Empowering Learning Environments Research Articles

Management of Santri Character Education in Answering the Challenges of Modernity in the Era of Globalization

Islamic boarding schools in their development are required to make changes in line with the demands of the world with the advancement of science in life. Islamic boarding schools consciously adapt to globalization as a dynamic that cannot be avoided, this global current causes changes in all aspects of life, including in the world of education, and Islamic boarding schools also participate in the assimilation of science and modern technology. The Islamic boarding school education system has shifted towards a more positive direction, structurally and culturally concerning leadership patterns, leadership and santri relationship patterns, communication patterns, and decision-making methods. Islamic boarding schools respond to changes that occur by revitalizing teaching patterns so that they are able to grow scientific traditions and give birth to generations of learning, revitalizing pesantren leadership patterns so that they are more open to all changes, and revitalizing a more conducive, comprehensive and empowering learning environment.

Challenging violence in South African education: a feminist pedagogical and legal analysis

AbstractThis study investigates the relevance of violence in the context of South African education, a country which has a history of institutionalised violence against the oppressed, including women. Using a feminist pedagogy as a theoretical lens, violence and its implications for the South African educational system are examined. Scholars such as Freire believe that in order to engage the topic of violence in education, it needs to be framed not only from a physical, but also from a structural and symbolic way since violence is deeply rooted in social inequalities and power imbalances. Violence can be perpetuated through education, which can reproduce dominant ideologies and structures which are biased against women. Therefore, Freire advocates a pedagogical approach that challenges violence and empowers students to become critical agents of social change. In the South African educational environment, violence is a prevalent issue, especially for women and girls who face high rates of gender-based violence and sexual harassment in schools. This research also examines the relevant legal frameworks and policies in South Africa that address gender-based violence and education. This research proposes a feminist pedagogy can help create safe and empowering learning environments that promote social justice and equality.

English academic writing for academic purposes and beyond: the experiences of undergraduate students in Hong Kong

ABSTRACT Drawing on an academic literacies approach to understand writing as a social practice, this paper explores the experiences of how undergraduate students make sense of and engage with English academic writing conventions in relation to their writing purposes. We traced the writing process of 12 undergraduate students in Hong Kong over the course of two semesters and invited them to talk over their texts at three different stages of their writing process. Our findings reveal the existence of a language-content dichotomy in which language courses tend to value English standardisation and academic style conventions while subject courses value argumentation in the assignments. A majority of students accommodated writing conventions for the achievement of good grades. This form of purpose, however, limits student agency. Designing academic assignments without the acknowledgment of wider non-academic relevance to students’ lives only reinforces a performance-oriented culture and alienates students from agentive learning. We suggest a pedagogical space for academic writing that can extend beyond academic conventions, allowing students to reflect on its social relevance. Creating a space for this exploration would foster an inclusive and empowering learning environment that facilitates student agency in academic language development and meaningful engagement with real-life issues.

Justice-oriented assessment in immigrant serving schools: a critical ethnographic case study of the elements of performance assessment

This critical ethnographic case study explores the impact of Performance-Based Assessment Tasks (PBATs) on high school dynamics and instructional practices, particularly in schools serving immigrant communities. PBATs, considered alternatives to standardized testing, have shown promise in enhancing student engagement, critical thinking, and college readiness. Drawing on interviews and fieldwork at four International High Schools, the study investigates how PBAT adoption influences day-to-day operations, teacher-student interactions, and school culture. Results reveal that PBAT implementation requires early investment in skill development and mentorship, transforming educators into facilitators and students into active learners. Moreover, the oral presentation aspect fosters multilingual proficiency. Despite challenges, PBATs offer a pathway to equitable assessment practices and educational transformation. Framed within a justice-oriented framework, this research highlights the potential of PBATs to create inclusive and empowering learning environments for immigrant and marginalized students.

Javanese Class Harmony : Inclusive Strategies for Special Needs Students

This study aims to explore the classroom management strategies used by Javanese teachers in teaching children with special needs at Tegal Regency Junior High Schools support inclusive learning. The research used was qualitative approach, through direct classroom observations and interviews with Javanese language teachers who have experience teaching students with special needs. Data analysis used interactive analysis and to test the validity of the data uses triangulation of data sources. The findings showed that Javanese teachers had developed flexible strategies according to the needs of each child with special needs. Students in the deaf-speech category would be treated differently, especially for learning that requires speaking and reading skills, such as tembang and pacelathon. Students in the slow learner category will be required to be more patient to understand the material, supported by the use of interactive learning media and by being given practice questions according to their capacity, whereas for the physically disabled category, there is no special treatment regarding learning material. Thus, the conclusion of this research highlights the important role of Javanese language teachers in Tegal Regency junior high schools in supporting the learning of children with special needs. Through a flexible approach, attention to student involvement, and collaboration between friends in the class, have succeeded in creating an inclusive and empowering learning environment, where every student has the same opportunity to grow and develop optimally in understanding and using the Javanese language.

Analysis Of Low Self-Efficacy Among Students Using Creative Problem-Solving Techniques

Self-efficacy of students in understanding educational statistics material is the main focus of this analysis. Through the Finding Facts stage, the complexity of the material, lack of support from lecturers, and ineffective curriculum/methods of teaching are identified as key factors influencing the low self-efficacy of students. The Finding Acceptance stage confirms a high acceptance of these findings as issues needing to be addressed. The implications of this analysis emphasize the need for holistic action to enhance student self-efficacy, through simplifying materials, increasing lecturer support, and revolutionizing curriculum and teaching methods. Thus, the article proposes concrete steps to create a supportive and empowering learning environment for students facing challenges in learning educational statistics.

A study on the impact of digital transformation on student empowerment in higher education of India

This study delves into the transformative influence of digital technologies on student empowerment within the landscape of higher education. As educational institutions increasingly integrate digital tools into teaching, learning, and administrative processes, it becomes imperative to scrutinize the ramifications of this digital transformation on student experiences. The research evaluates the extent of digital adoption in higher education, exploring its impact on student engagement, participation, and interaction. Through a comprehensive analysis of curriculum integration, learning management systems, and technology-enhanced teaching methods, the study aims to discern how digital initiatives contribute to student empowerment. Furthermore, the research investigates the influence of digital platforms on collaborative learning, real-time interaction, and adaptive learning experiences. By assessing the accessibility and inclusivity of these tools, the study explores their potential to bridge educational disparities. Additionally, the study scrutinizes the feedback from students and faculty, providing valuable insights into the perceived effectiveness and challenges associated with digital transformation. The findings of this study contribute to the scholarly discourse on the intersection of technology and education, offering recommendations for optimizing digital strategies to enhance student empowerment. This research not only sheds light on the current state of digital transformation in higher education but also serves as a guide for institutions seeking to create an inclusive, engaging, and empowering learning environment through effective technological integration.

Creating An Empowering Learning Environment in Higher Education: A Modelization of Enhancing Student Learning Experience

Creating An Empowering Learning Environment in Higher Education: A Modelization of Enhancing Student Learning Experience

Teacher-student relationships in higher education: reflections from an adventure sport context

ABSTRACT Teacher-student relationships form an integral part of students’ learning process in higher education. Using an autobiographical research methodology and critical incident theory, we reflect upon significant episodes during adventure sport fieldwork. We use these to discuss why it is essential for educators to reflect upon this aspect of their practice to cultivate an equitable, inclusive, and empowering learning environment for students. We begin by proposing a definition of ‘care’ in the context of higher education and discuss how its application produces distinctive issues to consider in the teaching of outdoor adventure education (OAE). Using this as a foundation for our thinking, we proceed to address the issue of diversity. We argue that managing teacher-student relationships to create an environment which supports and values a diverse student population is crucial for a sector still trying to shake off the ideological remains of its racial capitalist origins. Finally, we consider the issue of power within teacher-student relationships. Specifically, we suggest that OAE is a field which lends itself well to challenging conventional role boundaries and hierarchies, provided that educators do so with appropriate care. In doing this, we reflect the contemporary issues evident in wider society and by engaging with students over issues of power, oppression, and inclusion, we seek to make an impact beyond our teaching in the academy.

Empowering Minds: Multimodal Literacies, Fanfiction, and Inclusive Education

This article critically examines the intricate relationship between literacy and multimedia, focusing on multimodal literacies within the framework of educational equity. It navigates intersections among literacy, social-emotional learning, and educational equity, expanding from the analysis of fanfiction as mentor texts to the transformative empowerment of communities through technology integration. Connections between literacy engagement and cultural practices are explored through the lens of enhancing opportunities for English language learning. By tracing the historical roots of fanfiction and scrutinizing its contemporary manifestations in popular culture, this article explores the potential of multimodal literacies. These concepts cultivate literacy skills and foster creativity, empathy, and inclusivity—especially crucial for diverse learners, including those embarking on the journey of English language acquisition. Serving as a comprehensive resource, the article provides nuanced insights into the multifaceted ways in which multimodal literacies can effectively bridge the engagement gap. It offers practical applications, outlining a path towards a more equitable and enriching educational landscape in the digital age, with a specific focus on promoting linguistic proficiency among English language learners. The article stands as a valuable guide for educators, researchers, and practitioners, offering concrete strategies for leveraging multimodal literacies to create inclusive and empowering learning environments.

The Effects of Academic Anxiety on College Students Learning of Spoken English

This paper examines the effects of academic anxiety on college students learning of spoken English. Academic anxiety can hinder students fluency, pronunciation accuracy, self-expression, and overall confidence in oral communication. The study identifies various factors that contribute to academic anxiety, including personal, external, socio-cultural, and psychological factors. It explores the negative consequences of academic anxiety on students spoken English learning outcomes. Coping mechanisms and strategies, such as creating a supportive learning environment, teaching stress management techniques, and promoting self-reflection and self-assessment, are proposed to address academic anxiety. The paper emphasizes the practical implications for educators, institutions, and policymakers, including teacher training, curriculum design, peer interaction, counseling services, and assessment practices. Implementing these recommendations can create a supportive and empowering learning environment, mitigating the impact of academic anxiety. The study concludes by highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing academic anxiety to enhance college students spoken English skills and prepare them for success in a globalized world.

Memaksimalkan Kepribadian Kritis Positif Materi Sifat Gereja (Satu) Model PBL Fase F SMK Theresiana Semarang

This study aims to maximize the positive critical personality of eleventh-grade Culinary 2 students at SMK Theresiana Semarang through the PBL Phase F model on the Church Nature material. The research background reflects the complexity of educational challenges in Indonesia, focusing on academic issues and educational access disparities. A Center of Excellence School such as SMK Theresiana Semarang strives to address these challenges through the Merdeka Curriculum and a vocational education approach based on Christian values.The exploration of the causes of the problem highlights the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects of students. Self-concept understanding is influenced by internal and external factors, while the affective aspect, especially self-acceptance and meaningful life, affects motivation and self-confidence. Psychomotor challenges, such as reluctance to speak in public, are also related to a lack of strong self-acceptance.Recommendations for improvement involve a holistic approach, including emotional support, inclusive learning, wise social media management, and effective guidance. Improving self-acceptance is directed towards building a positive identity, stable self-esteem, and meaningful life motivation. These steps are expected to contribute positively to the critical personality development of students, creating an inclusive and empowering learning environment at SMK Theresiana Semarang.

Reception of newly arrived immigrant schoolchildren in Iceland: Exploring challenges and dilemmas concerning teaching and assessment practices

ABSTRACT Greater cultural and linguistic diversity in Icelandic compulsory schools has resulted in various changes in educational policies, which, for instance, have been manifested as recent additions to the Icelandic national curriculum guide aimed at ensuring better education for plurilingual children. However, schoolteachers still require further preparation to enhance their skills to accommodate the educational and social needs of children from diverse cultural backgrounds and to create empowering learning environments. This paper presents findings from a qualitative study with Icelandic Master’s students who completed most courses included in their teacher education programme and had various work experience from compulsory schools in Iceland. The primary goals were to examine challenges and dilemmas that the student teachers faced when implementing different types of educational assessment of newly arrived schoolchildren and to analyse whether the teaching practices described by them align with theoretical tenets of culturally relevant and sustaining teaching. The findings indicated that, although the participants were willing to promote cultural pluralism, they were limited by their lack of theoretical and practical knowledge of relevant teaching and assessment practices. The study sheds light on some gaps in teacher education programmes in Iceland and suggests possible ways of addressing them.

Navigating the COVID-19 pandemic: Learning experiences of an online Sino-Nordic doctoral summer school on aging

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of Higher Education, necessitating a rapid shift from in-person to remote teaching and learning. This study investigates the experiences of doctoral students in an online Sino-Nordic summer school on aging, implemented during the pandemic. A survey was conducted to collect and analyze data on participants’ experiences and perspectives. Findings reveal three thematic areas: doctoral students’ learning needs and preferences, contextual factors affecting their learning experiences, and their adaptations to online summer school. Student participants gained diverse insights and expanded their networks, but also faced challenges such as limited social interaction and scheduling conflicts. While some students embraced the online format, most preferred in-person participation as a supplementary or alternative approach in future summer schools. Recommendations for future improvements are creating an empowering learning environment, improving strategic planning and communication among organizing institutions, involving students and stakeholders in training design and implementation, maximizing the use of online features and tools, and optimizing time management.

Pakistani Fiction in English: Exploring Decolonial Epistemological Prospects and Challenges in English Classroom Practices in Pakistan

This research focuses on Pakistani Fiction in English as a useful tool for language learners to improve their language skills, understanding of culture, and intercultural competence. The discussion shows the vast cultural diversity and linguistic ingenuity evident in Pakistani anglophone texts, enabling learners to participate with authentic language use and get a deeper understanding of Pakistani society. This paper also examines the practical implications of introducing these texts into language classes, highlighting the need for context-based activities, critical thinking exercises, and discussions to promote language competency and cultural sensitivity. Overall, this study reveals that Pakistani anglophone texts offer a significant and underutilised resource for language learners mainly at the undergraduate levels, increasing linguistic competence, cultural appreciation, and cross-cultural communication skills. By combining these materials into the language curriculum, educators can give learners a more comprehensive and interesting language learning experience that represents the rich linguistic and cultural terrain of Pakistan. This paper also assesses the obstacles present in using Pakistani writings in English for language learning objectives. It concludes that the measure will go a long way in decolonising the English language curriculum in Pakistan while empowering learners not only linguistically but also strengthening their cultural identity. By embracing a decolonial perspective, educators may create a more inclusive, relevant, and empowering learning environment that prepares students to navigate a globalised world while honouring their local heritage.
 
 Keywords: English language teaching, teaching literature for English language learning, teaching Pakistani anglophone fiction, decolonial epistemology, decolonisation of English language instruction, content-based instruction.

Open Learning, Distance Education with reference to General and Special Education and inclusive education

Open learning and distance education have grown as transformative tools in the field of education. These techniques enable learners in a range of settings, including general and special education, with possibilities that are adaptable and inclusive. the notions of open learning, remote education, and inclusive education, with an emphasis on the roles these ideas play in facilitating access, equity, and the provision of a high-quality education for all students. It studies the underlying tenets and practises of diverse educational approaches, concentrating specifically on how they meet the requirements of a wide spectrum of pupils, including those who have physical or mental impairments. the potential benefits and problems involved with implementing inclusive education approaches through open and remote learning, with the final focus being placed on the critical role that technology and educator support play in developing an inclusive and empowering learning environment.

Open Learning, Distance Education with reference to General and Special Education and inclusive education

Open learning and distance education have grown as transformative tools in the field of education. These techniques enable learners in a range of settings, including general and special education, with possibilities that are adaptable and inclusive. the notions of open learning, remote education, and inclusive education, with an emphasis on the roles these ideas play in facilitating access, equity, and the provision of a high-quality education for all students. It studies the underlying tenets and practises of diverse educational approaches, concentrating specifically on how they meet the requirements of a wide spectrum of pupils, including those who have physical or mental impairments. the potential benefits and problems involved with implementing inclusive education approaches through open and remote learning, with the final focus being placed on the critical role that technology and educator support play in developing an inclusive and empowering learning environment.Keywords : Open learning, Distance education, Distance education, Special education, Inclusive education

The Attending of the Day ("The Pretending"): An Exercise in Autonomy.

Background As regulations governing appropriate resident supervision increase, it has become increasingly difficult to provide residents with the appropriate level of autonomy during their training years. The "Attending of the Day" describes an experiential teaching method that provides a balance between learners' autonomy and appropriate supervision. Methodology Each day one member of the inpatient team is selected as the "Attending of the Day," or "The Pretending." She or he then performs the typical duties of the teaching faculty, from medical decision-making regarding patient care to educating other team members during rounds. "The Pretending" is directly supervised by the clinical faculty. Results Using the grounded theory methodology, we analyzed 935 anonymous evaluations from students and residents over 14 years, leading to the identification of the following three major themes: created an enabling learning environment, provided autonomy, and improved confidence. These results led to the inclusion of the technique as part of the Back to Bedside initiative, which was rated as an essential tool in building confidence and autonomy by 75% of the participants in the 2018 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education's Back to Bedside residents' well-being survey. Recently, the Jacobs School of Medicine launched the Moments of Excellence in Education: Recognition and Inspiration (MEE:RI) program which gives students a way to recognize exemplary moments of teaching they encounter. The "Attending of the Day" method received recognition as a transformative experience in students' medical education. Conclusions The "Attending of the Day" is the first innovative experiential learning technique that allows learners of all levels in both Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) and Graduate Medical Education (GME) to practice and assess autonomy. This innovation suggests that residents and students are looking for opportunities to challenge themselves. "The Pretending" allows them to experience those challenges in an empowering learning environment while they gradually build their confidence on the path to achieving progressive autonomy.

Psycho-social Learning Environment from Nurse Students' Perspective

The quality of the learning environment is vital for the delivery of quality training as there is a proven connection between this environment and the outcome of students' achievements, satisfaction and success. The aim of the study was to explore the experience of student nurses in Sri Lanka about their psycho-social learning environment. The study had a qualitative descriptive design. Data was collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) and individual semi structured interviews from final year nursing students in two Schools of Nursing in Western and Southern provinces in Sri Lanka. Data was analysed through manifest and latent content analysis. Findings showed that supportive supervisors, students' cohesion and social activities influenced students' motivation, satisfaction and confidence thus empowering nurse students in preparing them for their nursing profession. In contrast, theory practice gap, non-supportive supervisors, lack of facilities discouraged and disempowered them and made them feel insecure and frustrated thus making them de-motivated and fed up with their nursing education as a consequence. An empowering learning environment, which strengthens the nurse students' self-confidence and motivation to learn, is therefore a necessity in order to facilitate nurses who can deliver a professional nursing care.

Developing inclusive later life learning environments: insights from intersectional analysis of ageing and lesbian, gay, transgendered and bisexual identities

To date there has been minimal empirical inquiry on what may constitute inclusive learning environments for older (50+ years) lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) adults. This paper draws upon a recent life-histories study with older LGBT adults in Scotland to consider how such environments can be developed. To do so, intersectional analysis is applied to interrogate how participants’ lived realities and sense of self are enabled and constrained by the interactions between their diverse ageing, LGBT and other identities in the particular contexts of later life, post work. The paper argues that by adopting this approach to intersectional analysis, critical educational gerontology (CEG) is equipped to more effectively realise inclusive, meaningful and potentially empowering learning environments for older LGBT adults. These will be more attuned to their later life realities, enabling them to reflect on the changing significance of being LGBT as they age, while allowing potential for personal growth and renewed sense of self.