Learning Theory Research Articles

The power of engaged reflection in fostering new insights on diversity, equity and inclusion

This study examined the impact of an experiential, project-based learning initiative on sport management undergraduate students' growth with respect to diversity, equity and inclusion. Quantitative results from pre- and post-testing demonstrated an increase in students' openness to diversity and challenge upon the conclusion of their engagement in the real-world sport industry project. Qualitative analysis showed that the reflection and research requirements associated with the assignment allowed the vast majority of students to develop awareness of unconscious bias in their work, and create inclusive recommendations for future practice. Anchored in Kolb's Theory of Experiential Learning, this work has multiple practical implications for academia, given both the widespread use of experiential learning in sport management education, and the imperative to graduate professionals who can embody diversity, equity and inclusion in the industry.

The influences of virtual-reality- and animation-supported gamified learning processes on students’ learning achievement and behavioral intention in retailing management courses

The application of virtual reality (VR)/animation-enhanced technologies to various educational settings has received increasing attention from academics and educators. However, empirical investigation of this issue using an integrated theoretical perspective is scarce in management education. Additionally, prior studies that specifically investigate the influences of the technological attributes of VR/animation-enhanced technologies and learners’ perceptions and experiences in management education contexts are scarce. This study thus investigates this issue by adopting the viewpoints of technological attributes and individual perceptions and experiences to comprehend students’ situated experiential learning. Therefore, to examine whether such a learning method improves learning achievement by enhancing long-term memory, this study conducted a quasi-experiment to understand how technological attributes influence students' cognitive and affective responses, confidence, and satisfaction, thus affecting behavioral intention and learning achievement. A total of 230 students participated in this study. The stimulus-organism-response model, situated learning theory, and flow theory were integrated in this study to explore the relationships between the factors of psychological state and students' experiential learning processes. All hypotheses were supported, except confidence did not significantly influence students' behavioral intention and learning achievement after four weeks. The implications for theory and practice of this study are subsequently discussed.

XKT: Toward Explainable Knowledge Tracing Model With Cognitive Learning Theories for Questions of Multiple Knowledge Concepts

XKT: Toward Explainable Knowledge Tracing Model With Cognitive Learning Theories for Questions of Multiple Knowledge Concepts

Effect of problem-solving teaching methods on students' interest and academic performance in animal husbandry in secondary schools for sustainable development in Nigeria

This study investigated the effects of Problem-solving teaching method on Animal Husbandry Students' interest and academic performance in Senior secondary schools in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The Theory of experiential learning was used to explain how learning by active participation in the learning process can increase interest in the learning process. Quasi-experimental. Specially, the pre-test post-test control group were used to collect data from 251 students using an intact class. The results showed that students interest increase as the result of the treatment. The study found that students. performance also increases as a result of their interest in studying Animal Husbandry. The study concludes that teaching using problem solving can increase students interest in studying Animal Husbandry and also improve their performance in the subject for sustainable development in Nigeria. Recommendations include that animal Husbandry teachers should constantly use problem solving teaching methods in teaching animal Husbandry to encourage students to learn animal Husbandry effectively in secondary schools.

Incident response: A structured model from detection to containment and recovery

As cyber-attacks evolve in sophistication; organizations are under constant threat. This necessitates a cohesive approach to prioritize incident response (IR) capabilities and mitigate potential damages. This research paper explores integrating Information Security Management (ISM) and Incident Response (IR) functions; underlining the need for a unified strategy that leverages organizational learning theory. The study comprehensively analyzes the Incident Response Lifecycle; outlining the critical phases of preparation; detection and analysis; containment; eradication; recovery; and post-incident activities. It also investigates the crucial role and structure of Incident Response Teams (IRTs); advocating for tailored team formations that adapt to the dynamic nature of cyber incidents. By fostering collaboration between ISM and IR functions and focusing on technical and socio-technical factors; organizations can enhance their resilience against cyber threats and improve their overall security posture.

Analysis of the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Mahjong

Over the past few years, AI-based models for Mahjong have received a substantial amount of contribution due to the advancements in machine learning and game theory. In this review, these state-of-the-art AI models are considered, including Tjong, Kanachan, Suphx, and Zhejiang University’s developed model. The deployed approaches are disparately represented by reinforcement learning, Monte Carlo tree search (MCTS), and deep neural networks, all of which aim at solving the issues that come with the game’s structure, such as incomplete and overburdening information. The Tjong model complements the power of the transformer architecture with hierarchical decision-making and in turn, brings strategic depth to the gameplay. Kanachan employs Q-learning and MCTS to optimize decision-making, while Suphx combines these methods with the novel ideas of Double Q-learning and Thompson Sampling to achieve higher performance than seen before. The integration of reinforcement learning and a new evaluation model imbues the model with the unique properties of both learning machines and human expertise, namely depth and intelligence. As a result of all these exploits, obstacles still exist, the most notable among them are the management of completely unknown information, handling long-distance games, and the strategic balance between offense and defense. In the future, determinants of probabilistic reasoning, the improvement of deep learning systems, and the prowess of reward shaping will result in AI improvement in Mahjong.

E-learning and sustainability of higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa: a review and synthesis

Purpose This study aims to examine the state of literature on the role of e-learning in the sustainability of higher education institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa, with the goal of identifying explored thematic areas, finding out the deficiencies in extant literature and recommending areas of future research work. Design/methodology/approach The research used a systematic literature review, examining articles published between 2012 and 2022. In total, 52 publications were identified and subjected to analysis. Findings The findings reveal that few studies have explored the relationship between e-learning and the sustainability of higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa, with larger economies in the region dominating research output. In addition, traditional technology adoption and social learning theories dominate the theoretical frameworks in this area. Moreover, the authors observed limited adaptation of these theories to local contexts, leading to outcomes with limited contextual details or lack of the same. Despite its potential, e-learning has yet to be fully embraced as a strategic tool for the sustainability of higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa. Originality/value Although various systematic literature reviews exist in the field of sustainability in higher education, there seem to be no reviews specifically focused on e-learning within the context of Sub-Saharan Africa. This review sheds some light on potential future research paths regarding the theory, content and context of e-learning for the sustainability of higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa, and by extension, in developing countries worldwide.

Application of Machine Learning in Human-Computer Intelligent Confrontation

Human-computer intelligent confrontation is a widely used technique in a lot of game scenarios, and the artificial intelligence makes a lot of success in different fields. The level of artificial intelligence improves quickly with the development of machine learning. Machine learning refers to enhancing the capabilities of artificial intelligence through the interaction of machines and data. Among all kinds of machine learning, the most famous one is deep reinforced learning. This technology is currently widely used in human-computer confrontations. This article introduces the technical principles of machine learning and reviews the development history of machine learning theory. Besides, this article introduces the application of machine learning in the two important competitive fields of Go and Texas Hold’em, as well as its development and achievements in these two areas. This article can enable other scholars to have a more comprehensive and systematic understanding of machine learning and its applications in Go and Texas Hold’em.

Reinforcement learning when your life depends on it: A neuro-economic theory of learning.

Synaptic plasticity enables animals to adapt to their environment, but memory formation can require a substantial amount of metabolic energy, potentially impairing survival. Hence, a neuro-economic dilemma arises whether learning is a profitable investment or not, and the brain must therefore judiciously regulate learning. Indeed, in experiments it was observed that during starvation, Drosophila suppress formation of energy-intensive aversive memories. Here we include energy considerations in a reinforcement learning framework. Simulated flies learned to avoid noxious stimuli through synaptic plasticity in either the energy expensive long-term memory (LTM) pathway, or the decaying anesthesia-resistant memory (ARM) pathway. The objective of the flies is to maximize their lifespan, which is calculated with a hazard function. We find that strategies that switch between the LTM and ARM pathways, based on energy reserve and reward prediction error, prolong lifespan. Our study highlights the significance of energy-regulation of memory pathways and dopaminergic control for adaptive learning and survival. It might also benefit engineering applications of reinforcement learning under resources constraints.

Parent's Perspectives on Boarding Schools in Primary Education Settings: The Case of Std Vi and Vii in Magharibi B District Unguja

This paper is set to determine the Parents' perspectives on boarding schools in Zanzibar. The study is expected to provide insights into the Parents' perspectives and experiences regarding boarding schools in primary school settings, especially for STD VI and VII. The study will shed light on the benefits, challenges, and potential outcomes associated with boarding in primary school settings from different parents. The study utilized the Social Learning Theory developed by Albert Bandura, which is a psychological framework that emphasizes the role of observation, imitation, and modeling in the learning process. This theory highlighted the impact of models in shaping behavior, both positive and negative, and demonstrated how children could imitate aggressive behavior they witnessed in adults. In this study, data was gathered directly from primary sources through various methods such as interviews, Questionnaires, and group discussions in order to give chances for any respondent to give out his or her view about boarding schools in primary education settings in confidence and freeway. The findings indicate that parents prefer boarding schools as they provide a conducive learning environment, help in students' social development, and safety in boarding schools is well-managed. Also, boarding schools have adequate resources and facilities and communication between parents and boarding schools is effective. The study concludes that parents hold varied perspectives on boarding schools, emphasizing their perceived benefits such as conducive learning environments, social development opportunities, and well-managed safety protocols. These positive views are complemented by concerns about resource adequacy, communication effectiveness, and the rigidity of the boarding school environment

Responsible Leadership Behavioral Styles and Innovative Work Behavior: A Moderated‐Mediation Analysis

ABSTRACTDrawing from the social learning theory (SLT), this study aims to examine the relationship between responsible leadership behavioral styles (RLBS) (instrumental and integrative) and employees' innovative work behaviors (IWBs). This study also examines the mediating role of meaningful work (MFW) and the moderating role of knowledge sharing (KS) in the relationship between RLBS and IWBs. Data were collected from 230 employees at different levels working in the public and private sectors. The SPSS PROCESS macros were used to analyze moderated mediation, mediation, and moderation results. All the hypothesized relationships are supported, except the mediating role of MFW in the relationship between integrative RLBS and IWBs, which is partially supported. The findings demonstrated that KS strengthens the instrumental and integrative RLBS' direct effect on MFW and its indirect effect on employees' IWBs. This paper provides a unique theoretical contribution to the effect of RLBS on IWBs in the organization. Instrumental (effective decision‐making and task orientation) and integrative (motivation and welfare orientation) RLBS would be helpful to industrial experts and academicians in creating an innovative work environment for employees in the organization.

Development of an Online, Asynchronous Community Engagement Course for Master of Public Health Students: Theoretical and Practical Considerations

Community engagement is the cornerstone of public health and should be a central part of graduate education in the field. The growing popularity of online graduate education requires instructors and programs to carefully craft community engagement curricula in new ways that leverage opportunities and mitigate challenges presented by remote learning. This article offers a theoretical and practical roadmap for developing and implementing an effective community engagement course that encompasses both research and practical applications. It offers a review of learning theories that course designers may leverage in their work as well as real-world lessons learned from implementation of such a course in a Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)-accredited program.

Navigating educational transformation: Understanding learning styles’ preferences of Egyptian students in the post-pandemic era

This study investigated the Learning style preferences of Egyptian EFL learners post-COVID-19. It aims to examine differences emerging in multimodal and bimodal learning preferences based on demographic variables of age and gender and consider the cultural educational context in Egypt during and post the pandemic era. Utilizing the VARK Model, Mayor’s Multimodal Learning Theory, and the Connectivism Learning Theory a survey comprising 19 questions was disseminated to 211 Egyptian EFL students from various age groups. Findings reveal a predominant preference for multimodal learning, particularly visual and read/write styles, with significant variations between genders. Female learners exhibited a stronger inclination towards kinesthetic styles, while males preferred visual methods. Younger learners and female students showed a stronger preference toward the multimodal approach that integrates technology-mediated learning, whereas older students and male learners were in favor of the more traditional modes of learning. The study highlights the importance of integrating traditional instruction wit multimedia resources, particularly for younger learners who thrive in interactive settings. Recommendations include encouraging collaboration between public and private educational sectors, increase the community services and initiatives for community-based learning to address the diverse needs of unprivileged learners. The study advocates for an innovative and holistic teaching approach to enhance engagement and motivation, achieve quality education, and cultivate an informed, skilled generation capable of contributing to the sustainable future of Egypt 2030.

Gaze and hand behaviors during haptic abilities testing-An update to multimedia learning theory.

The Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML) suggests humans learn through visual and auditory sensory channels. Haptics represent a third channel within CTML and a missing component for experiential learning. The objective was to measure visual and haptic behaviors during spatial tasks. The haptic abilities test (HAT) quantifies results in several realms, accuracy, time, and strategy. The HAT was completed under three sensory conditions using sight (S), haptics (H), and sight with haptics (SH). Subjects (n = 22, 13 females (F), 20-28 years) completed the MRT (10.6 ± 5.0, mean ± SD) and were classified as high or low spatial abilities scores with respect to mean MRT: high spatial abilities (HSA) (n = 12, 6F, MRT = 13.7 ± 3.0), and low spatial ability (LSA) groups (n = 10, 7F, MRT = 5.6 ± 2.0). Video recordings gaze and hand behaviors were compared between HSA and LSA groups across HAT conditions. The HSA group spent less time fixating on mirrored objects, an erroneous answer option, of HAT compared to the LSA group (11.0 ± 4.7 vs. 17.8 ± 7.3 s, p = 0.020) in S conditions. In haptic conditions, HSA utilized a hand-object interaction strategy characterized as palpation, significantly less than the LSA group (23.2 ± 16.0 vs. 43.1 ± 21.5 percent, p = 0.022). Before this study, it was unclear whether haptic sensory inputs appended to the mental schema models of the CTML. These data suggest that if spatial abilities are challenged, LSA persons both benefit and utilize strategies beyond the classic CTML framework by using their hands as a third input channel. This data suggest haptic behaviors offer a third type of sensory memory resulting in improved cognitive performance.

The Influence of Training and Development Programme on Staff Performance: A Case of Tanzania Revenue Authority in the Coast Region

Training and development programmes play a crucial role in enhancing staff performance within an organization. These programmes are designed to improve employees’ knowledge, skills, and abilities, ultimately leading to increased productivity, efficiency, and overall organizational success. One of the primary reasons why training and development programmes are crucial for staff performance is that they contribute to the enhancement of employees’ skills and knowledge. Through targeted training initiatives, employees can acquire new skills, stay updated with industry best practices, and gain a deeper understanding of their roles within the organization. It is in this context, this study assessed the influence of training and development program on staff performance: a case of Tanzania Revenue Authority, coast region. The study focused on three specific objectives including to identify existing practice of training and development programmes offered by TRA coast region, to determine whether training and development programmes have effects on employees’ performance at TRA coast region and to investigate the current challenges the TRA coast region experiences in training it employees. The study was done at TRA Coast region where by a sample of 92 respondents from the population of 120 senior and operational employees who randomly and stratified sampled participated. The study was guided by transformative learning theory. Descriptive research design was employed. Questionnaires and interview questions were used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive and regression analysis. Findings suggest that on-the-job training at TRA allows employees to acquire specific job- related skills in a real work environment. Through engaging in actual tasks and responsibilities under the guidance of experienced mentors or supervisors, employees can develop a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities, Findings further suggest that off-the-job training opportunities have played a significant role in enhancing employees’ overall professional development at the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA). It was revealed from the study that TRA is relevant to employees’ job responsibilities, and that the feedback received during on-the-job training is constructive while training and positively impacted employees’ job performance. Findings revealed that off-the-job training opportunities enhanced employees’ overall professional development. The study concludes that on-the-job training programmes at TRA are relevant to employees’ job responsibilities, and for that case the feedback received during on- the-job training is constructive. The study also concluded that induction training provided by TRA Coast Region adequately familiarizes new employees with organizational policies and procedures. It was recommended that the management of TRA should continue investing in training and development programmes since Training and development programmes leads to improved employee performance by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out their duties effectively.

The Role of Cognitive Learner Prerequisites for Cognitive Load and Learning Outcomes in AR-Supported Lab Work

Augmented Reality (AR) can enhance student-centered lab work by bridging the spatial and temporal split between virtual information and observed real-world phenomena. While the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning and the Cognitive Load Theory suggest that AR can reduce extraneous cognitive load (ECL) and foster learning, the empirical results remain inconsistent. This re-analysis of three related studies with different target groups and AR devices explores whether learners’ spatial abilities and verbal working memory capacity moderate the effect of AR support in lab work settings on ECL and conceptual knowledge gains. Although these moderators could not be confirmed consistently, the results indicate that tablet-based AR holds the potential to support learners with low spatial abilities. Moreover, low verbal working memory learners were demonstrated to be particularly vulnerable to the spatial contiguity failure that can be caused by smartglasses AR. Moderation effects were only observed for ECL but not for conceptual knowledge gains. The findings highlight that the benefit of AR support can depend on learners’ cognitive prerequisites and additional contextual factors, such as the AR device used and the age of the target group. The design and implementation of AR-supported lab work environments should account for these factors to optimize the learning outcomes.

Protocol club: a social learning framework for the research delivery workforce.

'Protocol club' is a learning activity underpinned by social learning theory that is designed 'by the research delivery workforce, for the research delivery workforce'. A protocol club meets regularly to critique the feasibility and deliverability of publicly available study protocols. To describe a proof-of-concept protocol club aimed at addressing the training needs of a research delivery workforce at two NHS England trusts. The authors piloted their club with research delivery staff at the two trusts. This provided insights about group dynamics, communities of practice and confidentiality. From these results, the authors developed the framework, worksheets and other practical elements to operationalise the protocol club. A protocol club is a useful activity for practical learning. Protocol clubs can be embedded in research delivery practice as a potential framework.

A Comparative Analysis of Structured Pedagogy Interventions in South Africa and Their Impact on Student Performance in Mathematics and Science Subjects

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the comparative analysis of structured pedagogy interventions in South Africa and their impact on student performance in mathematics and science subjects. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: A comparative analysis of structured pedagogy interventions in South Africa reveals that these targeted educational approaches have positively impacted student performance in mathematics and science subjects. Studies show that interventions such as curriculum-aligned teaching materials, teacher training, and standardized assessments significantly improved students' understanding and achievement in these areas. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Constructivist learning theory, bloom’s taxonomy of educational objectives & sociocultural theory may be used to anchor future studies on the analyzing the comparative analysis of structured pedagogy interventions in South Africa and their impact on student performance in mathematics and science subjects. Schools should integrate structured lesson plans and data-driven instruction into everyday practice to enhance teacher efficacy and student performance. Policymakers should implement nationwide curriculum reforms that standardize content delivery across all schools, ensuring consistency in teaching quality, particularly in mathematics and science.

Challenges and Opportunities of Implementing Education Technology in Rural and Underserved Areas of Tanzania, Assessing the Sustainability and Educational Impact of Such Initiatives

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the challenges and opportunities of implementing education technology in rural and underserved areas of Tanzania, assessing the sustainability and educational impact of such initiatives. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The implementation of education technology in rural and underserved areas of Tanzania presents both challenges and opportunities. Key challenges include limited access to reliable electricity and internet connectivity, a lack of digital literacy among teachers and students, and insufficient infrastructure and resources to support tech-based learning. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Diffusion of innovation theory, unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) & socio-constructivist learning theory may be used to anchor future studies on the challenges and opportunities of implementing education technology in rural and underserved areas of Tanzania, assessing the sustainability and educational impact of such initiatives. Teachers should receive ongoing, hands-on training to integrate digital tools into their pedagogy, which would enhance both teaching effectiveness and student engagement. Policies should incentivize telecommunication companies to offer affordable data packages for educational purposes and extend mobile learning platforms to areas with limited connectivity.

Learning organizations and sustainability outcomes in tourism: the mediating role of sustainable practices

Purpose This study aims to investigate the influence of learning organization characteristics on sustainability outcomes in the tourism sector, with a specific focus on sustainable tourism practices. It seeks to gain insights into how organizations in the tourism industry contribute to sustainability efforts. Design/methodology/approach This research used a survey method to gather data from employees working in five leading Indian tourism companies. The study was designed based on the theoretical frameworks of triple bottom line theory and organizational learning theory, with quantitative analysis conducted using structural equation modeling through Smart PLS 4 software. Findings This study reveals that learning organizations play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices and yielding positive sustainability outcomes in the tourism sector. The results demonstrated significant positive relationships and mediation effects, highlighting the substantial impact of learning organization characteristics on enhancing sustainability efforts within the industry. Research limitations/implications This study’s findings provide actionable insights for refining organizational strategies and formulating policy recommendations to strengthen sustainability initiatives within the tourism sector. In addition, this research contributes valuable knowledge to the expanding field of sustainable tourism management and best organizational practices. Originality/value This study contributes to the field by offering empirical evidence on the interplay between learning organization characteristics, sustainable tourism practices and sustainability outcomes within the tourism sector. Its focus on addressing sustainability challenges in this industry context provides valuable insights for industry stakeholders and policymakers, guiding them in formulating effective strategies and decisions to enhance sustainability efforts.