Holistic Experience Research Articles

The Utilisation of Islamic Integrated Science Comics to Teach Primary School Students about Reuse and Recycling

Despite implementing innovative instructional techniques, many students struggle to understand science topics. This mixed-method and action research study explored the effectiveness of Islamic integrated science comics in enhancing students' comprehension and performance on the topic of 'reuse and recycle,' a challenging area for most students. The study involved 50 Year 3 Bruneian primary school students and used quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed significant improvements in students' post-test scores compared to their pre-test scores, demonstrating the intervention's success. Interviews with students further supported these findings, as they described the comic-based lessons as enjoyable and collaborative. The results suggest that integrating Islamic themes into science comics significantly improves students' understanding and application of scientific knowledge. This approach makes learning more engaging and aligns with students' cultural and religious contexts, thereby providing a more holistic educational experience. The study's findings have important implications for educators seeking to enhance science education in similar contexts.

Marketing Innovations in Enhancing the Sustainability of the Creative Market in Metro City

This research examines the role of marketing innovation in enhancing the sustainability of the creative market in the digital era. Through a systematic literature review, this study aims to identify current trends, best practices, and challenges in implementing innovative marketing strategies in the creative industry. The analysis covers various aspects of marketing innovation, including digital technology adoption, value-based strategies, consumer collaboration, and integration of online-offline experiences. Research findings indicate that digital transformation has become a primary driver of marketing innovation, with the utilization of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and blockchain opening new opportunities for personalization and creativity in marketing. A significant shift towards value-based and sustainable marketing strategies is identified as a response to consumer demands for ethical and sustainable products and services. Collaboration and co-creation with consumers emerge as effective approaches to enhance product relevance and build customer loyalty. Adaptability and flexibility of marketing strategies prove crucial in facing rapidly changing market dynamics. Seamless integration between online and offline marketing is found to be key in creating holistic customer experiences. This study concludes that marketing innovation plays a vital role in enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of the creative industry. Recommendations include investing in digital capabilities, developing value-based strategies, strengthening consumer collaboration, increasing organizational flexibility, and optimizing the integration of online-offline strategies. The implications of this research are relevant for creative industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers in the fields of marketing and creative industries.

The Assessment of a Gradeless Residency Model for Software Engineering Education

The traditional practice of assessing academic performance through conventional letter and numerical grades has faced criticism for its limitations in promoting active engagement and curiosity among students. In response, the concept of gradeless education has gained traction, with the aim of fostering a more holistic learning experience. This work explores the implementation of the residency model, a form of gradeless education, in the context of engineering education. The model focuses on skill acquisition and competency demonstration while enhancing student wellness by minimizing assessment-related anxiety that students often face in graded assessments. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the residency model through a comprehensive survey conducted in a software engineering technology program at McMaster University. The survey investigates student perspectives on the model’s impact on motivation, learning experience, and attitudes towards learning. The results reveal a complex interplay of attitudes, with students acknowledging the importance of grades while appreciating the model’s rigorous assignments. The findings suggest that the residency model can encourage transformative learning experiences while warranting ongoing attention to optimize both learning outcomes and student well-being. Further research is recommended to assess the long-term impact and effectiveness of gradeless education models, emphasizing both their benefits and challenges.

Exploring the Impact of Songs in EFL Teaching Across Age Groups: Perspectives from Vietnamese EFL Lecturers

This study investigates the effectiveness of using songs in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching from the perspectives of Vietnamese EFL lecturers, focusing on identifying the most beneficial age group among young learners, teenagers, and adult learners. Employing a qualitative research design, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with nine EFL teachers from two educational institutions in Vietnam, representing a range of experience levels from novice to near-end career. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, guided by Constructivist and Socio-cultural theories of learning. The findings revealed that the application and perceived effectiveness of songs varied significantly across different age groups and teacher experience levels. Songs were universally recognized as beneficial in EFL teaching, but their implementation and impact differed, with novice teachers focusing on engagement, mid-career teachers on cultural and linguistic nuances, and near-end career teachers on a holistic language experience. The study found that songs are highly effective with young learners, need careful selection for teenagers, and should be thematically rich for adult learners. These insights have implications for EFL practitioners, curriculum designers, and policymakers, suggesting the need for tailored song-based activities and professional development for teachers.

Is Mild Really Mild?: Generating Longitudinal Profiles of Stroke Survivor Impairment and Impact Using Unsupervised Machine Learning

The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is used worldwide to classify stroke severity as ‘mild’, ‘moderate’, or ‘severe’ based on neurological impairment. Yet, stroke survivors argue that the classification of ‘mild’ does not represent the holistic experience and impact of stroke on their daily lives. In this observational cohort study, we aimed to identify different types of impairment profiles among stroke survivors classified as ‘mild’. We used survivors of mild stroke’ data from the START longitudinal stroke cohort (n = 73), with measures related to sensorimotor, cognition, depression, functional disability, physical activity, work, and social adjustment over 12 months. Given the multisource, multigranular, and unlabeled nature of the data, we utilized a structure-adapting, unsupervised machine learning approach, the growing self-organizing map (GSOM) algorithm, to generate distinct clinical profiles. These diverse impairment profiles revealed that survivors of mild stroke experience varying degrees of impairment and impact (cognitive, depression, physical activity, work/social adjustment) at different time points, despite the uniformity implied by their NIHSS-classified ‘mild’ stroke. This emphasizes the necessity of creating a holistic and more comprehensive representation of survivors of mild stroke’ needs over the first year after stroke to improve rehabilitation and poststroke care.

Examining the Impact of the Funding System on Organized Youth Sport in Portugal: Implications for Research and Practice

The purpose of this critical commentary is to provide insights about the impact of funding structures on youth sport research and programming, with a particular focus on research priorities and access to quality youth sport experiences across competitive youth sport programs. Portugal is used as a case studyto provide insights about how funding structures may be strategically positioned to positively influence competitive youth sport programs and associated research efforts. The field of competitive youth sports constitutes a complex network influenced by cultural, social, and political factors, where multiple decision makers are driven by funding requirements, performance ideals, and societal norms. This context, although promising, faces challenges such as the prevalence of a lucrative market that prioritizes competitive outcomes, exacerbating inequalities and inherently neoliberal ideals. A strong emphasis placed by funding on winning and performance development may undermine other concerns to emerge across competitive youth sport programs. Furthermore, research programs play a crucial role in understanding and providing novel pathways for competitive youth sport. However there are challenges in seeking funding and academic recognition for these endeavours, which can create a disconnect between knowledge creation and actual needs. This reflection seeks to stimulate an open and constructive dialogue, calling on all actors that are part of the competitive youth system to develop collaborative efforts to make competitive youth sport a holistic experience accessible to all.

21 МАРТ СВЕТОВЕН ДЕН НА ГОРАТА

This article presents an innovative interdisciplinary open lesson conducted on March 21, 2024, in celebration of World Forest Day. The lesson aimed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge about forests and their ecosystems, including the processes of erosion, the diversity of plant and animal species, and the importance of environmental preservation. The methodology combines theoretical learning with practical activities, such as planting seeds and observing forest biodiversity, both in the classroom and in a real forest environment. The lesson was divided into two parts: the first part included a presentation on the significance of forests, interactive discussions, and creative tasks using artificial intelligence tools. The second part involved a field trip to a local forest park, where students engaged in hands-on activities like tree planting and cleaning up the forest. The expected outcomes were to enhance students’ understanding of the natural environment, instill a sense of responsibility towards nature, and develop practical skills in environmental conservation. The interdisciplinary approach, integrating subjects such as science, physical education, language arts, and technology, provided a holistic learning experience that emphasized the interconnectedness of different areas of knowledge and the importance of protecting our planet.

READING ACROSS BOUNDARIES: CULTURAL CONFLICTS AND REMEDIES

Reading, according to Butterflies et al. (2020), is a cognitive process involving the decoding of written symbols to extract or construct meaning. However, from a pragmatist perspective, this notion is outdated and insufficient. Reading is no longer merely a passive act of decoding thoughts. Instead, it should be perceived as an active and dynamic interaction between the reader and the text. A student interpretation of a text is significantly influenced by their schemata, which includes cultural background knowledge, personal experiences, and prior understanding. This perspective does not discount the crucial role of linguistic knowledge in reading comprehension. Instead, it highlights the fact that cultural knowledge is equally essential for achieving a complete and genuine understanding of the text. Linguistic and cultural knowledge are interconnected and should not be viewed in isolation. When these elements are separated, the reader fails to grasp the full significance and richness of what they are reading, resulting in an incomplete and superficial interpretation. This paper argues that to fully comprehend a text, both linguistic and cultural contexts must be considered together, providing a holistic and meaningful reading experience for students.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0736/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

AI-enabled personalized learning: empowering management students for improving engagement and academic performance

Purpose In today’s highly competitive world, the purpose of this research is to emphasize the increasing significance of management education and advocate for the adoption of innovative teaching approaches, specifically focusing on artificial intelligence (AI)-driven personalized learning (PL). This study aims to explore the integration of self-determination theory (SDT) principles into management education, with a primary focus on enhancing student motivation, engagement and academic performance (AP). Design/methodology/approach This interdisciplinary research adopts a multifaceted approach, combining perspectives from AI, education and psychology. The design and methodology involve a thorough exploration of the theoretical foundations of both AI-driven education and SDT. The research demonstrates how these two elements can synergize to create a holistic educational experience. To substantiate the theoretical claims, empirical data-driven analyses are employed, showcasing the effectiveness of AI-enabled personalized learning (AIPL). The study integrates principles from SDT, such as autonomy, competence and relatedness, to create an environment where students are intrinsically motivated, receiving tailored instruction for optimal outcomes. Findings The study, rooted in SDT, demonstrates AIPL’s transformative impact on management education. It positively influences students’ autonomy, competence and relatedness, fostering engagement. Autonomy is a key driver, strongly linked to improved AP. The path analysis model validates these relationships, highlighting AI’s pivotal role in reshaping educational experiences and intrinsically motivating students. Practical implications This study holds substantial significance for educators, policymakers and researchers. The findings indicate that the AIPL model is effective in increasing student interest and improving AP. Furthermore, this study offers practical guidance for implementing AI in management education to empower students, enhance engagement and align with SDT principles. Originality/value Contribute original insights through an interdisciplinary lens. Synthesize AI and SDT principles, providing a roadmap for a more effective educational experience. Empirical data-driven analyses enhance credibility, offering valuable contributions for educators and policymakers in the technology-influenced education landscape.

Between Sang subculture and self-formation: an investigation into ‘Haifei’ in China

ABSTRACT Despite the booming reverse student mobility in international higher education, pertinent literature is limited due to a narrow focus on the employability and employment of returning graduates, without considering their holistic lived experience in the home context that is subjected to shaping forces of grand narratives that emerge alongside shifting sociohistorical discourses. Shedding light on the emerging ‘Haifei,’ or ‘overseas returning waste’ narrative in China, this study conducted a qualitative inquiry into returnees’ self-identification of and action upon this collective identity. It makes new contributions in revealing some deep-seated contextualized dynamics that underpin the emergence of the new narrative, which are captured in the Sang culture currently engulfing Chinese youths and the concomitant self-formation as identity construction.

Kreativitas Dan Kepercayaan Diri Siswa Melalui Kegiatan Drama di SMP Muhammadiyah Terpadu

Aims to examine the impact of drama activities at school on increasing students' creativity and self-confidence. Drama is an art form that combines various elements such as acting, expression and social interaction, which can provide a holistic learning experience for students. We provide motivation in the form of student creativity and self-confidence and analyze student participation in drama activities held at Muhammadiyah Integrated Middle School. The results showed that drama activities significantly increased students' creativity. They are better able to express new ideas, improvise, and develop stories and characters better. Additionally, participation in drama also shows a marked increase in students' self-confidence. Students become more confident in public speaking, show courage in trying new things, and participate more actively in class discussions. Drama activities also create an inclusive and collaborative learning environment, where students feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment. This not only helps in the development of individual skills but also strengthens the sense of togetherness and teamwork among students. Thus, implementing drama activities in schools can be an effective strategy for developing students' creativity and self-confidence. The recommendation from this research is to include drama activities more intensively and structured in the school curriculum as part of efforts to improve the quality of education.

Evaluating human perception of building exteriors using street view imagery

Building appearances profoundly shape the urban visual landscape, influencing city images and the quality of urban life. Traditional methods for evaluating the perceptual and aesthetic qualities of building facades are often limited in scope. Despite recent studies that have sought to understand human perception of urban streetscapes, our grasp of how individuals perceive building exteriors on a broader scale and the subsequent impact on holistic street experiences, remains largely unexplored. In this study, we integrate a traditional survey-based evaluation framework with machine learning techniques to analyse human perception of over 250,000 building images from Singapore, San Francisco, and Amsterdam. Specifically, deep learning models trained on crowdsourced ratings of 1200 building images across six perceptual attributes — complex, original, ordered, pleasing, boring, and style — achieve over 72% accuracy. This novel approach enables adaptive and comparative analyses of building appearances across regions, revealing spatial patterns in the perception of architectural exteriors and their relationships with functions, age, and location. Moreover, by applying propensity score matching to match images based on their features, we mark one of the first efforts to investigate the perceptual impacts of buildings on streetscape perceptions. The results show that streetscapes with higher levels of complex, pleasing, and historical ambience from buildings elicit more positive perceptions, whereas modern and monotonous exteriors often evoke holistic feelings of being “boring” and “depressing”. These findings offer architects and city planners valuable insights into public sentiment towards city-level building exteriors and their influence on urban identity and perception.

An interpretative phenomenological analysis of daily meditation and its impact on one’s sense of self

The present study investigated the impact of daily meditation on sense of self. There is extensive research regarding the physical and mental health benefits that meditation can bring about, yet literature is still limited on the influence this has on an individual’s sense of self. The aims of the current study were to contribute to the existing body of research on meditation and the self and to gain a better understanding of the link between meditation and the self. Furthermore, to look at the potential social health benefits that meditation induces. This was achieved using a qualitative methodological approach applying Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), with an epistemological stance of interpretivism and an ontological position of social constructionism. Six semi-structured interviews were conducted in collecting qualitative data. Three super-ordinate themes emerged which were: 1. Inside Out Positivity, 2. “Quieting the Mind to Hear the Heart”, 3. The Holistic Experience, with eight corresponding sub-ordinate themes. The key findings were that meditation increased feelings of kindness and compassion and improved the quality of relationships for the participants. Participants felt more positive and calmer in their daily living and reported higher levels of awareness. Another key finding was that participants had a better perception of themselves and felt like meditation gave them more perspective of mind. Additionally, participants noted physical changes with greater bodily connection to breathing and had more mental clarity. Finally, participants reported enhanced feelings of spirituality and spoke of power and consciousness beyond themselves. The implications of these findings are that meditation can be a useful intervention for social health issues such as poor relationship quality or feelings of social exclusion by increasing compassion and awareness. Meditation is a useful tool for reducing stress and feeling present. Meditation would also be a beneficial method for positive self-perception and identity.

DESIGNING FOR THE SENSES: MULTISENSORY APPROACHES IN THERAPEUTIC CLINICAL SPACES

Spatial design significantly influences interactions with the built environment, engaging senses through visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli. However, in therapeutic clinical settings, the sensory experience is often overlooked in favor of aesthetic considerations, limiting the understanding of user responses to spatial cues. This study investigates the role and impact of multisensory design on user responses in therapeutic clinical environments. By analyzing design parameters such as lighting, acoustics, materials, and textures, the research aims to establish a framework for creating therapeutic clinical spaces that prioritize multisensory stimulation. Through case studies, interviews, and surveys, the study assesses user perceptions and psychological responses to different sensory stimuli in clinical settings. The findings indicate a preference for environments that engage multiple senses, with factors such as layout, color tones, forms, lighting, and finishes playing crucial roles in shaping user experiences. The proposed framework offers practical guidance for designers and architects, emphasizing the importance of sensory design in enhancing interactions between users and clinical environments, ultimately contributing to a more holistic and immersive therapeutic experience.

SPA Philosophy as a Tourism Support - Case Study on Thai SPA and Bali SPA

The SPA industry, a vital component of wellness tourism, offers unique experiences deeply rooted in cultural and natural contexts. This study explores thedistinctive philosophies of Thai and Balinese SPAs, examining their contributions totourism through a comparative analysis. Thai SPAs emphasize balance and energyflow, integrating traditional Thai massage techniques, herbal treatments, and Buddhistprinciples to create a holistic wellness experience. Conversely, Balinese SPAs focuson harmony with nature and spiritual serenity, reflecting the island's Hindu-Buddhistheritage. Treatments in Balinese SPAs often use local ingredients and are performedin serene natural settings, enhancing the connection between guests and the island’scultural and natural beauty. The methodology involved a comprehensive literaturereview and content analysis of academic articles, books, and industry reports, followedby a comparative analysis to highlight the unique features and commonalities betweenthe SPA philosophies of Thailand and Bali. The findings reveal that both SPAtraditions play a crucial role in enhancing cultural tourism by offering authenticexperiences that connect visitors with local traditions and practices. Additionally, theseSPAs contribute to sustainable tourism by utilizing local resources and supportingtraditional practices, which helps preserve cultural heritage and promotes economicgrowth in local communities. The study concludes that the distinctive philosophies ofThai and Balinese SPAs not only provide therapeutic benefits but also serve as culturalambassadors and promoters of sustainable tourism. As global interest in wellnesstourism continues to rise, these unique SPA experiences will remain pivotal inattracting tourists seeking comprehensive well-being experiences, thereby supportingthe overall sustainability and appeal of their respective destinations.

Exploring the Golden Ratio in Nature by Using a STEAM Approach: A Diagnostic and Quasi-Experimental Study at a Senior University

This research addresses the social exclusion of elderly citizens in terms of lifelong education via an interdisciplinary STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) approach. Technological literacy among older people is a critical factor in social exclusion. This study seeks to provide senior citizens with competencies in scientific, artistic, mathematical, and technological domains by enhancing scientific and technological literacy. The research developed a series of non-formal education sessions on the golden ratio using a STEAM educational approach. A quantitative methodology approach was carried out by using a diagnostic survey of the participants’ conceptions and a subsequent quasi-experimental study to evaluate the impact of the intervention. This study, conducted with 37 senior citizens (n = 37), found positive results aligning with the existing literature on the potential of the STEAM approach. The STEAM approach proved to be engaging for seniors, offering a holistic and interdisciplinary educational experience. Despite the limited availability of science educational programs for seniors and the scarcity of studies on lifelong learning using the STEAM approach, this research highlights the need for such initiatives, especially given the growing senior population. Applying STEAM education shows promise in enhancing scientific literacy and motivation among adult learners. By integrating mathematical concepts, such as the golden ratio, with practical applications in arts and natural sciences, STEAM education can provide a rich, motivating, and accessible learning experience, promoting active and healthy ageing through lifelong learning. Further research and development in this area could maximise educational benefits for the senior population.

Implementation of Integrated Learning to Enhance Elementary School Students' Creativity

In the field of education, which is constantly changing to innovate, implementing various methods in learning is important to strengthen students' understanding and creativity. Through integrated learning, students can gain direct experience, which enhances their ability to receive, retain, and apply learned concepts. This approach not only fosters a deeper comprehension of academic subjects but also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, integrated learning helps students make meaningful connections between different disciplines, promoting a more holistic educational experience. This research is qualitative in nature, using a literature study approach, with books and literature as the main sources. By analyzing existing studies and theoretical frameworks, this research aims to identify effective strategies for integrating different subjects and activities in the classroom. This study is expected to contribute to the implementation of integrated learning to enhance creativity in elementary school students. Ultimately, the findings of this research could provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers, guiding them in developing curricula that better support student creativity and lifelong learning skills

THE MAIN PECULIARITIES OF THE INTEGRATED APPROACH AND THE ROLE OF TEACHERS IN IMPLEMENTATION

ntegrative learning involves the integration of past knowledge and experiences in order to enhance the learning process. This approach allows learners to leverage their existing skills and apply them in new and more challenging situations, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and retention of new information. Through integrative learning, individuals can connect the dots between different subjects and concepts, creating a more holistic and comprehensive learning experience. An integrated approach to teaching language skills involves incorporating the development of all language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) simultaneously, rather than isolating them for separate instruction. This approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of language skills and aims to develop learners’ overall language proficiency.

(034) EDI QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN REPRODUCTIVE MEDICAL EDUCATION: A WORKED MODEL

Abstract Introduction Countless patients face challenges obtaining holistic generalist care and experience health disparities related to race/ethnicity and social structural determinants of health (SSDOH). Revisions to medical curriculum are necessary to ensure that graduates can competently provide care that is socially accountable and aligns with the needs of patients. Evidence supports the inclusion of generalist and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) content in curriculum to foster such competency. However, a 2022 study conducted at our medical school revealed a lack of generalism and EDI content in the case based learning (CBL) curriculum. An evidence-based process for assessing existing CBL curriculum for generalist content exists, but no process for revision has been described. While a process to revise EDI content in CBL curriculum exists, no studies to date have focused on reproductive medicine and urology content and the unique challenges associated with this area of medicine, such as the additional impact of stigma, trauma and discrimination related to pregnancy-related choice, sexual orientation or gender diversity. Objective To enhance generalist and EDI content within the Reproductive Medicine and Urology Course (RMUC) CBL curriculum. Further, to develop a worked model for enhancing generalist and EDI content in an existing CBL reproductive medicine and urology curriculum. Lastly, to provide medical graduates with the tools to provide care that is socially accountable and aligns with the current needs of patients. Methods We evaluated and revised five CBL cases in our medical school’s RMUC curriculum. We employed the Toronto Generalism Assessment Tool (T-GAT) to assess generalism, and adapted guidelines from Krishnan et al. to assess and implement the necessary changes related to EDI. Upon completion, we re-evaluated the RMUC CBL curriculum to ensure the incorporation of generalism and EDI content. We also used existing revision processes described by Bruner et al. to guide our overall approach. Results RMUC CBL cases were modified and our methods documented. Through this process, several challenges were identified and include difficulties with: (1) obtaining images due to lack of commercially available content that includes members of equity-deserving groups, (2) the time needed to appropriately incorporate SDOH already present in the cases, and (3) detecting content that was subtly paternalistic or missing a trauma-informed approach. Conclusions Generalism and EDI were lacking within the RMUC curriculum. Development of a worked model, accompanied by reflections on navigating encounters challenges, is underway. This will serve as a guide to others wishing to incorporate generalism and EDI into their reproductive medicine education programs. Disclosure No.

STRINGS OF INNOVATION: EXPLORING GUZHENG PEDAGOGY THROUGH THE 'INTERNET +' LENS

This study explore the evolving landscape of Guzheng pedagogy in the "Internet +" era, exploring the integration of traditional teaching methods with digital innovations. Applying Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT) and social constructivist principles, the research examines how online platforms like "ChinaGuzheng.com" and Douyin cater to learner motivations and facilitate knowledge construction within a community-driven environment. Through a mixed-methods approach, the study analyzes user demographics, satisfaction data, and behavioral engagement metrics from both platforms. Findings reveal that digital platforms effectively address the diverse needs of Guzheng learners, offering flexible learning pathways, fostering social interaction, and promoting cultural preservation. However, challenges remain in terms of platform usability and catering to individual learning styles. The study proposes an integrative enhancement that merges the strengths of both platforms, creating a holistic learning experience that embraces the core principles of UGT and social constructivism. This model has the potential to serve as a blueprint for the future of Guzheng pedagogy, ensuring the instrument's cultural legacy thrives in the digital age.