International Educational Institutions Research Articles

Antigas e novas amizades de imigrantes latino-americanos

In view of the growth of international migration, including in Latin America, the present investigation aimed to analyze the history of old and new friendships of Latin American immigrants throughout their lives in the new country (Brazil, other Latin American countries, Spain and Portugal). More specifically, it was intended to investigate how recent migration affects existing friendships and the formation of new ones, with people of any nationality and culture. 40 immigrants participated in this descriptive-qualitative study (70% women and 50% between 30 and 39 years old), divided into four groups: A) 20 Latin Americans who lived in Brazil; B) three Brazilians who lived in another Latin American country; C) 12 Brazilians who lived in Spain; and D) five Brazilians who lived in Portugal. The instrument used was a questionnaire with open questions, sent and received by e-mail, producing written reports. In total, direct contacts were made by e-mail with national and international universities and educational institutions, as well as by messages on social networks with approximately 1,000 people, between August 2014 and January 2016. A detailed analysis of the data was conducted with a coding process (interpretation of the statements), and subsequent organization of the material into categories, based on qualitative content analysis. The main results of the study pointed out that most of the close friends are of the same gender and of the same nationality, and most of them reside in the country of origin of the immigrant. The ties in the immigrant's country of origin are close friendships, of many years, whose main means of contact are Facebook, Skype, WhatsApp, telephone, e-mail, internet and in person, and the frequency of contacts varies from daily to monthly. According to the participants, it is very good to see friends from their home country, with the most common shared activities being eating or going to restaurants, drinking or going to bars and staying at home. Both old (compatriots) and new friends (usually natives of the new country or other immigrants) are important in the process of migration from one culture to another. The beginning of friendships in the new country happens, for the most part, in the academic environment, through other friends and through relatives. Finally, Latin American immigrants in Brazil and Brazilians in other Latin American countries demonstrated a mostly positive view of natives before establishing friendships with them; and Brazilian immigrants in Spain and Portugal a negative view.

Preface

Mai Trong Nhuan, Nguyen Manh Khai, Vo Le Phu, Chau Nguyen Xuan Quang, Pham Trung Hieu, Doan Quang Tri, Nguyen Thi Hoai Nga (Editors) International Conference on Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mining for Digital Transformation, Green Development and Response to Global Change (GREEN EME 2023) Proceedings of International Conference on Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mining for Digital Transformation, Green Development and Response to Global Change (GREEN EME 2023) Global change, rapid development of science and technology, and the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) create many opportunities and challenges for sustainable development. Vietnam, being one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and natural disasters, is devoting great efforts to achieve sustainable development goals and net zero emissions by 2050 as well as to improve productivity and national competitiveness. In this context, innovation, digital transformation in training, basic and applied research on EME become more urgent than ever for green, circular development and response to global change, sustainable development, prosperity, and safety of the country, the region and the world. The fields of Earth, Mines, and Environmental sciences (EME) have emerged and evolved alongside with the evolution of human society, and have created a profound impact on all aspects of life and socio-economic development through utilizing natural resources, impacting the environment, and driving global change. The robust development of these areas serves as the foundation for various other fundamental and applied sciences, and concurrently acts as a catalyst for technological advancements worldwide, contributing to the common prosperity and safety of humankind as well as the conservation of the blue Earth. The EME with the theme of “Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mining for Digital Transformation, Green Development and Response to Global Change” (GREEN EME 2023) was held in Ho Chi Minh City in December 29, 2023. The GREEN EME 2023 was successfully co-organized by Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with Viet Nam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration, the Interdisciplinary Council for Professorship of Earth - Mining Sciences, as well as various research institutes and local and international higher education institutions. The GREEN EME 2023 covers six topics: (i) Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Earth Sciences, Mines, Environment; (ii) Digital Transformation in Earth, Mining, Environmental Sciences; (iii) Sustainable energy transition for green, renewable (wind power, solar power, gas power, geothermal, garbage electricity, hydrogen, etc.) and low carbon emission technologies; (iv) Circular economy in resource-mineral management and sustainable development; (v) Climate change response and disaster risk reduction; (vi) Solutions to promote innovation in the fields of Earth Science, Mining and Environment to meet the goal of sustainable development. Overall, the Conference has attracted more than 100 papers from scientists, researchers, government managers, and graduate students. Among them, 90 high-quality papers were recommended to submit for peer-reviewing. Then, the double-blind review process was carried out for the 85 papers, in which each paper has been reviewed for its merit and novelty by at least two reviewers and one editor by matching the content areas. As a result, a total of 24 papers have been finally selected to be published in IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science. It is strongly believed that this proceedings provides a broad overview of recent advanced studies in the fields of Earth, Mines, and Environmental sciences with a profound impact on all aspects of life and socio-economic development through utilizing natural resources, impacting the environment, and driving global change. List of Editors, International Scientific Committee and Conference Organizing Committee are available in this Pdf.

Understanding the Role of Social Media on Prospective Local and International Students’ Selection of University

Universities globally utilise social media platforms to disseminate information to prospective students. However there's a scarcity of research regarding the role of social media in promoting universities as international education hubs, especially in Asia. This study aims to investigate the impact of social media in promoting Asian universities, focusing on the preferences and behaviours of prospective undergraduate students from Malaysia and Indonesia. A qualitative research approach was employed, involving the recruitment of 12 undergraduate students from both countries. Data collection was conducted through online, in-depth, and semi-structured interviews. The majority of participants rely on social media platforms to gather information about potential universities and courses, citing ease of navigation and appeal compared to traditional websites and other platforms. However, universities demonstrate a lack of engagement with users, hindering the acquisition of comprehensive information about the institution. These findings offer valuable insights for universities to understand the information and social media elements that prospective students commonly seek on social media platforms. Additionally, they provide guidance on effective strategies for engaging with and recruiting students. Ultimately, this research may assist universities in better promoting themselves as international education institutions, particularly in the Asian context.

Latest Open Doors report examines trends in international student enrollment

The Institute of International Education, in collaboration with the U.S. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, has been gathering data and publishing statistics since 1948 on the number of international students enrolling in American colleges and universities, their countries of origin, and the number of American students studying abroad. This is a definitive survey of international and U.S. higher education student mobility.

Climate lessons from the cold edge: rethinking the university as an ethical ecology

Purpose This largely conceptual study aims to draw from the author’s experience of conversations with Svalbard’s educators, lessons for international higher education institutions’ engagement with climate change education and thinking for non-specialists. Design/methodology/approach In situ discussions with Svalbard’s educators informed the theoretical work of the author towards the development of conceptual conclusions. The theoretical frame used – “Red Biocentrism” – draws on both radical left and green thought to posit an emplaced, materialist understanding of author’s, participants’ and place’s intra-related contributions. Findings That, insofar as universities represent nodes in an ethical ecology, they have a capacity to realise that which is obvious in Svalbard – their role as embassies for their learning places, generative of spokespeople or ambassadors. Originality/value There is sparse published research into the work of Svalbard’s climate educators, as a pedagogical project undertaken under such extreme and rapidly changing environmental conditions. This study represents the first to reflect on what can be learnt from the educators of Svalbard by Universities elsewhere.

Methods of Modelling Electronic Academic Libraries: Technological Concept of Electronic Libraries

Abstract The relevance of examining modelling methods in academic electronic libraries is justified by the need to understand the library’s structure and ensure its operation in technological terms. The purpose of this study is to analyse the applied modelling methods for electronic libraries serving Kazakhstani and international higher education institutions. The study employed basic (structural, comparative-comparative) and additional (analytical-synthetic, graphical) methods. During this study, it was found that the main modelling methods for modern electronic libraries include the following: conceptual with the establishment of a clear hierarchy between objects of the electronic library and attributes of search queries, logical using search categorisation, informational employing the semantic principle of material construction and systemic-functional ensuring a balance between functions, structure, technologies and the management system. In particular, after modelling the structure of Kazakhstani, British and American digital libraries at universities, it was determined that the Yale University Electronic Library Collection is built on the method of logical modelling, the Electronic Library at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University uses the systemic-functional method, the Cambridge University Electronic Library employs the informational method and the Al-Farabi Library uses the conceptual method.

Problems of implementing BIM technologies in the educational process

The article discusses educational process improvement for architect training concerning modern technologies, such as digitalization, information modeling, and cyber technologies. Reviewed and proposed mechanisms, methods, and means of modernization of education, concerning the introduction of BIM technologies to the bachelor's and master’s training course for ensuring quality of professional training of construction and architectural personnel. Influence factors, trends, and alternatives for implementing the concept of BIM in the educational process in the form of end-to-end integrated design and joint work in a team are identified. At the same time, the lack of personnel in Ukraine with in-depth knowledge of BIM technologies of various levels is emphasized. The article focuses on the relevance of the organization of progressive training, starting from the junior courses of a specialized university or college (institutions of higher education) to professional advanced training courses or other post-graduation training in licensed training centers. Emphasized are the creation of educational programs and their bringing to the standards of information modeling - as effective ways of construction and architectural personnel training. That involves completion of relevant training for bachelors, becoming proficient at the BIM-management course by masters, interdisciplinary interaction in education, the skills to manage corporate content, generate an IFC container, etc. The following components are emphasized: the need to retrain the teaching staff, improve the qualifications of teachers and provide proper resources, expand the means of enhanced automation, acquire BIM application experience of leading international education institutions, attract modern professionals with adequate experience, to actively demonstrate the BIM software potential, to consult production facilities, to conduct multi-level stimulation - as essential links of a single BIM chain. The set of technologies that must be mastered by a student during BIM training, the relationship of educational tasks, data transfer formats, and standards for creating an information model for effective management of the design, construction, and operation of facilities in the near future are discussed.

Promoting equity in study abroad: A focus on first-generation and students of color in the USA

Education abroad is considered a high-impact practice with short-term benefits such as intellectual development and higher retention and university graduation rates, along with more long-term benefits such as personal and professional development. Thus, it is important to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to study abroad; however, research shows that this is not the case. For example, in the United States, the majority of study abroad participants are white (68% according to Institute of International Education [IIE], 2022), and the racial and ethnic diversity of study abroad participants is well below the percentage of undergraduate students of color overall. First-generation college students also make up a small proportion of the students who study abroad, with some coming from racial and ethnic minoritized backgrounds as well. This lack of diversity in study abroad should be a major concern for institutions of higher education. To address this issue at our own university, we surveyed 137 first-generation and students of color to gather data on their interests, opinions, and reservations about study abroad. Results demonstrate that they are overwhelmingly positive about study abroad but are concerned about cost, fitting it into their degree plan, and not knowing languages other than English. Additionally, 81% reported that they did not know where to start or how to get involved in study abroad. These results suggest that a more equity-minded approach with targeted interventions is needed to increase study abroad participation among first-generation and students of color.

Cultural Diversity & Policy Making: India’s G-20 Presidency.

India's policy, diplomacy, and international outreach endeavours are shaped by its cultural diversity and richness, which presents the nation's distinct identity to the globe. The main issues covered in a number of topics are summarized in this abstract, including cultural diplomacy, policies influenced by diversity, India's soft power potential, and methods for promoting Indian culture internationally. India has the potential to be a soft power due to its rich cultural legacy, dynamic democracy, and long history. India has demonstrated its power to affect global agendas and perceptions through cultural, diplomatic, and economic methods through projects such as its presidency of the G-20. India promotes its ideals of inclusion, tolerance, and respect for all people by utilizing its rich cultural legacy to build international collaboration and ties. India's foreign policy is based on cultural diplomacy, which allows the nation to present its rich history and customs to the world. India facilitates intercultural discourse, strengthens interpersonal relationships, and advances a more comprehensive comprehension of its multifaceted cultural mosaic through the organization of cultural exchanges, festivals, and exhibitions. India connects with global audiences through cultural centers, educational exchange programs, and internet outreach to promote awareness and recognition of its cultural richness. India's diverse culture has an impact on policy in a number of areas, including social welfare, language, education, and healthcare. India undertakes programs to protect minority rights, encourage linguistic variety, and incorporate indigenous knowledge systems into governance and development strategies because it understands the value of protecting and developing cultural heritage. India keeps its promise to social justice and inclusivity by tackling socioeconomic inequalities and empowering neglected populations. There are many different ways to promote Indian culture internationally, ranging from digital outreach and cultural diplomacy to supporting the cultural industries and encouraging tourism. India uses its cultural resources to draw visitors, present its artistic creations, and promote cross-cultural exchange via international cultural institutions, festivals, and exhibitions. India's attempts to promote its unique cultural history are strengthened when it collaborates with international organizations, educational institutions, and diaspora populations. This increases global appreciation and recognition of India's cultural outreach. In summary, India's cultural diversity and richness are important advantages that help to shape its foreign ties and global identity. India bolsters its soft power and promotes more understanding, collaboration, and harmony in an increasingly interconnected globe by embracing its cultural history, fostering cultural exchange, and interacting with global audiences.

What did Open Doors 2023 reveal about international students?

Since 1948 the Institute of International Education, in collaboration with the United States’ Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, has been gathering data and publishing statistics on the number of international students enrolling in American colleges and universities, their countries of origin, and the number of Americans students studying abroad. This is a definitive survey of international and U.S. higher education student mobility.

Fostering Global Competence in Teacher Education: Curriculum Integration and Professional Development

In an increasingly interconnected world, global competence in teacher education is paramount. This qualitative study delved into the perspectives of teacher education students, exploring their insights and experiences regarding integrating global competence into educational practice. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, several key themes emerged, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of global competence. Participants emphasized the necessity of understanding diverse languages, cultures, histories, and geographical landscapes, highlighting their role in fostering intercultural empathy and appreciation. Moreover, the study elucidated the challenges faced in promoting global competence within the educational system, including curriculum constraints and limited opportunities for experiential learning. However, amidst these challenges, participants identified various strategies and recommendations for enhancing global competence in teacher education. These recommendations included integrating cross-cultural content into the curriculum, providing experiential learning opportunities, investing in professional development for educators, and fostering partnerships with international educational institutions. By addressing these recommendations, educators and policymakers could pave the way for a more inclusive and globally-minded educational system, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an interconnected world.

Project-based learning through the lens of SEEM: enhancing implementation in the Brazilian context

PurposeThis study aims to mitigate the inherent challenges associated with implementing project-based learning (PjBL) by integrating it with the service engineering methodology (SEEM). The study demonstrates that combining PjBL with a methodological approach provides a step-by-step procedure that facilitates the practical application of PjBL and preserves the development of competencies inherent to PjBL.Design/methodology/approachAction research methodology was used to assess the effectiveness of combining PjBL learning strategy with SEEM. Data was collected through observations, questionnaires and focus group discussions to evaluate students’ expectations and perceptions of this combination.FindingsThe results show that PjBL implementation combined with SEEM enabled the organization of class dynamics, helping to mitigate difficulties encountered in the application of PjBL. Students conveyed that the integration of PjBL with SEEM afforded them a guiding structure without compromising their autonomy in decision-making for proposed solutions. It proved efficacious in honing skills pertinent to service design and analysis, teamwork, solution formulation, creativity and innovation stimulation.Research limitations/implicationsThis research has been limited to four classes in one university in Brazil. Besides, PjBL was combined with only one methodology (SEEM). Therefore, this needs to be tested in broader settings and contexts.Practical implicationsThe article highlights the potential benefits of PjBL in bridging the gap between academia and the professional world while acknowledging the challenges involved in its implementation, combining PjBL with a methodology that provides a sequence of steps to be followed.Social implicationsThe social implications of implementing PjBL in higher education in the Brazilian and international contexts are multifaceted. The adoption of PjBL encourages instructors to adapt their learning strategies and align them with the evolving needs of worldwide society. Through PjBL, Brazilian and international higher education institutions may contribute to the development of individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying their knowledge effectively in practical situations around the world.Originality/valueThe theoretical contribution lies in suggesting that combining PjBL with a methodology that provides a sequence of steps to be followed (such as that exemplified through SEEM) can address intrinsic issues that consider the complexity of PjBL implementation, preserving the development of competencies inherent to PjBL.

The role of Guanxi in fostering adaptability and work engagement among educators in international educational institutions.

The present study delves into the intricate relationships between individual adaptability, various dimensions of Guanxi-Ganqing, Renqing, and Xinren-and work engagement among educators working in international educational institutions across major cities in China. Guanxi refers to complex system of social networks and influential relationships that facilitate business and other dealings. Ganqing, Renqing, and Xinren represents distinct but interconnected dimensions. Ganqing refers to the emotional bonding or personal affection that is developed within a Guanxi relationship. Renqing can be understood as the norm of reciprocity or the social obligation to respond to another's needs and to maintain the balance of give and take in relationships. Finally, Xinren: This dimension represents trust and credibility in Guanxi relationships. Employing online data collection via the Qualtrics platform, the study investigates the impact of individual adaptability on work engagement, particularly examining the mediating roles of different Guanxi dimensions. Utilizing Hayes' Process Model 80 for mediation analysis, our findings demonstrate a statistically significant direct effect of individual adaptability on work engagement, thus supporting Hypothesis 1 (H1). The analysis reveals that this relationship is partially mediated by other variables within our model. Significantly, the study highlights the nuanced roles of the Guanxi dimensions of Ganqing, Renqing, and Xinren in this context. Both Ganqing and Renqing were found to amplify the effect of individual adaptability on work engagement, confirming Hypotheses 2a and 2b. However, while Xinren increased the effect size, it did not significantly mediate the relationship between individual adaptability and work engagement, leading to the rejection of Hypothesis 2c. Furthermore, our research provides new insights into the interplay between these Guanxi dimensions. Specifically, Ganqing and Renqing significantly influenced Xinren, which in turn impacted work engagement, thereby supporting Hypotheses 3a and 3b. This mediated chain model suggests a more complex interaction between these factors than previously understood. Our analysis also reveals the differential impacts of these Guanxi dimensions. Notably, Ganqing exhibited a greater influence on work engagement compared to Renqing and Xinren. This finding underscores the critical role of affective bonds in social ties and their importance in enhancing work engagement. These results, robust across statistical metrics including R, R-squared, MSE, F, and p-values, are detailed in our results section and illustrated in Figure 3. The study contributes to the understanding of how individual adaptability and various Guanxi dimensions interact to influence work engagement, offering valuable insights for both academic research and practical application in organizational settings. These findings are contextualized within Confucian values and the ongoing internationalization of education. The study thus advances the theoretical discourse while offering practical recommendations for educators and institutional policies. Limitations and future research directions are also elaborated.

УЧЕБНИК ПО ЛИТЕРАТУРЕ КАК ИНСТРУМЕНТ ПРЕДПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНОЙ ПОДГОТОВКИ ИНОСТРАННЫХ СЛУШАТЕЛЕЙ НА ДОВУЗОВСКОМ ЭТАПЕ ОБУЧЕНИЯ

This article discusses the issues of teaching humanities to foreign students of additional educational programs. The authors share their experience of teaching literature to students of philology at the pre-university stage at the Institute of International Education of Voronezh State University. The relevance of the article lies in the characteristics of the language of the specialty in the field of literary studies. The relevance of this article is to identify the features of pre-professional training in the literature of foreign students at the pre-university stage of education. The authors emphasize the need to form the language of the specialty among foreign students-humanities, along with students of other fields. A brief overview of productive techniques and methods of teaching the discipline "Literature" in a foreign audience is given. The authors pay special attention to the practical significance of the textbook "Literature. Fundamentals of the Theory and History of Russian Literature", developed and published at the Institute of International Education. This publication is an effective and modern tool that allows you to form the language of the specialty of foreign students-humanities during the pre-university stage of training. The textbook on literature is universal in content for different specialties of humanitarian orientation. It also contains a system of methodological tools that form students not only the basics of the specialty language, but also language and speech competencies. In conclusion, the authors share the results of further training of graduates of additional educational programs.

The Tech Tale Of Progression - Need For Academic Collaborations And Tie-Ups

The pace of internationalization is rapidly rising thanks to unfettered communication channels and affordable travel. To take advantage of the potential this presents, institutions all around the world are establishing international partnerships and developing relationships with other universities. International collaboration in higher education fosters knowledge growth, open transfer of ideas, and enduring connections between institutions of higher learning. Collaborations between international and Indian educational institutions have definite advantages. Two major shortcomings in India's current educational system have to be corrected for the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to succeed. The first is flexibility in terms of subject options, course length, organization, and other factors. The second involves integrating top-tier foreign institutions and resources into Indian society. In this context, the researcher wants to discover what edupreneurs think about these partnerships and collaborations and wants to promote them throughout all of their universities. Therefore, the researcher takes 245 sample edupreneures from four sides of India which states contain the highest private universities as of 25-01-2023 i.e., Gujarat (West side), Rajasthan (North side), Karnataka (South side), Jharkhand (East side). He gathers their perspectives on the necessity of academic partnerships (both national and international) and tie-ups for Indian higher education using a questionnaire and analyses their opinions through factor analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and ANOVA.

МОТИВАЦИЯ УЧЕБНОЙ ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТИ ИНОСТРАННЫХ ОБУЧАЮЩИХСЯ НА ЭТАПЕ ДОВУЗОВСКОЙ ПОДГОТОВКИ

The article reflects the results of questioning pre-university students at Voronezh State University Institute of International Education. The purpose was to reveal their motivation for getting higher education and to check if they are ready to master educational programs in Russian. The study showed, that foreigners are mainly encouraged by social incentives, such as respect and career opportunities. To a lesser extent students' choices are determined by cognitive motives: the desire for knowledge or academic excellence. The foreign students appeared to be less technically prepared for educational activities than expected, but they do not recognize the lack of technical means as a significant obstacle. According to the results of the study, the daily regimen satisfies most of the students. The authors pay special attention to interaction between students and teachers, as well as other university employees. 90 % of respondents think that relations between people in the university are friendly or normal. Speed and efficiency of interaction with teachers and staff were also noted. The authors outline the prospects of their research, suggesting to verify its validity in dynamics, comparing the current data with the results of final attestation and another survey, planned for next academic year.

Analyzing Science Communication Discourses in a Global Society: A Case Study of a Graduate School Classroom

This study anchored on constructivist grounded theory aimed to unveil discourses on science communication in a glocal society in a Philippine graduate school classroom. Virtual interviews were done with the participants. In vivo coding technique and narrative discourse analysis were used for data analysis. Results revealed seven emerging discourses on science communication in a graduate school classroom. These are 1) popularizing research- and evidenced-based knowledge, 2) focusing on truth and authenticity, 3) synergy of thinking skills, 4) social media engagement, 5) science communication in policymaking, 6) emancipation and empowerment through education, and peace and global understanding. The emerging discourses of Filipino graduate students reflect how they perceive science communication when positioned globally and applied locally. Science communication is a conduit for making science relevant and impactful to all social contexts through sound and accurate knowledge sharing and engagement of scientific and technical information. Integrating it into allied disciplines to maximize its practical application may emphasize science communication in an academic setting. Future researchers may replicate this study by exploring other methodologies and collaborating with international partner educational institutions to look into intercultural and cross-cultural constructs along this research interest.

Understanding Chinese International Students' Struggle in Canadian University during COVID-19: A Literature Review

The economic impact of international students in Canada is tremendous. As the enrollment of domestic students has decreased, the admission of overseas students has made up for the financial losses that Canadian institutions suffer due to the drop in domestic student enrollment. China is a significant exporter of international students to Canada, sending a sizable number of them there yearly. Chinese international students' entrance to Canadian universities is being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This article contends that because of their temporary immigration status, international students in Canada are at risk. It does this by drawing on the literature analysis approach. They are not included in the majority of government assistance initiatives intended to assist Canadians during this outbreak. The majority of overseas students struggle financially and psychologically as a result of the pandemic. The circumstance is causing a further drop in the admittance of international students, with economic repercussions for Canadian institutions. The report advances our knowledge of the struggles faced by international students and educational institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic by examining the issues they face as well as the methods needed to increase their resilience and universities' capacity.

School Performance Evaluation of Chinese International Language Education Institutions

As an institution of international Chinese language teaching and cultural dissemination, the scientific evaluation of Chinese international language education institutions is conducive to sustainable high-quality development. This paper designs the performance evaluation indicators of Chinese international language education institutions from the four dimensions of input, process, output and benefit. Taking the Confucius Institute at XX University in Spain as an example, this paper evaluates its school running performance with the help of the Analytic Network Process-Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation model. Research has found that the Confucius Institute at XX University in Spain has a good performance rating and a relatively optimistic performance situation. However, the scores of input performance and output performance are relatively low, and there are problems such as unstable funding sources, unreasonable use of funds, and non-standard financial management.

Assessment of math anxiety as a potential tool to identify students at risk of poor acquisition of new math skills: longitudinal study of grade 9 Italian students.

Numerous international educational institutions have sounded the alarm about the gradual increase in the number of students failing to achieve a sufficient level of proficiency in mathematical abilities. Thus, the growing interest in identifying possible solutions and factors interfering with learning seems justified. In recent years, special attention has accrued to the possible role played by emotional factors. In the present investigation, students in the first grade of a technical vocational secondary school are followed to assess the influence of math anxiety (MA) on the development of skill acquisition in calculus. A math skills assessment test is administered on two occasions, at the beginning and end of the school year. Results highlighted that the score on the anxiety scale, administered at the beginning of the year, negatively correlated with the score obtained on the mathematics test, administered at the end of the school year: the higher the level of anxiety, the worse the performance. Furthermore, the score obtained in the second administration makes it possible to divide the students tested into two groups: students who improved their performance and students who did not benefit at all from repeating the test. In these two groups, an analysis of the relationships between the outcome of the end-of-year mathematics test and the level of MA at the beginning of the year showed that MA correlates negatively with performance only in students who will fail to acquire new expertise in mathematics over the course of the school year. The results suggest that MA may interfere with the smooth development of math skills. Assessing the level of MA at the beginning of the school year could prove to be a useful tool in identifying which and how many students are at risk of failing to achieve the skills expected from the usual course of instruction. A consideration of anxiety as one of the variables at play in the genesis of learning difficulties may prompt educators to modify teaching methodology and strategies by increasing focus on the impact of the emotional dimension on learning.