International Counterparts Research Articles

What are the attitudes and perceptions of general practitioners about the role of nurse practitioners in the community care setting: A scoping review

BackgroundThe Nurse Practitioner role in Australia is slowly expanding, with a well-established body of evidence supporting their introduction. Yet, there is a lack of consistent support from the medical profession for this role. Nurse Practitioners wishing to work in the community setting may, therefore, experience resistance from General Practitioners. ObjectiveTo identify and explore the attitudes and perceptions of Australian General Practitioners about Nurse Practitioners' community settings. To explore what is the view of GPs outside of Australia on this topic. MethodA scoping review of the Cochrane, MEDLINE, Psych INFO, and CINHAL databases was undertaken from 1995 to April 2023 and reported using PRISMA. Quality evaluation tools devised by Dixon-Woods et al. (2005) and previously used by Paterson et al. (2015) were used to evaluate the included studies. A narrative synthesis was then undertaken using the method described by Whittemore and Knafl (2005). FindingsThe scoping review identified 1623 potential publications. After a comparison of the title and abstract to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 publications underwent an in-depth review, eight publications met the inclusion criteria for a full review. The review did not identify a publication from Australia. Elsewhere the attitudes of General Practitioners were influenced by the lack of definition of the Nurse Practitioner role, a lack of knowledge of the Nurse Practitioner skill level, fear of service duplication, deterioration in patient relationships, who had responsibility for the role and funding for the role. ConclusionThere is a lack of evidence in an Australian context to determine if General Practitioners in Australia have similar views to their international counterparts. Careful planning needs to be undertaken to overcome potential issues and to enable the Nurse Practitioner role to be effectively implemented in an Australian community setting.

Protean Careers: Case Studies of South African Women Working in Music

This qualitative research investigates the career experiences of 14 female musicians in the city of Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Findings accord with research conducted in other countries, and like their international counterparts, these musicians find themselves in a complex and precarious industry. They develop their identity or brand, build networks, and pursue lifelong learning while working in non-music fields to sustain their employability. The findings also indicate that a music qualification is not a prerequisite for employment except in the field of music education, and that such formal qualifications are associated with greater job security in this field. These findings offer new insights and a nuanced understanding of how a specific group of music creatives navigate protean careers.

Malaysia’s Industrial Competitiveness: Overview of Malaysia’s Industrial Collaboration Programme

This study examine the role of Malaysia's Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) in enhancing Malaysia Industrial Competitiveness (MIC) through the technology transfer (TT) and procurement value creation (PVC). The ICP, a government initiative aimed at leveraging procurement activities, facilitates the acquisition of advanced technologies from foreign partners while prioritizing local content development. Based upon the secondary data depicted from the TDA Report to the Ministry of Finance 2023 published by Technology Depository Agency (TDA) and Policy and Guidelines on Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) in Government Procurement, Second Edition, this study investigates the roles of the technology transfer (TT) and procurements value chain (PVC) on Malaysia’s Industrial Competitiveness (MIC). The results demonstrate the ICP’s role in increasing the competitiveness of local industries, encouraging innovation processes, and technology acquisition through partnerships with international counterparts. The paper will present the benefits and drawbacks of ICP and depict how the program will benefit Malaysia’s vision of shifting into a regional high-tech nation. The findings emphasize the need for continuous evaluation of ICP projects to maximize long-term competitiveness and economic sustainability.

The Functional Features of Chunks in Journal Articles of Aquaculture

This study investigates the functional similarities and differences of four-word chunks in the academic discourse of aquaculture by Chinese and international scholars based on Hyland’s functional classification method within a corpus-driven approach. The findings reveal that, compared to their international counterparts, Chinese scholars significantly utilize more four-word chunks. Functionally, Chinese scholars frequently employ quantification, structure, framing, and engagement chunks, underscoring the importance they assign to the logic of discourse and the interaction between authors and readers. The infrequent use of description chunks suggests that it is essential for Chinese scholars to fully appreciate the significance of describing research objects, methods, and results in order to convey the foundational and experimental nature of hard science research. Furthermore, the structures of chunks used by Chinese and international scholars to express the same discourse functions differ. The expression of data indication among Chinese scholars appears more solidified. These research results can offer valuable references for academic writing.

Intergenerational redistribution in a pay-as-you-go pension system

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the generational wealth transfer within Sweden’s public pay-as-you-go pension system introduced in 1960. Using extensive administrative registers, the paper quantifies the contributions made and benefits received by each birth cohort. The findings reveal a substantial fiscal imbalance favouring the initial generation (born in the early 20th century), who received a net gain of $1.5 trillion in today’s present value, equivalent to up to 13% of their discounted lifetime income. This windfall for the initial generation resulted in an implicit tax on current workers, accounting for 70% of their pension contributions. However, the study also highlights the effectiveness of Sweden’s 1999 notional defined-contribution pension reform in stabilizing this imbalance. Unlike many international counterparts, Sweden’s reformed system successfully mitigates further generational inequities in the pension system.

The Paige Prostate Suite: Assistive Artificial Intelligence for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

What Is the Paige Prostate Suite? The Paige Prostate Suite is a set of artificial intelligence (AI) applications that works alongside pathologists reviewing prostate biopsy samples. The suite is not available in Canada as of this writing (June 2024), but international counterparts have authorized it for clinical use. The system requires pathology slides to be digitized for the suite to be able to highlight areas of suspicion for pathologist review. Pathologists can use Paige Prostate Detect as a “second set of eyes” on biopsy slides scanned into the digital system. What Issue Does the Paige Prostate Suite Intend to Address? In Canada, prostate cancer accounted for 20% of new cancers in 2022. It is the most common cancer found in people who have a prostate. Unlike many other cancers, the disease progresses slowly and early diagnosis results in a 5-year survival rate close to 100%. However, health systems are faced with more cancer cases without an increased capacity in pathology. What Is the Potential Impact? Paige Prostate aims to improve pathologists’ ability to detect prostate cancer in less time by allowing pathologists to focus on positive cases. However, the time-saving benefits of the suite require further validation that reflects real world settings and applications. The Paige Prostate Suite has the potential to optimize pathology workflow and prevent delays in diagnosis. Pathologists can use the suite to supplement their review instead of sending biopsy slides to the lab for additional staining or to experts for a second consultation. It does, however, require the added the step of digitizing slides to the workflow. The Paige Prostate Suite aims to improve consistency by helping pathologists grade tumours. What Else Do We Need to Know? Canada is in the early stages of implementing technology to produce digital images of biopsies. To adapt to the uptake of AI, pathology departments will need to adopt new digital workflows and processes. They could leverage this infrastructure for telepathology to improve access in rural and remote areas. Clinicians expect the Paige Prostate Suite to cost more than current practice. Costs will vary depending on the case load, system readiness for AI, and use case for the suite. Cost-effectiveness of the suite requires in-depth investigation that considers the cost-benefit from productivity changes. Upcoming prospective studies will assess the benefits of the Paige Prostate Suite from a clinical utility and cost impact perspective. It is also important to further understand the diagnostic performance and impact of Paige Prostate in the context of race, ethnicity, and other equity considerations, as those in equity-deserving groups may be underrepresented in algorithm development and trials, or have different levels of prostate cancer risk.

Mental Resilience in Crisis: Examining the Mental Health and Well‐Being of Iranian Athletes During the COVID‐19 Pandemic

ABSTRACTThe pervasive impact of COVID‐19 and economic sanctions has significantly influenced the well‐being of Iranian athletes, leaving lasting imprints on both their physical and mental health. During this challenging time, this comprehensive study delves into the nuanced disparities among various cohorts of Iranian athletes across multiple dimensions, including insomnia severity, psychological distress, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, life satisfaction, and hope. Stratifying the participants based on their professionalism level, age, education, sports activity engagement, and COVID‐19 infection status, our survey‐based findings from a cohort of 280 athletes reveal compelling insights: Male athletes exhibit higher levels of distress, anxiety, and depression compared to their female counterparts. Professional athletes manifest elevated psychological distress, anxiety, and depression in contrast to semi‐professional and amateur athletes. Insomnia severity is more prevalent among professional athletes, concurrently accompanied by higher levels of hope within this group. Young athletes and those with higher educational attainment report increased intrusive thoughts. Local and national athletes demonstrate higher levels of life satisfaction and hope compared to their international counterparts. Athletes not infected with Coronavirus experience heightened psychological distress compared to their COVID‐19‐infected counterparts. This nuanced exploration underscores the intricate interplay between various factors and their profound implications for the mental well‐being of Iranian athletes in the face of global health challenges and economic constraints. By recognizing the vulnerabilities exposed during the pandemic and sanctions, policymakers can work toward a more resilient and robust sports sector, ensuring that the mental health and psychosocial well‐being of athletes remain at the forefront of policy considerations.

Differential Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer Detection: A Comparative Study of Swedish Nationwide Screening and Fast-Track Diagnostic Pathways.

In 2021, a nation-wide screening program for colorectal cancer (CRC) was step-wise implemented in Region Örebro County (RÖC) for patients aged 60 to 74 years, utilizing the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) to refer patients for colonoscopy. Concurrently, the standardized care course for colorectal cancer (SCC-CRC), initiated in 2016, employs a fast-track pathway for patients with alarm symptoms to undergo colonoscopy. This study compares CRC screening colonoscopies with SCC-CRC colonoscopies in RÖC among patients aged 60 to 67 years. An initial analysis of the Swedish colorectal screening cohort was combined with a retrospective cohort study, analyzing data from 307 CRC screening patients and 441 age-matched SCC-CRC patients in RÖC. Data included demographics, colonoscopy participation rates, and pathology findings. Statistical analyses compared outcomes between the 2 groups. Among the screening group, 2% tested positive for FIT, with an 86% colonoscopy participation rate (N=9296). In RÖC, 266 screening patients underwent colonoscopy, with 10% diagnosed with CRC, compared with 20% in the SCC-CRC group. In addition, 39% of the screening group in RÖC were diagnosed with advanced adenomas, versus 15% in the SCC-CRC group. Screening participation was high, with effectiveness aligning with international counterparts. The SCC-CRC pathway excels in diagnosing CRC among symptomatic patients, while the nationwide screening program is effective in early detection of CRC and advanced adenomas. underscoring the importance of integrating and optimizing both approaches within the Swedish health care system to optimize CRC prevention and management.

Practices of Cultural Exchange Special Education Teachers on Teacher Buddy System: A Phenomenological Study

This comprehensive study examines the practices of the Teacher Buddy System for Cultural Exchange Special Education Teachers, who play a crucial role in addressing the diverse needs of students with disabilities. The system provides a valuable platform for Filipino special education teachers to engage in peer-to-peer support and collaboration with their international counterparts, allowing them to gain insights into international best practices and approaches. Employing a phenomenological research design, the study gathers data through interviews to understand how the Teacher Buddy System influences participants' professional development, cultural competence, and teaching methodologies. It also explores the perceived benefits and challenges experienced by Filipino Special Education Teachers in the Cultural Exchange program. Preliminary findings reveal that the Teacher Buddy System significantly enhances cultural understanding, fosters effective teaching practices, and creates a robust support network among special education teachers. However, challenges related to communication and limited resources persist. The implications of this study are considerable, providing insights into improving the experiences of Cultural Exchange Special Education Teachers and the overall effectiveness of the Teacher Buddy System. The findings underscore the potential of cross-cultural collaboration to enrich mentoring practices, ultimately benefiting students with diverse learning needs. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening the Teacher Buddy System's sustainability and impact, promoting continuous professional growth, and enhancing cultural competence among Cultural Exchange Filipino special education teachers, thereby supporting their critical role in the education system.

Neuro and Psychomotor Therapist of Developmental Age Professional in Italy: An Anomaly or an Opportunity?

The aim of this work is to explore the distinct role of the Neuro and Psychomotor Therapist of Developmental Age (TNPEE) within the Italian health care system, examining challenges in recognizing and comparing this profession with international counterparts, particularly physiotherapists and occupational therapists. The historical evolution and educational framework, integrated into the Italian university model, provide a foundation for TNPEE's competencies in rehabilitation and habilitation. The TNPEE operates within the bio-psycho-social model, addressing the developmental age range with a holistic approach. Despite its unique contributions, TNPEE faces challenges internationally because of its exclusive presence in Italy. Unlike other health care professions, TNPEE lacks a standardized international equivalent, complicating professional comparisons and mobility. This anomaly hinders the global recognition and integration of TNPEE professionals, posing a challenge to the academic medicine community in terms of standardizing and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. This communication concludes by proposing mechanisms to facilitate TNPEE's recognition and integration into international health care frameworks. By addressing these challenges, the work contributes to the broader discourse on the cultural context in shaping effective therapeutic interventions, highlighting the need for an inclusive approach to health care education and practice worldwide.

Experiences and Outcomes of the Society of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons Fellowship Training: Growth in Fellowships Mirrors the Evolution of the Discipline

ObjectiveTo describe experiences and outcomes of the Society of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons (GURS) fellowship match. In 2012, GURS developed a centralized fellowship match which has grown from 13 to 30 programs. MethodsGURS match statistics and case logs were reviewed from 2013-2024. Additionally, a 37 question survey evaluating satisfaction, procedural competency, fellowship experience, and employment opportunities were sent to graduates. Linear regression was performed to examine trends over time. ResultsOver the study period, program match success remained stable (94.7%;p=0.50) while applicant success (63.3%) increased over time (p=0.04). North American and female applicants experienced higher match success (72.8% and 73.6%) compared to their international (35.5%;p<0.0001) and male counterparts (60.0%;p=0.02). On case log analysis, mean surgical volumes per year increased in urethral reconstruction (mean=88.1;p=0.02), male sexual health (n=32.7;p=0.03), genital reconstruction (mean=16.4;p<0.01) and abdominal reconstruction (mean=24.5;p=0.03). Male incontinence surgeries remained stable (mean=30.5;p=0.21) while female reconstruction declined (mean=23.2;p=0.01). With a survey response rate of 54.5% (97/178), training satisfaction was 95.9% which did not differ by gender (p=0.54) or year of training (p=0.22). 97.9% felt competent to enter unsupervised reconstructive practice, 94.8% reported an understanding of the relevant literature and 96.9% were satisfied with their job as a reconstructive urologist. 49.5% identified a different case mix in practice compared to fellowship, most commonly related to abdominal (44.9%) or genital reconstruction (16.3%). ConclusionGURS fellowships have grown organically over the last decade and mirror the growth and evolution of the discipline with sustained high-levels of graduate satisfaction, surgical experience, competence, scholarly inquiry and employment.

The role of knowledge and attitudes toward older adults in understanding nursing students’ inclination to work with them: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Singapore’s population is aging. Currently, 15% of Singapore’s population is 65 years and above. Low birth rates and high life expectancy have fueled a high demand for geriatric care in Singapore. This research explores the role of knowledge that nursing students have about aging, their attitudes toward older adults, and their inclination to pursue careers in geriatric nursing. This cross-sectional study administered standardized scales to understand 347 nursing students’ knowledge (Palmore Facts on Aging Quiz), attitudes (Kogan’s Attitudes toward Older People) and inclinations (Nolan’s Intent to Work with Older People). Results showed that Singapore nursing students have a moderate level of knowledge about aging and showed a strong willingness to work with older adults. Younger students displayed higher knowledge, better attitudes, and a greater inclination to work with older adults than older students. Furthermore, local students exhibited higher knowledge, more positive attitudes, and greater interest in working with older adults than their international counterparts. This study, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed valuable insights into our nursing students’ perspectives on aging. Nursing students displayed a moderate understanding of aging, a positive attitude toward older adults and a strong desire to serve them, suggesting a potential future workforce ready to fulfill the demands of Singapore’s aging population. This insight is valuable for educators, guiding them to bridge knowledge gaps and foster open conversations about aging.

Physical Characteristics and Somotatype of Myanmar National Hockey Players

Introduction: Performance in Field Hockey depends on different factors. Physical characteristics along with the Body shape and size of the players are one of them. The present study was aimed to find out the physical characteristics as well as Somatotypes of Myanmar National Field Hockey players. Methods: Twenty national Field Hockey players were measured for their height, weight, and Somatotype during their visit to a neighbuor country for a friendship tour. Health-Carter method (1967) was followed to calculate the Somatotype components. Results: The average Age, Height, and Weight of the Myanmar Hockey players of the present study were 21.7 (±1.1) yr, 164.8 (±4.6) cm, and 56.5 (±5.1) kg respectively. An average Somatotype of 1.7(±0.5)-3.8(±0.9)-2.9(±0.8) was observed for the present study. Conclusions: Most of the players (55 % ) were with Ectomorphic mesomorph body type, whereas 30 % of players were with Mesomorphic ectomorph body type. Rest were with Balanced mesomorph, Endomorphic mesomorph, and Mesomorph ectomorph body type. Compared to other countries, Myanmar Hockey players were shorter than their international counterparts. Thus, the height of the players should be considered during the selection of players at an early stage of Talent identification for good performance in Field Hockey.

Mathematics Learning Centers – Not Just for the Elementary Classroom

Given the recent trajectory of secondary mathematics performance in the United States, as compared to international counterparts, this design and development case study aimed to explore the varied pedagogical practice and its impact on mathematics proficiency. This study sought to improve mathematics proficiency through varied instructional practices. During one algebra unit, two instructional modalities were employed, by the same instructor, to two separate groups of students. Quantitative measures were captured through the descriptive statistics of Pre-test, Post-test, and Reaction Survey results. The Kirkpatrick Model (Level I and II) was also employed. In addition, qualitative data were obtained through Researcher Notes, Researcher Experience Journal, and Participant Journals. Findings suggested the effectiveness of a learning center pedagogical design, including peer collaboration, technology, and small group, as it yielded higher proficiency than traditional direct instruction. Pre- to Post-Test scores revealed a 1.727 higher mean growth in the experimental group over the control group (Culleny, 2021).

Chinese College Student Financial Literacy: Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior

The “campus loans” crisis has highlighted the importance of financial literacy among Chinese college students. Based on an analysis of 2,266 valid questionnaires, this study utilized survey data and logistic regression to examine the correlations between demographic and behavioral factors and financial literacy among students. The results indicated that, compared to their international counterparts, Chinese students generally possess less financial knowledge. However, they exhibit stronger financial attitudes and behaviors. A significant gender disparity was observed, with female students outperforming male students in financial literacy. Students attending more prestigious universities, particularly those majoring in economics, management, science, and engineering, and those dedicating more time to financial education, showed higher levels of financial literacy. Additionally, positive social interactions were associated with enhanced financial literacy. The study also identifies a “Surrounding People Effect,” where the presence of financially knowledgeable peers, friends, and family correlates with improved financial literacy among college students. These findings offer critical insights for developing targeted policies to enhance financial literacy among Chinese college students.

THE MECHANISM OF COMMITMENT TO DISCLOSURE IN THE CONSUMER AND MEDICAL FIELDS ACCORDING TO ALGERIAN LEGISLATION

This study addresses the mechanism of the commitment to disclosure. Both professionals and physicians bear the crucial responsibility of providing information that is not only accurate but also understandable and appropriate for the intended patient or consumer. By mirroring its international counterparts, Algerian law mandates this duty, attaching legal consequences for its breach. Before any medical intervention, a doctor must obtain the patient’s consent, fulfilling an essential preliminary step. Likewise, before initiating a sales process, a professional must inform the consumer about all necessary details regarding the product or goods. This paper delineates the extensive aspects of this obligation, including its defining features, evidentiary requirements, and the nature of the resultant damages from non-adherence. The aim is to recalibrate the balance of power within medical and consumer interactions, thereby augmenting the safeguarding of patients and consumers. This duty is considered one of the fundamental rights of patients and consumers, linked to ethical and humanitarian responsibilities, and is a precursor to obtaining consent.

High-precision services of BeiDou navigation satellite system (BDS): current state, achievements, and future directions

With the rapid development of technologies such as autonomous driving and robotic navigation, the demand for accurate and reliable positioning results with BDS has increased. The current status and future development of BDS high precision services are reviewed. The operational PPP-B2b of BDS-3 achieves positioning accuracy at decimeter-level within 14 min and has the drawbacks in regional coverage and long convergence time compared with the international counterparts, such as CLAS of QZSS and HAS of Galileo. A development frame for multi-layer BDS high-precision services is proposed by considering its construction cost, compatibility of user terminal, operating maintenance burden, and service level. The global high-precision service with the improved orbit and clock accuracy enhanced with the inter-satellite link is taken as the most fundamental layer. By incorporating inter-satellite link observations, the orbit errors URE and clock errors are significantly reduced to approximately 0.05 m and 0.16 ns, respectively, which will expand PPP service to global. Based on this, the regional PPP-AR and PPP-RTK services with improved convergence performance are taken as the second layer. With PPP-AR, the convergence time drops to 10 min. With PPP-RTK, the convergence time would be further shortened to less than 3 min. The LEO enhanced PPP service is taken as the third layer which overcomes both drawbacks of the long convergence time of the inter-satellite link enhanced service (the first layer) and the regional coverage of the PPP-AR/PPP-RTK services (the second layer). The simulation results show that by introducing a LEO constellation of 288 satellites, the LEO enhanced PPP can achieve positioning accuracy better than 5 cm within approximately 1 min. In addition, the integration of LEO constellation and PPP-RTK is further proposed to enable instantaneous convergence. The implementation challenges are also presented.

Rightwing populism and public opinion on the Covid‐19 pandemic in Sweden: The role of strategic party positioning and political cues

AbstractDuring the early stages of the Covid‐19 pandemic, the Swedish government did not implement the hard lockdowns and coercive measures found in many countries and instead relied on voluntary social distancing measures and work‐from‐home initiatives. Unlike its international counterparts in most countries, the rightwing populist party in Sweden early on took a critical approach toward the government's handling of the Covid‐19 pandemic, calling for stricter government measures to curb virus transmission. Based on theories about strategic party positioning, and theories about political elite cues and framing effects, we use Swedish survey data from the early stages of the pandemic to show that the views of rightwing populist party supporters aligned with the rhetoric of the Swedish rightwing populist party in demanding more (rather than less) government intervention to curb the spread of SARS‐COV‐2. Our results suggest that they did so by drawing on core rightwing populist themes of anti‐elitism and nationalism. Hence, our results speak to the role of elite cues and framing in public opinion formation during times of crisis, particularly among rightwing populists, who generally opposed stricter government measures to fight the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Enhancing Quality Appointment, Preparation and Support System for Malaysian Principals

Educational leaders in the 21st century are under increasing pressure since they need to consistently upskill and reskill themselves so that they can adapt to rapid changes and be prepared to improve the quality of future education, as well as meet the demands of diverse stakeholders. Previous studies in the Malaysian context mostly focused on leadership training for newly appointed school principals, but there has not been much emphasis on continuous professional development for school leaders. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the appointment, preparation, and support system for Malaysian principals. In this study, a qualitative methodology has been applied, which involves document analysis based on policy documents, media, and previously published journal articles. The findings suggest that internal and external supports are currently being provided to principals. However, it proposes a wider framework of support for principals comprising internal and external support, including smart partnerships with diverse stakeholders such as industries, non-profit organizations, and international counterparts. The results provide insights to policymakers on the importance of consistently supporting school leaders to upskill with multifaceted skills to perform multiple functions, such as technological, economic, social, cultural, political, and learning leadership.

Comparative Analysis of Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort Standards in School Buildings across New Zealand with Other OECD Countries

COVID-19 has improved awareness of the importance of appropriate indoor air quality (IAQ) in indoor spaces, particularly in classrooms where children are expected to learn. Research has shown that poor IAQ and temperature levels affect the cognitive performance of children. In this paper, we critically compare IAQ standards for New Zealand’s Designing Quality Learning Spaces (DQLS Document) against international benchmarks from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, including ASHRAE 62.1, CIBSE TM57, EN-15251, WHO AQGs, and Building Bulletins 99 and 101. The aim was to ascertain the robustness of New Zealand’s DQLS document, identify areas of superiority, and recommend the required improvement for appropriate IAQ and thermal comfort in classrooms. This comparison review focuses on IAQ parameters: CO2 levels, temperature, ventilation rates, room size, occupant density, and occupancy rates. The findings illuminate a slight lag in New Zealand’s DQLS standards compared to her international counterparts. For instance, while New Zealand’s standards align closely with WHO standards for IAQ concerning temperature and ventilation rates, the recommended CO2 range appears slightly inadequate (800 to 2000 ppm) along with occupancy and classroom size for effectively controlling classroom pollutant growth. This paper emphasises the need to align New Zealand’s IAQ and thermal comfort standards with optimal OECD benchmarks. The identified disparities present opportunities for improving learning spaces in terms of CO2 concentration, size of classroom, and occupant density in schools in New Zealand to meet globally recognised standards, ultimately creating a healthier and more conducive learning environment.