International Training Program Research Articles

Exploring the influential factors of online professional learning completion of college teachers from the Global South in an international training program

Online courses emerged as an important mode for large-scale cross-national teachers' professional learning. However, with most previous research on teacher online professional learning (TOPL) focusing on resource-rich and technology-advanced regions, little attention has been paid to the factors influencing the online learning completion of college teachers in Global South contexts. This study aimed to explore the facilitators and inhibitors of this population's online learning completion in a cross-country program. In seven courses, individual, institutional, and country-level data of 3529 teacher-learners from 99 countries were collected. Forty-two learners were further interviewed. We adopted hierarchical linear modeling to analyze the nested relationships among the individual/institutional/country-level factors and course completion. Results revealed several significant associations between individual/institutional/country-level variables and course completion, as well as several moderation effects. Interviews complemented the analytics results. This study uncovers influential factors of TOPL in Global South contexts and provides practical implications for college teachers' online professional learning.

Modernization of government accounting in the Machala Canton, Ecuador: challenges and opportunities

The improvement of government accounting, essential for transparency and efficiency in the management of public resources, is a topic of growing importance in contexts such as the canton of Machala, Ecuador. This study, which adopts a mixed approach combining qualitative and quantitative methods, seeks to explore and understand the current challenges and opportunities for the modernization of the accounting system. Through surveys of public sector accountants, aspects such as the accessibility of financial information, obstacles such as the scarcity of specialized human resources and cultural resistance, as well as the transformative potential of technology in improving accounting processes were examined. The findings expose the need for integrated strategies that include international collaborations, training programs and citizen participation to promote more transparent and efficient financial management. This holistic approach is critical to address persistent challenges and move towards a more effective and accountable public administration in Machala Canton.

Identifying Expert Opinions on the Challenges and Barriers Faced in Implementing Iraq's National Plan for Controlling Hepatitis B.

This study examined the difficulties and obstacles faced by healthcare professionals in implementing Iraq's national plan for hepatitis B virus (HBV) control. This research aims to offer valuable insights into the intricacies of HBV control efforts and identify key areas for improvement. In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 physicians, representing diverse medical specialties and healthcare settings, including experts in the fields of medical sciences. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA software, version 24 (VERBI Software GmbH, Berlin, Germany)to identify recurring themes and gain insights into the challenges encountered during the implementation of the national plan. Ten physicians participated in the study, providing insights into challenges and barriers hindering the effective implementation of Iraq's national plan for HBV control. Consensus among participants highlighted challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate infrastructure, population ignorance, and vaccine refusal. Documentation challenges, including inaccuracies in reporting HBV-associated mortality, were also noted. Barriers to successful implementation included poor public awareness, inadequate education for healthcare providers, and funding shortages. Unmet needs highlighted the necessity for unified protocols, surveillance systems, and international training programs. The improvement strategies proposed by participants emphasized raising awareness, supporting primary healthcare centers, and enhancing funding allocation. This study underscores significant challenges in implementing Iraq's national plan for HBV control, with barriers ranging from resource constraints to communication barriers. Healthcare professionals advocate for targeted interventions, collaborative efforts, and policy measures to address these challenges effectively. The findings contribute to the evidence base for enhancing HBV control efforts in Iraq and emphasize the importance of tailored approaches to public health interventions.

BRAVER challenges students in radiation protection training in an international training

The nuclear industry is currently facing a significant demand for well-trained personnel. Due to the high market demand, it is essential to raise awareness among new target groups, including high school pupils and (pre-service) STEM teachers, about the potential and opportunities of pursuing a nuclear career. With this in mind, a new strategic partnership has been established under the Erasmus+ project ‘BRAVER’ (Blended and Remote teaching Activities supported by Virtual rEality for Radiation sciences). Within this 2-year project, international staff, and students from 7 partners of the CHERNE (Cooperation of Higher Education on Radiological and Nuclear Engineering) network collaborate with industry, regulatory and research institutes in developing educational virtual tools (VR and virtual online escape rooms) for nuclear sciences and engineering. The project aims to develop blended international training programs that incorporate technical, generic, and networking skills for both students and professors. This initiative can serve as a model for other scientific fields, extending its benefits to students and educators across different disciplines.

An Innovative Model of English Teaching Based on Particle Swarm Algorithm Construction

English teaching in construction plays a vital role in facilitating effective communication and collaboration within the industry. By equipping construction professionals with proficiency in English, they can navigate global markets, engage with multinational clients, and access a wealth of resources and knowledge available in the English language. English instruction tailored to the construction sector emphasizes industry-specific terminology, communication skills for project management, and comprehension of technical documents and specifications. Additionally, English language proficiency enables construction workers to comply with safety protocols, understand complex engineering plans, and participate in international conferences and training programs. This paper introduces an innovative model of English teaching tailored for construction professionals, utilizing a Particle Swarm Algorithm Construction with Weighted Particle Swarm Classification (W-PSO). Acknowledging the significance of effective communication in the construction industry, especially in multinational contexts, this research endeavors to optimize English language instruction through advanced computational techniques. The proposed model combines traditional teaching methodologies with the W-PSO algorithm, a metaheuristic optimization technique inspired by the behavior of particles in a swarm. W-PSO dynamically adjusts the weightings assigned to various instructional components, such as vocabulary acquisition, grammar instruction, and communication skills development, to optimize learning outcomes for construction professionals. Simulation results a cohort of 100 construction professionals participating in the English teaching program, the average improvement in English language proficiency is measured at 25% after completing the W-PSO-enhanced curriculum. Furthermore, specific language skills exhibit notable enhancements, with vocabulary acquisition increasing by 30%, grammar comprehension by 20%, and communication skills by 35%. The W-PSO algorithm dynamically adjusts the weightings assigned to various instructional components, optimizing the learning process. For instance, vocabulary acquisition receives a weighting of 0.4, grammar comprehension 0.3, and communication skills 0.3, resulting in a balanced and comprehensive approach to English language instruction.

A Model of Lecturers Professional Development in Business School of Research Universities in the 21st Century

In the era of the 21st-century knowledge economy, research universities serve as strategic pillars for fostering an innovative nation, leveraging their unique strengths to establish national scientific and technological forces that support high-level self-reliance in science and technology. Meanwhile, the professional development of lecturers constitutes a crucial component of research activities within these institutions. Nevertheless, inadequate research has been conducted in this domain, leading to a deficiency in societal impact. This study employs content analysis to explore the lecturers professional development in business school and to build a model of the lecturers professional development in the business school of research universities in the 21st century. According to the content analysis, the results indicate that lecturers effectively advance their professional development by fully exploiting the ample resources offered by business schools within research universities, integrating their attributes, international training programs, and scientific research for personal enrichment. The article suggests establishing a novel mechanism to foster the professional development of lecturers and facilitate the exchange and recruitment of talented individuals. Encourage professional development among lecturers and foster the dissemination of innovative resources, ultimately resulting in heightened production of high-quality research in academic institutions.

The Role of Health Institutions in Training Healthcare Personnel for the Digital Transition: The International Training Program of the Order of Physicians and Dentists of Rome

Digital health, encompassing the use of digital technologies in healthcare, and telemedicine, facilitating healthcare delivery across long distances, have witnessed widespread applications across various healthcare domains. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital solutions in healthcare, overcoming barriers to access and fostering transitions to new care models. However, healthcare professionals often lack digital health competencies, necessitating targeted training initiatives. This study presents a project initiated by the Order of Physicians and Dentists of Rome, promoting a comprehensive training program in digital health for healthcare professionals. This investigation aims to describe the project, report demographic characteristics of participants, and analyze survey results on participants’ perceptions of the training program. The Erasmus+ project, titled ‘Training of Physician Trainers in Telemedicine, eHealth, and Digital Medicine,’ facilitated the digital transition of the healthcare sector through international training. The project involved structured courses, job-shadowing, and support activities in Malta and Madrid. A survey, developed using the Delphi methodology, assessed participants’ views on telemedicine. Thirty participants, selected based on merit, engaged in the project. Survey responses highlighted a strong impact on participants’ understanding of digital health concepts and increased confidence in utilizing digital tools. Notably, 85% acknowledged significant skill acquisition in healthcare digitalization. The project addressed a critical training gap among healthcare professionals, emphasizing the need for ongoing education in digital health. Despite existing recommendations, formal digital health education remains limited. The study underscores the importance of educational efforts to foster a digitalized healthcare model.

Cased-based education rounds-the eternal heart of an international training program.

Case-based teaching or "Morning Rounds" have been used in medical education for more than a century and remain a cornerstone for teaching in many training programs. Our Pediatric Critical Care Medicine (PCCM) program was established forty years ago and has retained this form of teaching since its inception. Case-based rounds have consistently had the highest evaluation of all curricula in our program. Here we review the history of how these rounds were introduced in medical education, provide data from the learners' evaluation of these case-based rounds, and discuss the strengths and potential drawbacks of this form of teaching from an educational theories perspective with the hope that they can be used by other Pediatric Critical Care training programs.

Effects of the International Training Program for Enhancing Intelligent Capabilities through Blended Learning on Computational Thinking, Artificial Intelligence Competencies, and Core Competencies for the Future Society in Graduate Students

Background: The purpose of this study is to find the effects of the international training program for enhancing intelligent capabilities through blended learning on computational thinking, artificial intelligence (AI) competency, and core competencies for the future society in graduated students enrolled in the Smart Information Communication Technology (SMART ICT) course. The teaching model followed the ADDIE framework. Methods: This study is a quasi-experimental study based on nonequivalent control group design. Study subjects were assigned to an experimental (n = 20) or control group (n = 20). The experimental group participated in the international training program in the blended learning form, real-time online classes (60 min per session for a week, six sessions) and face-to-face classes (4–8 h per session for 9 days, six sessions). The variables were measured with a self-report questionnaire and were evaluated before, right after, and in the 12th week of the program. Results: The AI competency of the experimental group was observed to be significantly changed at the points of time (F = 6.76, p = 0.002), and in comparison with that of a different group (F = 9.77, p = 0.003). Conclusions: This study suggests applying an international training program based on blended learning to strengthen intelligence capabilities such as artificial intelligence capabilities.

Meninio ugdymo galimybės įgyvendinant įtraukųjį ugdymą: mokytojų mokymosi patirtys tarptautiniame kontekste

The article analyzes the relevance of arts education and teachers’ professional development while implementing inclusive education. The background for this article is an evaluation of an international in-service teachers’ training program focusing on inclusive arts education. This study aims to investigate what inclusive education means to arts teachers and reveal their learning experiences in the international training program “Inclusive Arts Education”. The qualitative research was conducted using the focus group method with international training program participants from three different European countries (Finland, Austria and Lithuania). The study involved 25 participants: 7 from Finland, 7 from Austria and 11 from Lithuania. The research has shown that in each country arts teachers work in different national and educational contexts but face quite similar challenges of inclusive education. The success of inclusive art education mainly depends on the teacher’s professional abilities and attitude towards inclusion, as well as the creation of a favourable educational atmosphere and positive relationships with students in the educational process. The experience of the research participants highlighted their attitudes to the content and organization of international training, which will help to develop continuing education programs for arts teachers’ preparation for inclusive arts education.

FACTORS AFFECTING THE ACQUISITION OF TRAINING KNOWLEDGE BY VIETNAMESE UNIVERSITY LECTURERS THROUGH INTERNATIONAL JOINT TRAINING PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY LEVEL

Exploring the factors affecting the acceptance of training knowledge by lecturers through international training programs will shed light on how teachers can receive the most knowledge. Knowledge acquisition will be most effective when the stakeholders increase the factors that have a positive impact and minimize the factors that have a negative effect on lecturers’ knowledge acquisition. When the majority of faculty in the international cooperative education program receive effective international training, knowledge and learning will spread throughout the university, moving toward increasing the overall level of teaching capacity of the teaching school. Since then, the quality of education at the school has improved, which meets both the desire for innovation in society's education and the needs of international integration of Vietnam's higher education. Theoretically, research on knowledge acquired through international collaboration in Vietnam and around the world focuses on organizational-level acquisition rather than individual learning. Some test results on the influence of individual factors on knowledge acquisition are inconsistent, suggesting the possibility of a moderating variable for this effect. In addition, previous studies have examined the influence of two groups of individual and social factors on knowledge acquisition separately, without taking into account the regulatory relationship between these two groups of factors. Research fills this theoretical gap.

Uncertainty and Sensitivity Evaluation of the QUENCH-02 Experiment Simulation Using the ASYST Code

Abstract Uncertainty and sensitivity methods are increasingly used in safety analyzes of nuclear power plants to address the unreliability of input data, numerical models, and, in general, the lack of knowledge regarding certain physical phenomena, in determining safety margins and acceptance criteria. The ASYST code, developed as part of an international nuclear technology ASYST Development and Training Program (ADTP) managed by Innovative Systems Software (ISS), is used to perform an uncertainty analysis of the QUENCH-02 experiment conducted at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. The code uses a probabilistic methodology based on the propagation of input uncertainties. The QUENCH facility contains electrically heated PWR fuel rod simulators and the aim of the experiment is to examine hydrogen generation and the behavior of the fuel rod cladding during core reflood. For selected input parameters, such as steam/water flow, electrical power, and other relevant boundary conditions, it is necessary to define their probability density functions. Input databases are then prepared for individual calculations based on the selected confidence level and confidence interval. The number of performed calculations is 60, large enough to ensure at least 95% coverage of expected output results and uncertainty limits. The results of the calculations are compared with the experimental measurements. The Pearson correlation coefficient is used to obtain correlation between the input uncertain parameters and the output data. Sensitivity analyses cover the influence of variations in the heater's electrical power and the steam flow rate on the hydrogen production and the maximum cladding temperature.

116.3: Transplant procurement management: 30 years of international training program in organ and tissue donation.

116.3: Transplant procurement management: 30 years of international training program in organ and tissue donation.

SWOT Analysis of International Talent Training at Local Colleges and Universities in Guangxi in the Context of the Belt and Road Initiative

This research examines the international talent training programs offered by local colleges and institutions in Guangxi under the Belt and Road Initiative. The primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive SWOT analysis, evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with these programs. The study delves into China's vision for talent development through the Belt and Road Initiative and assesses the effectiveness of Guangxi's colleges and universities in delivering impactful international talent training. A thorough analytical procedure was employed to assess the key aspects of the talent training programs. The investigation identifies the positive aspects, including highly qualified professors with cross-cultural expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and established collaborations with reputable foreign institutions. Conversely, the study highlights existing challenges, such as limited financial resources, language barriers, and the need to revamp curricula to align with evolving industry demands. The study identifies promising prospects for the talent training programs, including the growing demand for cross-cultural competencies, potential partnerships with foreign organizations, and enhanced regional connectivity facilitated by the Belt and Road Initiative. However, it also uncovers potential risks, such as intense competition from other organizations, geopolitical uncertainties, cultural barriers, and economic instability. This research provides valuable insights for stakeholders in the global talent training arena through a comprehensive SWOT analysis. The findings aid in formulating strategies and policies to enhance the effectiveness and competitiveness of these programs, ensuring their alignment with the evolving needs of the global labor market while fostering cross-cultural competences among students.

E65 Assessment of Tunisian rheumatologists’ common practices towards children with rheumatic diseases

Abstract Background In the past few years, many advances have been made in the subspecialty of pediatric rheumatology in emerging countries. However, some gaps were identified requiring an update of rheumatologists' knowledge in this field [1]. Our study aimed to assess rheumatologists’ knowledge and common practices when managing children with rheumatic diseases. Methods We conducted an anonymous cross-sectional study including Tunisian rheumatologists. They were invited to answer an online questionnaire. The survey included demographic data, as well as outcomes of interest: rheumatologists’ knowledge and attitudes towards the management of patients with rheumatic diseases. We also inquired about the scores used to evaluate children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The level of confidence in the management of the pediatric population was assessed by the Likert scale. Results At the end of the survey, 51 responses were collected. The participants were rheumatology specialists (63%), university hospital assistants (21%), and residents (16%). Sixty-two percent of responders worked in the hospital. The mean number of years of practice (including years of residency) was 16.3 ± 5.9 [2–36]. Two rheumatologists reported that they managed over 10 children per month for rheumatic disorders. Four rheumatologists reported that they managed from 6 to 9 children per month for rheumatic disorders. Forty rheumatologists reported that they managed from 1 to 5 children per month for rheumatic disorders. And 5 rheumatologists reported that they do not manage any children with rheumatic disorders. Only 10 (20%) doctors received training in pediatric rheumatology during their curriculum: online training (6), national training program (2) and international training program (2). Regarding the scores used to assess the different subtypes of JIA, 23 (45%) rheumatologists were not aware of the JADAS 10 score and 39 (76%) did not know the JSPADAS score. When inquiring about the level of confidence in the management of the pediatric population the average level of confidence was 2.49 ± 1.82 [0–5]. Only 2% were not confident at all. A pediatric specialist was requested for a second opinion upon diagnosis in 51% of difficult cases and in 12% of less challenging cases. Only 19 respondents managed the patients by themselves without referring them to other specialists. The rheumatologists' apprehension regarding the management of the pediatric population was attributed to the lack of training in pediatric rheumatology (94%), the absence of pediatric internship during the specialization curriculum (43%) and the lack of mastery of children’s examination (12%). Conclusion Our study highlighted that only a few Tunisian rheumatologists considered themselves confident in the management of children with rheumatic disorders. The establishment of training programs in pediatric rheumatology could enhance rheumatologists' knowledge in this field and give them more confidence in the management of this population. [1] Zisman D, Samad A, Ardoin SP, et al. US Adult Rheumatologists' Perspectives on the Transition Process for Young Adults with Rheumatic Conditions. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2020; 72(3):432–40. This was an anonymous cross-sectional study. All subjects participated voluntary.

EVALUATING BASIC KNEE ARTHROSCOPY SKILLS IN ORTHOPAEDIC TRAINEES IN A LIMITED RESOURCE SETTING

AbstractBackgroundOrthopaedic training in Southern Africa is largely focused on trauma, although elective procedures, such as knee arthroscopy are increasing. This is especially true in the private sector where most trainees will practice. The primary aim of this study was to assess the arthroscopic competency of orthopaedic trainees in a setting of limited resources.MethodsA prospective observational cohort study was carried out. Orthopaedic trainees of a Southern African university hospital performed basic arthroscopy on a knee model. Their surgical competency was assessed by two surgeons proficient in arthroscopy using the modified Basic Knee Arthroscopy Skill Scoring System (mBAKSSS).ResultsA total of 16 trainees (12 male) were included (6 junior and 10 senior trainees). The median age of participants was 36 (34.8, 37). The median mBAKSSS was 28.0 (20.3, 32.5) but showed a large variability (12.0–42.5). The overall reliability was excellent with Cronbach's Alpha of 0.91 and interclass correlation of 0.91 [95% CI 0.75, 0.97].ConclusionsThe average knee arthroscopy proficiency of our trainees is comparable to those of international training programs, but there was great variability with inconsistent skills amongst the trainees. This calls for improved and reproducible arthroscopy training and skills transfer, exposure to procedures and ongoing assessment.

Assessing the effectiveness of a sexual and reproductive health and rights training programme in changing healthcare practitioners’ attitudes and practices in low-income countries

ABSTRACT Introduction In low-income countries the utilisation of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services is influenced by healthcare practitioners’ knowledge, attitudes and practices. Despite awareness of the potential problems due to ingrained biases and prejudices, few approaches have been effective in changing practitioners’ knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning SRHR in low-income countries. Objectives 1) To assess whether participating in an SRHR international training programme (ITP) changed healthcare practitioners’ SRHR knowledge, SRHR attitudes and SRHR practices and 2) examine associations between trainees’ characteristics, their SRHR work environment and transfer of training. Methods A pre- and post-intervention study, involving 107 trainees from ten low-income countries, was conducted between 2017 and 2018. Paired samples t-test and independent samples t-test were used to assess differences between trainees’ pre- and post-training scores in self-rated SRHR knowledge, attitudes, knowledge seeking behaviour and practices. Linear regression models were used to examine association between trainees’ baseline characteristics and post-training attitudes and practices. Results Trainees’ self-rated scores for SRHR knowledge, attitudes and practices showed statistically significant improvement. Baseline high SRHR knowledge was positively associated with improvements in attitudes but not practices. High increases in scores on knowledge seeking behaviour were associated with higher practice scores. No statistically significant associations were found between scores that measured changes in SRHR knowledge, attitudes and practices. Conclusion The findings indicate that the ITP was effective in improving trainees’ self-rated scores for SRHR knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (practices). The strongest association was found between improvement in SRHR knowledge seeking behaviour and the improvement in SRHR practices. This suggests that behaviour intention may have a central role in promoting fair open-minded SRHR practices among healthcare practitioners in low-income countries.

ASSURE 모형 기반의 ASEAN 맞춤형 역량기반 보편적건강보장 연수프로그램 개발

Purpose: This study aims to design and propose a customized international training program for ASEAN countries based on competency-based education, following the six stages of the ASSURE model design. Originality: Korea is facing an opportune time to lead global health issues due to the increase in international recognition and demand for K-quarantine in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, Southeast Asian countries are experiencing growing demand for COVID-19 response and improving the quality of life for their citizens. Although ASEAN countries have made progress in achieving universal health coverage by improving healthcare accessibility and expanding the scope of health insurance, there is a need for cooperation in strengthening healthcare systems and building healthcare human resources. Against this background, there is a need for a strategic health cooperation project to establish universal health coverage in ASEAN and to improve the specialized skills of local health and medical personnel through education programs. However, research on systematic models of international health education training programs using curriculum models is inadequate, and studies proposing ASEAN-customized international health education training program models are also insufficient. Methodology: Therefore, this study utilized content analysis to conduct a literature review of the current status of universal health coverage in ASEAN countries and surveyed the needs of participants in international training programs to develop an ASEAN-customized training program using the ASSURE model. Result: The study secured an education and training module based on bidirectional communication and designed an education process focused on the needs of the training participants. Finally, an ASEAN-customized competency-based education international training program was designed and proposed. Conclusion and Implication: The systematically developed education and training program can be utilized not only as an ASEAN-customized curriculum but also as basic data for developing a systematic model of international health education based on competency-centered education. It can also be applied as a guideline for developing educational curricula using curriculum models. Moreover, it can contribute to sustainable health cooperation between Korea and ASEAN countries.

Standardized Suicide Prevention Program for Gatekeeper Intervention of North Korean Defectors in South Korea.

North Korean defectors (NKDs) have experienced substantial difficulties during the migration and settlement in South Korea. They have a high prevalence of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal behaviors. The high prevalence of mental disorders among NKDs can lead to a high suicide rate. However, there are no suicide prevention programs for NKDs. This study aims to customize a suicide prevention program with content suitable for NKDs' particular circumstances. A multidisciplinary research team developed this program based on domestic and international gatekeeper training programs for suicide prevention and articles related to suicide prevention. We developed a multi-part gatekeeper training program, "Suicide CARE for NKDs." In the "Introduction," trainees learn about the need for the program and its importance. In "Careful observation," trainees learn to recognize linguistic, behavioral, and situational signals of suicide risk. In "Active listening," trainees learn how to ask about suicidal thoughts and to listen empathetically. In "Risk evaluation and expert referral," trainees learn to evaluate suicide risk and to connect NKDs with institutes or services. We expect this program to become useful for training gatekeepers to prevent suicide among NKD. A future follow-up study is needed to confirm the efficacy of the program.

Barriers to global pharmacometrics: educational challenges and opportunities across the globe.

Barriers to global pharmacometrics: educational challenges and opportunities across the globe.