Learning Pedagogy Research Articles

The impact of virtual reality haptic simulators in pre-clinical restorative dentistry: a qualitative enquiry into dental students’ perceptions

PurposeIn the realm of restorative dentistry, the integration of virtual reality haptic simulation (VRHS) for learning operative skills has garnered varied perceptions among dental students. Therefore, the aim of this study was to delve deep into undergraduates dental students’ perceptions related to the impact of VRHS in pre-clinical restorative dentistry.MethodsA homogeneous purposive sampling method was utilized to gather data from third-year undergraduate dental students (n = 23) at the College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, to thoroughly investigate their views on the impact of VRHS on their learning experience in preparing a standard class I cavity. An explorative qualitative method using face-to-face focus group sessions were conducted in English during 2023. Focus group sessions were recorded and transcribed using Microsoft Teams. Two authors independently read the transcripts, coded the text, and manually analyzed text using an inductive thematic approach.ResultsA total of 21 (91.3%) students participated in this study. Analysis of 3 focus group interviews revealed five primary themes summarized with the term “MASTR” (M = manual dexterity, A = assessment, S = sequence, T = training, and R = realism). Based on frequency of reported themes, students perceived realism/ lifelike nature of VRHS requiring further enhancement to achieve the desired learning objective.ConclusionAlthough, VRHS play a crucial role in modern dental education, offering innovative solutions for training, evaluation, and feedback, the need to enhance their ability to simulate real-life dental procedures and learning environment (realism), coupled with interactive and immersive learning experiences were the most frequently raised theme by students. In terms of curriculum design and learning pedagogies, dental educators should consider the appropriate sequence when integrating VRHS within the undergraduate curricula.

Building an Active Classroom Using the Active Learning Pedagogy Sequence

This paper is a practical how-to guide to help you start using active learning or to have greater success and more fun with it. We categorize active learning techniques as Think, Pair, Share, Composite, Group, Move, or Lead and discuss how to implement activities in each category, along with advice on creating engaging, effective, and equitable learning experiences. We introduce the Active Learning Pedagogy Sequence (ALPS) which orders these categories by difficulty and time for instructors and students. We believe both instructors' teaching skills and students' learning skills develop along the ALPS.

Hybridity, Transparency, Structured Freedom and Flipped Engagement

In this paper, we contribute to current discussions of what constitutes the field of networked learning as a research domain and what makes networked learning particularly relevant and distinct within the broader landscape of digital technology in higher education. We enter this dialogue through discussing and reflecting on a hybrid learning design for a 10-ECTS module that builds on a Networked Learning Pedagogy. The purpose of our discussions is to elicit tensions and contradictions that surface when students are confronted with a networked learning pedagogy. We discuss the module in relation to ideas of networked learning pedagogy, present four pedagogical principles underpinning the module, and we draw out interesting tensions and contradictions that have emerged. Following this, we use the discussions to feed into the ongoing dialogue of ‘what is networked learning’, and we discuss how networked learning can contribute to practice and policy in higher education through developing practice.

Action and Engagement in Climate Science Learning Pedagogy

Action and Engagement in Climate Science Learning Pedagogy

The Gestalt of Gestalt pedagogy

Summary Applied Gestalt theory in the tradition of Gestalt psychology on the one hand and Gestalt pedagogy in the tradition of Gestalt therapy on the other hand are two different ways of thinking about education. Gestalt pedagogy proves to be compatible in many ways with current positions in education studies, in particular those of phenomenological pedagogy, dialogical pedagogy and theories of meaningful learning. All three approaches could provide a common ground for the two Gestalt traditions – not only for bringing them into relation, but also for strengthening their theoretical frameworks and thus enriching education studies.

Climate action to enable quality education: exploring the potential of Eco-Schools to reverse the triple education crises in Rwanda

This article presents the results of research conducted between 2021 and 2023 by the Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS) with 240 partners including teachers, learners and parents in six Rwandan schools. A relational knowledge co-creation methodology was used to gain a shared understanding of education and climate change challenges in the schools and co-create solutions using the Eco-Schools problem-based learning pedagogy. The knowledge co-creation processes revealed a negative relationship at the intersection between climate change and quality education which is interrupting successful implementation of both the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC), and the School Feeding Programme policies of the Government of Rwanda, affecting national progress towards SDG 4 and SDG 13. However, by integrating climate action projects in the CBC, with practical skills and knowledge from parents and wider community members, education barriers caused by poor school conditions, and poor nutrition, health and comfort of learners are being removed, while the quality and relevance of teaching and learning in schools is being improved. The article therefore proposes the Eco-Schools programme as a potential means of simultaneously addressing the UN’s ‘triple crisis’ of inclusion, quality and relevance. Ultimately, by showing that it is possible to transform education in even the most challenged schools, at a relatively low cost, within a very short space of time (one school year) and without large-scale curriculum reform or infrastructure, the findings of this research promote wider, faster and more optimistic progression toward the UNESCO’s ‘Reimagining Education’ vision and the Greening Education Partnership targets.

Metaphorical conceptualizations of generative artificial intelligence use by Chinese university EFL learners

The unveiling of ChatGPT 4o by OpenAI, a multimodal large language model powered by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), has injected interest and incited debate throughout the echelon of education institutions regarding its prospective benefits and drawbacks. Nonetheless, investigations into the learners’ perceptions of GenAI use in learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) remain markedly insufficient. The study adopts an explorative stance and aims to explore the attitudes and perceptions of Chinese EFL learners toward GenAI use in language learning through the application of metaphor analysis. Data were collected from 281 EFL students of varying majors in four key universities across China by completing a sentence using metaphors to elicit their attitudes and perceptions toward GenAI use in language learning. Through qualitative analysis of metaphorical constructs, including HUMANS, TOOL/MACHINE, BRAIN, RESOURCES, FOOD/DRINK, and MEDICINE metaphors, the study unveils a spectrum of attitudes toward GenAI. While some language learners perceived GenAI as supportive, helpful, and intelligent, others expressed concerns about over-reliance and potential loss of critical thinking skills. The findings underscore the importance of considering learners’ diverse attitudes and beliefs toward GenAI use and application in language learning pedagogy. The implications of these findings for the future integration of GenAI in language education are discussed, complemented by recommendations for further research and pedagogical practice.

Implementing Flipped Learning Pedagogy in Algerian Higher Education: From a recommendation to a necessity

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a significant transformation in teaching methodologies. Flipped Learning (FL) emerged as a strategy to enhance English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction by emphasizing student- centered learning, autonomy, and active participation. This approach generally involves students engaging with pre-recorded lectures or online materials before class, thereby allowing in-class time to be dedicated to interactive activities, discussions, and deeper commitment with the subject matter. Although FL has gained popularity in various educational settings, its adoption and effectiveness in Algerian higher education have not been thoroughly investigated. This study investigates the experiences of EFL teachers at the Ecole Normale Supérieure "Assia Djebar" in Constantine, Algeria, focusing on their perspectives on incorporating FL into their post-pandemic teaching. Using a descriptive research design, an online questionnaire was employed to assess teachers' familiarity with FL principles, their experiences with its implementation (including challenges faced during the transition), and their views on its impact on the teaching and learning environment. The study also explored teachers' attitudes toward the necessity and potential benefits of FL in Algerian higher education. The research involved administering an online questionnaire to 20 EFL teachers during the 2021-2022 academic year. Although the sample is limited to this particular institution, it offers valuable insights into the early stages of FL adoption. The findings indicated a shift towards positive attitudes and an acknowledgment of FL's advantages, such as improved development of critical thinking skills. This suggests a growing acceptance of FL as a valuable pedagogical approach for enhancing EFL learning outcomes in Algerian higher education. By embracing the opportunities that FL presents, the higher education system in Algeria can adapt to the challenges and demands of the digital age, better preparing students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly evolving world.

Immediate Versus Delayed Low-Stakes Questioning: Encouraging the Testing Effect Through Embedded Video Questions to Support Students’ Knowledge Outcomes, Self-Regulation, and Critical Thinking

AbstractIn light of the educational challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a growing need to bolster online science teaching and learning by incorporating evidence-based pedagogical principles of Learning Experience Design (LXD). As a response to this, we conducted a quasi-experimental, design-based research study involving nN = 183 undergraduate students enrolled across two online classes in an upper-division course on Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at a large R1 public university. The study extended over a period of 10 weeks, during which half of the students encountered low-stakes questions immediately embedded within the video player, while the remaining half received the same low-stakes questions after viewing all the instructional videos within the unit. Consequently, this study experimentally manipulated the timing of the questions across the two class conditions. These questions functioned as opportunities for low-stakes content practice and retention, designed to encourage learners to experience testing effect and augment the formation of their conceptual understanding. Across both conditions, we assessed potential differences in total weekly quiz grades, page views, and course participation among students who encountered embedded video questions. We also assessed students’ self-report engagement, self-regulation, and critical thinking. On average, the outcomes indicated that learners exposed to immediate low-stakes questioning exhibited notably superior summative quiz scores, increased page views, and enhanced participation in the course. Additionally, those who experienced immediate questioning demonstrated heightened levels of online engagement, self-regulation, and critical thinking. Moreover, our analysis delved into the intricate interplay between treatment conditions, learners’ self-regulation, critical thinking, and quiz grades through a multiple regression model. Notably, the interaction between those in the immediate questioning condition and self-regulation emerged as a significant factor, suggesting that the influence of immediate questioning on quiz grades varies based on learners’ self-regulation abilities. Collectively, these findings highlight the substantial positive effects of immediate questioning of online video lectures on both academic performance and cognitive skills within an online learning context. This discussion delves into the potential implications for institutions to continually refine their approach in order to effectively promote successful online science teaching and learning, drawing from the foundations of pedagogical learning experience design paradigms and the testing effect model.

A DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF CYBER SOCIALISING INTERACTIONS IN ENGLISH AMONG STUDENTS

The influence of modern technology and engagement in cyber socialising have become a prominent part of modern communication. A new learning pedagogy with proper guidelines is needed to assist users to engage with social networking platforms efficiently. The researcher investigated discourse analysis involving participants to answer questions about both the contextual application of the language, and the functions and results of aspects pertaining to discourse such as diction, cohesion, and metaphors. The researcher employed a quantitative approach in this study. The study randomly sampled 80 students from a University of Technology (UoT) in Gauteng to participate in quantitative discourse analysis of communication using Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter texts. The methods of data elicitation embraced extracts from Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter texts provided by 80 participants. Statistics were used to present the findings of the quantitative data which included mainly frequency of certain aspects pertaining to discourse. Data were collected via email and texts were numbered according to the participants. These texts remain anonymous and the identities of the participants were concealed. The study found that the language used on Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter was characterised by the use of emoji, low register words, code-switching few spelling errors and the modern tendency to shorten words by using clipping and number homophones which are not seen as errors but a unique style of writing. Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter remain three popular communication sites and discourse surfaces since it is important for users to communicate meaningfully even when using excessive punctuation to indicate excitement and emoji to communicate emotions.

Improving the Quality of Islamic Education through Diversity-Informed Pedagogy at Pesantren Ar-Raudlatul Hasanah Medan

This research aims to explore and understand other aspects of improving the quality of education at Pesantren Ar-Raudlatul Hasanah Medan beyond the pedagogy of classroom learning. The focus of this research is on the development of exemplary pedagogy and pedagogy with diversity and social insight in the context of pesantren education. This research uses a qualitative approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation studies. Data analysis was conducted using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion-drawing methods. The results showed that improving the quality of education in Pesantren Ar-Raudlatul Hasanah Medan is achieved through pedagogical coaching that focuses on teacher exemplars. Discipline in teaching and ubudiyyah activities also have a positive impact on the learning process. In addition, this study found that diversity- and social-minded pedagogy is critical in the context of pesantren that have diverse santri backgrounds. The implementation of this pedagogy helps to create an inclusive and harmonious learning environment. This research makes a significant contribution to the field of Islamic education studies, especially in the context of pesantren. The findings emphasize the importance of developing exemplary pedagogy and diversity- and social-minded pedagogy to improve the quality of pesantren education. In addition, this study also highlights the need for a holistic approach in pesantren education that not only focuses on academic aspects but also on developing students' character and social skills

Systematic Literature Review on Pedagogies and Visualization Tools for Machine Learning in K-12 Schools

Though studies have been done on Machine Learning, almost all the studies focused on higher educational institutions, with little attention to K-12 educational settings. Those studies that focused on K-12 are scattered, making it difficult to specifically know which visualization tools best enhance Machine Learning in K-12 schools. This study, therefore, through a systematic literature review determines which visualization tools best promote Machine Learning in K-12 schools. The study specifically considered, barriers to the use of Machine Learning in K-12 schools, visualization tools for Machine Learning in K-12 schools, and pedagogical strategies that benefit the teaching and learning of Machine Learning in K-12 schools. The study sourced articles from Scopus and the Web of Science database after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data from the articles were extracted based on the PICO framework and their quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) model. The barriers to Machine Learning in K-12 schools include a lack of information about the development and usage of the tools, selection, and coordination barriers, lack of attention to machine learning by educational stakeholders, and programming demands. Appropriate visualization tools for Machine Learning in K-12 schools include MLflow and NN-SVG. Though there exist numerous approaches for teaching ML in K-12 settings such as active learning, inquiry-based, participatory learning, and design-oriented approaches, the best pedagogy that supports machine learning in K-12 schools as per existing literature is participatory learning. Teachers need to acquire the appropriate and specific information and technical know-how or skills about machine learning for promoting visualization lessons in K-12 schools. All teachers should be sensitized to adopt participatory learning pedagogy to enhance the effective use of machine learning in K-12 schools. Machine learning should be integrated into teaching and learning in K-12 schools since it is ideal for visualization and experimentation, which are inevitable for effective teaching and learning in K-12 schools.

Decolonially speaking, sensing, and thinking: Racialized tuition-based family therapists learning without teaching.

We address the ethical implications of training and becoming family therapists in the United States when considering the colonial control and management of knowledge by the westernized institutionalized university. We do so decolonially. Through the work of decolonial thinkers, doers, and sensers, we center our discussion on the heteropatriarchal Eurocentric institutionalization of knowledge linked to the development and sustainability of structures of family therapy training through racialization and monetization. We discuss a decolonial understanding of race in relation to the liberalized politics of diversity, equity, and inclusion and upward mobility of family therapy education. Most importantly, we reflect upon the possibilities of reexistence within family therapy, fissuring the colonial structures of training tuition-based family therapists. We locate those possibilities through practices of crack-making, epistemic insurgence, and mischief. Our discussions and reflections are developed throughout by thinking, sensing, and speaking decolonially, storying our racialized incarnated lives from the saberes, ज्ञान, rhythms, vapors, or tastes of our communities, displaced by the European cannon. We embrace a decolonial pedagogy of learning without teaching, positioning family therapy education as a site for sociopolitical struggle and action toward possibilities of reexistence.

Conceptualising culturally nourishing pedagogies for professional learning in Australian schooling

AbstractThere is a growing body of evidence highlighting effective pedagogical approaches for educating First Nations students around the world. Despite this evidence, and a plethora of culturally-inclusive aligned policies and professional strategies, many Aboriginal students continue to receive inequitable and poor-quality schooling in Australian schools in ways that do not meet their sovereign needs. While a range of culturally responsive / sustaining / competent / etc. practices have been argued to positively impact Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students' educational experiences, there remains a lack of cohesive understanding about the factors at play that impact student outcomes over a sustained period of time. This conceptual paper explores scholarship that has either provided empirical evidence of, or coherent descriptions about, cultural pedagogies to provocate a culturally nourishing framework and guide educators in working with Aboriginal students and knowledges. Beyond general descriptions, we conceptualise what such pedagogies might look like as observable attributes of classroom practice. The aim in doing so is to offer a framework that supports the authentic and effective professional learning of educators who work with, and learn from, local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students to actualise nourishing pedagogies throughout the everydayness of schooling.

Towards an Integrated Model for Orienting Preservice Science Teachers for 21st-Century Teaching

This conceptual paper builds the case for orienting preservice science teachers for 21<sup>st</sup>-century teaching on a footing of Miller et al. (2013) framework for science teacher preparation called the Model of Research-Based Education for Teachers (MORE for Teachers). MORE for Teachers frames science teacher preparation as anchored on four pillars: in-depth subject matter, research-based science teaching methods, guided practicum, and a shared vision of the pedagogy of science learning. Based on the limitations of Miller et al.'s linear model yet still maintaining the value of its central tenets the paper proposes a model that is interactive and framing standards in science teaching, curriculum development, rigorous content, research-based science methods course, and quality field experiences as the essential aspects for producing teacher candidates with the right skills for science teaching. The paper argues that pre-service science teachers (PSTs) development in teacher education colleges and universities requires a framework for harmonization that ensures consideration of all the necessary ingredients for science teacher preparation. Drawing on a diversity of literature sources on science teacher education the paper discusses the application of the proposed model in Zimbabwe, illustrating the importance of detailed methods courses, rigorous science content, expert mentoring, personal teaching philosophy, and a consideration of international trends in science teaching.  In conclusion, the paper recommends other contexts in which the integrated model for science teacher preparation can be used and some steps for its practical implementation.

STEAM: Momentous Approach of Teaching Learning

Globally, learning approaches that mingle various scientific fields are in great need today in education form to improve the product of education. The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) requires institutional education to acclimatize to rapid technology and train students to compete internationally by using e-learning medium in the classroom. The purpose of the study is to support every argument about STEAM education. The method used is previous studies based on STEAM. Data is collected through articles based on STEAM, STEAM education, and learning models based on STEAM. Databases used for searching include, Elsevier, Emerald, Springer, Research Gate, Academia Edu, Google Scholar. The result of the study is that STEAM builds human assets who can think critically, logically, and systematically and have universal competitiveness. Implementing STEAM based pedagogical learning in education enables students to comprehend the importance of integrating various disciplines. Moreover, learners can progress their logical thinking through STEAM approach, it will provide inclusive opportunities for students to practice their thinking skill, experiential learning.

Exploring the Relationship among Multimedia Input, Working Memory and L2 Vocabulary Learning

With the advancement in online educational platforms in the present world, multimedia technologies have become a more easily accessed resource in language learning pedagogy than before. Different areas of language pedagogy are benefitting from the use of these multimedia technologies. The present research aims to explore the pertinent effect of multimedia language teaching input on L2 vocabulary building of learners by examining the way they enhance the learners’ working memory efficacy. The study employs an experimental research design by giving two types of WM strategic input (i.e., traditional verbal input and multimedia input) separately to two homogenous groups of 50 graduate ESL learners and observing their effectiveness in their vocabulary development. The study has used two research tools to collect data from the participants. The first is Wesche and Paribakht’s (1996) The Vocabulary Knowledge test which rates the vocabulary knowledge of the participants, and the second is a self-designed Working Memory cloze test to check the efficacy of the participants’ working memory through their vocabulary achievement. The participants are judged twice on the two scales, first before the treatment (pre-test 1 & 2), and second, after the treatment (posttest1 & 2). The results are obtained by comparing the participants’ mean scores of the vocabulary knowledge and working memory in pre and posttests of both variables. T-tests have also been run to see the improvement in learners’ VK and WM, and regression analysis has been carried out to see the relationship among the variables. The findings reveal that both WM strategies, i.e., verbal input and multimedia input are helpful in the development of learners’ vocabulary and working memory efficacy, and that verbal input and multimedia input are both positively related with VK and WM. However, the former (multimedia input) is more effective in enhancing the learners’ vocabulary knowledge and working memory efficacy as compared to the latter (verbal input). The findings are significant for the L2 learners, teachers, administrators, and the policy makers alike because they suggest that multimedia technologies should be incorporated to the maximum level of use in L2 classes for the learners’ vocabulary building.

E-gaming: An active learning pedagogy for engaging learners in a private university in Karachi, Pakistan.

There is a radical shift in teaching and learning pedagogies to engage the learners in healthcare profession. It was a tough challenge for Pakistani educators of an esteemed university to motivate and assess the learners for concept absorption and critical reasoning using creative approaches. Teaching and learning styles have changed fundamentally from conventional teacher centred to inquiry-based student-centred approach. Classroom teaching in recognised nursing and medical institutes in Pakistan have transformed to blended and entirely online methodologies with the integration of diverse active learning strategies. The educators grapple to engage the millennials and to encounter this, gaming technological platform was used to facilitate the learners for maximum integration, active participation, and create an exciting learning experience. Various e-gaming tools, such as Kahoot, Jamboard, Padlet Wall, Ed-Puzzle, Mentimeter, etc., were used in nursing and medical courses and were highly appreciated by the leaners to retain, review, and self-assess.

Student Engagement with Teacher Written Corrective Feedback among Chinese Private College Students of Varying Language Proficiencies

While the efficacy of teacher written corrective feedback (WCF) has been extensively explored, a research gap exists in examining the disparities in how low-proficiency (LP) and high-proficiency (HP) students receive such feedback in second language (L2) writing. Through an analysis of five writing tasks distributed over a 16-week course, this research explored the affective, behavioral, and cognitive dimensions of student engagement with WCF. Six Chinese EFL sophomores, three designated as LP and three as HP students, were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection methods included analysis of students’ L2 writing tasks and stimulated recall sessions. The findings illustrate varying engagement patterns, highlighting LP students’ frustrations and HP students’ reflective and constructive interactions with feedback. These patterns are interpreted through the lens of sociocultural, social cognitive, student engagement, and complex dynamic systems theories, offering a multifaceted framework for understanding the influence of WCF on L2 writing proficiency. These findings also contribute to language learning pedagogy by highlighting the importance of tailored feedback strategies that address the comprehensive dimensions of student engagement to enhance the pedagogical effectiveness of WCF in fostering language proficiency and engagement in EFL settings.

Foreign Practices of Application of Innovative Forms and Methods of Learning in the Educational Process

The article examines the most common methods and forms of education that are used in the educational process of higher education institutions in American and European countries for the formation and development of competencies and defines the main requirements for pedagogical technologies; problems in the educational field due to the increase of scientific and technical information and the introduction of innovative technologies are considered. The experience of using innovative forms and methods of learning in the practice of higher education institutions, which occupy the first positions of the international ranking of universities by QS World University Rankings, is analyzed; the current state of functioning of distance education in foreign HEIs was investigated; the types of the American model of the creation of integrated educational and scientific associations, in which educational innovations have the greatest productivity, are singled out, their impact on the quality of education is revealed; the prospects of using positive international experience in the implementation of educational innovations in the field of education of Ukraine are outlined. On the basis of the conducted research, recommendations have been prepared regarding the conditions under which the successful organization and design of the educational process will take place in higher education institutions of Ukraine by means of innovative pedagogical learning technologies.