Likert Scale Survey Research Articles

Can AI-powered avatars replace human trainers? An empirical test of synthetic humanlike spokesperson applications

Purpose This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of widely adopted but under-studied synthetic humanlike spokespersons (SHS) compared to organic human spokespersons in workplace training videos. The primary aim is to evaluate whether employees will rate training videos more negatively when they perceive their trainer to be synthetic such as those videos made with the AI-powered tools Synthesia or HeyGen. Results suggest that while ratings are more negative when the viewer perceives syntheticness, the change is only mild across most measures deployed here. When measures were calculated by using actual modality and not perceived modality, no significant change in rating was found. This study deployed three measures: actual knowledge transfer, perceived effectiveness and brand impression. It is guided by a convergence of AI Literacy Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model and the Theory of Reasoned Action. Design/methodology/approach Over 250 professionals assessed the effectiveness of training videos in a 2 × 2 trial design. Participants were randomly assigned to view one of four training videos featuring either a synthetic or organic spokesperson for a fictional business. After watching the video, participants answered Likert-scale survey questions and multiple-choice quiz-style questions to provide comparative measurements of actual knowledge transfer effectiveness, perceived effectiveness, brand impression and the effectiveness of the synthetic deception. The study used both ANOVA and multiple regression analyses to control for potential confounding variables and ensure the robustness of the findings. Findings The results indicate no significant differences between SHS and organic human spokespersons in terms of actual effectiveness (quiz scores), perceived effectiveness or brand impression, based on actual modality comparisons. However, when respondents perceived syntheticness, the avatar triggered the negative uncanny valley phenomenon and slightly decreased overall scores in perceived effectiveness and brand impression. Notably, more than half of respondents did not detect that the SHS was synthetic. Demographic variables such as gender, age or household income had no significant impact on the results. Practical implications Organizations can justifiably consider incorporating SHS into their training programs, leveraging these synthetic agents to deliver cost-effective and scalable learning solutions. The findings suggest that SHS can be used effectively for goals such as actual knowledge transfer without compromising training quality, and that other perceptual goals may be within reach as well. This may offer a viable alternative to traditional, organic human spokespersons, opening up new opportunities for enhancing training efficiency and accessibility across various industries. Originality/value Synthetic avatars, as outlined here, are a demonstrably effective new option in the array of available learning technologies. They are being adopted en masse but without significant study of their effectiveness. This research provides foundational quantitative assessments designed to address that gap in the literature and practice. The data presented here is highly valuable for practitioners and scholars interested in cutting-edge learning tools. Given the rapid advancement of technology, this study provides an important benchmark for evaluating future improvements in these tools. Furthermore, it offers actionable recommendations for integrating AI-powered avatars into professional development, enhancing understanding of the roles advanced technologies play in educational and training programs.

A Novel Web App for Dietary Weight Management: Development, Implementation, and Usability Study

Background Online weight loss programs have ambiguous efficacy. There is a growing body of evidence that weight loss programs when combined with apps have better outcomes; however, many apps lack an evidence-based approach to dietary changes for weight loss and do not rely on a theoretical framework for behavior change. Objective This study aimed to describe the development and the preliminary usability and acceptability testing of a web app that uses behavior change techniques (BCTs) to support users of a comprehensive online weight loss program. Methods The weight loss program intervention components were nutrient and weight tracking charts that needed a remotely accessible and online format. The app was designed by nutrition researchers and developers in a collaborative effort. A review of BCTs in weight loss and web apps was performed as well as an assessment of user needs to inform the initial prototype. A preliminary app prototype, version 1.0, was provided to participants of a weight loss trial (N=30) to assess for feasibility of its use. A full app prototype, version 2.0, was feasibility and acceptability tested by trial participants (n=11) with formal feedback by Likert-scale survey and open-ended questions. In the final round of testing, a user group of scientists and developers (n=11) was selected to provide a structured 3-month review through which the group met weekly for collective feedback sessions. Results The process resulted in a fully developed web app, MealPlot, by the Applied Research Institute, for meal planning and weight tracking that can be used by weight loss users and health professionals to track their patients. MealPlot includes a weight chart, a protein-fiber chart, and a chat feature. In addition, MealPlot has 2 distinct platforms, 1 for weight loss users and 1 for health professionals. Selected BCTs for incorporation into the app were goal setting, feedback, problem-solving, self-monitoring, and social support. Version 1.0 was used successfully to provide a functioning, online weight chart over the course of a 1-year trial. Version 2.0 provided a functional weight chart and meal planning page, but 8 out of 11 participants indicated MealPlot was difficult to use. Version 3.0 was developed based on feedback and strategies provided from user group testing. Conclusions The web app, MealPlot, was developed to improve outcomes and functionality of an online weight loss program by providing a remote method of tracking weight, food intake, and connecting users to health professionals for consistent guidance that is not otherwise available in a traditional in-person health care setting. The final version 3.0 of the web app will be refined based on findings of a review study gathering feedback from health professionals and from actual weight loss users who are part of a clinical weight loss trial.

Pengaruh Kompetensi Kepribadian Guru Pendidikan Pancasila terhadap Karakter Tanggung Jawab Siswa SMP Negeri 1 Percut Sei Tuan

This study aims to determine that the personality competence of Pancasila Education teachers can affect the character of responsibility of SMPN 1 Percut Sei Tuan students. The theory used is convergence theory. This research uses quantitative correlation method. The period of research implementation is from June 11 to July 12, 2024. Data gathering methods were conducted through observation, interviews, and documentation. The tools utilized for data acquisition in this research included Likert Scale surveys and open-ended questionnaires based on random sampling. The study participants were selected using a random sampling approach from a defined population of 309 students from a total of class VIII and a total sample of 40 students, with 4 representatives from each class. The types of data in this study are primary and secondary data. The data analysis techniques used are correlation test, determination test, hypothesis testing using a Likert scale. Data analysis in this study uses statistical quantitative methods with product moment calculations. This is evidenced by the calculation of the correlation coefficient between variable x and variable y, it is known that the rcount value is 0.563. If this value is compared with the rtable value at a significant 5% with n = 40, then the rcount is equal to the provisions, if the rcount value is greater than the rtable (0.563> 0.312) then, it can be concluded that there is a significant influence on the influence of the personality competence of the Pancasila Education teacher on the character of student responsibility in class VIII of SMP Negeri 1 Percut Sei Tuan in the 2023/2024 school year.

Evaluation of Resettled Residents’ Engagement in Community Gardens and Preferences for Garden Development Factors in Beijing

Resettlement communities arising from China’s urbanization process accommodate both landless resettled villagers and non-resettled villagers who migrate to cities for work. Community gardens help increase interactions in resettlement communities and facilitate the integration of resettled residents into the community. This paper, based on the differing characteristics of resettled and non-resettled villagers in China’s resettlement communities and the scarcity of outdoor public space, studies the participation willingness of resettled residents and their preferences for the construction of community gardens. Firstly, this study establishes a system of community garden construction elements for resettlement communities and conducts a Likert scale survey of residents in 30 resettlement communities in Beijing (n = 832). Secondly, variance analysis is used to explore the impact of demographic characteristics on garden preferences. Finally, a multiple linear regression model is employed to study the correlation between resettled residents’ willingness to participate in community gardens and the construction elements. The results show that (1) both resettled villagers and non-villagers have a willingness to participate in community gardens, and the spatial enhancement, facility supplementation, economic compensation, community integration, and identity recognition of garden construction elements are positively correlated with residents’ willingness to participate, with spatial enhancement having the strongest effect; (2) community gardens help achieve integration between resettled and non-resettled villagers; (3) gardens help enhance the identity recognition of resettled villagers. In summary, integrating community gardens into resettlement communities helps increase residents’ social interactions, enhances their sense of belonging, and assists resettled residents in integrating into urban society.

Analysis of Zakat as an Alternative Fiscal Instrument in Supporting Economic Development in Indonesia

This study explores the potential of zakat as an alternative fiscal instrument in supporting economic development in Indonesia. Zakat, a mandatory charitable contribution in Islam, has the ability to address poverty, reduce income inequality, and contribute to economic growth. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 80 respondents, including zakat payers, recipients, and administrators, through a Likert-scale survey. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 to evaluate the impact of zakat distribution efficiency and utilization on poverty reduction and economic development. The results demonstrate that both zakat distribution efficiency and utilization significantly contribute to poverty reduction and economic development, supporting the hypothesis that zakat can play a crucial role as a fiscal tool. The study's findings suggest that improving zakat management practices and aligning zakat utilization with long-term development goals could enhance its impact on Indonesia's economic growth.

The Role of Visionary Leadership, Curriculum Innovation, and Management of Educational Resources on the Quality of Character-Based Education for High School Students in West Java

This study examines the influence of visionary leadership, curriculum innovation, and educational resource management on the quality of character-based education in high schools in West Java, Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from 170 high school students through a Likert-scale survey. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The findings reveal that curriculum innovation has the most significant positive impact on character-based education, followed by the management of educational resources and visionary leadership. These results underscore the importance of adopting innovative curricula and effectively managing educational resources to enhance character education. Visionary leadership also plays a critical role in setting a direction for character development, though its impact is more pronounced when combined with curriculum and resource management. The study provides insights for educators, policymakers, and school administrators in creating an educational environment that fosters both academic and moral development.

Management of human epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors-related acneiform rash: A position paper based on the first Europe/USA Delphi consensus process.

There is a need for unified guidance in the management of acneiform rash induced by epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRi) among dermatologists. To establish unified international guidelines for the management of acneiform rash caused by EGFR inhibitors, based on an experts' Delphi consensus. The initiative was led by five members of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Task Force 'Dermatology for Cancer Patients' who developed a questionnaire that was circulated to a group of 32 supportive oncodermatology experts in Europe, Canada, Argentina, the US States and Asia. The questionnaire consisted of 84 statements in total, regarding diagnosis and treatment of EGFRi-induced acneiform rash. Experts responded to an anonymous 5-point Likert scale survey. The coordinators collected the first-round responses that were checked for consensus (≥75% agreement in positive [agree or strongly agree] or in negative [disagree or strongly disagree] vote). The statements that did not reach strong consensus in the first round were revised, according to experts' feedback, for a second-round survey. Strong consensus was reached in 75/84 (89.3%) of the statements, whilst moderate consensus was achieved in 6/84 elements. Key points include consideration of low-dose isotretinoin for refractory grade II/III acneiform rash, use of topical steroid-sparing agents like topical pimecrolimus in the maintenance phase and use of doxycycline in either 100 or 200 mg per day as prophylactic treatment. Interestingly, experts did not recommend topical antibiotics, neither for prevention, nor for treatment. Consensus failure in 3/84 objects is mostly related to the lack of robust data on these topics. This consensus offers crucial insights often overlooked by radiotherapists, general practitioners, dermatologists and oncologists, and it is expected to improve the management of oncologic patients treated with EGFRi in different settings and continents.

Assessment on the Basketball Teaching Approach: Basis for the Development of Basketball Curriculum in College Department

This study investigates the effectiveness of various teaching approaches in basketball education on student learning outcomes. A total of 150 students participated in the research, which utilized pre-tests, post-tests, and Likert-scale surveys to evaluate the impact of instructional methods such as sports science integration, technology use, mental skills training, and evidence-based practices. Significant positive correlations were found between sports science integration and learning in basketball theory and tactics, as well as between technology use and skill development. However, no significant correlations were identified in areas related to physical conditioning and competition readiness. The findings suggest that while sports science and technology are effective for specific learning outcomes, further improvements are needed in other areas to fully enhance basketball education.

An intuitive approach to cybersecurity risk assessment for non-governmental organizations

Purpose This study proposes a guided tool for cybersecurity risk assessment tailored for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), enabling them to comply with cybersecurity policies despite limitations in security awareness, funding and expertise. Design/methodology/approach A digital transformation is indispensable for ensuring the sustainable operation of NGOs. Embracing a digital manifesto necessitates an awareness of cybersecurity risks, highlighting the critical need for a robust cybersecurity risk assessment methodology. Initial research phases revealed significant shortages in security awareness, funding and expertise. Consequently, this study introduces an intuitive approach tailored specifically for NGOs, supported by a customized tool designed to address their unique requirements. The NIST cybersecurity risk assessment framework and National Cyber-security Authority (NCA) were adopted to define the risk assessment approach. The efficacy of this approach is evaluated qualitatively through a case study involving three NGOs in Saudi Arabia, aimed at assessing their capability to utilize the tool effectively. Following the implementation, a Likert-scale survey gauged satisfaction among NGOs regarding the tool’s utility. Findings Results from the case study indicate high satisfaction, affirming its alignment with their operational needs and enhancement of compliance with NCA controls. Furthermore, the use of the tool enhances the awareness of NCA’s cybercity requirements and controls. Originality/value Based on theoretical and empirical grounds, this research proposes a novel design of security assessment framework tailored for NGO requirements and supported by initiative tool enabling complying with cybersecurity policies and enhances the awareness of cybersecurity controls.

Innovation in Teacher Training: Curricular and Operational Keys in Pedagogy Programs

This study addresses the curricular components and operational conditions required for the success of curricular innovations in teacher education programs. This quantitative study analyzed components related to epistemic meanings, organization, design, and curricular policies, as well as operational conditions for the development of curricular innovations in teacher training. A Likert-scale survey was administered to academics from public universities in Chile that train teachers. The method of analysis used SPSSv28 software, establishing a descriptive and inferential analysis through descriptive statistics of sex, age, gender, and position in the organization. The results show that operational conditions, academic teams, organizational aspects, updating of regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, and curricular policies are essential for the success of curricular innovations. We conclude that curricular innovations at the institutional level require the generation of curricular policies that contemplate the design, monitoring, and evaluation of the curriculum to favor the processes of curriculum review and quality assurance.

Surgeon perspectives on a virtual reality platform for preoperative planning in complex bone sarcomas

Background and objectivesTreatment of primary bone and soft tissue sarcomas typically includes complete surgical resection with or without adjunctive modalities. Despite best efforts, for the most challenging clinical scenarios such as axial or pelvic sarcoma, five-year survival rates are reported to be between 27 and 40 %. Since quality of resection is a key determinant of oncologic outcomes, it is critical to preoperatively plan the surgical approach to improve resection accuracy, ensure sufficient surgical margins, and reduce the risk of local or metastatic recurrence. The computer conversion of 2-dimensional (2D) computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to a three-dimensional (3D) virtual reality (VR) avatar image may allow improved preoperative estimation of tumor size, location, adjacent anatomy, and spatial understanding of the tumor without relying on surgeon experience, memory, and imagination. The purpose of this study is to investigate the utility of a virtual reality platform in preoperative planning and surgical approach in a retrospective cohort of pelvic bone sarcoma cases. MethodsThe histopathology database at our institution was queried for all historical cases of bone and soft tissue sarcoma with surgical resection failure, defined as positive gross or microscopic margins. Four cases of pelvic bone sarcoma were chosen for retrospective review by fellowship-trained orthopedic tumor specialists. For each case, participants first studied conventional 2D preoperative CT images and answered a questionnaire pertaining to objective case parameters. Participants then interacted with case-specific 3D models while wearing a VR headset and answered the same questionnaire. The VR ‘avatar’ was created with custom-developed software. After using both modalities, participants completed a Likert-scale survey aiming to evaluate the VR technology's subjective impact on understanding tumor environment, surgical plan confidence, and its ability to improve communication with colleagues and patients. Four attending orthopedic oncologists, one orthopedic oncology fellow, and one senior orthopedic oncology resident participated in the study. ResultsFour cases of failed resection were evaluated by a group of both attending surgeons and a group of trainees composed of both residents and fellows. Tumor borders were clearly delineated in 0 % and 66.6 % cases when evaluating with conventional 2D imaging and VR, respectively. Participants changed adjacent structure involvement grade 22.2 % of the time after assessing involvement grade on the VR technology, with adjacent ligamentous structure grading changed most frequently in 55.5 % of cases. Users reported they would change the surgical approach or margins 44.4 % of the time after reviewing with VR technology. Initial 6 plane resection plans were changed in every user case. Subjective responses indicated that surgeons expressed more confidence in their approach, confidence with obtaining negative margins, and provided more detail regarding structures to be resected in specific planes. ConclusionPelvic tumors present unique surgical challenges due to complex 3D anatomy, the proximity of vital structures, consistency of the tumor, and the need to alter patient position during resection procedures. Using examples of failed pelvic bone sarcoma resections, our study found that VR imaging increased understanding of the tumor environment, characteristics, and ability to communicate with patients and colleagues.

The Impact of Robotic Gastronomic Experiences on Customer Value, Delight and Loyalty in Service-Robot Restaurants

This study examines the impact of robotic gastronomic experiences (RGE) on customer emotional and functional value, delight, and loyalty in service robot restaurants. Using validated scales from prior research, a 5-point Likert scale survey was conducted with 302 participants via Amazon Mechanical Turk, targeting individuals with experience in such establishments. The analysis, performed with SmartPLS 4.0, utilized partial least squares-path modelling (PLS-PM) to test the hypothesized relationships. Results show that RGE, characterized by competence and coolness, positively affects emotional and functional values, which significantly influence delight and loyalty. Methodological measures were implemented to address common method variance (CMV), confirming the robustness of the findings. This research underscores the potential of service robots to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty through efficient and engaging service delivery, providing valuable insights for integrating advanced robotics in the hospitality industry.

Acceptability of Moringa oleifera seeds flour supplement-added to normal diet by Women Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWHIV) in resource-limited setting

This article aims to assess the acceptability of Moringa oleifera seed supplementation among HIV-positive women in resource-limited settings. The management of HIV/AIDS in resource-constrained settings presents numerous challenges, highlighting the need for affordable supplements to complement standard anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Moringa oleifera, known for its nutritional and medicinal properties, has been noted for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects. A descriptive study utilising a Likert-scale survey evaluated participants' familiarity with Moringa oleifera, perceived health benefits, potential risks, ease of dietary integration, and taste acceptability. The findings revealed a generally positive acceptance of Moringa oleifera supplementation, with a mean acceptability score of 2.5750. Notably, 58.2 per cent of participants found the taste palatable, and 72.2 per cent reported ease of incorporation into their daily diet. A significant 90 per cent expressed willingness to use Moringa oleifera if proven effective in suppressing HIV viral load. The study also highlighted the influence of healthcare provider recommendations, with 77.7 per cent of participants more likely to use Moringa oleifera based on professional advice. In conclusion, Moringa oleifera seed supplementation is generally acceptable among People Living with HIV, particularly when supported by healthcare providers. To enhance its use, the study recommends increasing awareness, engaging healthcare professionals, and conducting further research to maximise its potential health benefits for HIV-positive individuals.

Digital Versus Print: Unpacking Indonesian University Students' Perceptions of English Language Learning

Due to technological advances, English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students who previously relied on printed books have switched to digital books. Higher education is, therefore, one of the levels of education currently one of the most heavily touched by digital technologies. This study aims to determine Indonesian students' perceptions regarding using digital books in reading classes. 127 students from a private university in Indonesia took part in this research. This type of research was a mixed-method design that used a five-point Likert Scale survey and semi-structured interviews to improve and support the results of the previous quantitative methods. The conclusion of this study covers students' past experiences, usefulness, preference for digital books vs. printed books, and English learning with digital books. In terms of students’ past experiences, 84% of students have read digital books on computers or tablets, and 92% always use their phones. Moreover, in terms of usefulness, the interviews showed that many participants did not know the highlighting and note-taking features of the digital book. 64% of students prefer digital books, but some interviewees prefer printed books with some justification. In addition, 88% said digital books helped them learn English, especially in reading class, supported by interviews with several participants who said they were better at learning vocabulary from the digital book.

Preliminary investigation: Feasibility study of a virtual reality breast biopsy simulation

Rationale and ObjectivesUltrasound-guided breast biopsies are the most frequently performed imaging-guided breast procedures. During training, learners may lack exposure due to limited volume and sensitive anatomy. Current simulation training often involves the use of manufactured or homemade (chicken or turkey breast) phantoms. Virtual reality is an emerging technology, allowing learners to have flexibility in learning, real-life interactive experiences and measurable feedback. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of a novel virtual reality breast biopsy simulation trainer. MethodsThis was a HIPAA-compliant, IRB-approved prospective feasibility study. The participants were three fellowship-trained breast radiologists with varying years of experience. Participants received an introduction to the virtual reality (VR) breast biopsy simulation and brief training session, describing how to enter the simulation and navigate controls. The participants were instructed to perform as many breast biopsies as possible within a 15-min time period. One biopsy cycle consisted of entering the breast with the biopsy needle, taking a biopsy sample and removing the needle. Time to successfully biopsy the mass was recorded by the VR program, and this data was recorded to assess improvement from start to finish of the simulation. A post-procedure survey was administered to all participants immediately after completion of the simulation. Qualitative open-ended subjective feedback was also obtained via Qualtrics. ResultsAll three breast radiologists completed the simulation. There were no complications from the procedure, including no motion sickness or fatigue resulting in simulation termination. Results of data obtained from the simulation showed decreased time to successful biopsy (slope = -19.23) with each subsequent trial for all three participant breast radiologists. A decreased time to biopsy was associated with a higher cumulative number of successful biopsies (p = 0.0037). A higher number of cumulative successful biopsies was associated with decreased number of body entries (p = 0.0332) and biopsy fires (p = 0.0221) before a successful tissue sample. Mean responses for Likert scale survey results were overall high. The radiologists found the simulator to be engaging (4.67/5.00 ± 0.47), realistic (2.67/3.00 ± 0.47) and would recommend the simulation to other healthcare professionals (2.67/3.00 ± 0.47). The radiologists participating in the trial also provided overall favorable subjective feedback. ConclusionsThis study presents a novel approach for ultrasound-guided breast biopsy training with a VR simulation that showed to be successfully capable of recording time-to-completion of each biopsy attempt. Future studies will be directed toward assessing the utility of the simulation in improving trainee skills.

Bearing witness: Medical education and reflecting on the Holocaust then and now.

Despite advocacy from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and The Lancet Commission on medicine, Nazism, and the Holocaust, Holocaust education is lacking in medical education. To address this gap, students at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM) viewed an Association of American Medical College (AAMC) webinar about medicine during the Holocaust as part of the required curriculum for first year medical students introduced in 2022. As part of their doctoring course, Physician and Patient Centered Care (PPCC), students viewed the AAMC webinar "The legacy of the role of medicine during the Holocaust and its contemporary relevance" and participated in two structured reflections: a written reflection on how webinar topics inform students' professional development and a verbal reflection on learning from the Holocaust to develop a sense of moral courage, advocacy, and activism in medicine. Researchers conducted qualitative analysis of written reflections and analyzed session surveys to determine key themes and impact of the session. Of the 108 enrolled in PPCC, 59 (54.6%) completed a post session Likert scale survey assessing the impact of the webinar on their personal and professional development. As an average, respondents moderately agreed that the webinar impacted their personal and professional development, with 91% slightly, moderately, or strongly agreeing. Additionally, thematic analysis of required written reflections indicated a majority of students (62.5%) identified the need for additional medical humanities education about the Holocaust and its relevance to medicine. Holocaust education encourages medical students to bear witness to past medical atrocities and critically assess the profession and their personal-professional growth. Continued structured integration of the Holocaust in medical education supports critical self-reflection and the development of morally courageous physicians who endorse and practice social accountability in medicine.

The evaluation of video-assisted debriefing for improving performance in simulated medical student resuscitations.

Simulation-based training is commonly used in medical education. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding best practices in debriefing. We aimed to identify novel solutions to this by adapting video-assisted debriefing (VAD) methodologies used in athletic training. We hypothesized that utilizing VAD would lead to improvements in performance during advanced cardiac life support (ACLS)-based simulations compared to traditional verbal debriefing (VD). The study was conducted at a single medical school. Participants were fourth-year medical students engaging in ACLS simulation-based training as part of their emergency medicine rotation. After completing an ACLS-based simulation, participants received either VD or VAD and then completed a second simulation scenario. Our primary outcome was ACLS performance, graded by blinded reviewers utilizing a previously developed modified checklist. Secondary outcomes included time from cardiac arrest to initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first defibrillation. Measurements were made before and after the interventional debrief, referred to as pre- and postdebrief. A modified Likert-scale survey was used to subjectively assess the student's overall experience. Forty-six groups of 275 students were included in the study. Mean ACLS performance score for VD and VAD postdebrief were 85% and 82%, respectively (p = 0.27). Mean time from arrest to CPR initiation for VD and VAD postdebrief groups were 20 and 24 s, respectively (p = 0.46). Mean time from arrest to defibrillation for VD and VAD postdebrief groups were 50 and 59 s, respectively (p = 0.39). For the Likert surveys, 85% or more of participants in both groups indicated that the session was "very helpful" in all survey categories. VD and VAD both led to improvements in ACLS performance, time to initiation of CPR, and defibrillation among fourth-year medical students. Though postdebrief results were not statistically significantly different by comparison, overall VD led to greater improvement overall across all outcomes.

Safer Pediatric Sedations: Simulation Checklists to Improve Knowledge, Attitudes, and Skills in Emergency Medicine Residents.

Background Pediatric sedation is a low-frequency, high-stakes procedure. This study aimed to train emergency medicine (EM) residents in pediatric procedural sedation through a sedation checklist, enhancing patient safety. Methods EM residents completed a pre-test and a survey on their knowledge and experiences with sedation protocols. Residents were subdivided into four groups: two control groups underwent a pediatric sedation simulation without the aid of a procedural checklist, while two intervention groups were given the procedural checklist to guide their management of the procedure. Following the simulations, a simulation faculty member reviewed sedation management and safety with residents for all groups and answered questions. An improvement analysis was performed via a post-intervention examination among all residents. Results Residents in the intervention group demonstrated an improvement in obtaining more critical actions during the simulation (intervention group critical actions 14, 13 vs non-intervention critical actions 10, 12) and confidence with the procedure (via a Likert scale survey across multiple arenas of pediatric sedation), with only moderately increased scores on the post-test examination (pre-simulation score of 6.28±2.14; post-simulation score of 6.75±1.88). Conclusion The data suggest that a checklist, combined with dedicated training through simulation, improves knowledge, confidence, and skill with regard to pediatric sedations. Further study is required to examine the longitudinal impact of our program on resident performance and patient outcomes.

Enhancing Authentic Assessment in Large-Class Design Education Through Authentic Project-Based Learning

As global economies advance, the cultivation of critical thinking and creativity in higher education is increasingly important for societal and economic progress. Adopting traditional educational methods to larger class sizes where personalized attention is scarce is crucial. This research delves into the fusion of blended and authentic project-based learning by integrating online and face-to-face instruction to immerse students in practical scenarios. The study examines how these integrated methods can improve student engagement, critical thinking, creativity, and proposes an effective assessment system for large-class design education. Drawing from Herrington’s principles of authentic learning and utilizing a mixed-method approach, which includes a Likert scale survey of Design Management students, the research indicates a notable impact of blended and authentic learning on assessment outcomes. The study, presented within the ANABLE (Assessment strategy iN Authentic Blended Learning Environment) framework, emphasizes the enhancements in assessment practices. These improvements enable educators to track learning progress, identify areas needing enhancement, and gauge proficiency levels. The results imply that these pedagogical methods boost learning outcomes by involving students in complex, relevant problems, encouraging deep cognitive engagement, and offering personalized feedback. The findings suggest that these integrated strategies provide practical solutions for large classes, effectively equipping students for contemporary workforce requirements. Enhancing assessment techniques and promoting active learning enhance comprehension and memory retention, develop pertinent skills, foster deeper learning, facilitate fruitful collaboration, and enhance both assessment results and overall student contentment.

SPEAKING HABITS OF THE UNDERGRADUATE LEVEL EFL LEARNERS: A SURVEY

<p>Speaking skills are the most important and dominant skills of a language that a language learner can never avoid or underestimate. From academic life to professional life, strong speaking skills help students in all aspects of their lives. Good speaking skills also act as indicators of knowing a language. In spite of knowing the importance of having strong speaking skills, unluckily, the majority of the EFL learners are found very weak and incompetent in speaking. The current study explored the speaking habits of undergraduate-level EFL learners through a five-point Likert-scale survey and found that the learners are very careless about practicing and improving their speaking skills. They have lots of opportunities and resources around them, but they do not utilize them to practice these skills. As a result, they could not develop good speaking habits in their everyday lives. </p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0733/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>