Post-test Scores Of Group Research Articles

The effect of a brief intervention video on gambling advertising resistance: Results of a randomized, on-line experimental study.

Gambling advertising is nowadays prevalent in multiple jurisdictions and can take multiple forms, such as TV adverts and social media promotions. However, few independently designed interventions for gambling advertising have been empirically tested. We aimed to measure the effectiveness of an inoculative intervention video for gambling advertising, which was developed based on previous interventions for alcohol and tobacco, and which used input from academics and experts by experience. Between-participants randomised online experiment. UK. UK-based gamblers aged 18-29 years (n = 1200) were recruited via Prolific. Participants either saw a novel inoculative intervention video (7.2 mins) aimed at increasing resistance against gambling advertising strategies (n = 595) or a neutral control video (7.2 mins) on healthy eating (n = 605). Participants completed pre- and post-test measures of gambling advertising scepticism and persuasion knowledge immediately before and after video exposure. They also answered the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) and reported their past-month engagement with gambling promotional offers. A random subset of participants (n = 797) recompleted these measures at one-month follow-up. The intervention group's post-test scores were statistically significantly higher than control for scepticism [estimated marginal means (EMM) = 40.32 vs. EMM = 34.72; P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.90-6.29, ηp2 = 0.17] and persuasion knowledge (EMM = 20.77 vs. EMM = 16.71; P < 0.001, 95%CI = 3.61-4.50, ηp2 = 0.21). One-month follow-up scores also remained statistically significantly higher in the intervention group compared with control for both scepticism (EMM = 38.26 vs. EMM = 34.73; P < 0.001, 95%CI = 2.70-4.36, ηp2 = 0.08) and persuasion knowledge (EMM = 18.63 vs. EMM = 17.21; P < 0.001, 95%CI = 0.88-1.95, ηp2 = 0.03). Within the intervention group, 21% of participants had stopped engaging with gambling promotional offers at one-month follow-up, reflective of a statistically significant reduction compared with control (EMM = 0.48 vs. EMM = 0.87; P < 0.001, 95%CI = -0.53 to -0.26, ηp2 = 0.04). Overall, the control group showed no statistically significant changes in any of their scores throughout the study period. An inoculative intervention video appears to increase young gamblers' resistance to gambling advertising and reduce their self-reported engagement with promotional offers.

Effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy-based physical play intervention on empathic ability of children with intellectual disabilities

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of cognitive-behavioral therapy-based sports game intervention in enhancing empathy abilities among children with intellectual developmental disorder. Methods Thirty-one children aged 7–8, diagnosed with intellectual developmental disorder and attending mainstream schools, were enlisted for this study. They were randomly allocated to either the experimental group (n = 17) or the control group (n = 19). Both groups participated in regular physical activities of similar frequency and consistency throughout the study duration. Additionally, the experimental group underwent an 18-week cognitive-behavioral therapy-based sports game intervention. The Griffith Empathy Measure (GEM) questionnaire was administered to comprehensively evaluate the impact of the intervention program on the participants’empathy abilities. Results No statistically significant discrepancies were observed in the total scores and factor scores of the GEM pre-test between the experimental and control groups (GEM pre-test: p = 0.974 > 0.05). However, following the intervention, the experimental group exhibited notably higher total scores and factor scores in the GEM post-test compared to their pre-test scores, and these scores were significantly higher than those of the control group post-test scores. Conclusion Cognitive-behavioral therapy-based sports game intervention can effectively promote the development of empathy abilities in children with intellectual developmental disorder.

Effect of Blended Learning Method (Flex Model) on Final-Year Students of BAMS to Learn Shalyatantra

ABSTRACT Background: Blended learning is a blend of online and in-person instruction. This study was conducted to see its effect to learn Shalyatantra topic. Methodology: Final-year students (58) were equally in two groups. The topic was taught using a conventional technique in group A and a blended learning way in group B. Pre-test and post-test were conducted before and after the study, respectively. Students’ and teachers’ perceptions on Likert scale were also taken. Statistical analysis was done. Observation and Results: The mean post-test score of group B, i.e. blended learning group (18.37 ± 0.97), was more as compared to group A, i.e. conventional learning group (16.31 ± 1.53). Individually both groups were statistically significant. Conclusion: It can be concluded that blended learning helped in developing critical thinking, communication skill in students, and enhance the retention of course content.

The Effect of Using Quizizz Paper Mode Learning Media on Student Learning Outcomes in Mathematics Subjects at SDN Setu 02 Jakarta

This study investigates the impact of using Quizizz Paper Mode as a learning medium on the mathematics learning outcomes of fifth-grade students at SDN Setu 02 Jakarta. Employing a quantitative research method with a Posttest-Only Control Design, the study involved two groups: an experimental group utilizing Quizizz Paper Mode and a control group relying on conventional teaching methods. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in the experimental group's post-test scores compared to the control group, indicating the effectiveness of Quizizz Paper Mode in enhancing students' mathematical understanding and engagement. The study's findings suggest that integrating technology like Quizizz Paper Mode in education can positively influence learning outcomes, though limitations such as sample size and focus on a single subject should be considered. The research underscores the need for further exploration and implementation of educational technologies in primary school curricula.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of MOOC-based Flipped Learning in College Mental Health Curriculum

Background and Aim: The flipped classroom redefines psychological health education by using technology for independent study before class and engaging in interactive and applied learning activities in class. Thus, two research objectives were proposed: (1) To compare the difference in the effectiveness of the new MOOC-based flipped learning on students' learning outcomes compared to traditional teaching in undergraduates’ mental health curriculum. (2) To explore students' attitudes to new MOOC-based flipped teaching methods. Materials and Methods: This study was designed as a pretest and posttest trial. The sample was 60 freshmen from two Sichuan University classes allocated to two groups using purposive samplings: group 1 for traditional learning, and group 2 for flipped learning. The performance test and semi-structured interview were employed in this study as research instruments. Both groups' pretest and posttest scores were obtained for learning outcome comparison. The students' attitudes to the new teaching methods were obtained through semi-structured interviews. Results: The mean pretest and posttest scores in group 1 were 58.87 and 82.17 respectively, while in group 2, they were 58.67 and 86.53 respectively. The mean improvement in knowledge score was significantly higher in group 2 (M=27.87, SD=3.14) compared to group 1 (M=23.30, SD=1.69). The level of statistical significance was P &lt; .001. The results of the semi-structured interviews indicated that almost all participants had very positive opinions regarding flipped learning based on MOOCs. Conclusion: The research demonstrates that MOOC-based flipped learning increases the student learning effectiveness to obtain better score performance and make it worth promoting.

The Influence of COMBI Method on Stunting Incidents in Pamekasan Regency

Introduction: Stunting should be forestalled by coordinated treatment programs that incorporate designated and delicate healthful intercessions. These projects require cross-area collaboration and coordination at all administrative, private, and social levels. To quit stunting, an incorporated COMBI (Communication for Behavioral Impact) technique is required. The ineffectively planned plan set up makes it trying to facilitate, simply decide, and consider individuals responsible. The 20 individuals from the Union Group for the Speed increase of Lessening Stunting act as the populace and test for this review. The motivation behind this study is to learn what the COMBI approach means for the rate at which stunting episodes happen in Pamekasan Regency in 2024. Methods: This sort of study utilizes an example size of 20 respondents and a semi trial nonequivalent benchmark group plan. approaches for get-together information that utilization pre-and post. In the event that there was a massive contrast between the treatment gathering's and the benchmark group's posttest scores, the information was examined utilizing a free t test and the Standardize Quality Test (N-Gain score). Results: In light of the exploration discoveries, the COMBI method affects the information level of the stunting union group for the situation and control bunches in Pamekasan Regency (Sig. 0.042 &lt;0.05). It likewise affects the disposition of the case and control bunch stunting union group in Pamekasan Regency (Sig. 0.042 &lt;0.05). At long last, there is no impact of the COMBI method of Conduct Change Communication System with the activities of the stunting union group for the case and control bunches in Pamekasan Regency (Sig esteem). 0.061 &gt; 0.05. Conclusions: The COMBI approach, communication technique, and changing on a surface level all affect bringing issues to light and changing mentalities about rushing the decrease of stunting. This is seen from the remarkable decrease in stunting in the Pamekasan area.

Pengaruh Stimulasi Janin dan Inisiasi Menyusui Dini terhadap Bonding Attachment

Fetal stimulation and early initiation of breastfeeding (IMD) have great benefits for the baby's development. This study aims to examine the effect of fetal stimulation and IMD on attachment bonding. This research used a quasi-experimental design, posttest only control design. The experimental group consisted of carrying out fetal stimulation by pregnant women and IMD, while the control group consisted of IMD. Post test to measure bonding attachment. Research location at PMB Wiwik Sumarni, Wonogiri, Central Java in November 2022 – April 2023. Purposive sampling technique with 15 per group. Respondents: Pregnant women with gestational age &gt; 24 weeks were normal and were observed until the IMD process. The result of the independent t-test is significant with a p value of 0.002 (&lt;0.05), the experimental group's posttest score have a lower mean value of 21.60 compared to the control group of 32.67, both groups are in the strong attachment bonding category. ANACOVA results of fetal stimulation and IMD have an attachment bonding score 7 points lower than the control group (b = -7; 95% CI; -13 to -1; p &lt; 0.001). Adjusted R2 = 48.1%. In conclusion, there is an influence of fetal stimulation and IMD on bonding attachment.

The Effects of Q: Skills for Success (Reading and Writing) Level 2 on Improving EFL University Students' Reading Skills

The study aimed to identify the effect of the Q: Skills For Success Level 2 course book on students learning, elicit the good merits of the book, and discover whether the reading strategies improved the students’ reading skills. The data of the experimental study was collected from both pretests and posttests administered to three groups of students: 14 engineering students in the first group and 22 health students in the second and third groups. Results showed that there was a very slight difference between the pretest and posttest scores of the group of engineering students (t13 = -7.214, p &lt; 0.005). Likewise, there was also a slight difference between the pretest and posttest scores of the group of health students (t21 = -13.153, p &lt; 0.005). However, there was a significant difference between the pretest and posttest scores of the third group of health students (t14 = -19.255, p &lt; 0.005). The findings indicated that there were positive effects on students taught from the Q: Skills for Success Level 2 course book. All in all, students benefitted from learning from the Q: Skills for Success Level 2 course book. Moreover, the reading strategies taken from the Q: Skills for Success Level 2 course book moderately improved students learning.

Effect of Video Modeling With Simulation on Improving Menstrual Hygiene Skills for Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Background Menstruation is a biological process experienced by women every month. This project intends to improve menstrual hygiene skills using video modeling with simulation. Educating adolescent girls with autism spectrum disorder to engage in personal care during their menstrual cycle, particularly sanitation and hygiene, is essential. It is important to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for effective self-care during menstruation to prevent sexual health problems. Additionally, the project aims to provide a safe environment for adolescents to practice their menstrual hygiene routines and relieve the stress from their caregivers. Aimand objective The study aims to evaluate the effect of video modeling with simulation to improve menstrual hygiene skills in adolescents with autism. The ultimate objective of the study is to determine whether video modeling with simulation in the experimental group enhances the practice of menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls with autism, as well as the impact of traditional occupational therapy intervention on improving menstrual hygiene in this population. Methodology This is a quasi-experimental design with convenience sampling and selected samples (n=50), who were then split into two groups: an experimental group (n=25) and a control group (n=25) based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The experimental group received video modeling and simulation, while the control group did not receive any specific intervention except parent education and pictorial representations. Pre- and post-tests were conducted to measure the changes. Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism was the screening tool used and the Menstrual Practice Needs Scale (MNPS) was administered. The duration of the study was six months, three sessions per week, lasting 45 minutes to an hour each. The statistical analysis was done with significance at a 1% alpha level using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results The pre-test and post-test data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann-Whitney test. The results demonstrated the comparison of the pre-test and post-test mean scores of the MNPS scores were highly statistically significant (p-value of 0.000) when compared to the control group. Following the implementation of video modeling with simulation, the experimental group's post-test scores were significantly higher than the control group's (p-value of 0.000). Thus, the study showed that video modeling with simulation improved menstrual hygiene in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Conclusion The clinical significance of this study was that the adolescents were excited to watch the videos and perform the activities; furthermore, after video modeling with simulation was implemented, there was a significant improvement in the experimental group when compared to the control group. This enhances the practice of the menstrual hygiene skills independently by the adolescents. Video modeling with simulation has paved the way for improving menstrual hygiene in adolescents with autism. Although the findings from the study are positive, more clinical trials are needed to prove that video modeling with simulation can be used as a therapeutic modality.

Improving the Cardiovascular Endurance of Teacher Education Students through the Utilization of the TikTok Application

Driven by the widespread usage of mobile applications, the expansive development of TikTok application has carried considerable challenges and opportunities to the Physical Education industry. Hence, it is imperative to examine the usefulness of this application to mitigate the low cardiovascular endurance of college students since the conduct of research to improve their physical activity engagement is still significant. Thus, this action research sought to improve the cardiovascular endurance of undergraduate teacher education students using the TikTok application as a tool for their physical activity. This study utilized a quantitative approach, specifically, the pretest-post-test design which is classified as quasi-experimental research. Using the normative data from YMCA 3-minute step test, 50 participants from the Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) enrolled in their physical education classes were determined to be qualified based on their pre-test scorecards. Two groups were formed out of them: 25 in the experimental group who were exposed to the intervention and another 25 in the control group who were instructed using the standard discussion. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA-type test analysis were utilized using participants' pre-test and post-test results to ascertain the efficacy of the intervention. Results unveiled that the intervention has significantly improved the experimental group's post-test scores compared to the control group since the post-test results of the control group remained almost stagnant, indicating the intervention's effectiveness by rejecting the null hypothesis. Therefore, this action research inferred that the intervention has efficiently strengthened the cardiovascular endurance of the 1st year BEEd students.

Effects of training nursing process using the concept map on caring self-efficacy of nursing students in pediatric departments.

Self-efficacy is task-specific, and Professional self-efficacy has been introduced as a factor affecting providing quality nursing care. This study aimed to determine the effects of training the nursing process using the concept map on the caring self-efficacy of nursing students in pediatric departments. This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 82 undergraduate nursing students in the second semester of 2021-2022 with a design of two groups before and after training. The samples were selected by census and divided into two experimental and control groups by simple random allocation. The data collection tool was Nursing Caring Self-Efficacy Scale in pediatric departments. The students of two groups in the pediatrics course were trained in the nursing process for nine sessions in three weeks using the concept map. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage, mean and standard deviation) and inferential tests (Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, exact Fisher's) using SPSS 23. The study results showed no statistical difference between the two groups of students regarding demographic information and pre-test scores. The concept map group's post-test score of caring self-efficacy increased significantly compared to the pre-test (P < 0.001). The comparison of the post-test scores in the groups showed that the caring self-efficacy score in the intervention group of students was significantly higher than the control group (P = 0.014). According to the study results, it is suggested instructors use the concept map as a metacognitive intervention has increased the caring self-efficacy of nursing students in pediatric departments, which will lead to more accurate performance of nursing students in the future.

Effectiveness of Lib-Rungog: Audiobook on the Listening Comprehension Skills of Grade 7 Learners: Basis for Intervention Program

This study investigates the impact of the Lib-RUNGOG Audiobook intervention on the listening comprehension skills of Grade 7 students. Employing a randomized pre-test post-test control group design, the study compares the performance of an experimental group exposed to the audiobook intervention with a control group utilizing traditional listening strategies. The research instruments include a Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE)-integrated audiobook, pre-test, and post-test items. Data analysis involves t-tests for independent and correlated samples, with a significance level of 0.05. The findings reveal a significant improvement in the experimental group's post-test scores, emphasizing the efficacy of the Lib-RUNGOG Audiobook intervention. In contrast, the control group employing conventional strategies shows no significant improvement. A comparison between the two groups suggests that, on average, the Lib-RUNGOG audiobook intervention yields higher post-test scores. However, the intervention group exhibits a greater variability in scores, emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding of individual responses. In conclusion, the Lib-RUNGOG Audiobook intervention demonstrates a substantial positive impact on reading comprehension skills. While both approaches were effective, the innovative audiobook intervention stands out in enhancing academic performance. The study recommends the integration of such interventions in educational settings, with a focus on individualized learning plans. Future research should explore the long-term effects and establish collaborations among teachers, parents, and researchers to optimize educational strategies, especially in the context of listening skills.

A Study on the Enhancement of Higher Vocational Students’ English Writing Ability by the Principle of Teacher-Student Collaborative Assessment in the Production-Oriented Approach

Abstract This paper introduces the basic content and characteristics of the production-oriented method and teacher-student collaborative assessment, shows the complete process of teacher-student collaborative assessment, and presents the overall evaluation design and implementation of teaching. Applying its theory to English writing teaching, it analyzes the English writing test paper, English writing learning interest questionnaire, and scale before and after the experiment. After analyzing, it can be seen that the signature. The value in terms of total score pre-test scores between Group X and Group Y is 0.54. The Sig. values in terms of vocabulary, structure, and total scores in the post-test between group X and group Y are 0.003, 0.004, and 0.002, respectively, which is a significant difference. In the comparison of the pre-test and post-test scores of group X, the post-test scores were significantly higher than those of the pre-test scores (Sig&lt;0.05). Therefore, the teacher-student collaborative assessment method centered on the production-oriented method is effective to be used in English teaching in higher vocational colleges and universities, which provides new research insights for improving and upgrading English writing teaching.

Gestalt Odaklı Pozitif Ebeveynlik Destekleme Programının Etkililiği

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Gestalt Oriented Positive Parenting Support Program. The study sample consisted of 36 parents (33 mothers and 3 fathers) who were selected through purposeful sampling. There were 13 participants in the experimental group, 12 participants in the placebo group, and 11 participants in the control group. The research utilized various measurement tools, such as the Demographic Information Form (DIF), Multidimensional Parental Perfectionism Questionnaire (MPPQ), Parent-Child Relationship Scale (PCRS), Me as a Parent Scale (MPS), and Alabama Parenting Questionnaire (APQ). The experimental group's pre-test and post-test scores showed significant differences for all dimensions, indicating that the program was an effective intervention. When comparing the experimental, placebo, and control group post-test scores, significant differences were found in three sub-dimensions of parental perfectionism, all dimensions of parent-child relationship, and positive parenting score. Further analysis revealed that all significant differences favored the experimental group. This finding shows that the program is an effective application for parents with children between the ages of 2-9. Finally, the post-test scores of the positive parenting dimension also differed significantly according to the experimental group pre-test scores and the control group post-test scores, confirming the hypothesis of the study and highlighting the effectiveness of the program in developing positive parenting practices.

LEVERAGING INSTAGRAM TO ENHANCE THE EIGHT GRADE STUDENTS” VOCABULARY MASTERY IN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Abstract&#x0D; This research aims to find out how effective the impact of Instagram is in improving students' vocabulary understanding. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of using Instagram social media in increasing the vocabulary mastery of class VIII students of SMP Negeri 4 Kubutambahan. This type of research is a quasi-experiment involving 64 students selected through an intact group sampling technique. Data collection used quantitative methods with a post-test-only control group design. By using the pre-test as a test of the requirements that the students' abilities between the two classes are the same. And for the post-test is used as a hypothesis test. The results showed that there were significant differences between students' vocabulary mastery before and after the intervention. results of independent t-test analysis on experimental and control group post-test scores obtained t (df = 62) = 0.3.148, p &gt; 0.003. This means that the research hypothesis is accepted. In other words, the use of social media Instagram for learning can improve the vocabulary mastery of class VIII students of SMPN 4 Kubutambahan.

The Effect of Board Race Game Towards Students’ Vocabulary Mastery At The Eighth Grade Students of MTs Nurul Hidayah Malingping Lebak Banten in Academic Year 2023/2024

This This study aimed to investigate The Effect of Board Race Game Towards Students’ Vocabulary Mastery at the Eighth Grade Students of MTs Nurul Hidayah Malingping Lebak Banten in Academic Year 2023/2024. The research uses quantitative approach and quasi-experimental design. This study used two classes, they are control class and the experimental class. The technique used for collecting sampling is purpose sampling; the researcher uses class VIII A (20 students) as the control class and class VIII B (20 students) as the experimental class. The experimental class was given treatment board race game, while the control group was given treatment guessing game. In data collection technique, the researcher performs pre-test and post-test. The control group's pre-test score was 1044, while the experimental group's pre-test score was 1184. The control group's post-test score was 1250, while the experimental group's post-test score was 1387. During the process to analyze the data, the researcher used the SPSS 25 statistical calculation method and used the post-test results of both the control and experimental classes to analyze and test the hypothesis. The researcher finds the results Two-sided significance = 0.000 &lt; α 0.05. Therefore, the researcher concludes that board race use has a significant impact on students' vocabulary mastery in MTs Nurul Hidayah Malingping Lebak Banten.

The Effect of Ice Cubes Sipping on Reducing Thirst Among Hemodialysis Patients

Aims: Patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis must limit fluids to prevent fluid overload, which worsens the condition of patients with chronic kidney disease. Restricting fluids results in reduced oral intake, which results in a dry mouth and rarely flowing water on the tongue. This condition can trigger a feeling of thirst. One way to manage thirst is to chew ice cubes. Objective: to determine the effect of chewing ice cubes on reducing thirst in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Method: This research is a type of quantitative research with Quasy Experiment research with a pretest and posttest approach with a sample size of 60 respondents, 30 respondents in the intervention group, and 30 respondents in the control group using purposive techniques sampling. And for data collection using the DTI (Dialysis) questionnaire Thirst Inventory). Results: The effect of giving the intervention of chewing ice cubes to patients undergoing hemodialysis obtained a p-value of 0.000 (p &lt; 0.05) for pre-post in the intervention group and a p-value of 0.317 (p &gt; 0.05) for pre-post in the control group. It can be concluded that the posttest value of the intervention group and the posttest value of the control group obtained a p-value of 0.000 (&lt; 0.05). It can be concluded that there is a significant difference in group posttest scores between the intervention group and the control group. Conclusion: The results of the study show that the intervention of chewing ice cubes in patients with chronic kidney disease has an effect so that it can be used.

An Educational Intervention to Explore and Overcome Nursing Students' Breastfeeding Barriers: A Mixed-Methods Quasi-experimental Study.

Nursing and midwifery students do not feel adequately prepared during their clinical training to support women who breastfeed, demanding more effective communication skills and knowledge. The aim was to evaluate changes in students' breastfeeding knowledge. This was a mixed-methods quasi-experimental design. Forty students voluntarily participated. Using a 1:1 ratio, 2 groups were randomly created and completed the validated questionnaire ECoLaE (pre-post). The educational program consisted of focus groups, a clinical simulation, and a visit to the local breastfeeding association. The control group's posttest scores ranged from 6 to 20 (mean = 13.1, standard deviation [SD] = 3.0). The intervention group ranged from 12 to 20 (mean = 17.3, SD = 2.3). A Student's t test for independence samples was calculated ( P < .005, t = 4.5, median = 4.2). The intervention group had a mean difference of 10 points in improvement (mean =10.53, SD = 2.20, min = 7, max = 14), whereas the control group had a mean of 6 points (mean = 6.80, SD = 3.03, min = 3, max = 13). The multiple linear regression explained the intervention's effect. The regression model had statistical significance ( F = 4.87, P = 0.004), with an adjusted R2 = 0.31. The linear regression between the posttest scores and group variables after adjusting by age showed an increment of 4.1 points in the intervention posttest scores ( P < .005, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.1-6.1). The educational program "Engage in breaking the barriers to breastfeeding" improved nursing students' knowledge.

Improving critical thinking skills of master students through problem-based learning model

Critical thinking is one of the most essential skills in the education system of modern society. In the field of education, many methods and techniques are used to develop this skill. In this regard, the problem-based learning method can be considered as the most effective of the various methods. This article investigated the efficiency of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model as a useful strategy for improving English language learners’ critical thinking skills. The participants of this study were 34 Master Students of Academic Writing program of Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University. English language learners were separated into experimental and control groups. The author used pre and post tests as a data collection instrument. In order to analyze the test results a quantitative method and descriptive statistical analysis were applied. The test scores were measured according to the six indicators of Bloom's Taxonomy thinking levels. The study lasted five weeks and the experimental group was taught online via Google classroom platform. In this research, a mind mapping strategy was used as a brainstorming tool to define and solve problems. It can be noted that the experimental group's post-test scores and learning outcomes were significantly improved. The experimental group achieved high scores from understanding and evaluation indicators, scoring 79% and 76% higher than the average scores respectively. This means that they can understand and evaluate any information they read or hear. While the other indicators, namely memorization (65%), application (68%) creation (61%) and analysis (51%), were also higher than the previous test scores. The latest results of the study identified the problem-oriented learning (PBL) model as the most effective method for developing critical thinking and recommend its independent application in any educational institution. It was also found that the integrated application of the problem-based learning (PBL) model with the mind mapping strategy can improve English language learners’ critical thinking skills. Keywords: critical thinking, Bloom’s Taxonomy, problem-based learning (PBL), mind map, MindMeister.

Effects of Computer-Based Training in Computer Hardware Servicing on Students' Academic Performance

This study determined the effects of computer-based training in computer hardware servicing with a pedagogical agent named “DAC: The Builder” on the academic performance of computing students. Fifty-six university students (30 students in the control group, 26 students in the experimental group) participated in a two-week experiment. The majority of the experimental group exhibited gaming behavior but subsequently reduced it after DAC intervention. The data collected in this study showed that the null hypothesis stating that there is no significant difference in the pretest and posttest scores of the experimental group can be rejected. Moreover, the hands-on posttest scores of both groups had significant differences. This study demonstrates that returning students to the lecture when they exhibit gaming the system behavior is an effective tool for discouraging this behavior. The use of the DAC is therefore recommended for students taking up computer hardware servicing. Implications and recommendations were also discussed.