Learning Competencies Research Articles

Cultivating physician empathy: a person-centered study based in self-determination theory

ABSTRACT While physician empathy is a vital ingredient in both physician wellness and quality of patient care, consensus on its origins, and how to cultivate it, is still lacking. The present study examines this issue in a new and innovative way, through the lens of self-determination theory. Using survey methodology, we collected data from N = 177 (44%) students at a Canadian medical school. We then used a person-centered approach (cluster analysis) to identify medical student profiles of self-determination (based on trait autonomy and perceived competence in learning) and how the learning environment impacted empathy for those in each profile. When the learning environment was more autonomy-supportive, students experienced higher satisfaction and lower frustration of their basic psychological needs in medical school, as well as greater empathy towards patients. The translation into increased empathy, however, was only evident among the students with higher self-determination at baseline. Results from this study suggest that autonomy-supportive learning environments will generally support medical students’ psychological needs for optimal motivation and well-being, but whether or not they lead to empathy towards patients will depend on individual differences in self-determination. Findings and their implications are discussed in terms of developing theory-driven approaches to cultivating empathy in medical education.

Solutions for Independent Goal Setting and Implementation of Primary School Students Fostering the Competence of Learning to Learn

The paper analyzes what personal goals primary school pupils are able to set on their own and how they achieve them in their decision-making process, thereby developing competence in learning to learn. In this work, the reader will be able to get acquainted with the theoretically grounded concept of the development of competence in learning and the possibilities of developing this competence in primary schools. In addition, it provides practical tools for the quality development of students’ learning competence, where students not only set personal goals and plan the steps to achieve them but also reflect on their experiences. An action research study analyzed the content of students’ (N = 50) personal learning diaries, discussing the students’ learning goals and the choices they make to achieve them and reflecting on the efforts made, and results were obtained in the development of the competence to learn. Based on the study findings, it is evident that fourth-grade students exhibit distinct patterns in individual goal setting, action-planning, and reflection processes. The analysis presented in this paper analyzes the general highlights and overarching themes and provides specific instances of goals, activity tasks, and reflections, offering insight into the cognitive processes of fourth-graders and their perceptions regarding the benefits and challenges of learning.

Book reviews [International Journal of Emotional Education, 16(1)

The books reviewed here are all relevant to the concept of social and emotional learning (SEL). The first, Is This Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else, examines the social and emotional needs of children, adolescents and adults who are neurodiverse. What is unique about this book is that the authors are neurodiverse, and they took advice from a panel of autistic people as they wrote it. The second edited book, Assessing Competencies for Social and Emotional Learning: Conceptualization, Development, and Applications, is written by leading experts in the field of SEL assessment. The third book, Bully Blocking: Empowering Students to Manage Bullying. A Guidebook for Teachers, Parents and Counsellors, gives a wealth of practical advice to educators, mental health professionals and parents on how to help those children who are being bullied at school and how to build up their self-confidence, self-esteem and resilience. Each will be of interest to readers of IJEE.

Examining the Measurement Invariance and Validity of the SSIS SEL Brief + Mental Health Scales – Student Version in Austria and Germany

The SSIS SEL Brief + Mental Health Scales (SSIS SELb+MHS) are multi-informant assessments developed in the United States to assess the social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies and emotional behavior concerns (EBCs) of school-age youth. Although there are translations of the SEL items of the SSIS SELb+MHS available in other languages, a German translation has never been completed and validated, despite the growing need for SEL and mental health assessment in German-speaking countries. To address this need, this study’s primary purpose was the examination of a German translation of the assessment with a specific focus on measurement invariance and concurrent validity invariance testing with 821 3rd through 6th-grade students in Austria and Germany. Results indicated that the SELb+MHS items clustered into 2 SEL factors and 2 EBC factors. With regard to measurement invariance, the SELb+MHS functioned similarly across both Austria and Germany and full scalar invariance was achieved. Additionally, the overall pattern of concurrent validity relationships was as expected and similar across countries. Implications and future directions are discussed.

Assessment of Students’ Learning Outcome and Competency through a Blend of Knowledge and Practical Ability

Assessment of Students’ Learning Outcome and Competency through a Blend of Knowledge and Practical Ability

Measuring social and emotional learning skills of preschool children in Croatia : initial validation of the SSIS SEL Brief Scales

Although there is increased interest in social and emotional competence and mental health in Croatia, there are currently limited measurement options available for early childhood settings. Thus, the SSIS SEL Brief Scales (SSIS SELb), an efficient measure of social and emotional learning competencies developed in the United States, was translated to Croatian and used by 49 early childhood educators to rate a sample of 685 children (average age 4.3 years) from several counties in Croatia. Regarding measurement invariance, the final model cohered substantially with a CASEL-inspired framework. Overall reliability was also high especially for the SEL Composite (α = .94), with notably lower reliability for subscales. Regarding cross-group concurrent validity, concurrent coefficients were largely similar across age and gender, but there were regional differences in validity. Likewise, validity correlations were in line with expectations, with moderate relationships observed between the SSIS SEL Composite and Child and Youth Resilience Measure scores. In sum, the high level of reliability provided a foundation for applied and research usage of the Croatian SSIS SELb, although further validation research will continue to be necessary before widescale implementation. Limitations to the study are discussed and also point to needed additional research before utilizing the Croatian translated SSIS SELb for applied decisions with young children.

A Trial of Small-Scale Crowdsourcing to Achieve Group Learning Competencies in Clinical Chemistry

A Trial of Small-Scale Crowdsourcing to Achieve Group Learning Competencies in Clinical Chemistry

Impact of First Language (L1) on Second Language (L2) Pronunciation: A Case Study of Undergraduate ESL Learners in Pakistan

Language pronunciation is an indispensable part of the language learning process. It plays a substantial role in enhancing the communicative competence and performance of sound language learners. The learning of pronunciation is a very sensitive and complicated aspect of the English language classroom. However, all L1 students are not equally good at learning pronunciation. The research aims to explore the phonological features of L1 that influence the pronunciation of L2. Similarities and differences between the phonological systems of the L1 and L2 are also part of this study. The study discusses theory and personal observations that classify the influence of L1 on L2. This research is significant because it highlights importance of acquiring the pronunciation of a second language. This study assesses the impact of L1 on the pronunciation of L2 using a quantitative data analysis approach and Transfer Hypothesis Theory. The Transfer Hypothesis Theory suggests that the skills and knowledge acquired in one language can transfer and influence the learning and use of another language. The result of this analysis provides valuable insights into the relationship between L1 and L2 and contributes to our understanding of the Transfer Hypothesis Theory.

디지털전환 시대의 직업훈련 교･강사 역량체계 개발 연구

The purpose of this study is to derive common core competencies of vocational training teachers and instructors and develop a competency framework that reflects changes in industrial and occupational trends due to digital transformation. The research procedure is carried out in three stages. In the initial phase, a preliminary competency framework for training instructors was developed through an analysis of prior research. Subsequently, validation was conducted via an expert Delphi survey, leading to the presentation of a competency framework for vocational training instructors. The research findings delineated five major competency domains comprising fundamental competencies, teaching, learning, and assessment competencies, learner support competencies, administrative competencies, and organizational management competencies. Across these five main domains, 23 sub-competencies were identified, each accompanied by operational definitions. This study establishes the groundwork for the development of competency assessment tools, incorporating contemporary demands such as AI and digital competencies within the framework for vocational training instructors. Future efforts should concentrate on aligning competency assessment tools with educational programs to enhance competencies based on this research. Additionally, ongoing updates to the competency framework are recommended for further investigation.

학생 현장탐방형 META-HyFlex 혁신 수업모형이 대학생의 자기주도학습역량, 창의적 문제해결역량 향상에 미치는 영향

Objectives The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of META-HyFlex(Meta-HyFlex) innovation class model on the improvement of students' self-directed learning competency and creative problem solving competency.
 Methods The subjects of this study were college students who enrolled in the required courses at the basic level of major at S University. The experiment was conducted in the first semester of 2018 before the onset of COVID-19 and the second semester of 2022 when the META-HyFlex innovation class model was introduced in the post-corona period.A pre-test was conducted with a total of 23 questions, including 13 self-directed learning competencies and 10 creative problem-solving abilities, which were self-reported check items before the class started, and the homogeneity between the groups was confirmed.
 Results As a result of analyzing the change trajectory of the experimental group and the comparative group, it was found that the self-directed learning ability and the creative problem solving ability improvement effect were significant in the 2022 class (face-to-face class) in which the META-HyFlex innovation class model was introduced to strengthen the successful student experience.
 Conclusions The META-HyFlex Innovative Teaching-Learning Model is a class design focused on enhancing class effectiveness. It integrates knowledge of various disciplines and learners can perform multidisciplinary, practical, and cooperative tasks to foster self-directed learning and creative problem solving skills.This study for the improvement of future core competencies of university students can be provided as basic data for educational outcomes to improve the quality of education and will contribute to the advancement of customized experience- based education for the improvement of future core competencies of university students in the era of future transition.

Theoretical and practical exploration of work-based learning curriculum with a case study

This contribution reviews the development of vocational education and training (VET) curriculum development in the last two decades in China, which is categorised into three models: curriculum with theory and practice in parallel (TPP), curriculum with theory in the service of practice (TSP), and integrated curriculum between theory and practice (ITP). It describes briefly also a VET curriculum reform project that adopts a design-based research approach. The main objective of this project is to explore curriculum models that can more effectively promote the development of learners’ holistic professional competences. Result shows that the new work-based curriculum, especially ITP, plays a positive role in promoting the professional action competence of students. The new curriculum also has been welcomed by employers. Difficulties in implementation of new curriculum are teaching capability and work experience defect of teachers, and the lack of self-directed learning competence of some students. The key problem to be solved in the future is how to effectively identify the courses and learning contents through effective qualification research.

The impact of virtual learning environment on future teachers’ professional competence in lifelong learning

The study aimed to empirically test the impact of a virtual learning environment on the professional competence of future computer science teachers in lifelong learning by conducting a survey and comparing the professional competence of bachelor and master students, as well as their opinions on the impact of the virtual learning environment on future teachers’ professional competence in lifelong learning. The surveying methods were cognitive, motivational, activity-based, and value-based. A survey of students found that a virtual learning environment has the most significant impact on the activity component of professional competence, and most students are motivated to use virtual learning environments to improve their professional competence. The survey of teaching staff revealed a positive attitude towards professional development through virtual learning environments, the prevalence among students of high and sufficient levels of professional competence and digital literacy. The obtained results can be used to adjust the virtual educational process of future teachers’ professional training in the system of Ukrainian HEIs.

국내 초⋅중등 수학교육에서 협력학습 연구에 관한 체계적 문헌 고찰

This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on collaborative learning research in elementary and secondary mathematics education in Korea, explore various characteristics related to the research, and discuss areas for improvement. To achieve this, this study presents a protocol for analyzing research in mathematics education with a focus on collaboration and cooperation, following a systematic literature review methodology. Then analyze the selected studies based on the themes derived from the protocol. As a result of the systematic literature review, research characteristics on collaborative learning were categorized into eight main themes: keywords, small group composition methods, sampling methods, sample size, analysis methods, analytical frameworks, domains of educational goal, and collaborative mathematical competencies in collaborative learning. The research findings revealed several key points: First, many studies conducted at the various school grades and methodologies, help to understand various classroom environments that implement collaborative learning. Second, it was found that the researcher's subjective characteristics were largely reflected in the selection of the sample extraction method and sample size. Third, as the cognitive domain of collaborative learning mainly presents changes as results through pre- and post-academic achievement, in relation to mathematics subject competency, there have been many studies that have derived results in relation to collaborative mathematical problem solving.

디자인씽킹 기반의 초등학교 인공지능 교육프로그램 프로토타입 개발

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to develop a prototype of an elementary school artificial intelligence education program based on design thinking. Method: To this end, core values and design principles of AI(Artificial Intelligence) education programs for elementary schools based on Design Thinking were derived through literature studies, case studies, and demand surveys. Results: As a result, the content feasibility was improved in the CVI measurement of the secondary FGI participant. I would like to suggest that: First, this study is the prototype development study of artificial intelligence education programs, and the researcher's intention was to develop a prototype-type artificial intelligence education program and help it be used in the field quickly. Second, this study was not a study of the development of AI education programs in the form of prototypes that measured effectiveness or improvement in the specific competence of learners or professors through the program. Therefore, the contents and areas of AI education used in this study were reconstructed based on foreign cases and the results of AI curriculum research conducted so far. Conclusion: Therefore, if a formal curriculum for AI education is presented under the leadership of the Ministry of Education, it is necessary to develop the final form of AI education programs based on Design Thinking.

Integration Review of Project Based Learning in Biology Education: A Systematic Literature Synthesis of Education Levels, Biology Subdisciplines, Research Methodologies and Learning Competencies

Project-Based Learning (PjBL) has become an increasingly popular learning approach in many fields, including biology. The research conducted a systematic review of the literature on the implementation and effectiveness of PjBL in biology education, especially in the period 2019–2023. The study explores the use of PjBL in various subdisciplines of biology, education, and research methodologies, as well as integrating a variety of targeted learning and competence approaches. Colleges widely adopt PjBL, focusing on developing students' cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities. The study also highlights the various learning methods integrated into the pjBL, including laboratory experiments, field activities, and reflection. The findings confirm that PjBL is an effective educational strategy for improving student understanding of concepts, critical thinking skills, and learning motivation. This approach supports holistic and applied learning experiences, integrating theory with real practice, as well as developing skills essential to students in the 21st century. The study provides a comprehensive insight into the current trends and potential of PjBL in biology education, as well as recommending directions for future education research and practice.

Perspectives of digital competencies. A comparison of different constructs of digital pedagogical competencies

Digital pedagogical competency is a core competency for teachers, yet its definition and assessment methods lack consensus. Authors using different theories and methodologies reach similar conclusions, prompting exploration of overlaps in conceptualizations. Based on the DPaCK-model, three subareas of ‘digital pedagogical competencies’ were examined through a merged version of three instruments, assessing their independence and distinct facets. A total of N = 484 students from Germany took part in the survey. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed high intercorrelations and inconclusive results. Exploratory factor analysis suggested a three-factor structure: (1) general digital competence, (2) learning and teaching-related digital competence, and (3) precautions regarding digital technology. Comprehensive assessment of digital competences needs to take into account that we are dealing with a composite construct.

Ready to Implement? An Exploration of K12 Faculty’s Preparedness to Create Inclusive Learning Environments

Understanding how to create trauma-informed learning environments which can contribute to learner empowerment is the focus of this phase of an ongoing education design research project. As embedding opportunities for social-emotional learning (SEL) competency development has proven to help all students develop a sense of belonging within their educational environments (Cooper, 2014), a classroom climate that promotes these opportunities proves a useful metric by which to define inclusive learning environments. Internal and external factors K-12 faculty perceive as affecting their ability to create inclusive learning environments for increasingly diverse student bodies are examined. Observations are used to understand the extent to which faculty perception informs classroom practice. As K12 teachers are often collaborators in design and implementation of inclusive environments, an understanding of the extent to which these individuals conceptualize terms such as “belonging” is critical.

Three-wave cross-lagged model on the correlations between critical thinking skills, self-directed learning competency and AI-assisted writing

The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on English writing is gaining prominence. This study aimed to examine the interplay between critical thinking skills, self-directed learning competency, and Artificial Intelligence writing by cross-lagged model, with the focus on the moderating role of self-directed learning competency on critical thinking skills and Artificial Intelligence writing. A total of 204 participants completed a critical thinking test, self-directed learning questionnaire and a writing task. The results revealed significant correlations between critical thinking skills, self-directed learning competence, and AI-assisted writing. However, the temporal correlations between critical thinking skills and self-directed learning exhibited a reciprocal pattern over three times, while the correlations between critical thinking skills, self-directed learning, and AI-assisted writing were unidirectional. Interestingly, the findings indicated that self-directed learning moderated the relationship between critical thinking skills and AI-assisted writing over two times, but not in the third time. These findings emphasized the pivotal roles of critical thinking skills and self-directed learning in AI-assisted writing among EFL learners. They also suggested that using AI-assisted tools critically and independently in writing can mitigate the tendency to over-rely on these tools.

Analysis of the Early Childhood Education Curriculum from a Resilience Perspective

As resilience refers to the human capacity to overcome challenging situations and quickly recover from them, fostering it from an early age in an educational context will enable children to be more efficient at both the cognitive and emotional levels. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to analyze the presence of resilience pillars in the current Spanish educational legislation, focusing on Early Childhood Education. In Spain, the new Education Law (LOMLOE) Organic Law 3/2020, amending Organic Law 2/2006, aims to enhance autonomy, initiative, and conflict resolution in children. In Royal Decree 95/2022 on Early Childhood Education, the three areas of knowledge (harmonious growth, discovery and exploration of the environment, and communication and representation of reality) are examined in relation to Steven J. Wolin and Sybil Wolin’s seven resilience pillars. In the second cycle of early childhood education, emphasis is placed on the development of specific competences for learning and doing, contributing to the comprehensive development of the child. Although the LOMLOE does not explicitly mention resilience, the curriculum reflects these resilience pillars—except for humor—highlighting the importance of understanding the individual characteristics and contexts of children. In summary, the promotion of resilience in early childhood education aligns with educational regulations in Spain, contributing to the comprehensive development of children and preparing them for future challenges.

Learning to safeguard: exploring adult safeguarding officers' readiness for online learning and their perceptions of a blended learning safeguarding training programme

PurposeThis paper aims to present commentary on adult safeguarding designated officers’ (nominated senior staff members in the Health Service Executive and its funded services) in Ireland readiness for online learning and their perception of the blended approach used in their training and considers the implications of this for practice.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 233 designated officers were surveyed. A self-administered online survey comprising of two instruments was used. The questionnaire combines two previously validated tools measuring readiness for online learning and perceptions of blended learning. Minor modifications were made to account for local circumstance and language. Demographic questions relevant to the survey population were added. The response rate was 49%.FindingsDesignated officers regarded specified competencies for online learning as important to very important with highest importance placed in time management. Designated officers expressed they were confident to very confident in their ability to accomplish all competencies in online learning. The highest confidence was in the technical competencies. Designated officers are demonstrating high readiness for online learning. Designated officers reported positively on online contributions and on blended learning workload. The scores indicate positive perceptions of the blended learning experience. Responses to an open-ended question were largely positive with some suggestions for improvement made.Practical implicationsFindings have helped inform planning and development of the Health Service Executive’s adult safeguarding training for designated officers with changes made since this survey was undertaken.Originality/valueTo the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first time a survey was undertaken of designated officers in Ireland with a view to improving safeguarding training. Recommendations for adaptions to the blended designated officer programme were proposed and subsequently accepted and implemented.