Malaysian Students Research Articles

Revolutionising Learning: How Malaysian Student Teachers View ChatGPT

Revolutionising Learning: How Malaysian Student Teachers View ChatGPT

Examining factors influencing university students’ adoption of generative artificial intelligence: a cross-country study

ABSTRACT The introduction of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has transformed the way university students learn. To understand the factors that affect the adoption of GenAI among university students, we proposed a comprehensive research model based on the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2), along with personal factors customized for GenAI. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to collect data from university students in Malaysia and China through an online questionnaire, yielding a total of 500 valid responses. The data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares method to assess the influence of various factors on GenAI adoption. Our findings reveal notable differences in the factors affecting GenAI adoption between the two countries, with the Malaysian group showing a more diverse range of influencing factors compared to the Chinese group. This study highlights the importance of considering country-specific differences when devising strategies for the adoption of GenAI. By integrating UTAUT2 with personal factors and conducting a cross-country comparative analysis, this study offers significant insights into how factors influencing GenAI adoption vary between countries. These insights can be valuable for university stakeholders.

EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF USING WEBLOG AS A TOOL TO ENHANCE SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ WRITING PROFICIENCY IN MALAYSIA

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of weblogs in teaching English writing skills to the secondary school students in Malaysia and to determine the students’ attitude towards the use of weblog in improving their writing abilities. In this study, the researcher interviewed nine Form 2 students who were selected at random and through face-to-face interviews the researcher asked them about their perceptions on the topic. The findings suggest that the use of weblogs enhances students’ writing skills and achieve higher results in grammar, writing structure and the use of the appropriate vocabulary. Students admitted they benefited from the feedback given through weblogs as it assisted them in enhancing their writing and also creativity with a view of writing more. Application of weblog in learning was effective and the feedback and interaction significantly helped in learning. Based on the study, it is possible to use weblogs in teaching English language with a focus on writing with proper support and supervision from the teachers. More studies should be conducted to establish weblog use in education in the long-run.

Influence of AI-driven educational tools on critical thinking dispositions among university students in Malaysia: a study of key factors and correlations

Influence of AI-driven educational tools on critical thinking dispositions among university students in Malaysia: a study of key factors and correlations

Exploring Critical Reading Practices Among Malaysian and Vietnamese Engineering Students: Insights and Implications

ABSTRACT In the dynamic academic landscape of the 21st century, the imperative to equip engineering students with robust critical reading skills, in tandem with their technical expertise, has come to the forefront. Recognizing the intrinsic value of critical thinking and reading in cultivating an ethos of lifelong learning among future engineers, this study endeavors to shed light on efficacious methodologies for augmenting critical reading competencies, grounded in the lived experiences of students. Utilizing a phenomenographic methodology, this research aims to explore the mechanisms through which engineering students from Malaysia and Vietnam develop their critical reading skills. The study engaged eight engineering students from both Malaysia and Vietnam, selected based on their demonstrated proficiency in critical reading, as evidenced by scores from a critical reading assessment aligned with the PISA Reading Framework. Through in-depth, phenomenographic semi-structured interviews, the research sought to uncover the strategies and practices these students employ to bolster their critical reading abilities. The findings illuminate a diverse array of approaches to enhancing critical reading skills, including the adoption of specific reading strategies, engagement in extensive and collaborative reading practices, and the maintenance of a positive reading disposition. Notably, the study also identifies that variations in the application and effectiveness of these strategies are influenced by factors such as students’ academic progression, cultural contexts, and educational backgrounds. These insights contribute to a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted nature of critical reading skill development among engineering students, offering valuable perspectives for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers aiming to foster critical analytical skills in STEM education.

A cross-sectional assessment of clinical photography knowledge among dental students in Malaysia.

Dental photography is gaining popularity in contemporary dentistry, but its knowledge was unregulated in most dental schools' curriculum. The study aims to evaluate the level of photography practice and knowledge among dental students in Malaysia, acting as a baseline to include dental photography as a subject in the current curriculum. A series of questions were designed and validated by experts with a content validity index of 0.84. Questionnaires were distributed to the dental students with varied years of clinical experience. The level of knowledge was categorised into poor, weak, subpar, average, good and excellent. The common photography practice and courses attended were also tabulated. Among the 344 respondents, the most commonly used equipment was phone cameras (70.66%), whereas only 16.09% used digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras. The majority of dental students did not attend any photography-related courses (69.48%). Based on the level of photography knowledge, dental students mostly scored 'subpar' (25.84%), with no statistically significant differences between the years of clinical experience (p = 0.236). Therefore, proper and comprehensive dental photography courses should be imparted in the current curriculum to improve students' skills and knowledge.

The Antecedents of Recycling Behaviour Among Online Consumers Concerning E-Commerce Packaging Waste

The increasing proliferation of e-commerce has resulted in a significant rise in packaging waste, which poses numerous environmental challenges that necessitate urgent attention. Understanding the factors driving consumers’ recycling behaviour is crucial to developing effective strategies to mitigate the environmental impact. The current study aims to examine the antecedents of recycling behaviour among Malaysian online consumers concerning e-commerce packaging waste by applying the Cognitive-Affective-Behavioural model. Empirical data were collected from 339 Malaysian university students. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was subsequently employed to test the proposed model. The SEM results confirmed that environmental knowledge directly and positively influenced recycling behaviour. Environmental concern and attitude served as serial mediators, which sequentially delineated the indirect relationship. The present study advanced the existing literature on recycling behaviour by implementing robust approaches to statistically examining the impacts and interrelationships of the key constructs influencing recycling behaviour among online consumers concerning e-commerce packaging waste.

Deconstructing Students’ Language Identities On X: A Nigerian and Malaysian Case Study For Education

This study investigated students’ language deconstruction and identities on X social media technology. The Gen Z’s and Big Data are currently in vogue, which affords this research to enquire using a quantitative methodology. Besides, the online data analytics consisting of the number of likes, repost and comments were gathered from the X social media. Nowadays, the social media acts as an online reservoir for internet data that are readily available for use. Learning analytics are records of students’ activities based on their engagement on social media. However, the respondents in this study were students randomly selected from a two-world perspective on X, consisting of Malaysian and Nigerian students. A detailed data analysis was conducted using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and the results showed a recent decline of students’ engagement in educational discourse using indigenous languages on X. The recent decline was informed by this study’s data, which implies an imminent action is required to ensure the indigenous languages are protected from extinction. This study findings are significant to lecturers, policymakers, researchers and Government in ensuring that more language diversity issues are considered in this 21st century. This research likewise addressed the English language (L2) significance in educational discourse with a recommendation for the inclusion of more indigenous language option on X for diversity and equality purpose.

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN MALAYSIA: ENHANCING DIGITAL LITERACY FOR INCLUSIVE STUDENTS IN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS

ABSTRACT In Malaysia, integrating digital technology into education has become increasingly prevalent. However, there remains a significant gap in addressing the digital literacy needs of inclusive students, who often face additional challenges in accessing and utilizing digital resources effectively. This paper explores the concept of digital literacy specifically tailored to meet the diverse needs of inclusive students in Malaysia. Despite the growing emphasis on digital literacy in education, inclusive students in Malaysia continue to encounter barriers that hinder their ability to develop essential digital skills. These barriers may include inadequate access to technology, limited training and support, and a lack of educational resources designed to accommodate diverse learning needs. Consequently, many inclusive students are at risk of being left behind in an increasingly digitalized society. This conceptual paper draws on a comprehensive review of existing literature related to digital literacy, inclusive education, and educational technology. The method used is observing and analyzing already existing information about digital literacy for inclusive students. The researcher utilized databases such as Scopus, WoS, and Google Scholar and conducted brief interviews with six teachers. There is a clear need for tailored approaches considering individual learning styles, disabilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, teacher training and professional development programs must be enhanced to ensure educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to support inclusive students in developing digital literacy. In conclusion, this paper underscores the importance of prioritizing digital literacy for inclusive students in Malaysia. Keywords: Digital literacy, Digital skills, Digital divide, Inclusive students, Inclusive education.

Indoor Air Quality in Laboratories and Its Relationship with Psychological Performance Among University Students in Malaysia

Introduction: Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in work environments can reduce productivity and decrease overall performance. This study examines IAQ in university laboratories and its relationship with psychological performance among students in Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November 2023 in six laboratories at a Malaysian university, categorised into chemical and non-chemical. A total of 117 students aged 18 to 40 participated. IAQ was measured in real-time for 8 hours during weekdays using instruments for particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), airborne microorganisms, carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature in °C, relative humidity (RH), and air movement. Psychological performance was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE). Data analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis, One-Way ANOVA, and Chi-Square tests. Results and Discussion: Significant differences in IAQ parameters were observed for PM2.5 (p=0.007), PM10 (p=0.020), CO2 (p=0.024) and RH (p=0.043). Psychological distress affected 41.9% of students based on the predefined threshold. High CO levels (≥0.67 ppm) and elevated temperatures (≥23.28°C) were significantly associated with increased psychological distress (p=0.011). Students exposed to these conditions were 1.3 times more likely to experience distress (OR=1.3). Conclusion: Specific IAQ parameters, particularly CO and temperature, critically impact students’ psychological well-being. Improving IAQ by reducing CO levels and maintaining optimal temperatures may enhance mental health and performance. Improving IAQ by reducing CO levels and maintaining optimal temperatures may enhance mental health and performance. However, external factors such as personal stressors could not be entirely controlled.

Educational Zakat Aid in Malaysian Higher Education Institutions

Misusing educational zakat aid challenges higher education institutions (HEIs). Thus, a qualitative case study was conducted using a semi-structured interview with selected Malaysian zakat experts to identify the concept of educational zakat aid from the Islamic perspective and among the HEI students in Malaysia. The findings showed that the educational zakat aid is a form of Islamic principle's social justice implementation, grounded on the needs of prioritized asnaf students who face difficulties in payments of tuition fees, cost-of-living funds, learning equipment, medical assistance, emergency assistance, natural disaster assistance, additional academic aid, as well as mobility fee funding.

WHY SELFIE? GENDER INVARIANCE IN MOTIVES FOR TAKING AND POSTING SELFIES

The study of motivation to engage in media-related behavioral addictions requires more research attention. Studies had identified generic motives across different types of media-related behavioral addictions, while other studies have revealed unique motives that are only applicable in specific media-related behavioral addictions. The current study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Motives for Taking and Posting Selfies Scale (MTPSS). A total of 207 university students in Malaysia were recruited to participate in this study, with 98 males (47.3%) and 109 females (52.7%), aged between 19 and 24 years old (M = 20.92, SD = 1.23). The results support the original four-factor structure of the MTPSS, namely appraisal-seeking self-presentation, entertainment, status-updating self-presentation, and documentation. In terms of reliability, the MTPSS demonstrated good internal consistency. The gender invariance of MTPSS was tested in configural, metric, scalar, and residual invariance models, supporting the notion that males and females responded similarly to the items of the MTPSS. Overall, the psychometric evidence suggests that the MTPSS is a valid and reliable tool for identifying motives of taking and posting selfies. With evidence of reliability, validity, and gender invariance, the MTPSS is found to be effective in understanding the motivational drivers of selfie-taking and posting behaviors.

Knowledge and attitudes on anemia and menstrual health among Malaysian female university students

Anemia is a significant public health concern, particularly among young female adults due to its potential impact on reproductive health. This study investigated the association between anemia-related knowledge, attitudes, menstrual health, and anemia status among Malaysian university students. This was a cross-sectional study named “SCARF” - Study to Combat Anemia - Research for Female Students, involving 674 university students in Malaysia. Anemia status was determined based on haemoglobin level, while knowledge, attitude and menstrual health were measured using validated questionnaires. The mean menarche age of students in this study was 12.1 ± 1.21 years. Students who were anemic had significantly longer menstrual cycle duration (P = 0.034) and more days with heavy flow (P = 0.038). Most students had poor knowledge (44.5%) and attitudes (84.1%) towards anemia. Students with good knowledge were 1.1 times more likely to have better anemia status compared to those with poor knowledge (95% CI: 1.0–1.2, P = 0.049). This study highlighted a lack of practical application of the knowledge to dietary habits. Collaborative efforts between educators and healthcare providers are crucial in developing a comprehensive strategy, such as interventions to prioritise educational initiatives and practical support to enhance overall menstrual health among female students.

Help! I Have Been Thinking to Do It Lately: Workplace Mistreatment and Suicidal Ideation Among Internship Students in Klang Valley

Workplace mistreatment, such as bullying, abusive supervision, and interpersonal conflict, is increasingly conceded as a critical issue affecting the mental health of junior professionals, particularly interns. Due to their momentary status, high expectations, and lack of support, interns are highly susceptible to negative workplace interactions that can lead to severe psychological outcomes such as including suicidal ideation. Drawing on the Fluid Vulnerability Theory, this study aims to examine the prevalence and impact of various forms of workplace mistreatment on suicidal ideation among internship students in Malaysia, providing insights for effective intervention strategies. The study used a cross-sectional research design and involved 247 internship students from the Faculty of Business and Management at UiTM Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. Data were collected through a structured online questionnaire assessing experiences of workplace bullying, abusive supervision, interpersonal conflict, and suicidal ideation. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis, were employed to examine the relationships between the variables. The analysis revealed significant correlations between workplace bullying, abusive supervision, and interpersonal conflict with suicidal ideation. Regression models indicated that workplace bullying and interpersonal conflict were significant predictors of suicidal ideation, accentuating the critical need for targeted interventions in educational and professional environments. The findings suggest that workplace mistreatment significantly contributes to suicidal ideation among interns, highlighting the importance of developing supportive interventions and policies. Addressing workplace mistreatment through targeted programs can improve mental health outcomes for young professionals and foster healthier work environments.

Determinants of Social Entrepreneurial Intentions among Undergraduate Accounting Students in Malaysia: Conceptual Paper

Determinants of Social Entrepreneurial Intentions among Undergraduate Accounting Students in Malaysia: Conceptual Paper

The Socio-Educational Model: An Evidence-Based Re-evaluation

Abstract The socio-educational model suggests that social milieu influences individual characteristics, which in turn affect engagement in learning contexts, ultimately impacting linguistic and non-linguistic outcomes. Operationalized representations of the model tend to focus on relations among integrativeness, attitudes to the learning situation, motivation, language anxiety, and language achievement. While objections to the model exist, recent work has challenged their persuasiveness, and as such, it seems appropriate to re-evaluate the model using new data to elucidate its continuing utility in understanding second language outcomes. The objective of this study was therefore to measure the levels of the aforementioned constructs in an international sample and to determine the degree to which they covaried as predicted by the model. A structural equation modelling study of 278 Malaysian high school students studying English compulsorily in national secondary schools in Malaysia found substantial levels of model constructs and statistically significant relationships between them, implying the model’s potential ongoing utility. Implications for second language learning theorization, educational policy, curriculum design, teaching strategies, global language learning contexts, and further research are explored.

Pioneering Digital Ventures: Investigating Proactive Personality, Education, and Opportunity in Malaysian Higher Education

Digital entrepreneurship has become increasingly important in the context of Industry 4.0. This study explores the connections between digital entrepreneurial intention, proactive personality, entrepreneurial education, and entrepreneurial opportunity among Malaysian public university students. Additionally, it examines the mediating roles of attitudes, subjective norms, and PBC, guided by the TPB. A quantitative research design was employed, collecting data from 250 students, which was then analyzed using SPSS to test the proposed model. The findings reveal that entrepreneurial education and PBC are significant predictors of students’ digital entrepreneurial intention. Moreover, proactive personality, entrepreneurship education, and entrepreneurial opportunity indirectly influence digital entrepreneurial intention via PBC. These results contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the factors driving digital entrepreneurial intention and highlight the importance of fostering educational environments that support entrepreneurship. The study provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers to develop strategies that enhance digital entrepreneurial capacities among students, promoting innovation and self-employment opportunities

Food waste separation intention among the residential students: Moderation role of university support

The university has made efforts to promote campus sustainability by encouraging food waste separation among residential students. However, the effect of university support on students' behavioural intentions in this context remains understudied. Moreover, the evidence regarding residential students’ food waste separation intention is relatively deficient compared to other study contexts. To address these gaps, this study aims to achieve two objectives: (1) to investigate the constructs affecting residential students to separate food waste, and (2) to study the moderating effect of university support on the proposed relationships. A novel research framework which integrates environmental knowledge and moral norms into the theory of planned behaviour model, together with the university support as moderator, has been proposed. Primary data from 191 residential students in Malaysia were collected through purposive sampling and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The study’s findings revealed that students’ intentions to separate food waste are influenced by attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, and moral norms. Besides, the moderation analysis confirmed that university support significantly strengthen the relationship between attitude and intention to separate food waste in the university context. This finding offered valuable theoretical contributions regarding the moderation role of university support and provides practical implications for promote positive food waste behaviours among residential students.

Social work programs in Malaysian public universities: an analysis of barriers to producing competent social workers

ABSTRACT The University of Science Malaysia (USM) has developed a social work program for in the Social Welfare Department officers since 1975 to produce practically competent social workers. Courses offered at public universities should include relevant knowledge, skills, and field experiences to ensure that students can effectively communicate and resolve clients’ issues. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) listed 10 standards of social work education, namely the profession, ethics, diversity, social justice, populations at risk, human behaviors, social welfare, practices with individuals, groups and communities, research and skill development. The study aims to evaluate effective social work programs by analyzing the obstacles encountered by public university students in Malaysia to fulfill CSWE standards. A total of 279 final-year students from six public universities pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in social work participated, with questionnaires analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 23.0. Results indicated effective social work education, with students encountering moderate barriers. Students demonstrated competence aligned with the Social Work Act, which was crucial for addressing psycho-social and socio-economic issues in Malaysian communities. This study also highlighted the importance of producing skilled social workers to enhance societal well-being, assisting individuals, families, and communities in resolving various challenges.

Investigating the Level and Factors of Speaking Anxiety among High Performing School Students

English is mandatory for Malaysian students from standard one until form five. The subject per se has been one of the prerequisites to pass Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and to attain a high school certificate. Regardless of the long years formally learning and acquiring the language within the classroom walls especially, many still fail to speak fluently. Furthermore, the issue of low English proficiency among Malaysians has been one of the primal causes of unemployment in the country. In terms of an individual’s speaking performance, it is found that anxiety during speaking a particular language can cause mental barriers that will prevent learners from speaking fluently. This quantitative study examined the levels of speaking anxiety of Form 1 students towards the English language and the contributing factors towards English-speaking anxiety. 138 Form 1 students took part and completed an adapted 33-item English Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (ELCAS) questionnaire. The questionnaire was then analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for the mean and frequency values. The results show that 56.5% of the Form 1 students have moderate levels of English-speaking anxiety. It is also found that the highest contributing factor towards the students’ speaking anxiety is Fear of Negative Evaluation (FNE) with a mean of 2.59. In conclusion, English proficiency level, and socioeconomic as well as geographical factors influence the level of speaking anxiety among ESL learners in Malaysia.