Instructional Strategies Research Articles

An Analysis of Classroom Management Conducted by the English Teacher at a Private Islamic Junior High School

This study investigates the classroom management strategies of an English teacher at a private Islamic Junior High School in Sidoarjo, focusing on time and space management, student behavior, and instructional strategies. The research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies in creating a conducive learning environment. Observations were conducted during two meetings on May 28 and 29, 2024, using an observation checklist based on McLeod, Fisher, and Hoover's classroom management theory. Additionally, an interview with the teacher provided further insights. The results revealed that the teacher effectively managed classroom time and space, scoring 50% in both sessions. However, student behavior management could have been more effective, with scores of 45% and 50% in the respective meetings. Instructional strategies were also limited, with scores of 40% in both meetings. The study highlights a well-organized classroom environment but points to areas for improvement, including enhancing behavior management techniques and incorporating diverse instructional strategies. The implications suggest a need for more dynamic and responsive approaches to classroom management, including integrating technology and fostering personal connections with students to improve engagement and learning outcomes.

Applying a Support Vector Machine (SVM-RFE) Learning Approach to Investigate Students’ Scientific Literacy Development: Evidence from Asia, Europe, and South America

Cultivating scientific literacy is a goal widely shared by educators and students around the world. Many studies have sought to enhance students’ proficiency in scientific literacy through various approaches. However, there is a need to explore the attributes associated with advanced levels of scientific literacy, especially the influence of contextual factors. In this context, our study employs a machine learning technique—the SVM-RFE algorithm—to identify the critical characteristics of students with strong scientific literacy in Asia, Europe, and South America. Our research has pinpointed 30 key factors from a broader set of 162 contextual factors that are indicative of outstanding scientific literacy among 15-year-old secondary school students. By utilizing student samples from the three continents, our study provides a comprehensive analysis of these factors across the entire dataset, along with a comparative examination of the optimal set of key factors between continents. The findings highlight the importance of these key factors, which should be considered by educational policymakers and school leaders when developing educational policies and instructional strategies to foster the most effective development of scientific literacy.

Advanced Technologies for Teaching Rachana Sharir: Implications for Academic Education

The study of Rachana Sharira is a cornerstone of educational programs in the biological and healthcare fields. It is crucial that the teaching methods and instructional strategies used in this subject effectively prepare students. Traditionally, Rachana Sharira has been taught through a combination of lectures and hands-on practical sessions involving cadaver dissections and pre-dissected specimens. However, with the advent of modern digital technologies, such as smartphones, QR codes, and virtual reality, along with advanced imaging techniques like radiography, ultrasonography, MRI, and CT scans, the landscape of Rachana Sharira education is evolving. This review aims to explore how these innovative tools are being integrated into academic settings to enhance the diversity and effectiveness of Rachana Sharira teaching, ultimately improving students' understanding of the subject and its clinical applications.

EXPLORING THE ROLE OF L1 LITERACY SKILLS IN L2 READING COMPREHENSION AND VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT AMONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN GHANA

This study investigated the relationship between first language (L1) literacy skills and second language (L2) reading comprehension and vocabulary development among students in Ghana. The study was grounded in Cummin’s (1970) Linguistic Interdependence Theory (LIT). The qualitative approach was adopted, and three instruments- focus group discussions, interviews and classroom observations- were used to obtain data from the sample of 300 secondary school students and 40 teachers. The researcher assessed participants' views in L1 literacy domains (phonological awareness, orthographic knowledge, and reading fluency) as well as their views on L2 (English) reading comprehension and vocabulary. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between students' L1 literacy skills and their achievement in L2 reading comprehension and vocabulary. Those with more advanced abilities in their native language consistently demonstrated higher levels of reading comprehension and broader English vocabulary knowledge. This underscores the critical role of strong foundational literacy in the first language as a precursor to successful second language acquisition. The study also identified key instructional strategies that could help bridge the gap for ESL learners, such as explicit instruction in L1 literacy, structured opportunities for cross-linguistic transfer, and the incorporation of culturally relevant, mother-tongue materials into the curriculum. The implications of these findings for policymakers, curriculum designers, and teachers working to improve educational outcomes for linguistically diverse student populations are discussed.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Analysis of the Use of Differentiated Instruction Learning Strategies in Answering Diverse Learning Needs in the Classroom of MAS Darul Hadist Hutabaringin Kec. Siabu Kab. Mandailing Natal

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the use of Differentiated Instruction (DI) strategies in responding to diverse learning needs in the classroom of students at MAS Darul Hadist Hutabaringin Kec. Siabu Kab. Mandailing Natal. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of DI can increase students' motivation, involvement, and understanding of the subject matter. Teachers apply grouping based on interests and abilities and vary learning methods to adjust to student characteristics, which contribute positively to their learning outcomes. The implementation of DI faces challenges in the form of limited time, resources, and learning facilities. Teachers need additional preparation to adapt materials and methods, and institutional support is needed so that the implementation of DI runs optimally. This study concludes that DI is an effective learning strategy in improving the quality of education in school environments with diverse learning needs, and recommends that schools support the implementation of DI through ongoing training and improving learning facilities.

Research on the New Era’s Road for Reforming School Sports Instruction

Background: The emphasis on holistic development in school has significantly changed in recent years, placing equal emphasis on academic success and physical and mental well-being. This change has led to a critical analysis of the teaching of sports in schools, which has historically placed a strong emphasis on competitive and performance-oriented goals. Growing worries about the health, involvement, and general development of students highlight the need for reform in school sports instruction. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine and assess current reform efforts in school Sports instruction in light of the emerging educational paradigm. Finding workable solutions to raise the standard of sports instruction, increase student engagement, and promote a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to physical education are the goals. Method: Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys. Information was gathered from a wide range of educational institutions' instructors, students, and policy officials. Analyzing survey data on existing sports curriculum, instructional strategies, and student attitudes toward physical education comprised the quantitative component. In-depth interviews were a part of the qualitative component, which aimed to provide insights into the difficulties and achievements faced by reforming schools. Findings: The study presents a number of important conclusions: First, the necessity of switching from conventional, competition-focused models to more inclusive and diversified sports programs that accommodate a range of interests and ability levels is becoming increasingly apparent. Second, the incorporation of contemporary pedagogical strategies that encourage higher levels of engagement and enjoyment—like cooperative learning and student-centered activities—marks effective reforms. Third, there are still issues like scarce resources and opposition to change, but creative solutions and helpful legislation have made progress toward getting past these obstacles. Overall, the study emphasizes how crucial it is for educators to continue their professional development and how systemic support is required to maintain successful reforms in the teaching of sports in schools. This study offers insightful information to stakeholders, educators, and policymakers that want to improve.

Coaching Athletes with Learning Disabilities: Three Effective Strategies

Despite the prevalence of students with learning disabilities (LD), athletic coaches face challenges in recognizing and effectively supporting the needs of athletes with LD due to lack of professional development in this area. Sometimes referred to as a “hidden disability”, LD is not easily perceived by teachers and coaches. Students with LD have average level intelligence and often demonstrate both strengths and weaknesses in academics. What coaches may not realize, however, is that athletes with LD can have the same challenges in learning aspects of the sport that they have in learning academics. They can have difficulties with understanding and following multi-step directions, remembering sequences of information (Gargiulo & Bouck, 2018), problems with processing skills and self- monitoring their behavior (Watson et al., 2016). Therefore, addressing the needs of athletes with LD requires a set of specialized instructional strategies that helps athletes focus and increase performance. This article describes three evidence-based instructional strategies which support the needs of athletes with LD: behavior specific praise, explicit instruction, and self-talk. Guidelines for using the strategies are provided and emphasize the importance of modeling of the desired behaviors and providing sufficient opportunities for athletes to rehearse and process the new behaviors. Use of these strategies can enhance the coaching experience for all athletes and promote inclusiveness while at the same time, improving athletic performance.

Mathematical Thinking and Learning in Early Childhood: A Consolidated Qualitative Synthesis of Cutting-Edge Research Literature

This study aims to synthesize current research on early childhood mathematical thinking and learning, focusing on cognitive development, instructional strategies, and environmental influences. The study provides a comprehensive qualitative analysis, integrating diverse theoretical frameworks and recent empirical findings for a nuanced understanding of early math education. Methodologically, it employs a thematic synthesis of qualitative studies, systematically reviewing literature from various academic databases to identify key patterns and themes. The research design involves coding text, developing descriptive themes, and generating analytical themes from peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024. The primary outcomes highlight the significant impact of play-based learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and parental involvement on early mathematical development. Additionally, the study underscores the role of technology and supportive learning environments in enhancing children's math skills. Conclusions emphasize the importance of holistic and culturally responsive educational practices. The practical implications provide valuable insights for educators, policymakers, researchers, and parents aiming to improve early childhood math education.

PBL 교육과정에서 학습자의 성취 수준에 따른 학습몰입 특성: 성찰일지의 코퍼스 기반 분석

Objectives The study aims to analyze the learning engagement characteristics based on learners' achievement levels in a Project-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum. Through a corpus-based analysis of reflective journals, the research seeks to objectively evaluate and differentiate the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive engagement types of learners. Methods This research employed a corpus-based linguistic approach to analyze the reflective journals of learners from a PBL course. A total of 24 students from C University participated, divided into high-achieving and low-ach-ieving groups. The reflective journals, collected over nine weeks, were analyzed using the AntConc program to ex-tract keywords representing emotional, behavioral, and cognitive engagement. Statistical analyses, including One-Way ANOVA and independent samples t-test, were conducted to determine the differences in engagement types within and between the groups. Results The analysis revealed distinct differences in engagement characteristics between high-achieving and low-achieving learners. High-achieving learners exhibited higher levels of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive engagement, reflected in a greater frequency of keywords related to these dimensions. The differences were statistically significant, highlighting the need for differentiated instructional strategies to cater to varying learner needs. Conclusions The findings emphasize the importance of tailoring educational strategies to the individual needs of learners based on their engagement patterns. This approach can enhance the effectiveness of PBL by fostering deeper and more meaningful learning experiences. The study contributes to the development of targeted teaching methods that support both high-achieving and low-achieving students, ultimately improving overall learning outcomes.

Least mastered skills and effective instruction in teaching general mathematics in the Philippines

This study examined the relationship between the profiles of 31 General Mathematics teachers and their engagement in effective instructional practices, focusing on how these factors impact the number of least-mastered skills among students in General Mathematics. The study used questionnaires to gather information about instructors' academic and professional backgrounds, classroom resources, and instructional strategies. The findings revealed varying levels of engagement among General Mathematics teachers in effective instructional practices. Key areas measured included interactions with peers, teachers’ attitudes toward their profession, involvement in the teaching-learning process, limitations in teaching classes, classroom instruction effectiveness, encouraging students to engage in mathematical activities, confidence in teaching Mathematics, and monitoring student progress in Mathematics. Notably, factors affecting the number of least-mastered skills were linked to age, educational background, years of service, and possession of a postgraduate degree. Furthermore, a moderate positive correlation was observed between teachers' engagement in effective instruction, and skill mastery. Keywords: Effective instruction; general mathematics; instructional strategies; least mastered skills

Investigation of Computational Thinking Skills through Instructional Techniques, Games and Programming Tools

Computational thinking (CT) has become a vital approach to problem-solving. This method has been proven successful in various areas, especially science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and professional development. The integration of CT in education provides a practical approach to solving problems. This concept paper investigated the various uses of instructional techniques and programming tools to enhance CT skills used in previous empirical research. CT consists of four main pillars: decomposition, which refers to breaking down identified problems into smaller parts; pattern recognition, which involves finding occurring patterns that can be seen; abstraction through identification of important details and removing unnecessary information; and algorithm, where a step-by-step procedure is solution is made. By exploring instructional strategies and programming environments, this paper outlines the possible impacts of these instructional strategies, games, and programming environments on improvement in CT skills, thus providing a theoretical basis for future empirical studies. The strength and combination of these approaches provide a comprehensive learning experience. This paper also suggests instructional techniques and programming tools to enhance underexplored CT skills based on research gaps.

Desolvation Effect Triggered by TiS2‐TiO2 Heterostructure for Ultrahigh‐Rate Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries

AbstractAqueous Zn ion batteries (AZIBs) represent a promising candidate for the next‐generation energy storage and conversion systems due to their high safety and cost‐effectiveness. However, sluggish kinetics arising from interface desolvation processes pose challenges in achieving high‐power density and long cycle life for AZIBs. Here, it is discovered for the first time that heterostructures utilize built‐in electric field forces to promote the desolvation process at the electrode‐electrolyte interface. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and structural characterization demonstrate that heterogeneous structures simultaneously accelerate the desolvation process and enhance ion diffusion, resulting in the outstanding rate performance (160.9 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1) of TiS2‐TiO2 heterostructures, far exceeding that of a conventional TiS2 electrode with 14.2% capacity retention. Meanwhile, the insertion/extraction of the desolvated charge carriers reduced the volume change of TiS2‐TiO2 material during the charging/discharging processes, enabling the long‐lasting cycling stability (108.6 mA h g−1 after 2000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1). This study provides instructive electrode design strategies for the construction of fast‐charging electrochemical energy storage systems.

Strategy for Inserting Thai Culture into Teaching and Learning Management of Teachers and the Perception on Thai Culture among Korean Students Studying Thai as a Foreign Language in Universities in Republic of Korea

This research utilized the combination between quantitative and qualitative researches. The research sample included Thai language course lecturers both Thai and South Korean persons, including 1st-4th year South Korean undergraduate students. The instruments used included the questionnaire on teaching strategy which also included Thai culture to be used in providing instruction on Thai language for South Korean students. The forms of tests assessing the perception on Thai culture of South Korean students. Two interview forms to interview the teachers and South Korean students on their perception and acquisition of Thai culture. The findings reveal the teacher’s opinion on strategy to integrate Thai culture with the instruction on teaching Thai language to South Korean students studying Thai as a foreign language in aspects of integrating Thai language along Thai culture and instructional strategy integrated with Thai culture. The overall outcome reveals that the sample subjects agree mostly with such statement. Concerning the result of the perception on Thai culture of South Korean students, it was found that 14.29% of students had obtained the score at very good level, 70% at good level, 14.29% at moderate level, and 1.43% at minimal level. The average level was of 73.5 scores.

Enhancing Analytical Reading and Writing Skills in Vocational Education: The Role of Collaborative and Task-Based Learning

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining Collaborative Learning (CL) and Task-Based Learning Teaching (TBLT) in enhancing vocational students' analytical reading ability and writing skills. Method: Conducted at a vocational college in southern China, the study involved 192 students divided into an experiment group (n=25) receiving the blended approach and a control group (n=27) following traditional methods. The intervention lasted four weeks, with pre-tests and post-tests administered using the Analytical Reading Ability Test (ARAT) and Writing Skill Assessment Scale (WSAS). Data were analyzed using ANOVA and t-tests. Results: The findings indicated that the blended approach significantly improved the students’ skills. The experiment group showed substantial improvements, with post-test scores in analytical reading ability (35.28±1.54) and writing skills (25.20±1.56) significantly higher than pre-test scores (29.48±2.37; 20.24±2.13). Moreover, the experiment group outperformed the control group at the 0.05 significance level in both areas. Conclusions: Integrating Collaborative Learning with Task-Based Learning Teaching significantly enhances vocational students’ analytical reading and writing skills. This approach offers a valuable instructional strategy for vocational education, preparing students for the demands of a globalized job market.

Al in Secondary Classroom: A Study of Its Impact on Student Engagement, Personalized Learning, and Academic Progress

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has increasing woven itself into the fabric of our lives yet its full potential in education remains untapped. Despite its widespread use AI has not been seamlessly integrated within our education system. To ascertain the transformative impact of AI in education, this study explored the use of AI tools over a one-week period in classroom instruction. Following this, students showcased their learning using AI tools to key stakeholders. The level of student engagement was closely monitored, and an assessment was conducted to evaluate their academic progress. This study provides valuable insights for educators to inform future curriculum planning and instructional strategies.

Enhancing Education and Teaching Management Through Data Mining and Support Vector Machine Algorithm

This study investigates the effectiveness of the SVM+TLBO approach for predicting student performance and evaluating learning abilities in educational settings. By integrating Support Vector Machines (SVM) with Teaching-Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO), the research aims to enhance predictive accuracy and efficiency compared to traditional methods, including Decision Trees, Ant Colony Algorithms, Clustering Algorithms, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Neural Networks, Support Vector Machine (SVM) without Optimization. Results indicate that the SVM+TLBO model significantly outperforms these methods, providing robust predictions and valuable insights into student learning patterns. The findings underscore the importance of data-informed decision-making in education, enabling educators to identify at-risk students and tailor instructional strategies effectively. This research contributes to the growing field of educational data mining, highlighting the potential of advanced machine learning techniques to optimize educational outcomes and foster personalized learning experiences.

Understanding Maritime Subjects in Vocational High Schools through Online Learning

This study explores the effectiveness of online learning for maritime subjects in Indonesian vocational high schools, focusing on how the rapid advancement of information technology has reshaped education in this unique field. Using a quantitative approach with 275 respondents, the research analyzes key factors that influence students' understanding of maritime subjects, such as digital literacy, motivation, and their perceptions of the effectiveness of online learning. The findings indicate moderate levels of both digital literacy and motivation for online learning, with flexibility being the most appreciated benefit. However, challenges related to social isolation were also noted. A predictive model developed during the research accounts for 43% of the variance in comprehension of the subject matter, identifying digital literacy and perceived online learning effectiveness as the strongest predictors. Additionally, the grade level of students significantly influenced their comprehension scores. This study emphasizes the need to integrate digital skills training and to employ engaging instructional strategies to enhance learning outcomes. Future research could investigate the use of immersive technologies, such as virtual reality or simulations, to better support practical skills development in maritime education, ensuring that students are well-prepared for real-world challenges in the maritime industry

From Teacher Beliefs to Practices: Unpacking the Benefits and Barriers of Extensive Reading Programmes in Macau Secondary Schools

Extensive reading entails language learners’ independent reading of abundant materials suitable for their proficiency levels. Previous studies have revealed extensive reading as effective for improving various aspects of second language (L2) proficiency. However, many Macau secondary schools have cancelled or reduced their extensive reading programmes (ERPs), prompting the need for a qualitative study to comprehend these modifications. In this case study, five L2 English teachers from different Macau secondary schools shared their beliefs and practices during semi-structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis of the interview transcripts revealed all teachers supported incorporating extensive reading in their respective English curriculums; they believed students’ engagement in ERPs enhanced reading fluency and comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and L2 learning motivation and confidence. However, the teachers also believed restricted time and unengaged students hindered the ERPs. The schools’ possible misinterpretations of extensive reading and their potentially unrealistic expectations regarding short-term returns against limited investment in extensive reading may have contributed to the abandonment or reduction of ERPs. To engage students in ERPs, schools should allow students to choose their own reading materials, reduce the emphasis on extensive reading tests, incorporate more intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, and consider combining extensive reading with reading strategy instruction.

Teacher-led strategies for maximizing learning outcomes in higher education / Estrategias dirigidas por el profesorado para maximizar los resultados de aprendizaje en Educación Superior

A number of challenges have arisen in educational policies for higher education (HE) contexts in the last decades, leading to a shift from teacher- to learner-oriented methodologies. However, there is a dearth of studies revising effective teacher-led strategies aimed at maximizing learning outcomes in HE, since learners may still need teachers’ support in organizing their acquisition process. Consequently, adopting this instructional perspective, this paper has examined how teachers’ methodology can be (re)designed to promote successful learning in HE by means of strategies aimed at scaffolding content, language, design of tasks and output. A systematic list of effective instructional strategies is developed in this paper, overlooking those techniques that, despite their frequent use, have not proved to be highly beneficial for promoting learning outcomes. When students become expert learners, a shift from instructional to discovery or learner-based methodologies may occur.

Pedagogical Interaction and Student Engagement at Selected University

This quantitative study examined pedagogical interaction and student engagement in a university in Guangdong, China, involving 364 students and 132 teachers. Surveys evaluated pedagogical strategies, including reflective, inquiry-based, and collaborative learning, alongside cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of student engagement. Professional development was measured by the establishment of training systems aimed at enhancing students' capacity to engage in classroom interactions, ensuring that teachers progressively cultivate active participation.The findings show that teachers frequently facilitate teamwork, reflect on their teaching practices, and set clear expectations for group activities. They also promote inquiry-based learning by fostering interactive environments where students exchange ideas and engage in discussions. In problem-based learning settings, teachers guide students through research, data analysis, and presentations. However, Spearman’s rho correlation analysis found no significant relationship between teaching strategies and student engagement, suggesting that changes in one do not necessarily affect the other. This indicates that factors beyond pedagogy, such as student motivation or external influences, may impact engagement. The study highlights the need for more personalized learning approaches and enhanced support systems to encourage participation. And, continuous professional development remains crucial, ensuring educators can create environments that nurture meaningful student engagement, regardless of instructional strategies used.