted more attention to the issue of continuous professional development for Chinese teachers. The traditional approach to professional development only addresses issues relevant to the current situation and may not be sufficient to support teachers' growth in more complex and challenging contexts. This paper examines the environment and context of teacher professional development, focusing on both domestic and international educational theories and practices. It proposes a systematic solution that is aligned with the current state of teacher professional development in China.