Learning Support Research Articles

(Invited) Enabling Bio-Realistic Artificial Intelligence Hardware with Neuromorphic Nanoelectronics

The exponentially improving performance of digital computers has recently slowed due to the speed and power consumption issues resulting from the von Neumann bottleneck. In contrast, neuromorphic computing aims to circumvent these limitations by spatially co-locating logic and memory in a manner analogous to biological neuronal networks [1]. Beyond reducing power consumption, neuromorphic devices provide efficient architectures for image recognition, machine learning, and artificial intelligence [2]. This talk will explore how low-dimensional nanoelectronic materials enable gate-tunable neuromorphic devices [3]. For example, by utilizing self-aligned, atomically thin heterojunctions, dual-gated Gaussian transistors have been realized, which show tunable anti-ambipolarity for artificial neurons, competitive learning, spiking circuits, and mixed-kernel support vector machines [4,5]. In addition, field-driven defect motion in polycrystalline monolayer MoS2 enables gate-tunable memristive phenomena that serve as the basis of hybrid memristor/transistor devices (i.e., ‘memtransistors’) that concurrently provide logic and data storage functions [6]. The planar geometry of memtransistors further allows multiple contacts and dual gating that mimic the behavior of biological systems such as heterosynaptic responses [7]. Moreover, control over polycrystalline grain structure enhances the tunability of potentiation and depression, which enables unsupervised continuous learning in spiking neural networks [8]. Finally, the moiré potential in asymmetric twisted bilayer graphene/hexagonal boron nitride heterostructures gives rise to robust electronic ratchet states. The resulting hysteretic, non-volatile injection of charge carriers enables room-temperature operation of moiré synaptic transistors with diverse bio-realistic neuromorphic functionalities and efficient compute-in-memory designs for low-power artificial intelligence and machine learning hardware [9].[1] V. K. Sangwan, et al., Matter, 5, 4133 (2022).[2] V. K. Sangwan, et al., Nature Nanotechnology, 15, 517 (2020).[3] M. E. Beck, et al., ACS Nano, 14, 6498 (2020).[4] M. E. Beck, et al., Nature Communications, 11, 1565 (2020).[5] X. Yan, et al., Nature Electronics, DOI: 10.1038/s41928-023-01042-7 (2023).[6] X. Yan, et al., Advanced Materials, 34, 2108025 (2022).[7] H.-S. Lee, et al., Advanced Functional Materials, 30, 2003683 (2020).[8] J. Yuan, et al., Nano Letters, 21, 6432 (2021).[9] X. Yan, et al., Nature, DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06791-1 (2023).

Beyond content delivery: harnessing emotional intelligence for community building in fully online digital spaces

The onset of the pandemic catalyzed a paradigm shift in educational methodologies, bringing various forms, such as hybrid, distance, and fully online models, into focus. The following study explores the affective domain in online learning, focusing on how emotions, facial expressions, and body language influence engagement and support community building in fully online learning environments. This research explores the role of emotional intelligence in Fully Online Learning Communities (FOLC) and examines the impact of positive and negative emotions on interpersonal engagement and participation. Findings indicate positive emotions to be closely linked to increased engagement and active participation. The study also highlights the importance of exploring body language in digital learning environments and addresses challenges posed by technological barriers in fully online learning spaces. Emotional intelligence is pivotal in online learning and community building, emphasizing the need to understand how to create emotionally supportive digital learning environments. Outcomes indicate a need for future research to focus on understanding the role of cultural dimensions in supporting learner agency and community building in the fully online learning context.

Bullying Behaviors and Stress (Acute and Perceived) among Undergraduate Nursing and Midwifery Students: The Moderating Role of Gender and Academic Majors.

Nursing and midwifery professionals' well-being may be affected by various factors, including the bullying of new nurses. To analyze the relationship between bullying behaviors, perceived stress, and acute stress among undergraduate nursing and midwifery students in Saudi Arabia, as well as the moderating role of gender and academic majors in this relationship. A cross-sectional correlation design was used, and data were collected from 322 undergraduate nursing and midwifery students enrolled in four major nursing universities in Saudi Arabia. Educational level, environment, and personal attacks had a significant negative impact on perceived and acute stress (social and non-social), while hostility toward academic achievement and direct negative behaviors had significant positive impacts on perceived and acute stress (social and non-social). Female nursing students reported a stronger impact of bullying behavior on their perceived stress, while male students reported a greater impact on social and non-social stress. Nursing students reported a stronger impact of bullying on perceived stress, while midwifery students reported a greater impact on social and non-social stress. Nursing educators should raise awareness about the harmful effects of bullying and emphasize the importance of creating a safe, supportive learning environment.

Emotional Support in Online Teaching and Learning Environment: A Systematic Literature Review (2014–2023)

The provision of appropriate emotional support is influential in establishing a positive and stimulating online learning environment that can elevate students’ emotional well-being, improve their learning experience and enjoyment, and increase their academic achievements. In the present study we examine 16 papers on emotional support in online teaching and learning environments. We aim to understand (a) the emotional support given to online learners and (b) the effectiveness of emotional support in online teaching and learning environments. The review shows that the emotional support given to online learners includes empathy, understanding, motivation, and encouragement. These verbal and nonverbal emotional supports are mainly from teachers, family members, and peers as well as some online agents or applications. Most of the emotional supports influence online learners’ performance and have a favorable impact on their emotional states. The systematic review shows that there has been little research on technology-based emotional support and synchronous teaching and learning environments. We propose that more research should be carried out in these areas.

Spatio-temporal analysis of riverbank changes using remote sensing and geographic information system

Fluvial hazards cause severe damage to human lives and properties. The increased intrusion of anthropogenic activities into natural hydrological cycles has increased hazard severity and confounded river channel dynamics. The present article studies the epochal channel erosion, accretion, and unaltered sites along the 42 km stretch between the Polavaram project and Dowleshwaram Barrage on the Godavari River. Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) techniques were used to identify changes in river morphology. A total of five decades of Landsat images were analyzed, classifying the land use with a supervised learning Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm and an ISO cluster unsupervised algorithm to delineate the rivers and study the influence of land use land cover change (LULCC) on river morphology. Accretion and erosion channel changes during the assessment period were measured at all reaches, and the possible driving mechanisms of morphological alterations were studied.The results indicate the susceptibility of human dwellings and agricultural lands to floods due to the shifting of the highly vibrant river shoreline. The study provides the most recent information on Godavari River dynamics. These aspects of the river's evolution will aid in planning and management in the lower portions, which have not been well understood. River channel alterations can be quantitatively and economically analyzed using Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) data.

Integrating Task-Based and Differentiated Instruction (DI) to Overcome Language Learning Challenges

This research aims to overcome language learning difficulties faced by students with special needs by applying a task-based approach and differentiated learning (DI). Qualitative methods are used in analyzing data. The research took place at a special school at SLB Negeri 2 Denpasar. SLB Negeri 2 Denpasar is a special school for children with hearing impairments. In this remarkable school, students would learn to communicate by reading the movements of their lips. Primary data in this research refers to the exact information obtained from student grades and academic tests. The treatment is modified according to the children's cognitive capacities. The results showed that task-based and differentiated learning (DI) are effective techniques in supporting students with special needs. High school students with special needs require a different type of parental guidance. Students with special needs can receive learning support by limiting choices and guiding choices. Providing autonomy for students to engage in task-based learning can facilitate higher student learning.

Comparative Analysis of Networking and Mentorship in Enhancing Soft Skills AmongDental Undergraduates, A Quantitative Study in a private dental college.

Introduction: The acquisition of soft skills is essential for undergraduate Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students, enhancing their ability to communicate, collaborate, and adapt in the dynamic field of dental practice. While networking and mentorship are both recognized as valuable methods for developing these skills, their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the impact of networking and mentorship on the development of soft skills among BDS students in a private dental college. Methodology: A cross-sectional quantitative approach was used, involving a survey administered via Google Forms. The study population comprised 250 participants, including current BDS students, alumni, and faculty members from Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry. Data were collected over six weeks, focusing on participation in networking and mentorship activities, and self-assessment of soft skills development. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 25 to compare the effectiveness of these two approaches. Results: Of the 250 respondents, 64% participated in networking activities, while 48% engaged in mentorship programs. Networking activities primarily included student organization gatherings and professional conferences, whereas mentorship was mostly one-on-one. Participants rated their competencies in various soft skills on a scale of 1 to 5. Networking was found to be more effective in enhancing communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, with 48% of participants favoring it over mentorship. Mentorship, although less impactful in certain domains, provided significant individual guidance and career support. Conclusion: The study highlights the complementary roles of networking and mentorship in developing soft skills among BDS students. Networking was particularly effective in enhancing communication and teamwork, while mentorship offered personalized support. Integrating both approaches into dental curricula can provider a supportive learning environment, promoting comprehensive professional growth. Future research should consider diverse sampling and objective measures to validate these findings. This study highlights the importance of structured networking and mentorship programs in dental education, benefiting students, practitioners, and faculty alike.

Peningkatan Kompetensi Pustakawan dan Optimalisasi Teknologi Informasi untuk Meningkatkan Pelayanan bagi Pengguna Difabel di Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi

All citizens, including people with disabilities, have the right to receive equal education. College libraries must play an important role in supporting this right by providing inclusive services to all users, including those with disabilities. However, until now, many libraries are not fully ready to provide services to users with disabilities, both in terms of infrastructure and human resources. This can hinder the learning process for those with disabilities. This research aims to increase institutional awareness about the importance of inclusivity in university libraries, by emphasizing that people with disabilities are an integral part of the academic community. Persons with disabilities have the same rights to learning support facilities and services. Therefore, every university library must be inclusive and able to serve users with disabilities well. Librarians are also required to have special competencies, both soft skills and hard skills, to serve readers with disabilities so that they experience ease in utilizing library services. The research method used is a literature review by examining various scientific reference sources, including printed books, electronic books, articles and news. The results of this research show that to create a disability-friendly university library, elements such as adequate facilities and infrastructure, assistive technology, librarian competence, and an effective outreach program are needed. By implementing these elements, libraries can become more inclusive and provide optimal services for all users, including people with disabilities.

Трансформация образования: ключевые стратегии для успешной подготовки учителей начальных классов

Currently, the modern challenges and requirements facing the educational system, especially in the context of primary education, are of significant importance in the preparation of a modern primary school teacher. The task of primary school teachers training is of primary concern in the context of these changes. The transformation of education requires a new approach to the professional training of teachers that will meet modern requirements and expectations. One of the key factors influencing the quality of education is primary school teachers training. The study addresses the question of the key strategies needed to successfully prepare primary school teachers in today's educational environment. The research examines such key strategies as using innovative teaching methods, developing competencies in differentiated instruction, and addressing diverse student needs. Emphasis is placed on the importance of teacher professional development, the implementation of the latest educational technologies, and the creation of a supportive learning environment for teachers and students. The role of innovative methods in teacher training is emphasized and attention is focused on the importance of effective learning and development of children at the primary stage of education.

GAME-BASED LEARNING IN MATHEMATICS FOR PUPILS AND TEACHERS

Computer games are utilized as teaching aids in a method known as “game-based learning.” Enhancing teaching abilities, evaluating learners, tracking progress, and offering learning support are among the learning objectives. The Self-Determination Theory is employed in the study to evaluate the uptake of web apps. 41 fifth-grade pupils who were enrolled in the study completed a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. These participants used a game-based learning platform. The results show that most participants embraced and adjusted to the game-based learning methodology. The outcomes show that fifth-grade pupils benefit and are positively impacted by this method.

Kolaborasi Guru dan Manajemen Sekolah dalam Pengembangan Kurikulum Efektif

This research aims to identify the role of collaboration between teachers and school management in developing an effective curriculum at SMP Plus Darussalam. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with school principals, teachers and students, as well as participatory observation and analysis of documents related to the curriculum. The research results reveal that close collaboration between teachers and school management is very important in designing and implementing a curriculum that suits students' needs. Collaborative involvement with various parties enriches the curriculum development process, increases the relevance of the material, and facilitates responsive adjustments to educational challenges. This research concludes that a collaborative approach not only improves curriculum quality but also increases teacher satisfaction and student motivation. The implication of these findings is the need to integrate collaborative models in curriculum development in other schools to achieve more adaptive and effective education, as well as strengthen a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Reflection tools – support for patient learning in group education

ABSTRACT This qualitative study describes how reflection can be supported by using reflective tools in group education in type 2 diabetes. The changed conditions for living with a long-term illness may lead to increased anxiety and new demands that affect one’s current life situation. The didactic model, ‘The challenge – to take charge of one’s life with long-term illness’, has been developed into ‘Taking responsibility in life with type 2 diabetes – a model for group education in primary care’. Specialized diabetes nurses and dieticians received training, a manual and continuous guidance in applying the model. Reflection diaries, notes and interviews both from the patients and the caregivers were analyzed using a phenomenological hermeneutic method. The results show that using images as reflective tools engages thoughts and feelings in a way that appears to be important for one’s learning in life with a chronic illness. The images contribute to allowing a distance from one’s situation, actions, thoughts and feelings, which seems fruitful for investigating and discovering new ‘things’ about oneself. With the support of reflective tools and guiding questions, reflection is led to a deeper existential level where both caregivers and patients contribute by asking questions that support the reflection process.

Machine learning in diagnostic support in medical emergency departments

Diagnosing patients in the medical emergency department is complex and this is expected to increase in many countries due to an ageing population. In this study we investigate the feasibility of training machine learning algorithms to assist physicians handling the complex situation in the medical emergency departments. This is expected to reduce diagnostic errors and improve patient logistics and outcome. We included a total of 9,190 consecutive patient admissions diagnosed and treated in two hospitals in this cohort study. Patients had a biochemical workup including blood and urine analyses on clinical decision totaling 260 analyses. After adding nurse-registered data we trained 19 machine learning algorithms on a random 80% sample of the patients and validated the results on the remaining 20%. We trained algorithms for 19 different patient outcomes including the main outcomes death in 7 (Area under the Curve (AUC) 91.4%) and 30 days (AUC 91.3%) and safe-discharge(AUC 87.3%). The various algorithms obtained areas under the Receiver Operating Characteristics -curves in the range of 71.8–96.3% in the holdout cohort (68.3–98.2% in the training cohort). Performing this list of biochemical analyses at admission also reduced the number of subsequent venipunctures within 24 h from patient admittance by 22%. We have shown that it is possible to develop a list of machine-learning algorithms with high AUC for use in medical emergency departments. Moreover, the study showed that it is possible to reduce the number of venipunctures in this cohort.

A methodological approach to age estimation of the intra-puparial period of the forensically relevant blow fly Calliphora vicina via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

Estimating the age of immature blow flies is of great importance for forensic entomology. However, no gold-standard technique for an accurate determination of the intra-puparial age has yet been established. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a method to (bio-)chemically characterise material based on the absorbance of electromagnetic energy by functional groups of molecules. In recent years, it also has become a powerful tool in forensic and life sciences, as it is a fast and cost-effective way to characterise all kinds of material and biological traces. This study is the first to collect developmental reference data on the changes in absorption spectra during the intra-puparial period of the forensically important blow fly Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Calliphora vicina was reared at constant 20°C and 25°C and specimens were killed every other day throughout their intra-puparial development. In order to investigate which part yields the highest detectable differences in absorption spectra throughout the intra-puparial development, each specimen was divided into two different subsamples: the pupal body and the former cuticle of the third instar, that is, the puparium. Absorption spectra were collected with a FTIR spectrometer coupled to an attenuated total reflection (ATR) unit. Classification accuracies of different wavenumber regions with two machine learning models, i.e., random forests (RF) and support vector machines (SVMs), were tested. The best age predictions for both temperature settings and machine learning models were obtained by using the full spectral range from 3700 to 600 cm-1. While SVMs resulted in better accuracies for C. vicina reared at 20°C, RFs performed almost as good as SVMs for data obtained from 25°C. In terms of sample type, the pupal body gave smoother spectra and usually better classification accuracies than the puparia. This study shows that FTIR spectroscopy is a promising technique in forensic entomology to support the estimation of the minimum post-mortem interval (PMImin), by estimating the age of a given insect specimen.

Preservice Secondary Mathematics Teachers’ Ways to Support Learning with Multiple Representations in Their Lesson Plans

Preservice Secondary Mathematics Teachers’ Ways to Support Learning with Multiple Representations in Their Lesson Plans

The migraine epidemic among medical students: a call for action.

Migraine is characterized by recurrent headaches of moderate-to-severe intensity and poses a significant challenge for medical students. This is a narrative literature review using PubMed and Scopus databases. This study examines how common migraine is in this group and suggests working together to address how it affects students' well-being and chances of succeeding as a medical professional in the future. Early diagnosis by licensed medical specialists is essential for effective management of migraine. To address this, the authors propose a multifaceted strategy. By including direct education on migraines in medical school curricula, future doctors will be better prepared to treat patients with comparable problems and manage their own migraines. Students with migraines can also benefit greatly from creating a supportive learning environment through staff training, accommodating academic policies, and providing easily available healthcare resources. In addition, this technology may be helpful. Apps for relaxation and migraine tracking can help students better manage their condition. Long-term success requires cooperation among all parties. By promoting cooperation among medical schools, student associations, healthcare practitioners, and governmental organizations, the authors can raise public awareness of migraine, make pertinent resources easier to access, and create evidence-based solutions specially designed to meet the needs of medical students who experience migraine. In the end, putting student well-being first and working together to put these solutions into practice can enable aspiring doctors to succeed at both personal and professional levels.

Effects of peer tutoring-based simulation education on caring for children with respiratory infections among nursing students: A mixed-methods study

BackgroundRespiratory infections are common in children and can quickly deteriorate, necessitating vigilant nursing care. Simulation training provides a valuable tool for nursing students to learn how to manage children with respiratory infections. Peer tutoring has demonstrated benefits, including the creation of a safe, supportive learning environment and the perception of peer tutors as beneficial role models. This study aimed to develop a simulation education program for the care of children with respiratory infections, involving peer tutoring among nursing students, and to assess its effectiveness. MethodsThis mixed-methods study, conducted between July and December 2022, utilized surveys to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. A peer tutoring-based simulation education program for providing care to children with respiratory infections was developed specifically for nursing students. The study was implemented with 49 nursing students from a South Korean university (25 in the experimental group and 24 in the control group). The students' self-efficacy, disposition towards critical thinking, problem-solving ability, and satisfaction with practice were evaluated and analyzed using the unpaired t-test, the chi-square test, and repeated-measures analysis of variance. The learning experiences of the students in the experimental group were further examined using qualitative content analysis. ResultsThe experimental group demonstrated greater growth in self-efficacy and satisfaction with practice than the control group. However, no significant difference was observed between the experimental and control groups in terms of changes in disposition towards critical thinking and problem-solving ability. From the nursing students who participated in the implementation, three categories were identified: “enhancement of learning,” “psychologically secure environment,” and “novel experience.” ConclusionsThe peer tutoring-based simulation education focused on caring for children with respiratory infections effectively improved the self-efficacy and satisfaction of nursing students. This method will be utilized to enhance the learning experience of nursing students in the field of pediatric respiratory care.

Behind the Scenes: The Untold Stories of School Heads handling Integrated Senior High Schools

The goal of this research was to describe the experiences gained by the school heads in integrated senior high school in Monkayo East District, Davao de Oro, Philippines. Employing phenomenological approach among six participants, in-depth interview was conducted which answered the four fundamental questions. Findings highlighted the critical role of adaptive strategies, including collaborative efforts among staff, proactive resource management, and continuous professional development for educators. These approaches fostered resilience and innovation within educational settings, enhancing the quality of student learning experiences. Moreover, the study underscores aspirations to equip students with 21st-century skills, provide high-quality education, and foster supportive learning environments. These aspirations drove efforts to improve curriculum relevance, infrastructure, and community partnerships. Overall, the research emphasizes the importance of effective leadership and strategic planning in addressing challenges and advancing educational practices in integrated senior high schools.

Beyond boundaries: Navigating the positive potential of ChatGPT, empowering education in underdeveloped corners of the world

In November 2022, ChatGPT3, an advanced AI-powered chatbot, emerged suddenly, generating significant interest in higher education. Concerns arose regarding its potential to complicate the authentication of genuine student work. While some foresaw negative impacts, we advocate a positive outlook, suggesting educators can utilize ChatGPT to cultivate supportive learning environments that enhance students' character development. Our study thoroughly explores ChatGPT's implications for education in underdeveloped countries, examining both opportunities and challenges within AI research in education. We investigate practical applications, and potential benefits, and propose responsible integration strategies for students, teachers, and schools in utilizing ChatGPT for learning and assessment. Emphasizing ethical use, we stress leadership, character development, and authentic assessment as crucial factors. Despite concerns about academic integrity, we highlight ChatGPT's dual nature, it can facilitate cheating but also has the potential to deepen learning experiences. Our research focuses on understanding ChatGPT's impact on education from both student and teacher perspectives, discussing future trends in learning and teaching. The strategic integration of ChatGPT and AI in universities demands ethical foresight, personalized learning strategies, and ongoing research to optimize educational benefits while preserving core values and fostering student development.

Daur al-Biah al-Lugawiyyah fī Tarqiyah al-Kafāah al-Żātiyyah li al-Kalām ladai Ṭalabah al-Madrasah al-Ṡānawiyyah

This research The purpose of this research. First, the state of the linguistic environment in increasing speaking self-efficacy among MTs Mambaul Ulum Metro students is to be determined. Second, to find out the application of speaking efficacy training to MTs Mambaul Ulum Metro students. Third, to reveal self-efficacy in speaking to MTs Mambaul Ulum Metro students. This research methodology is a descriptive qualitative study that describes and finds appropriate and precise facts. Moreover, how to collect data using interviews, observation, and written document methods. This study examines the language environment's role in enhancing students' subjective speaking skills at MTs Manbaul Ulum Metro. By employing qualitative research methods, including observations and interviews, the study explores how various aspects of the language environment contribute to students' perceptions of their speaking abilities. The findings reveal that a supportive language environment, characterized by frequent practice opportunities, positive reinforcement, and exposure to diverse linguistic inputs, significantly boosts students' confidence and proficiency in speaking. The study underscores the importance of creating a conducive language learning environment to facilitate effective language acquisition. The language environment system at MT Mambaul Ulum Metro School is very important to increase student's confidence in speaking Arabic through active interaction and correct use of grammar. Social support, a supportive learning environment, the use of technology, and effective learning strategies play a role in building students' self-confidence. Consistent speaking practice and real-world activities such as a language classroom environment. These factors help students develop courage, perseverance, and the ability to face the challenges of learning Arabic.