Exploratory Factor Analysis Research Articles

Big Data Insights into Coastal Tourism: Analyzing Customer Satisfaction at Egyptian Red Sea Dive Resorts

This research aims to explore the relationship between customer satisfaction and various extracted factors at dive resorts in the Red Sea, Egypt, utilizing a hybrid methodology of descriptive and diagnostic analytics applied to online review data. Employing techniques such as KH coder for text analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and linear regression, this study systematically identifies key elements that influence customer satisfaction. Findings reveal that activities related to diving and marine life markedly enhance guest satisfaction, underscoring the critical role these aspects play in the overall appeal of Egyptian coastal tourism. Conversely, areas such as dining and amenities were identified as needing improvement. The originality of this study lies in its application of big data analytics to dissect and understand customer feedback in a sector-specific context, providing strategic insights for the sustainable advancement of coastal tourism in Egypt. By focusing on dive resorts, this research highlights their integral role in coastal tourism and offers a model for leveraging online customer reviews to enhance service quality and promote sustainable practices within the tourism industry, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of coastal tourism.

The moderating role of emotional intelligence and HR digitalization on the relationship between compensation and employee job performance in Johor manufacturing sector

This research examines the moderating role of emotional intelligence and HR digitalization on the relationship between compensation and employee job performance in Johor manufacturing sector. The manufacturing sector, which has contributed significantly to the Malaysian national GDP, was among the most affected sectors during the remote work movement caused by several Covid-19. One of the most critical aspects was managing human resources (HR) in remote work and the challenges faced by the employees working online. Drawing upon the Theory of Social Exchange and Ability model of Emotional Intelligence, this practical study investigated the influence of compensation (COM) on employee job performance (EJP) with the moderation of human resource digitalization (HRDi) and emotional intelligence (EI). A quantitative methodology based on online and hard-copy questionnaires was adopted. The population of this study consisted of management employees, such as directors, managers, executives, and administrators working in Johor manufacturing companies. A total of 318 responses was used in this study. Utilising SPSS and Smart PLS, the researcher analysed preliminary and pilot studies, data screening and cleaning procedures, exploratory factor analysis, as well as partial least squares structural equation modeling to assess the relationships among variables and test the hypotheses. The research findings demonstrated that compensation directly affects employee job performance. Meanwhile, human resource digitalization moderates the relationships between compensation and job performance of employees. In addition, emotional intelligence moderates the relationships between compensation and employee job performance. Policymakers are urged to encourage HR digitalization implementation and training on enhancing emotional intelligence. Besides, organizations should have plans on how to enhance their implementation of HR digitalization and improve emotional intelligence.

Development and validation of the questionnaire of OSCE's educational effects.

One of the most common assessment tools for examining the competencies of health professionals is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). In this study, an Educational Effects of OSCE Questionnaire (EEOQ) was developed and validated in seven steps: (1) Reviewing the literature, (2) Holding focus groups, (3) Synthesizing the results of literature review and focus groups, (4) Developing items, (5) Evaluating content validity, (6) Conducting cognitive interviews, and (7) Implementing a pilot test. The analysis of the literature review and focus groups revealed that the educational effects of OSCE are influenced by factors related to the test, the examiner, the peers, and the student. Initially, 22 items were developed, but one item was excluded based on the results of the I-CVR and I-CVI indices. In the Exploratory Factor Analysis, the KMO index was computed to be 0.85, and the significance of Bartlett's test of sphericity was confirmed (p < 0.001). The Total Variance Explained table showed that the educational effects of OSCE were grouped into four factors: content, structure, reflection and review, and feedback along with OSCE. This study found good evidence of validity and reliability for a questionnaire measuring the educational effects of OSCEs. It was discovered that OSCE can have different effects on student learning processes.

Computational algorithm based on health and lifestyle traits to categorize lifemetabotypes in the NUTRiMDEA cohort

Classifying individuals based on metabotypes and lifestyle phenotypes using exploratory factor analyses, cluster definition, and machine-learning algorithms is promising for precision chronic disease prevention and management. This study analyzed data from the NUTRiMDEA online cohort (baseline: n = 17332 and 62 questions) to develop a clustering tool based on 32 accessible questions using machine-learning strategies. Participants ranged from 18 to over 70 years old, with 64.1% female and 35.5% male. Five clusters were identified, combining metabolic, lifestyle, and personal data: Cluster 1 (“Westernized Millennial”, n = 967) included healthy young individuals with fair lifestyle habits; Cluster 2 (“Healthy”, n = 10616) consisted of healthy adults; Cluster 3 (“Mediterranean Young Adult”, n = 2013) represented healthy young adults with a healthy lifestyle and showed the highest adherence to the Mediterranean diet; Cluster 4 (“Pre-morbid”, n = 600) was characterized by healthy adults with declined mood; Cluster 5 (“Pro-morbid”, n = 312) comprised older individuals (47% >55 years) with poorer lifestyle habits, worse health, and a lower health-related quality of life. A computational algorithm was elicited, which allowed quick cluster assignment based on responses (“lifemetabotypes”). This machine-learning approach facilitates personalized interventions and precision lifestyle recommendations, supporting online methods for targeted health maintenance and chronic disease prevention.

Validation of a New Questionnaire for Assessing the Psychosocial Impact of Gingival Aesthetics (PIGAQ).

While the importance of gingival aesthetics is increasingly recognized, a questionnaire quantifying its psychosocial impact is still lacking. We have adapted the validated Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) for the gingival context. This study's aim was to develop a new Psychosocial Impact of Gingival Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIGAQ) and test its validity for the general population in Spain, exploring the underlying dimensions of the construct assessed. The PIDAQ was adapted to address gingival aesthetics. PIGAQ (23 items) was completed by 200 patients aged from 18 to 85 years, and socio-demographic variables were recorded. The four-dimensional structure of the PIDAQ was respected, adapting the subscales to focus on the gingiva. Descriptive analysis, assessments of reliability and validity and an exploratory factor analysis were performed. The revised PIGAQ (now containing 20 items) has a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.88 with four underlying factors explaining 61.5% of the total variance. Three items (SI-1, PI-2 and PI-5) were eliminated because of unacceptable fit indices. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients for the subscales are as follows: Gingival Self-Confidence, 0.85; Social Impact, 0.84; Psychological Impact, 0.79; and Aesthetic Concern, 0.76. PIGAQ is a reliable and potentially valid instrument for assessing psychosocial perceptions of gingival aesthetics. The scale was shown to have a satisfactory factor structure and level of internal consistency.

Structuring and empirical validation of a creative activity chain model for innovation in sustainable infrastructure development

This study constructs and empirically validates a Creative Activity Chain (CCA) structure model tailored for innovation in sustainable infrastructure development. In today’s competitive environment, fostering innovation is crucial for maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of infrastructure projects. The research underscores that a significant portion of a project’s long-term value is established during its initial concept and planning stages, highlighting the critical role of creativity in infrastructure development. The CCA model is developed through theoretical frameworks and empirical data, encompassing three key dimensions: creative subject chain, creative action chain, and creative operation chain. The model’s validity is tested with data from five large infrastructure development firms in China, involving 768 R&amp;D staff as respondents. Rigorous statistical methods, including exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), structural equation modeling (SEM), and regression analysis, confirm the model’s robustness. The findings reveal significant positive correlations between the creative activity chain’s dimensions and the successful development of sustainable infrastructure projects. Additionally, the study examines the mediating effect of link strength within the creative activity chain, demonstrating its substantial impact on project outcomes. Implications for management include promoting diverse creative teams, systematic process management, and leveraging varied operational tools to enhance creativity in infrastructure development. This research contributes to the literature by introducing an integrated model for managing creative activities in sustainable infrastructure development, offering practical insights for improving innovation processes.

Contribution of Green Supply Chain Management Practices towards a Sustainable Development—Applied Study in the Food Industry in Lebanon

This paper explores the effect of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices on the dimensions of Sustainable Development (SD) in the context of the Lebanese food industry. It aimed to examine to what extent GSCM practices and SD schemes are perceived in the food industry. As there is a growing concern and raising awareness of traceability among consumers in the food supply, researches can have a contribution to develop sustainability in food industry. As such, six GSCM practices, namely Eco-design (ED), Internal Environmental Management (IEM), Investment Recovery (IR), Green Purchasing (GP), Environmental Cooperation (EC) and Reverse Logistics (RL) were employed. These six GSCM variables were used to analyze structural relationships with the three dimensions of the SD, that is to say economic, environmental and social performances. The proposed model was tested using a questionnaire based survey via two modes of face to face and emails using a plant survey, senior managers of 88 food companies in Lebanon. The data were analyzed in SPSS and AMOS statistical programs. An Exploratory (Unrestricted) Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory (Restricted) Factor Analysis (CFA) and multiple regressions were applied. The Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed that the GSCM practices IR, GP, ED and IEM had significant relationships with one or more of the SD dimensions.On the basis of the findings, implications that may ameliorate the effect of GSCM practices on the SD dimensions can be taken into consideration. For instance, the enhance of the environmental cooperation with the suppliers and customers, improving the image of the company in the mind of their customers, reinforcing the commitment of GSCM from managers, utilization of cleaner technology, activation of internal performance evaluation system, enhancing the labor conditions and performing special training for workers on environmental issues.

Construction and Validation of Academic Support Scale in Middle School (ASSMS)

Research on social support in China has been relatively comprehensive as psychological development cannot be separated from the social environment. Family, teachers, and friends are the main sources of social support for middle school students. If we can fully utilize the academic support provided by families, teachers, and classmates in daily life, improve students’ personal efficacy, stimulate their learning motivation and desire, and provide corresponding emotional, resource, behavioral, and willingness support for middle school students, it will help them better enhance their learning adaptability, increase their investment in learning, and then improve their learning consciousness, ultimately promoting the enhancement of academic achievement and the development of their abilities. Therefore, based on the existing scales of social support and academic support, this study determined the academic support scale for middle school students, exploring the source of academic support from four dimensions: willingness support, resource support, emotional support, and behavioral support. Based on a literature review and questionnaire, a formal scale was formed to measure the academic support of middle school students. In total, 762 students from two middle schools in Shijiazhuang and Hengshui were selected as subjects for data analysis. Exploratory factor analysis showed that the scale was composed of four factors: willingness support, resource support, emotional support, and behavioral support, with a cumulative contribution rate of 54.15%. The factor loadings of the items ranged from 0.423 to 0.783. The indicators obtained by confirmatory factor analysis were χ2/df of 2.98, RMSEA of 0.072, GFI of 0.841, IFI of 0.902, TLI of 0.891, and CFI of 0.901. The Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.955, the Spearman–Brown coefficient was 0.939, and the correlation coefficients between each dimension and the total scale were 0.892–0.945. The results show that the reliability and validity of the scale are within the acceptable range, in line with the standards of measurement, and can be used as a tool to measure the academic support of middle school students. This measurement can be used to evaluate the multidimensional academic support systems in middle schools and inform the development of targeted interventions to promote student success and well-being.

Psychometric evaluation of the Turkish version of the Work-Related Stress Scale: A study among search and rescue workers responding to the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes.

This study evaluates the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Work-Related Stress Scale (WRSS) among search and rescue workers who responded to the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Data were collected from 275 workers between January and April 2024 using the Personal Information Form and the Turkish version of the WRSS. Language, content, and construct validity were assessed, and reliability was determined using item-total correlation, Cronbach's alpha, split-half, and test-retest methods. The scale demonstrated strong content validity with a CVI range of 0.9-1.0 and a mean CVI of 0.98. Exploratory factor analysis yielded factor loadings from 0.469 to 0.932, resulting in four factors that explained 75.3% of the variance. The reliability coefficients for the sub-dimensions ranged from 0.833 to 0.900, with an overall Cronbach's alpha of 0.913. These results indicate that the Turkish WRSS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing stress among search and rescue workers.

A replication and development of the Short Cognitive Mediation Beliefs Questionnaire (CMBQ-S).

The Cognitive Mediation Beliefs Questionnaire is a 15-item tool that assesses individuals' emotion beliefs about the cognitive mediation of emotions. It measures two emotion beliefs: stimulus-response generation beliefs and cognitive mediation change beliefs. This study aimed to reduce the number of items and test the validity of a briefer version of the Cognitive Mediation Beliefs Questionnaire. We combined data from 13 unpublished data sets collected between 2019 and 2023 and reached a final sample of 2,872 participants. While this data set is relatively large and diverse (e.g., participants from 53 nationalities), most were from developed countries, and the data were not fully representative across demographic characteristics, such as age and ethnicity. The data were randomly split by 50%/25%/25% (60%/40% female/male) to conduct one exploratory factor analysis and two confirmatory factor analyses. Using an iterative process in the exploratory factor analysis, seven items were deleted for failing to meet item retention criteria, resulting in an eight-item solution across two factors. Across two confirmatory factor analyses with independent samples, the eight-item and the 15-item solutions were tested. The eight-item model was superior in terms of model fit in both samples. These results were in line with our hypothesis in that an eight-item Short Cognitive Mediation Beliefs Questionnaire confirmed the validity of the two-factor structure. The present study offers a valid and efficient measure of emotion beliefs that can be used to make a rapid assessment of beliefs about emotions and to support clinical interventions, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, where cognitive change is fundamental. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Enhancing performance of construction waste management: Factor analysis from the building contractors’ perspectives

With the rapid growth of urbanization, construction projects have surged, increasing construction waste (CW). Effective construction waste management (CWM) is crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of CW on the environment, society, and the economy. This study aimed to identify critical attributes and factors that enhance CWM in building construction. Attributes were initially identified through a literature review and verified by 32 experts. Subsequently, a questionnaire based on the retained attributes was developed, and a survey was conducted with 304 construction professionals from the building construction sector in Cambodia and Thailand. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were sequentially conducted and further revealed five factors with a total of 27 attributes, namely Governance and policies (8 attributes), Materials and equipment (8 attributes), Requirements and specifications (4 attributes), Construction information systems (4 attributes), and Waste collection facilities (3 attributes). This study identified and confirmed the critical attributes and factors in enhancing the contractors’ CWM performance in building construction that are specifically within the 2 R strategy (reduce and reuse) that contractors can fully control on their construction sites. The findings provide empirical evidence to guide contractors in improving CWM in building construction projects. By enhancing all attributes across the five key factors, contractors can minimize CW and reduce the negative impact of construction activities on the environment and society, thereby contributing to sustainable construction practices.

PHÂN TÍCH THỰC TRẠNG VÀ SỰ KHÁC BIỆT CỦA CÁC NGUYÊN NHÂN LÃNG PHÍ THỜI GIAN VỚI KẾT QUẢ HỌC TẬP CỦA SINH VIÊN

To address the causes of wasting time that have or do not have an impact on students' academic achievement, this study was conducted utilizing quantitative research methods, alongside a variety of research methods, such as document research, an exploratory survey of 307 students, an official survey with 6,670 statistically valid student’s responses, interviews, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), scale reliability analysis, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. Consequently, all of the 11 causes of wasting time that belong to the two categories of objective and subjective causes are at the influential level. Whether in the group of objective or subjective causes, reasons related to the use of technology are the leading cause of wasting students' time. In addition, the study also found that there is a significant difference between student's academic results, with the main trend of students with fair academic performance having more wasted time when compared to groups of students with good and excellent grades. Therefore, to have good learning results, students need to study and practice time management skills to increase the efficiency of time use and avoid time-consuming factors.

Introducing the ELPIS scale: a novel tool for measuring emotional empathy toward cancer patients.

Empathy, defined as the ability to understand and share another person's feelings, is crucial in the healthcare setting, particularly for patients with cancer who face significant psychosocial challenges. We aimed to develop a novel tool, the Empathy, Life with Cancer, and Psychosocial Skills (ELPIS) Scale that prioritizes emotional and cognitive components in order to determine the reflection of the negative stigmatization of cancer in societies on individuals, excluding the behavioral and ethical dimensions of empathy. The study was conducted using a quantitative research design with a sample of first- and second-year medical students in Türkiye. An initial pool of 48 items was developed based on an extensive review of the literature and existing empathy scales. Following expert review and pilot testing, the scale was refined to 24 items. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted to establish the scale's factor structure and validate its reliability and validity. The exploratory factor analysis revealed a three-factor structure comprising "emotional empathy," "sympathetic responses," and "realistic approaches," with a total of 20 items after refinement. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the model fit, with the scale demonstrating high internal consistency across all three dimensions. The scale's reliability was further supported by high Cronbach's alpha values. The results suggest that the ELPIS Scale is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring emotional empathy toward cancer patients. It offers a nuanced approach by separately assessing emotional, sympathetic, and realistic components of empathy, making it a valuable tool for both educational and clinical applications. Future research should explore the scale's application in diverse populations and settings, as well as its utility in tracking empathy development over time. In conclusion, the ELPIS Scale, which focuses on the emotional and cognitive components of empathy, a multifaceted construct, fills a critical gap in the measurement of empathy in the context of cancer care and provides a comprehensive tool that can improve both patient care and the education of healthcare providers.

Digital diaspora

In this paper, we examined the relationship between social networking sites (SNSs) and the coping strategies international students adopt amidst cultural shocks in India, particularly in the vibrant locale of Chandigarh. The study scrutinizes pivotal factors that influence international students' SNS use and creates and validates an instrument that measures this relationship. Grounded in the uses and gratifications theory (UGT), this research introduces an instrument—the Social Capital Assessment Scale and Inventory (SCASI), which was developed via exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The research concludes that SNSs play a pivotal role in the globalization of information, encompassing education, knowledge dissemination, interactivity, and cultural exchange in geographically diverse countries such as India.

Development and Validation of an AI Virtual Streamer Scale for Live-Streaming E-Commerce

In recent years, AI virtual streamers (i.e., digital characters with human-like appearances) have become a pervasive e-commerce phenomenon but remain almost unexplored in the literature on e-commerce marketing. The possible reasons for this deficiency are the vagueness of the AI virtual streamer concept and the lack of a measurement tool. Therefore, this study aimed to conceptualize AI virtual streamers and develop an AI virtual streamer characteristic scale through five stages based on social response theory. Following item generation, measurement refinement, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factory analysis and nomological validity, a third-dimensional (persona, anthropomorphism, and interactivity) scale with 10 items was established. Empirical results reveal sound measurement qualities in terms of reliability and validity, and demonstrate its unique position in respect to established marketing concepts. The developed scale has managerial implications for designing and applying virtual humans or avatars, such as virtual employees, virtual spokespersons, virtual idols, and virtual guided tours. This tool also enables future research on virtual live streaming, such as virtual destination live streaming, virtual education live streaming, or virtual live concerts.

Predicting language, cognition, and social skills in individuals with Autism spectrum disorder using the Arabic validation of Gilliam Autism Rating scale-Third Edition

The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale-Third Edition (GARS-3) has emerged as a pivotal instrument in the diagnostic assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with its utility extending across linguistic and cultural boundaries. This study endeavors to adapt and validate the GARS-3 for the Arabic-speaking population, addressing the paucity of culturally congruent diagnostic tools in the Arab world. The primary objective is to validate the Arabic version of GARS-3 (A-GARS-3) to assess children with and without ASD, ensuring the scale’s reliability and validity within the target population. A methodical cross-sectional study design was employed, encompassing a sample of 178 participants from both educational and clinical settings in Saudi Arabia. The process involved direct translation, expert panel review, back-translation, and pilot testing to ensure semantic equivalence and cultural relevance. Data were collected using the A-GARS-3, and analyses included Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (EFA and CFA), internal consistency reliability measures, and a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to establish concurrent validity. The A-GARS-3 demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.971; McDonald’s omega = 0.972) and strong construct validity, with factor loadings and model fit indices substantiating the factor structure. Predictive validity was confirmed through significant correlations between the Autism Index and the subscales, particularly in the domains of social interaction and communication. The A-GARS-3 is a psychometrically sound instrument that offers reliable assessment for ASD within the Arab cultural context. The positive validation outcomes indicate that the scale is an effective, culturally adapted tool for the localized diagnosis of ASD. The validated scale has significant implications for enhancing ASD screening and diagnostic practices in Arabic-speaking regions, potentially improving early diagnosis and intervention strategies.

Engaging stakeholders in cultural tourism Living Labs: A pathway to innovation, sustainability, and resilience

This study explores the motivations and benefits driving stakeholder engagement in Living Labs (LLs) for sustainable cultural tourism, with a focus on a case study in Split, Croatia. LLs, which foster innovation through collaboration between stakeholders, are increasingly recognized as essential for addressing sustainability challenges in tourism. Using a combination of exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA/CFA), we identify key motivations for stakeholder participation, including the desire to shift attitudes toward tourism development, enhance educational initiatives, and improve heritage interpretation. The results reveal that stakeholder engagement not only enriches tourism offerings—such as joint marketing efforts and innovative visitor experiences—but also strengthens resilience in heritage destinations. Our findings emphasize the critical role of ambidextrous management, which balances innovation and resource efficiency, in enhancing stakeholder collaboration. The study provides practical recommendations for smart governance and advocates for stakeholder-centric, bottom-up approaches in the design and management of LLs. These insights contribute to both the theoretical framework and practical implementation of sustainable cultural tourism, offering actionable strategies for policymakers and practitioners to foster local ownership and co-creation in heritage tourism development.

Brazilian version of the Appearance Schemas InventoryRevised (ASI-R)

The present study investigated the psychometric properties of the Brazilian adaptation of the Appearance Schemas Inventory-Revised (ASI-R) with adults. We translated the ASI-R, and determined its psychometric properties among two community samples, totaling 843 participants (402 men and 441 women), aged from 18 to 67 years. Six hundred and six participants were recruited online (SurveyMonkey Database), and the remaining were personally recruited from universities, technical schools, and libraries. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the 13-items Brazilian ASI-R had the same factor structure as the original ASI-R: Self-evaluative and Motivational investment. Internal consistency ranged from .83 to .89, and test-retest reliability indices ranged from .74 to .77. Concurrent and convergent validity was demonstrated by the significant correlations between the ASI-R subscales and body satisfaction, internalization of beauty ideals, disordered eating, and self-esteem. Availability of a Brazilian Portuguese translation of the ASI-R should help to promote greater understanding of body image investment in the Brazilian context.

Neurocognitive functioning during adolescence: Spanish validation of the Penn Computerized Neurocognitive Battery.

The Penn Computerized Neurocognitive Battery - Child Version (PennCNB-cv) is presented as a brief tool that allows comprehensive and automated assessment of 5 factors (via 14 performance tasks): Executive Control, Episodic Memory, Complex Cognition, Social Cognition, and Sensorimotor Speed. The literature links (dys)functions in these areas with psycho(patho)logical constructs, but evidence is scarce among Spanish-speaking youth. Therefore, this study aims to validate the PennCNB-cv in a community sample of Spanish adolescents. After a process of (back)translation and adaptation by bilingual researchers, the PennCNB-cv was administered in 34 schools. The sample included1506 students, ages 14-19, 44.28% were male. Preliminary treatment of the data included descriptive and correlational statistics. To provide evidence of structural validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed. Results from the exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed a four-factor model (Complex Cognition, Executive Control, Episodic Memory, and Social Cognition) as the most appropriate.These findings provide compelling evidence in favor of the a priori theory that underpinned the development​ of the CNB. The study of the psychometric properties showed that the Spanish version of the PennCNB-cv, seems to be an adequate tool for assessing neurocognitive functioning during adolescence.

Redefining the impact of professional development in education with ProDES (Professional Development Evaluation Scale)

This study introduces the Professional Development Evaluation Scale (ProDES), a tool that has been developed to evaluate the impact of professional development as it relates to participants' Learning and Use of New Knowledge and Skills, Organisational Support, Student Learning Outcomes, and reactions. Grounded in Guskey’s (2000) framework for evaluating Professional Development, ProDES was developed with data from five study groups in Turkey and underwent refinement across four factors. Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses confirmed the scale's structure, accounting for 62.72% of the total variance, with robust fit indices. Within this, ProDES demonstrated high internal consistency and test-retest reliability, with significant correlations validating its effectiveness. The scale's high internal consistency and test-retest reliability ensure that it can be used to make evidence-informed decisions that can foster more effective and supportive professional development activities. As a result, by identifying which professional development initiatives lead to improvements, those associated with professional development can use resources more efficiently, leading to enhanced school and system-wide improvements. Moreover, the use of ProDES can also help schools and education systems track progress over time, making ProDES an invaluable tool for continuous improvement and strategic planning.