Learning Program Research Articles

About managing the number of simultaneously functioning software robots of different types

Objectives. The study sets out to justify the relevance and investigate approaches for solving the problem of managing the number of simultaneously functioning software robots of various types under conditions of limited computational resources and changes in sets of executable tasks.Methods. A proposed solution is based on models and methods of scenario management, linear programming, inventory management, queuing theory, and machine learning. The described methods are valid for different compositions and preconditions for generating initial data, as well as ensuring the relevance horizons of the obtained solutions.Results. The initial data is obtained via the presented approach for determining the computational resource parameters for operating a single software robot. The resources are determined by analyzing the composition of the software and information services used by an actual software robot. Problem statements and mathematical models are developed for cases involving scenario management and linear programming methods. Methods for real-time management of the number of software robots and their sequential local optimization are proposed based on the abovementioned solution sequences. The developed method for generating statistical data based the results of applying the sequential local optimization method is used to identify deficient and non-deficient computational resources. Some results of working in the multi-functional center of RTU MIREA software robots developed on the Аtоm.RITA platform are outlined.Conclusions. The emerging problem of managing the number of simultaneously operating software robots of various types for cases involving scenario control methods and linear programming is formalized. This problem is relevant in the field of automation of business processes of organizations. The use of mathematical methods for solving this problem opens up opportunities for expanding the functional capabilities of robotic process automation platforms, as well as increasing their economic efficiency to create competitive advantages by optimizing the use of IT infrastructure components.

Enhancing programming learning performance through a Jigsaw collaborative learning method in a metaverse virtual space

BackgroundComputational thinking (CT) is crucial to fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Many elementary schools have been cultivating students’ CT through block-based programming languages such as Scratch using traditional teacher-centered teaching methods. However, the approach excessively relies on teacher lectures, so the teacher’s teaching load is hefty, and most students cannot receive timely assistance from teachers, thus reducing students’ programming learning performance, interest, and confidence. Therefore, this study designs a Jigsaw collaborative learning method implemented in a metaverse virtual space (JCLM-MVS) for peer-to-peer Scratch programming learning to promote learners’ programming learning performance, CT, and learning attitudes. This study used a quasi-experimental research method, with 48 fifth-grade students from two classes in Taiwan’s elementary school as the research participants. One class of 24 students was randomly assigned to the experimental group using JCLM-MVS to conduct Scratch programming learning, whereas the other class of 24 students was assigned to the control group using the traditional teacher-centered teaching method.Main findingsThe study found that the experimental group of learners showed significantly better Scratch programming learning performance and attitude than the control group, and there was no statistically significant difference in CT between both groups, but both learning approaches effectively promoted CT. Additionally, the interview results showed that most interviewees stated that using JCLM-MVS for Scratch programming learning could receive timely assistance from peers, make collaborative learning more efficient and learning more enjoyable, and more intend to use JCLM-MVS for Scratch programming learning than using traditional teacher-centered teaching method due to the effective collaborative interaction mechanisms and realistic learning space provided in the metaverse virtual space.Conclusions/potential implicationsThis study presents a novel and engaging learning approach by integrating a metaverse virtual space with the Jigsaw collaborative learning method, referred to as JCLM-MVS, which enhances the effectiveness of the Jigsaw collaborative learning method in promoting Scratch programming learning performance, CT, and attitudes.

Experiences with a national team-based learning program for advance care planning in pediatric palliative care

BackgroundAdvance Care Planning (ACP) enables patients and relatives to define and share values, goals and preferences for future medical treatment and care. The IMplementing Pediatric Advance Care Planning Toolkit (IMPACT), developed in the Netherlands, is a method for conducting ACP in pediatric palliative care. Healthcare professionals who were trained to use IMPACT, indicated their need for ongoing support to practice ACP communication skills optimally over time. Therefore, we developed a team-based learning program aimed at teaching participants how to transfer knowledge on ACP, continue practicing ACP communication skills and reflect on ACP conversations within their own team context. The aim of this study was to evaluate the program’s transfer of knowledge as well as the professionals’ experience and team reflection on ACP.MethodsA one-day IMPACT train-the-trainer course was developed and a selection of healthcare professionals (facilitators) from pediatric palliative care teams (PPCTs) from all seven Dutch university hospitals and the specialized Center for Pediatric Oncology were invited to participate. Hereafter, facilitators were asked to transfer their course-acquired knowledge to their team members (learners) by organizing two coaching-on-the-job sessions. A mixed-methods design, combining questionnaires and field notes, was used to evaluate the level of knowledge transfer and team reflection achieved.ResultsEighteen healthcare professionals in the role of facilitator participated in the train-the-trainer course. In seven PPCTs one (n = 3) or two (n = 4) coaching-on-the-job session(s) took place, attended by 29 and 17 learners, respectively. In the questionnaires, 11 facilitators indicated that they had to some extent transferred acquired knowledge to their team members as intended. Sixteen out of 21 learners who participated in at least one coaching-on-the-job session, reported (somewhat) increased self-confidence for conducting ACP conversations. The reported main strength of the program was practicing with/learning from colleagues whereas dealing with workload and variation in existing ACP skills within PPCTs need more attention.ConclusionsThe newly developed team-based learning program resulted in intended transfer of knowledge and methodical reflection on ACP in coaching-on-the-job sessions in most participating PPCTs. Planning coaching-on-the-job sessions regarding ACP in pediatric palliative care with multiple healthcare professionals is challenging and needs more emphasis in the training.

An Image-Based User Interface Testing Method for Flutter Programming Learning Assistant System

Flutter has become popular for providing a uniform development environment for user interfaces (UIs) on smart phones, web browsers, and desktop applications. We have developed the Flutter programming learning assistant system (FPLAS) to assist its novice students’ self-study. We implemented the Docker-based Flutter environment with Visual Studio Code and three introductory exercise projects. However, the correctness of students’ answers is manually checked, although automatic checking is necessary to reduce teachers’ workload and provide quick responses to students. This paper presents an image-based user interface (UI) testing method to automate UI testing by the answer code using the Flask framework. This method produces the UI image by running the answer code and compares it with the image made by the model code for the assignment using ORB and SIFT algorithms in the OpenCV library. One notable aspect is the necessity to capture multiple UI screenshots through page transitions by user input actions for the accurate detection of changes in UI elements. For evaluations, we assigned five Flutter exercise projects to fourth-year bachelor and first-year master engineering students at Okayama University, Japan, and applied the proposed method to their answers. The results confirm the effectiveness of the proposal.

Exploring the Use of Unplugged Gamification on Programming Learners’ Experience

Exploring the Use of Unplugged Gamification on Programming Learners’ Experience

The Correlation between Students’ Grammar Mastery and Writing Ability in Recount Text

The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between eighth-grade SMP IT Fatwa Curah Kalak students' writing proficiency in recount texts and their command of grammar. The correlation method was used by the researcher. One class was used to conduct the study. There are 74 participants in this study, ranging from the first to the last class. Purposive sampling was employed to choose the twenty-four eighth grade pupils from SMP IT Fatwa as the study's sample. A grammatical mastery test was administered to the class following a teaching and learning program. The researcher administered a writing ability test consisting of 35 questions and 60 minutes. The focus of the writing test was on students recounting memorable experiences from the past into well-written pieces.The correlation value was determined using the Pearson algorithm in IBM SPSS Statistics version 22, and the correlation coefficient (r), which falls between 0.40-0.60, was found to be 0.526. It was found that there was a moderate amount of linkage. Nonetheless, in terms of relevance, the r-obtained compared with the critical value. It shown that the r-obtained value exceeds the r-critical value of 0.526 > 0.404 at the 0.05 significance level.

Teachers' Efforts to Improve Discipline Through Sociodrama for Class IV Mildly Mentally Impaired Children at SLB YPDP and SLB Bina Kasih Bandung

A mentally retarded child is a child with special needs who has an abnormality in terms of an intelligence level below average. The condition of mentally retarded children who have intellectual and adaptive obstacles and are unable to think abstractly hinders learning activities. Teachers need methods that can be used to provide learning for children, one of the learning methods that can be done is through sociodrama. The research was conducted in two schools using descriptive qualitative research methods, observation, interview and documentation data collection techniques. The research subjects were teachers and children with mild intellectual disabilities. The results of the research show that children with mild mental retardation are able to carry out the discipline that has been taught at school and apply it to everyday life, but in certain aspects mentally retarded children still need guidance and assistance from teachers. Recommendations are aimed at teachers and schools which teachers should provide guidance and developing potential in children, by using appropriate learning strategies, teaching methods and media, so as to provide motivation to both children and all class teachers to develop learning programs.

Cancer Nurses’ Voices and Recommendations to Address Workforce Challenges: A Qualitative Analysis

ObjectivesAmidst the fulfilment of making a positive impact on patients’ lives, cancer nurses also contend with high workloads, limited resources, and barriers to career advancement. Understanding the perceptions of cancer nurses is essential in addressing these challenges and fostering an environment that promotes both professional satisfaction and optimal patient care.Our aim was to explore Australian cancer nurses' experiences and perspectives of workforce challenges and their proposed solutions to address them. MethodsThe Cancer Nurses Society Australia workforce cross-sectional survey was distributed online in 2022 through professional networks and social media. Free text responses to open-ended questions were analyzed using qualitative content analysis and inductive processes. ResultsResponses from 601 cancer nurses highlight the intricate interplay between rewards and obstacles experienced by the profession and identify key areas for improvement. Positive and negative quotes highlight the passion of cancer nurses which were summarized into themes and subthemes:1) Finding fulfilment while struggling against the tide. While feeling undervalued and facing workload pressures, burnout and limited opportunities for career progression, nurses express love for their jobs, finding it rewarding yet emotionally challenging.2) Grassroots solutions versus organizational inertia. Proposed solutions included addressing nurse-to-patient ratios, proactive succession planning, more specific education, dedicated time for learning, and mentorship and career development programs. Perceived barriers to initiatives included lethargic management and resistance to change. Networking opportunities, appropriate remuneration, and interdisciplinary teamwork with an appreciation of individual expertise are desired. ConclusionsOur findings give a voice to the cancer nurses of Australia. Nurses identified a range of solutions to address workforce challenges. Implications for nursing practiceAddressing the systemic issues that contribute to high workload and impede nurses’ well-being and their recognition, and promoting policies to support professional growth will increase satisfaction, enhance patient care outcomes, and contribute to a sustainable workforce.

Optimizing Tofu Production with Contextual Learning and Linear Programming

Optimizing Tofu Production with Contextual Learning and Linear Programming

THE EFFECT OF 3M GAMES (THROWING, CATCHING, AND KICKING) ON EARLY CHILDHOOD GROSS MOTOR SKILLS

This study investigates the impact of 3M games (Throwing, Catching, and Kicking) on gross motor skills in early childhood in TK Harapan Bunda Empat Lawang. The research method used was an experiment with pretest and posttest control group designs. The sample of this study was 18 randomly selected early childhood children divided into two groups: the control group (n = 9) and the treatment group (n = 9). The treatment group was given an intervention in the form of 3M games for three weeks, while the control group did not receive the intervention. Data was collected using gross motor ability tests before and after the intervention. The results of the data analysis showed a significant improvement in gross motor skills in the treatment group after the 3M game intervention. In contrast, there was no substantial change in the control group. These findings indicate that 3M games effectively improve gross motor skills in early childhood. The implication of this study is the importance of including games involving throwing, catching, and kicking activities in early childhood learning programs to promote gross motor development.

Portfolio assessment methods in prelicensure nursing programs: An equity-minded approach

BackgroundIn prelicensure nursing programs, the current faculty-driven process of summative assessment of program learning outcomes has limitations. While it effectively measures summative student learning, it lacks an equity-centered approach that promotes multiple forms of learning demonstration. Most importantly, the faculty's selection of summative assessment methods without student input significantly minimizes the student's voice in the assessment process, a crucial aspect that needs to be addressed. InnovationFaculty should adopt equity-centered summative assessments, such as the portfolio approach (a collection of students' comprehensive work), to capture the ways students demonstrate learning and ensure the student's voice is included in the assessment process. ImplicationUsing portfolios in nursing programs will improve the quality of data collected from summative assessment tools, resulting in accurate and meaningful information to inform program decisions. ConclusionAccepting multiple forms of learning demonstration and including students in the assessment process through the portfolio approach ensures student engagement in evaluating their learning and supports faculty development of equity-centered assessment methods.

Use of the Alice Visual Programming Environment in Programming Education : A Descriptive Case Study

The process of learning a programming language is seen as complicated, especially for those who first start to learn programming language. For this reason, visual programming tools have begun to be used in educational environments. Visual programming tools purpose to concretize abstract programming language concepts. Alice program is one of the visual programming tools. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of the Alice program on programming learning in the education environment. The study group was 18 freshman students enrolled in the Object Based Programming I course at the vocational school computer technology department. The study lasted 8 weeks, with 4 hours each week. The teaching was realized on Gagne’s nine events of instruction model. At the end of the teaching process, two focus group interviews were conducted with the students to determine the obstructing and facilitating factors in using the Alice program. This study was utilized a descriptive case study. The data were analyzed by using the content analysis. When the results were examined; It was seen that the Alice program makes learning the basic code concepts easy and understanding programming logic, and increases the desire to learn programming. However, it was stated that the practicality of writing code could not be improved because code could not be written in the Alice program. It is thought that employing the Alice program is beneficial for enhancing comprehension of programming logic.

Utilizing Positive Heutagogy on Learners Discipline: An Assessment

Heutagogy, also known as self-determined learning, is a student-centered approach that emphasizes autonomy and capability development. In a heutagogical context, students actively explore areas of uncertainty within their topics. Teachers facilitate this process by providing background information and allowing students to delve deeply into subjects. This study explores the impact of the UPHOLD (Utilizing Positive Heutagogy on Learners’ Discipline) approach on the academic performance of Hearts and Hands Extended to Learners Progress (HELP) recipients for the academic year 2021-2022, using a descriptive-comparative method. The research focused on assessing changes in learners’ performance and the number of HELP recipients before and after the implementation of UPHOLD. The results indicated a significant improvement in performance for Grade 1 in Key Stage 1, while Grades 2 and 3 did not show the same improvement. In Key Stage 2, Grades 4, 5, and 6 all demonstrated noticeable improvement. Furthermore, there was a notable decrease in the number of HELP Program learners, suggesting that UPHOLD effectively promoted self-directed learning. However, it was observed that younger students in Grades 1 to 3, who struggle with independent learning, require more support. These findings highlight the importance of educators closely monitoring students' learning independence to foster effective habits and prevent disengagement.

Achievement Effects of Dual Language Immersion in One-Way and Two-Way Programs: Evidence from a Statewide Expansion

Abstract The rising demand for dual-language immersion (DLI) programs, which offer core instruction in two languages from early grades onward, has raised questions about program design and access. We leverage the rapid expansion of DLI schools across the U.S. state of Utah to estimate effects of DLI program availability on the academic achievement of primary English speakers and English learners (ELs) in programs that serve mainly the former (one-way) or at least a third of the latter (two-way). Using within-school variation in first graders’ access to DLI programs, we find no overall effects on English, math, or science scores from grades 3 to 6. However, ELs whose primary languages match the schools’ partner languages in two-way schools show notable outperformance in math and higher English-language proficiency at grade 5. Benefits of DLI access are driven by schools with a larger share of primary speakers of the partner language.

NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY 2020: PRACTICAL IMPEDIMENTS AND CHALLENGES

Quality education has been crucial and in demand in a rapidly changing global scenario. With the advent of new theories like constructivism in education, the academicians and the theorists believe that learners develop their understanding through experience rather than by stimulus and response which were the core concepts in the traditional behaviorist theories. National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) is a document that seeks to make education equitable, inclusive and sustainable. The Policy advocates flexibility for the learners, to opt for the learning trajectories and programs, no hard separation between different domains of studies and multidisciplinary education. The policy has proposed to bring structural changes to the education system. The present paper is an attempt to foreground the challenges and hindrances to implementing and practicing a few of the structural changes and aspects. NEP 2020 states that the students will be able to choose many of the subjects and the level in which they take the Board examination- Medium level and Advanced level. The student will select different subjects for study in class 9th. This may invite more challenges relating to infrastructure, conducting examinations, recruiting teachers, etc. Emphasis on the mother tongue as a medium of instruction may be a problem for the children of people in transferable jobs, this means the private English Medium Schools will keep on flourishing. As per the guidelines the Foreign Colleges will be permitted to open campuses in India, however, there is less possibility to get admission in these colleges for the students whose medium of instruction will be regional language. This may again lead to widening the rift between the economically poor and the rich and may invite unequal learning patterns.

Development of a framework for community health workers to contribute to interprofessional learning teams

Background. Community health workers’ knowledge, skills and training seem to affect their contribution to 4th-year health sciences student teams who are following an interprofessional learning programme aimed at improving two South African rural communities’ health outcomes related to diabetes. Objective. To develop a framework for community health workers to contribute to interprofessional learning teams. Methods. The framework development forms part of previous phases of a multi-method study. The theory of change logic model guided the development of the draft framework, informed by data from two ecogram sessions, five nominal group technique discussions and a scoping review. The final framework was validated by experts during a workshop using forward and backward mapping. Results. The framework addresses the need for community health workers to gain knowledge, skills and training related to diabetes to effectively contribute to interprofessional learning teams. The theory of change process identified community needs and assets, desired results, influential factors, evidence-based strategies and assumptions required to address the problem. Conclusion. The framework focuses on a problem within specific interprofessional learning teams. Collaboration with stakeholders contributed to a rigorous research process, and the validation, refinement and future implementation of the framework. The framework eventually led to the development of an evidence-based training programme comprising knowledge, skills and training strategies related to diabetes. It is predicted that once community health workers have completed this training programme, they will be able to contribute effectively to the interprofessional learning teams.

Development and Validity of Arabic Muamalat Module (M~BAM) for Islamic Finance Higher Education Learning Program

The objective of this paper is to develop an Arabic Muamalat Module (M~BAM) and evaluate its effectiveness in improving mastery of Arabic related to muamalat. This module is constructed using the ADDIE model, which consists of five development phases. The study design is descriptive, employing a quantitative approach. The instrument used for the study is the module content-validation assessment form. The module underwent validation by six experts in validity assessment, comprising lecturers from both public and private universities as well as Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) lecturers. All possess expertise in module development, Arabic content, and pedagogy. The results of the experts' validity assessment indicate that the module is relevant and usable, with a mean score of 4.29. It can be concluded that a meticulous approach to developing the M~BAM module is required for Islamic finance students, aligning with educational standards, and employing diverse teaching methods. With a focus on authentic dialogue and comprehensive exercises, the module promises effective Arabic language acquisition and enhanced understanding of muamalat concepts. The M~BAM module exhibits strong alignment with course objectives, facilitating effective learning in muamalat and Islamic finance. Technical validity assessments emphasize the significance of visual elements for engagement and comprehension, recommending enhancements accordingly. It is recommended that improvements for module usage, such as conducting pre- and post-tests is required.

PENGGUNAAN MEDIA SOFTWARE GEOGEBRA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN REPRESENTASI MATEMATIS SISWA SMA

Mathematical representation ability is an important ability in understanding mathematical concepts as an effort to obtain clarity of meaning and understanding in solving problems. Technology-based learning media can simplify the learning process thereby helping students in representing mathematical problems. This research aims to determine the increase in students' mathematical representation abilities using Geogebra software. This research is quantitative research with a quasi-experimental type. The population is students of class XI MIPA at SMA Negeri 1 Lhoong Aceh Besar for the 2023/2024 academic year consisting of 2 classes totaling 60 people. There are 30 people in Class XI MIPA 1 as an experimental class with the Geogebra software learning media, and 30 people in XI MIPA 2 as a control class without the Geogebra program learning media. The data collection technique in this research is using Pretest and Posttest. Meanwhile, the data analysis techniques used in this research are descriptive statistical analysis and inferential statistical analysis. The results of the research showed that there was an increase in students' mathematical representation abilities who were taught using Geogebra software media in class XI MIPA students at SMA Negeri 1 Lhoong. Most students answered the questions according to indicators of mathematical representation ability in the form of visual, symbolic and verbal representations.

A national education program for rapid genomics in pediatric acute care: Building workforce confidence, competence, and capability

PurposeTo develop and evaluate a scalable national program to build confidence, competence and capability in the use of rapid genomic testing (rGT) in the acute pediatric setting. MethodsWe used theory-informed approaches to design a modular, adaptive program of blended learning aimed at diverse professional groups involved in acute pediatric care. The program comprised 4 online learning modules and an online workshop and was centered on case-based learning. We evaluated the program using the Kirkpatrick 4-level model of training evaluation and report our findings using the Reporting Item Standards for Education and its Evaluation (RISE2) guidelines for genomics education and evaluation. ResultsTwo hundred and two participants engaged with at least 1 component of the program. Participants self-reported increased confidence in using rGT, (P < .001), and quiz responses objectively demonstrated increased competence (eg, correct responses to a question on pretest counseling increased from 30% to 64%; P < .001). Additionally, their capability in applying genomic principles to simulated clinical cases increased (P < .001), as did their desire to take on more responsibility for performing rGT. The clinical interpretation of more complex test results (such as negative results or variants of uncertain significance) appeared to be more challenging, indicating a need for targeted education in this area. ConclusionThe program format was effective in delivering multidisciplinary and wide-scale genomics education in the acute care context. The modular approach we have developed now lends itself to application in other medical specialties or areas of health care.

Enhancing service delivery via Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at uMzimkhulu Local Municipality, South Africa

Municipalities in South Africa face numerous challenges that hinder efficient service delivery. One of these challenges is the lack of implementation of required services, leading to citizen dissatisfaction and protest actions. This study aims to investigate methods for improving service delivery in public institutions in South Africa through the implementation of work-integrated learning (WIL) programmes. Data for this study was collected from the uMzimkhulu local municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically from the Harry Gwala District. A total of 56 participants took part in the study, including 28 WIL students and 28 mentors. This ensured representation from all departments within the municipality. Two separate sets of questionnaires were used to collect data from these two groups. Data analysis was performed using the Statistics Packaging for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The study identified several challenges that currently hinder the effective implementation of WIL programmes within the municipality. As a result, it is recommended that the municipality provide training for WIL students and establish efficient monitoring and evaluation processes for the WIL programmes. Additionally, the municipality should involve students in WIL programmes in matters related to progressive initiatives and provide further support to enhance their ability to handle client services. It is also advised that the municipality prioritise the development of facilities and resources for WIL students to fully engage them in their work.