Learning Environment Research Articles

Evaluating the Socioecological Classroom in Full-Service Schools: A Whole-School Approach to the Inclusive Education Context in South Africa

This paper evaluates the socioecological classroom in the context of a whole-school approach to inclusive education, which has evolved beyond the traditional classroom setting. Inclusive education calls for a paradigm shift to accommodate learners previously marginalised, with the classroom transforming into an ecosystem. The socioecological paradigm steers away from the notion that psychological and physiological elements are the main causes of disability. The importance of addressing multiple layers of influence is emphasised to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. First, Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, which emphatically explains how a learner’s development is influenced by the systems in the environment that surrounds them, and then Foucault’s Theory of Power and Knowledge, in which power and knowledge are interconnected and inseparable, with power being exercised through the creation and control of knowledge, guided this study. A qualitative approach was adopted, and semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and non-participant observation were used to collect data. Phenomenological analysis was used to analyse the data from these data-collecting instruments. It was found that learners with disabilities need support at home, with imbalances being found in the power–knowledge relations between teachers and parents, and teachers occupying a superior position regarding academic knowledge. Some teachers still believe in the Medical-Deficit Model. A strengths-based approach should rather be adopted. Strategies for enhancing community–school collaboration that balances teacher–parent power dynamics should be explored.

Playful activities mitigate relations between parental mental health difficulties and child verbal outcomes.

This study examined the role of parental involvement in the home learning environment in the association between parental mental health and child cognitive performance. In a sample of 174 three- to five-year-old children (52% female, 97% White, 7% Hispanic, 2019-2022), playful activities moderated the relation between parental general depression and child verbal reasoning and acquired verbal knowledge. However, there was no evidence that parental involvement moderated the association between parental mental health and child spatial reasoning. These results improve our understanding of the pathways by which parental mental health, even in a non-clinical community sample, relate to child outcomes and raise the possibility of leveraging playful activities as one mechanism to alleviate the potential role of parental mental health difficulties.

Quick, Quick, Slow: Making Time for Sustainable Photography Practices in Contemporary Higher Education

AbstractAs environmental awareness grows, so do questions about the environmental impact of photography, in particular traditional film development and processing, which includes the use of plastics, gelatine and other environmentally harmful chemicals notwithstanding water usage and waste. Pioneering practice and research into sustainable alternatives to conventional processes has quickly established, supported by organisations such as The Sustainable Darkroom. Students in Higher Education are environmentally aware and prepared to take action to mitigate their impacts where possible. As such, there is a coalescence of perceptions within and beyond the classroom which asks to be addressed in the curriculum. This paper draws upon the research project Under a Green Light: A Darkroom for the Future which investigated how university darkroom practices can pivot toward more environmentally friendly methods. The paper describes the learning environment of the darkroom as a space of slowness, immersion and experimentation and the pedagogic value of this for photography students. The paper argues that incorporating environmental awareness into day‐to‐day teaching through systemic changes to process and practice, rather than through short term curriculum interventions, contributes to transformative learning experiences and promotes positive long‐term change.

Pemanfaatan Media Cetak dan Sosial untuk Meningkatkan Literasi dan Numerasi Siswa di Desa Namanjahe

This research aims to improve students' literacy and numeracy skills in Namanjahe Village through the utilization of print and social media. The approach used is participatory action research, where researchers are directly involved in activities to address the educational challenges faced by students. Based on interviews and observations, several issues were identified, such as low literacy rates, limited use of educational technology, and a pragmatic mindset that hinders mathematical thinking. The action plan includes introducing print media and social media in classroom activities, demonstrating how to use blogs, creating engaging learning environments, and participating in religious education activities at TPQ Al-Hidayah. The results of the program show that the use of diverse media can stimulate student interest and help improve their literacy and numeracy skills. However, consistent support and follow-up are still needed to ensure long-term impacts on student learning outcomes.

Prevalence of Dunning-Kruger effect in first semester medical students: a correlational study of self-assessment and actual academic performance

IntroductionThe ability to self-assess is a crucial skill in identifying one’s own strengths and weaknesses and in coordinating self-directed learning. The Dunning-Kruger effect occurs when limited knowledge causes individuals to overestimate their competence and underestimate others’, leading to poor self-assessment and unrecognized incompetence. To serve as a foundation for developing strategies to improve self-assessment, the self-assessment abilities of first-semester students were assessed.MethodsIn the final weeks of the summer 2021, winter 2021/22, and summer 2022 semesters, the academic performance (oral anatomy exam) of first semester students was assessed (0–15 points). Before the exam results were announced, students were asked to self-assess their performance.ResultsExam scores (M = 10.64, SD = 2.95) and self-assessed scores (M = 10.38, SD = 2.54) were comparable. The absolute difference between them, as a measure of self-assessment ability ranged from − 9 to + 9 points (M = -0.26, SD = 2.59). Among participants (N = 426), 18.5% assessed themselves accurately, 35.5% overestimated, and 46.0% underestimated their performance. The correlation between actual score and self-assessment was ρ = -0.590 (p < 0.001), reflecting the Dunning-Kruger effect. When separated by gender, correlation for females was ρ = -0.591 (p < 0.001), and for males ρ = -0.580 (p < 0.001).ConclusionsRealistic self-assessment is a challenge for first-semester students. The data indicate that females tend to overestimate their performance while males underestimate theirs. A pronounced Dunning-Kruger effect is evident in both genders, with significant negative correlations between self-assessment and actual performance. There are several reasons for the occurrence of the Dunning-Kruger effect. Considering that the COVID-19 pandemic influenced learning environments, collaborative learning was significantly restricted. The lack of opportunities for comparison could potentially lead to unrealistic self-assessment.

Creating Lasting Conditions for Meaningful Recess Reform: A 5-School Exploration.

When well implemented, recess is a critical part of the school day for children's healthy development. We explored the implementation of a recess improvement process in 5 elementary schools across 3 states. We conducted a mixed-methods implementation study in which we visited each school 3 times over 1 school year, collecting observational, interview, survey, and focus group data. Qualitative data were coded thematically and analyzed across schools. Quantitative data were tabulated and aggregated over time and across schools. We observed improvements in aspects of recess quality at each school, with three schools demonstrating the most progress. Quantitative data showed null effects in aggregate; however one school demonstrated significant improvements. Four criteria contributed to the quality and sustainability of recess reform: staff engagement, integration with other programs, student leadership, and recess communications. Program implementation research often refers to "buy-in" as a key ingredient to successful adoption. We provide a tool that helps to operationalize buy-in in the recess context. Changing the recess environment requires individual and institutional commitment to valuing recess as an important learning environment. School administrators must lead the change process and create institutional infrastructure to support success.

The Application of Total Physical Response (TPR) Method Through Songs to Improve Students' Vocabulary Mastery and Creativity: A Classroom Action Research at The First Grade

This study investigates the efficacy of using songs in conjunction with the Total Physical Response (TPR) method to enhance vocabulary mastering and creative thinking in EFL students. 36 first-grade students participated in two cycles of Classroom Action Research (CAR) at SMAN 03 Pamekasan. Students' low average score of 58 on the pre-test and initial observations indicated serious difficulties with vocabulary retention, spelling, pronunciation and accurate usage. TPR, which combines movement with language learning, was combined with songwriting exercises. In order to improve memory through dance and music, students worked in groups to compose and perform songs utilizing vocabulary words in the first cycle. Despite a 12.1% improvement in post-test scores, the results fell short of the minimal passing requirements set by English Teacher of SMAN 03 Pamekasan. Within the moment cycle, extra hone and anxiety-reducing measures, such as singing and acting out melodies some time recently testing, driven to a eminent advancement, with the normal score rising to 80. The think about found that the TPR strategy, when combined with tunes, altogether improved students' lexicon run, spelling, articulation, and exactness of utilization. Additionally, it cultivated more prominent understudy engagement, motivation, and inventiveness within the classroom. By and large, the investigate illustrates that TPR and tunes offer an compelling, intuitively approach to lexicon learning, making a difference understudies overcome challenges in dialect securing and making a more energetic and agreeable learning environment.

Empowering Student Transition and Engaging Students Using Actionbound: A Gamified Collaborative Community Learning Platform

Transition to University is a significant milestone for students who are embracing new experiences and challenges. It is particularly vital for international students who have to adapt to a new and different learning environment in the UK. Successful transition and sense of belonging in a new institution lay foundation for students’ academic success. However, transition is a process rather than an event. Accordingly, fostering a collaborative community learning environment and facilitate peer networks and community support becomes critical. It enables social interactions and active learning by engaging students in collaborative group activities, which would in turn support students’ transition to and belonging in a new learning environment. With the advancement of technology, computer-assisted and computer-supported collaborative learning flourished in 21st century. The emergence of mobile digital technology leads to the design of gamification in learning, known as game-based learning or gamified collaborative community learning in order to engage students in fun and interactive activities. ‘Actionbound’ is one of the versatile gamification platforms and mobile apps which can engage students in collaborative community learning with gamified activities. It enables users to create, share and participate in interactive scavenger hunts, tours, games and quizzes. It allows users to design custom challenges, incorporate multimedia content and track players’ progress in real-time. It engages participants to work collaboratively to solve challenges and complete tasks. At UHBS, we have used Actionbound to support the student transition into the University’ learning journey at the start of term. We used scavenger hunt game and quiz functions within Actionbound to direct students to collaborate in teams to solve the challenges and tasks. In this action research, students found Actionbound fun and loved the competitive nature with points and leaderboards. It helped them build network and form friendship. Together, they solved puzzles and tackled challenges which supported their transition and got them prepared for learning in a new environment. Moving forward, as an ongoing action research, we would like to extend the use of Actionbound to term time and in module delivery so to track students’ engagement with the collaborative learning platform and investigate the impact on their academic performance.

57 Resident education in the NICU: A curriculum innovation project

Abstract Background For paediatrics residents, much of newborn care is learned during Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) rotations. However, the NICU is a high-stress and specialized learning environment. Today’s residents often have less NICU exposure during their training than in the past, leading to concerns from trainees that they are inadequately prepared for neonatal care and resuscitation upon graduation. Objectives We aimed to develop, implement and evaluate a paediatric residency NICU curriculum aimed to augment and improve learning on rotation. Design/Methods We utilized Kern’s Six Step Approach for Curriculum Development. Step 1: We identified that our paediatric residents consistently expressed dissatisfaction with the quality and quantity of learning opportunities on their NICU rotations. Step 2: A collaborative working group of residents, paediatricians, and neonatologists identified learning needs. Step 3: Needs were mapped to specific general paediatrics educational objectives within the Royal College Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum. Step 4: Suitable learning strategies were selected including simulation, procedural skill training, embedded time with the neonatal resuscitation team, and lunch and learn seminars. Steps 5 and 6: The curriculum was piloted during the 2021-2022 academic year and resident reactions evaluated. Results The detailed curriculum is shown in Table 1. At the start of each NICU rotation, all paediatrics residents on rotation attended a half-day simulation based “boot-camp” consisting of a didactic Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) refresher course, relevant procedural skills stations (intubation, UVC placement, needle thoracocentesis), and simulated neonatal resuscitation scenarios. Junior residents were scheduled for protected time to attend deliveries with a dedicated multidisciplinary resuscitation team to ensure familiarity and begin to solidify skills. Learning was further augmented by weekly, resident-led lunch and learn sessions on topics mapped to level of training. To evaluate this curriculum, resident satisfaction was assessed using surveys post bootcamp and at the end of their rotation. Overall, the curriculum was well received. Bootcamp was the highest rated element; 96% of residents agreed or strongly agreed that the session was useful for their education (Figure 1). Post curriculum implementation, there was significant improvement in resident NICU rotation feedback; residents expressed that the NICU learning environment and resident experience has improved. Conclusion We successfully implemented a NICU curriculum for paediatrics residents, with high satisfaction ratings and improved overall rotation feedback. This program shows promise in addressing a long standing educational gap. More research is needed to investigate whether it leads to improved competency in practice.

L2 anxiety, proficiency, and communication across the classroom, non-classroom, and digital settings: Insights from Ethiopian preparatory schools

Research into second or foreign language (L2) learning has demonstrated that L2 anxiety, perceived proficiency, and L2 willingness to communicate (L2WTC) profoundly impact language learning outcomes. However, the complex interplay between these variables has yet to be fully explored, as these factors are dynamic and context-specific and can vary across different learners and learning environments. The study, therefore, utilized a cross-sectional quantitative survey research design to scrutinize the causal relationships between L2 anxiety, English proficiency, and L2WTC of 609 Ethiopian preparatory school students. The model for the L2WTC, both inside and outside the classroom, has been expanded to include an additional sub-scale known as the L2WTC in a digital setting. Moreover, in contrast to the commonly recognized debilitative-focused L2 anxiety, the construct of L2 anxiety has been divided into facilitative and debilitative anxiety. This method allows us to measure not only the presence or absence of anxiety but also evaluate if anxiety helps or hinders the L2 learning experience. A self-assessment proficiency measure was also developed specifically for Ethiopian high school students. The study treated facilitative and debilitative anxiety as independent variables while considering English proficiency and L2WTC in the classroom, outside the classroom, and in digital settings as dependent variables. English proficiency was also used as an independent variable to predict L2WTC in these three settings. Our proposed model, including these variables, was tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). According to the descriptive analysis, the mean scores of L2WTC in the three settings were generally low, ranging from 2.30 to 2.84. Debilitative anxiety casts a shadow on the positive aspects of anxiety. The English proficiency was also too low. According to SEM, debilitative anxiety displayed a statistically significant negative impact on L2WTC inside and outside the classroom, in digital settings, and English proficiency. In contrast, facilitative anxiety was found to positively contribute to L2WTC outside the classroom, in digital settings, and in English proficiency. English proficiency made a statistically significant and positive contribution to L2WTC within and outside the classroom and in digital contexts. L2WTC inside the classroom positively contributed to L2WTC outside the classrooms and in digital contexts. We systematically compared the findings with existing studies in the discussion and elucidated the pedagogical implications, limitations, and potential future research avenues. The outcomes of our study have the potential to significantly contribute to the advancement of theoretical and empirical knowledge about improving English education, learning, and communication not only in Ethiopia but also in similar contexts of English as a foreign language (EFL).

A plant mutant screen CURE integrated with core biology concepts showed effectiveness in course design and students' perceived learning gains.

Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) provide students with valuable opportunities to engage in research in a classroom setting, expanding access to research opportunitiesfor undergraduates, fostering inclusive research and learning environments, and bridging the gap between the research and education communities. While scientific practices, integral to the scientific discovery process, have been widely implemented in CUREs, there have been relatively few reports emphasizing the incorporation of core biology concepts into CURE curricula. In this study, we present a CURE that integrates core biology concepts, including genetic information flow, phenotype-genotype relationships, mutations and mutants, and structure-function relationships, within the context of mutant screening and gene loci identification. The design of this laboratory course aligns with key CURE criteria, as demonstrated by data collected through the laboratory course assessment survey (LCAS). The survey of undergraduate research experiences (SURE) demonstrates students' learning gains in both course-directed skills and transferrable skills following their participation in the CURE. Additionally, concept survey data reflect students' self-perceived understanding of the aforementioned core biological concepts. Given that genetic mutant screens are central to the study of gene function in biology, we anticipate that this CURE holds potential value for educators and researchers who are interested in designing and implementing a mutant screen CURE in their classrooms. This can be accomplished through independent research or by establishing partnerships between different units or institutions.

Microlearning: Innovative Digital Learning for Various Educational Contexts and Groups

Microlearning brings a number of advantages that make it an attractive tool for education. Short and clear lessons minimize the risk of information overload, promote better understanding of the material, and enable quick and easy retention of information. The relevance of microlearning lies in its ability to respond to current educational needs and trends. Microlearning is considered to be a flexible, effective and innovative approach to learning that can be successfully applied in different learning environments, for different learning content and to different target groups. The aim of the research is to describe the impact of microlearning modules on the level of learning outcomes and perceived effectiveness in different target groups. Our research focuses on examining the effectiveness of microlearning on lower secondary school pupils, secondary school students and librarians. In the context of lower secondary schools, specific microlearning units thematically focused on programming and working in Scratch will be presented. This part of the research was carried out using an experiment and a questionnaire survey. In the experiment, the effectiveness of this type of teaching and digital learning materials was investigated. The experiment was conducted in parallel classes of a lower secondary school, and the participants were pupils aged 11 to 12 years old. The aim of the questionnaire survey was to find out the probands' opinions about microlearning. In the context of secondary schools and learning librarians, we conducted a survey of available materials and microlearning modules. In this paper we will introduce general concepts and strategies, with more detailed descriptions of specific modules to be published later. This paper aims to contribute to the growing awareness of the importance of microlearning as an effective educational tool and highlights its potential in different educational settings, especially lower secondary schools, thus providing useful material and inspiration for educators. The results suggest that the implementation of microlearning in lower secondary school settings has led to improved student learning outcomes.

It’s a Woman’s World: Exploring the Role of Female Qualities in the Evolving 21st Century Workplace

As the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR/Industry 4.0) continues to be realised through technological advances and social shifts, it has become evident that the future job market remains unpredictable and will continuously evolve. To accommodate the inevitable changes future generations will experience, teaching and learning environments are adapting their approaches. Instead of purely focusing on hard skills, the importance of conveying soft skills is increasingly recognised. Pedagogical experts have pulled the 4 C’s into focus as important 21st-century skills: critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration. The connection between these soft skills, lateral, right-brain thinking, and female qualities is often drawn. This study's methodology explored and synthesised literature across various fields to map key concepts, establish new connections, and explore whether women may inherently possess skills aligned with future workplace demands shaped by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Digital native characteristics are examined through Generational Theory, highlighting the benefits that soft skills will have for future generations. Additionally, literature on 21st-century skills is examined, and the differences between left and right brain characteristics are analysed to assess the importance of right-brain thinking in future workplaces. Lastly, gender-related qualities are evaluated to determine whether women may have an advantage in the evolving job market. By connecting these perspectives, the study aims to evaluate whether or not women may have the upper hand in the future working world. The study finds no concrete evidence that women inherently possess superior traits for future workplace demands, though the 4IR's emphasis on soft skills and inclusivity could enhance female participation. However, challenges like the lack of role models and digital echo chambers may still impede progress.

Impact of the EduIntegrity Suite on Academic Integrity: A Qualitative Study

The EduIntegrity Suite, a collection of tools designed to promote academic integrity, has garnered significant interest within educational institutions. This study explores the Suite's perceived effectiveness and its influence on various stakeholders through a mixed-methods approach. Semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with students, educators, and administrators at institutions utilizing the Suite. Student discussions explored their perceptions of the Suite's impact on their learning environment and potential concerns. Educators discussed how the Suite influenced their teaching practices and addressed suspected misconduct. Administrator focus groups provided insights into the decision-making process for implementing the Suite, its effectiveness, and its broader cultural influence. An online component complemented the focus groups, involving a comprehensive review of documents and websites related to the Suite. Company websites and product information for the Suite's individual tools were examined. Academic resources discussing the Suite's functionalities and potential applications were reviewed. News articles and blog posts offering insights from educators, administrators, and students regarding their experiences were explored. The findings highlight the Suite's multifaceted functionalities, including plagiarism detection, grammar and citation checking, originality reports, and remote proctoring services. While students acknowledged the Suite's potential deterrent effect, concerns about workarounds and a shift in focus from learning to detecting cheaters were also voiced. Administrators, however, emphasized the Suite's potential as a tool for promoting a culture of academic integrity, not just detecting plagiarism. Transparency and clear communication emerged as crucial for fostering trust and student acceptance. The EduIntegrity Suite appears to offer a promising approach to academic integrity when implemented strategically and combined with effective pedagogical practices. However, the success hinges on a multi-pronged approach that addresses student concerns, utilizes the Suite's functionalities effectively, and fosters a culture of ethical learning within the institution. To achieve this, institutions can prioritize clear communication about the Suite's purpose and limitations, support and develop staff with the Suites functionality and ethical consideration. Moreover, encourage educational initiatives that promote critical thinking, responsible research practices, and proper citation skills. Collaboration between educators and administrators can leverage the Suite's capabilities to create a more supportive and ethically sound learning environment.

Enhancing Reusability Practices in Massive Online Open Courses

Over the past decade, the emergence of Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) has profoundly transformed the distance learning landscape, capturing the attention of both higher education and professional institutions. This surge of interest has not only spurred the development of innovative teaching and learning methods but has also led to a re-evaluation of content production and reuse strategies. In fact, when producing MOOCs, multiple resources and efforts are dedicated to creating a considerable amount of learning material. This is often housed within the learning environment, which serves as a sort of repository and it is accessible by learners throughout the course. However, due to a lack of management support or internal organisational structure, the use of this material sometimes remains limited to the existence of the MOOC, causing it not to be actively employed and exploited after the course has ended. Lately, issues regarding MOOCs’ content management have raised critical questions about the long-term sustainability, reusability and management of the created online learning material even after the end of the online course. By using as a case study the three interlinked MOOCs on European History, Law and Governance developed in the framework of the KU Leuven programme in European Studies and the effort invested in both the planning and afterlife of the MOOC, this paper provides an overview of the formulas adopted to enhance learning content reusability. Drawing from KU Leuven’s extensive experience in creating humanities-focused MOOCs, this collection of interconnected online courses represents a novel attempt at offering a series of educational courses that are designed to complement each other not only in terms of content but also in terms of content management. Also, by contributing to the discussion on MOOCs' reusability this paper intends to emphasise the importance of establishing clear guidelines to enhance educational content reuse, ultimately contributing to the long-term educational value of MOOCs.

Relationships between self-efficacy and learning approaches as perceived by computer science students

Optimizing learning outcomes in university students necessitates an understanding of the processes that drive high-quality learning outcomes. This study investigates the motivational factors and learning methodologies perceived by computer science students during an introductory course. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 171 computer science students asked to complete a psychometric instrument (“Study Skills Inventory for Students”) during the first year of their university studies. Two major theoretical frameworks in educational psychology, namely students’ self-efficacy and learning approaches were tested relative to a factor structure obtained from learning situations. The findings supported self-efficacy and three learning approaches among computer science students. Models for deep, surface, and strategic learning approaches suggest that students with higher self-efficacy tend to adopt a deeper approach to learning. Conversely, students with lower self-efficacy were more inclined toward surface learning methods. Furthermore, a link was identified between strategic learning approaches and students’ experiences within their learning environments. The results substantiate earlier research and align with learning approach theories. The findings indicated that, in higher education settings, focus should be directed toward understanding the motivational factors influencing students and their learning approaches for educational outcomes.

School as a Safe Space through Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy

Quality education promotes gender-responsive policies. Yet, this is not always the case in developing countries like the Philippines. There are gaps in policy implementation, and safety issues faced by LGBTQIA+ learners persist. Purpose. This study focuses on teachers’ and learners’ perception of Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy (GRBEP) implementation and the safety of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and expanding identities (LGBTQIA+) learners in public and private schools. Hence, it determined the GRBEP implementation level and LGBTQIA+ learners' safety level. No significant correlation between policy implementation and learners’ safety, and no significant difference between public and private schools’ policy implementation and learners’ safety were assumed. The minimal studies and the urgent need to ensure a gender-responsive and safe learning environment underscore the significance of this research. Methodology. Validated questionnaires were distributed to 744 learners and teachers: 401 from private schools and 343 from public schools. The data collected were analyzed using mode, percentage, Pearson’s product-moment correlation, and independent samples test. Results. Learners and teachers perceived a “high level of implementation” of GRBEP in schools. LGBTQIA+ learners were generally “safe” in schools. The implementation level of Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy correlates with the safety level of LGBTQIA+ learners in school, as it was statistically significant (p=.026 &lt; α=0.05). There is no substantial evidence of a difference between public and private schools’ implementation level of GRBEP (p = 0.544 &gt; α=0.05). There is not enough evidence of a significant difference between public and private schools’ safety levels of LGBTQIA+ learners (p = 0.188 &gt; α=0.05). Conclusion. An efficient GRBEP implementation by schools ensures a working educational policy. LGBTQIA+ learners are safe in the learning environment. Public and private schools must strengthen awareness campaigns, address misconceptions and overlooked realities, conduct real-time monitoring, evaluation, and feedback mechanisms, as well as foster partnerships and linkages to uphold a safe space for every learner. With these actions, policymakers and school administrators can work towards creating a true quality and inclusive education that supports the well-being and success of all learners, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Industry Mentoring Program: Empowering External Degree Students for Career Success – Case Study from University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

In today's interconnected world, open distance education has become widespread, granting students the flexibility and accessibility to pursue higher education through external degree programmes. Despite the increasing feasibility of delivering knowledge and skills online, a significant hurdle remains in ensuring that participants are adequately equipped for the demands of the professional world of work. Traditionally, exposure to industry standards and practical experiences is gained through activities like industry visits, guest talks, meetups, and workshops, which are often absent in online distance education programs due to their remote nature. This dearth of industry-preparedness and practical skills presents a formidable obstacle for graduates as they transition into the workforce. Thus, bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations becomes imperative to enhance students' employability and career readiness, ultimately fostering their success in the workforce. This case study delves into the solution to this challenge through a meticulously crafted programme aimed at cultivating industry-ready graduates. Leveraging available technology, the program provides immersive experiences within the online learning environment. The paper details the Industry Mentoring Program (IMP), which employs technology to simulate real-world experiences, assesses stakeholder perceptions of the programme's value, and offers insights for future enhancements. This programme was conducted targeting the final year students of the Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) External Degree programme of the University of Moratuwa. This study investigates the experiences and viewpoints of students taking part in the IMP using surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Four student cohorts who have undergone the programme have provided their feedback both quantitatively and qualitatively. Across all groups the student satisfaction was totally positive with over 80% of the participants indicating their satisfaction at 4 or 5 on a Lickert Scale of 5 indicating very satisfied. Students’ perception of their preparedness for the workforce after participating in the IMP also is extremely positive. The findings indicates that the IMP significantly improves the career opportunities of BIT students. Feedback obtained from other stakeholders such as potential employers, resource persons and administrators also validate the effectiveness of the programme. The feedback and suggestions are incorporated to enhance the programme. University has decided to incorporate this programme into the curriculum with the 2024 curriculum revision of this open distance degree programme of BIT.

Teacher Perceptions of Deep Learning Models for Special Need Students in Inclusive Vocational Schools: A Fuzzy Logic Analysis

This study investigated teacher perceptions of the Deep Learning model for students with special needs in a vocational school practicing inclusive education. Utilizing the fuzzy logic approach, data from teacher observations and surveys were processed. The research emphasized the critical role of Deep Learning model in addressing the challenges in inclusive education. Teacher insights are essential for enhancing the efficacy of the model in catering to the unique learning needs of special students. Understanding their perspectives contributes to the ongoing discourse on inclusive education, offering valuable insights for educators and policymakers striving to create more inclusive and equitable learning environments. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on inclusive education by shedding light on the practical implementation of the Deep Learning model for students with special needs in vocational education settings.

The Application of Cooperative Principle in Classroom Language between Teachers and Students

The Cooperative Principle, as proposed by H.P. Grice, has been increasingly applied in educational settings to enhance communication between teachers and students. This paper reviews the application of the Cooperative Principle in various educational contexts, highlighting its significance in fostering effective classroom interactions. The principle, which emphasizes the importance of cooperation in conversation, is analyzed through different studies focusing on questionnaires, childhood education, online education, and language instruction. The paper, using case studies on the application of the maxims of quantity and quality in language instruction. It suggests that teachers should provide concise instructions and offer corrective feedback to enhance student engagement and language acquisition. In conclusion, the Cooperative Principle plays a vital role in educational communication, yet its effectiveness is influenced by individual and regional differences. Teachers are encouraged to adapt their lesson plans to incorporate the principle, ensuring more effective and supportive learning environments.