Master's Degree Program Research Articles

Postoj studentů sociální pedagogiky k homoparentálním rodinám

The paper is focused on the research of the attitude of the students of the Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes in social pedagogy from the J. E. Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem, University of Ostrava and Masaryk University in Brno (N = 107) towards the issue of homoparental families and in a broader context towards homosexuality as such. Furthermore, we also focus on the students' perspective on how the issue of homoparental families is reflected in the educational content of the subjects in their curriculum. An accessible type of research sampling was used. The author's questionnaire constructed on the principle of Likert scales was used as a research instrument. The questionnaire includes items aimed at identifying attitudes towards gay marriage, the causes of homosexuality, the upbringing of children by homoparental parents, and the space devoted to this topic in the university training of future social educators. The data obtained were processed using descriptive methods of statistical analysis and further analyzed. The findings show that a significant majority of the respondents are in favour of homosexual couples receiving the same rights as heterosexual couples, including the possibility of marriage. Furthermore, the majority of respondents appear to be in favour of the naturalness of homosexual couples raising children. From the answers we can conclude that the students interviewed consider homosexuality as natural as heterosexuality and their attitudes are mostly positive.

ГАРАНТИИ ПРИ ПОЛУЧЕНИИ ВЫСШЕГО ПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНОГО ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ СОТРУДНИКОМ МЧС РОССИИ ЗАОЧНОЙ ФОРМЫ ОБУЧЕНИЯ

The article gives assessment of the procedure of granting guarantees and compensations to the listener of the institute of correspondence and distance learning, sent for training by the employer on state-accredited bachelor's, specialist's or master's degree programs by correspondence. The legal framework regulating legal relations between the employee undergoing training and the staffing body of EMERCOM of Russia has been studied. Proposals on improvement of local normative and legal acts for elimination of difficulties arising at students of correspondence form of training at granting them guarantees and compensations for passing intermediate certification are made.

Standardization through education of molecular pathology: a spotlight on the European Masters in Molecular Pathology.

Despite advancements in precision medicine, many cancer patients globally, particularly those in resource-constrained environments, face significant challenges in accessing high-quality molecular testing and targeted therapies. The considerable heterogeneity in molecular testing highlights the urgent need to harmonize practices across Europe and beyond, establishing a more standardized and consistent approach in MP laboratories. Professionals, especially molecular pathologists, must move beyond traditional education to cope with this heterogeneity. This perspective addresses critical issues in molecular pathology (MP), such as limited access to high-quality molecular testing, leading to disparities in cancer treatment, and the consequences of inconsistent practices. Recognizing the necessity for a standardized framework for education to address these issues, educational programs play a pivotal role in updating professionals' skills to achieve standardization in MP. European experts from the Steering Committee, the Pathology Section of the European Union of Medical Specialists, and the European Society of Pathology have proposed creating a comprehensive Master's degree program called the "European Masters in Molecular Pathology" (EMMP). This program emerges as a strategic response to the demand for a specialized and standardized framework for education in MP, catering to professionals who concurrently work and study. The program's design aligns with evidence-based education methods, ensuring effective learning and engagement while integrating computational pathology to analyze complex molecular data, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and improve treatment outcomes. EMMP's structured curriculum, strategic partnerships, and regular updates underscore its significance in standardizing MP practices. Exploring future developments, this perspective delves into technology integration and interdisciplinary collaboration, anticipating ongoing advances and harmonization. Challenges and future directions in MP education are discussed, emphasizing the necessity for dynamic curriculum updates, seamless technology integration, and interdisciplinary cooperation. This perspective underscores EMMP's pivotal role in preparing pathologists for this dynamic field, advocating continuous advancements in education and training to uphold excellence in MP practices and maintain the highest patient care standards.

Impact of Gamification and Interactive Language Learning Platforms on Engagement and Proficiency in English Language Education

Aim. This paper aims to quantify and assess the level of satisfaction and the impact associated with using gamification and interactive learning platforms in the context of English language learning among students. In this research paper, we delve into the exciting domain of gamification and interactive language learning platforms to uncover their potential to enrich student engagement and proficiency in English language education. Method. Through a rigorous quantitative approach, we meticulously scrutinize the effects of infusing gamified elements and interactive platforms into the fabric of English language instruction. The sample consists of 59 foreign language students (English and German) enrolled in Bachelor and Master degree programs at Aleksandër Moisiu University, Durrës. The selection criteria were based on the students' availability and willingness to participate during the period from January to March 2024. This method ensures the inclusion of a diverse group of students within the specified timeframe. Results and conclusion. By delving deep into the quantitative data gleaned from participants' performance metrics, our study offers concrete, evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of gamification and interactive platforms in fueling language acquisition and fostering learner motivation.

Technology of organization and performance of professional (demonstration) exam (on the example of special (defectological) education and subject areas «Russian language and literature», «Art»)

Introduction. The article presents the experience of conducting professional (demonstration) examination in Master's degree program as a tool for assessing the readiness of future teachers for professional activity. The article considers the mechanisms of assessing the readiness of master's degree graduates to work in the educational system through the prism of professional, subject, methodological, communicative and managerial competencies. Materials and Methods. The presented characteristic of the organization and conduct of professional (demonstration) examination is based on theoretical research methods: logical analysis, structural-functional method, discourse analysis. The basis is the interdisciplinary methodology that allows synthesizing approaches inherent in the organization of the educational process. The method of systematization and analysis of the existing experience in conducting professional demonstration examination was used in describing the methodology of technology. Results. The purpose of these materials is to summarize and systematize the experience of conducting professional examination of master's students at the Ural State Pedagogical University. The principles and stages of the professional (demonstration) examination developed by the Educational and Methodological Council of the Urals State Pedagogical University are presented as organizational bases of the activity of organizing and conducting the professional (demonstration) examination. The principles implemented in the professional (demonstration) examination, such as continuity and continuity of teacher training, inclusiveness of the educational environment, orientation to professional communication and group decision-making, the principle of openness, combination of fundamentality and practice-oriented are outlined. Discussion and Conclusions. The optimal form of conducting the teachers' demonstration exam is determined as an activity-type technology corresponding to its tasks, based on an active way of interaction between participants – a business game. In the course of the business game, master's students simulate the situation of a meeting of a methodological association or pedagogical council, where they realize the solution of a professional problem. Content aspects of the professional (demonstration) examination are revealed in the article on the material of specific illustrations of variants of examination tasks for Master's degree students in the areas of training «Pedagogical Education» (on the example of subject areas «Russian language and literature» and «Art») and «Special (defectological) education».

Entrepreneurship Education Around the World: A Study on Member Universities of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

It has long been debated whether people are born entrepreneurs or if it is a combination of skills and knowledge that can be acquired through education and training. While there are passionate scholars on both sides of the debate, the increasing number of studies and programs focusing on training people on how to become entrepreneurs perhaps shows that the balance is shifting in favour of the latter side. The purpose of this study is to examine how universities are performing the task of teaching entrepreneurship by focusing on member institutions of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). A total of 461 out of 1794 institutions that are members of the AACSB member directory were examined for the study. First, descriptive statistics were used to determine the number of bachelor's and master's degree programs that focus directly on entrepreneurship education along with lower-level programs such as minors and certificates. This was supplemented by examining additional entrepreneurship-related best practices employed by these institutions, such as entrepreneurship centres or certificate programs. All analyses were bifurcated by examining results based on criteria such as educational level, geographical location, and AACSB accreditation. The results show that although almost all business schools have included some form of entrepreneurship courses in their curricula, the number of programs or degrees directly dedicated to entrepreneurship remains a minority. In addition to classroom teachings, some of these institutions offer innovative practices related to entrepreneurship, such as entrepreneurship scorecards, entrepreneurship competitions, and certificate programs. All data collected and analysed were used to develop an overview of undergraduate and graduate level entrepreneurship education to encourage institutions and individuals to develop entrepreneurship programs that cover all theoretical and applied aspects of entrepreneurship education to support aspiring entrepreneurs along their journey.

Exploring Potential Challenges in Implementing a Standardized Curriculum for the Physician Associate Program in India: Insights From Stakeholder Discussions

Introduction This article explores the potential challenges in implementing a national-level standardized curriculum for physician associate (PA) programs in India, an initiative under the directions of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professionals Act of 2021. Methods Initiated in August 2023, a multistage process began with emailing a draft curriculum for review to key stakeholders, followed by a virtual meeting on September 3. Key stakeholders, including faculty from various universities, participated in focus group discussions (FGDs) at the International Association of Physician Associate Educators and the Indian Association of Physician Assistants annual conference on September 21, 2023, in Gandhinagar. Results Four major themes emerged: (1) faculty development, (2) faculty recruitment, (3) alignment with the National Educational Policy, and (4) the necessity of master's degree programs for PAs. Challenges identified included shortage of qualified faculty, uncompetitive salaries for academic roles, and low enrollment in master's programs. Recommendations included increasing financial compensation for teaching PAs, developing more PA educators through additional master's programs, encouraging hospitals to mandate clinical and teaching roles for recruits, and introducing pedagogical training for PAs interested in teaching. Discussion Implementing a standardized curriculum for PAs faces significant challenges, especially in faculty recruitment and retention. Engaging a broader range of stakeholders is essential for the successful rollout of the curriculum and for meeting India's evolving health care needs.

Toward Sustainable Lifelong Learning: Feedforward Effects of Challenge Recollections on Adult Learning Identity

ABSTRACTLittle research has examined how prior learning experiences influence adult learning attitudes and lifelong learning engagement. We adopted a person‐centric approach to examine past work‐related learning experiences and assessed the effects of recalled challenges on current learning attitudes, intentions, and behavior in the same domain. Surveying alumni from an online master's degree program, we found that recollected challenges from past learning entail multifaceted challenge foci (e.g., curriculum‐related vs. social obstacles). Learners reporting more challenges in curriculum and social dimensions reported less positive attitudes toward lifelong learning, supporting the notion that negative learning experiences may hinder the development of self‐identity as a lifelong learner. Limited support was obtained for predictions about relationships between past challenges and post‐graduation learning intentions and behavior. The person‐centric approach also permits the analysis of past learning experiences that are not well captured by standard assessments of “successful” adult learning.

Single mom Ashlyn Volz masters the art of juggling work, school & parenting

It's 10pm and Ashlyn Volz is doing her homework, the youngest of her three kids asleep on her lap. She's in a master's degree program for social work, and hopes to use her degree in therapeutic work with fostered and adopted kids. Right now, she's a licensing specialist in foster care, working with families as they prepare to foster children.

Assessment of universities that provide education in the field of health tourism in Türkiye in the light of current data

Introduction: Health tourism, defined as travels aimed to improve the physical and mental health of individuals, is growing day by day in parallel with developing technology and transportation. Factors influencing the preference of Türkiye in health tourism include cost, tourism opportunities, and cultural characteristics, as well as health facilities, staff, doctors, and the quality level of service. Due to the focus of human health, the service delivery which is very sensitive should be carried out by qualified workforce. With their role in protecting patients from unnecessary tests and treatments and facilitating effective participation in clinical decision-making processes, family physicians are also involved in the health tourism process and advocate. It is aimed to improve the service provision both qualitatively and quantitatively to meet the predicted increase in the health tourism sector in our country. In line with the realization of these goals, education and training activities offered by higher education institutions come into prominence. It’s aimed in our study to quantitatively investigate the adequacy of education in the field of health tourism in our country and to assess it in light of current data. Methods: The data of the cross-sectional and descriptive study were collected during the 2023-2024 academic years. Education programs and the number of students in the field of health tourism between 2018-2023 at 18 institutions under the Council of Higher Education (YOK) and The Measuring, Selection and Placement Center (OSYM) were examined. Obtained data were brought together with health tourism data published by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), the International Health Services Inc. (USHAS), and the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TURSAB). Results: In Türkiye, for the first time in 2014, associate degree education started to be provided in the " Health Tourism Business" department within the Vocational School. This department, which is available in 9 universities today, has the highest percentage among associate degree preferences. Master's degree program level trainings in health tourism continue in 9 universities across 3 different departments: "Health Tourism", " Health Tourism Business " and "Health Tourism Management". Doctoral level education is provided in 1 university in the department of "Health Tourism". It is observed that the number of students and graduates enrolled in education programs in the field of health tourism is increasing every year. On the other hand, there is still no undergraduate program in this field in Türkiye. According to the data published by TUIK and USHAS, the number of visitors coming to our country for health tourism and the value of income is increasing every year. On the contrary, the number of students and graduates has not increased at the same rate in recent years. Conclusions: The number of programs and quotas in the field of health tourism opened in universities is gradually increasing. However, when evaluated together with the increase in the number of visitors coming to our country for health tourism over the years, it has been revealed that the number of qualified staff trained to meet the increasing need is still not at the desired level.

Enhancing mathematical proof skills in teacher education through etymology-based learning approaches

This study aims to enhance students' understanding of mathematical proof through the etymology-based learning method. The research employs a descriptive approach to observe and analyze students' mathematical proof patterns in various contexts. Data were collected from 30 students enrolled in a master's degree program in mathematics education who demonstrated varying abilities in mathematical proof. The findings indicate that using action words or phrases during instruction can support students' ability to differentiate relevant terms and avoid misinterpretation of context. Furthermore, comparative understanding of source and target problems improves students' mathematical proof patterns in broader learning contexts. The implications of this study highlight the importance of integrating language-based and formal approaches in mathematics teaching to enhance students' mathematical proof abilities holistically.

Towards a sustainable training on epidemiology and public health in Tamil Nadu, South India: a narrative review

Aiming to improve public health, with the science of epidemiology, Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University established the department of epidemiology in February 1997 and began its two year Master's degree program in Epidemiology and Public Health. A core mission of the department is to provide high quality education in epidemiology, translate epidemiologic research findings into clinical practice, and advance epidemiology research. In order to ensure that epidemiological research and practice continue to be of high quality, we aim to establish principles, activities, and successful outcomes of graduates contributing to the reduction of disease burden in human populations through research, education, and service. The description of courses was based on internal discussions and reviewing documents. The central components of the courses were divided into input, process and outcomes. A total of 55 students were enrolled in epidemiology from 2001-2004 and 75 in public health from 2017-2024 with Faculty-to-student ratio ranging from 4 to 5. Learning methods include lectures, technology-based learning, and group and individual instruction. In the field, students spend 75% of their time in state/central government institutions, and are required to submit a field report upon completion. There are 250 publications, 200 projects, 30 abstracts and 7 chapters, graduates working under state health departments of India, ICMR institutes, and pursuing additional degrees at John Hopkins and universities of France. With our guiding principles of think big, go far, learn together, and inspire change our goal is to provide evidence of sustainable epidemiological training.

An Interview with Massimiliano Di Penta - 2024 SIGSOFT Awardee

Massimiliano Di Penta received the 2024 SIGSOFT Early Career Researcher Award for outstanding service to the software engineering community, including serving as program co-chair for all premier software engineering conferences and several other events. Massimiliano received a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering at the University of Sannio (Italy) in 2003. He is now a Full Professor at the University of Sannio (Italy), where he is also the Director of the PhD program in Information Technology for Engineering, and has been Director of the Bachelor's and Master's Degree Programs in Computer Science Engineering.

Altruistic values among students of Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy, and Health Psychology: a cross-sectional study

Aim – to study the altruistic values of o group of nursing, midwifery, and physiotherapy students, and how these values evolved throughout academic years and across study programs. The study used a descriptive correlational design. The data were collected from students in the bachelor’s degree programs in nursing, midwifery, and physiotherapy, and in the master's degree program in health psychology (students in this program have completed bachelor’s degrees in nursing, midwifery, or physiotherapy). The Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of Shkodra “Luigi Gurakuqi”, Albania offers bachelor’s degree programs in nursing, midwifery, physio­therapy and a professional master's degree in health psychology. During the academic year 2022-2023, the number of active students was 756. A total of 457 students participated in this study: 175 from the nursing program, 130 from the midwifery program, 107 from the physiotherapy program, and 45 from master program. Data were collected from December 1, 2022, through January 31, 2023, with an online questionnaire. Two tools were used in this study: a demographic questionnaire and the Altruism Scale used by Űmmet and colleagues. The mean score on the Altruism Scale was 2.9±0.78. A one-way ANOVA revealed that there was a difference in mean altruism score between at least two groups (F (3, 452) = [3.232], p=0.02). Tukey’s HSD Test for multiple comparisons found out that the mean value of altruism was different between the bachelor students in nursing and bachelor students in physiotherapy (p=0.011, 95% CI = [0.0498, 0.5448]). Compared to others, bachelor students in nursing had higher level of altruism and bachelor students in physiotherapy had lower level of altruism. Conclusions: The results showed that it is precisely the feeling of altruism that people have, which made them choose nursing as a profession. Since altruism is so important for the nursing profession, topics related to altruism should be included in nursing curricula.

МАГИСТРАНТТАРДЫ ОКУТУУДА MOODLE СИСТЕМАСЫН КОЛДОНУУНУН ӨЗГӨЧӨЛҮГҮ

This article deals with the advantages and features of the Moodle system in automating the educational process of Master's degree program, and the second stage of the two-level system of higher education. At the same time, the main issue is the justification of the fact that distance learning is a promising form of learning for master's students. The ways of differentiated training of master's students through the Moodle system, working on themselves and self-development, creating a high level of feedback and formation of professional competence will be considered. In addition, the article points out the issues solved by the teachers and master's students in the process of learning.

Influence of compression garments on perceived exertion during maximal isometric exercises

Compression garments have gained popularity in the sports world as a means to enhance athletic performance and accelerate recovery. This study investigates the effectiveness of upper-body compression garments and their impact on the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) during maximal isometric contractions. Eight adult males, students of a Master's degree program in Sports Sciences, participated in the study, conducting tests in controlled conditions at the University of Salerno. The subjects performed maximal isometric contractions in three separate sessions, wearing compression garments (CG), traditional sportswear (noCG), and a tight-fitting garment without compression effect, to minimize the placebo effect (Placebo), respectively. Perceived exertion was assessed using the modified CR-10 scale. Statistical analysis revealed a significant reduction in RPE when athletes wore compression garments compared to other conditions, suggesting a benefit in the use of such clothing. The findings indicate that compression garments can attenuate the perception of exertion during intense physical activities, with potential implications for performance, comfort, and recovery. This study contributes to the existing literature by expanding the understanding of the effects of compression clothing and highlighting the importance of further research to optimize the use of these garments in enhancing athletic performance.

Reflections on Implementing an ePortfolio as a Capstone Project for an LIS Master's Degree Program

In fall 2019, an electronic portfolio (ePortfolio) was implemented as the capstone project requirement for the Master's degree program with majors in library science and information science at the University of North Texas. This reflection provides a synopsis of the process of implementing an electronic portfolio as a capstone project, including the following details: what an electronic portfolio is, why it is beneficial for students, how it can be used, best practices in implementing an ePortfolio, suggestions for implementation, and benefits versus challenges of incorporating the project. We hope that sharing our experience in implementing an ePortfolio component in a Master's degree program may be helpful to other universities hoping or planning to implement an ePortfolio as a capstone project or even as an extended résumé.

OVERVIEW OF CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES IN CHARACTER AND VALUES EDUCATION PROVIDED THROUGH DISTANCE EDUCATION

The primary objective of education is to enhance individuals' thinking skills and their thought processes including the cultivation of character and the internalization of values. Engaging students in discussions on controversial topics encourage critical thinking. This research aims to investigate how students enrolled in the Non-Thesis Master's Degree Program on Character and Values Education through Distance Learning perceive controversial issues such as discrimination, violence, and gender. Furthermore, the study aims to examine the influence of the Global Education in Character and Values Education course on students' perceptions of these controversial issues. The course incorporates various activities, assignments, and discussions to connect these topics with character and values education. The study also seeks to provide insights into students' perspectives on controversial issues in character and values education and explore how a specific course shape their perception and understanding of these matters.

NEW MASTER'S PROGRAMIN MANAGEMENT AT MSU: FROM DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION

The paper reflects the process of creation and presents the results of two-year work of a new master’s program “Business Development Management”. The authors were actively involved in the program’s design and its curriculum development to meet the requirements of contemporary management education. The paper presents the approaches to designing master’s programs and substantiates company’s life cycle concept as a basis for “Business Development Management” program, which involves a combination of disciplines forming students’ professional, soft, and digital skills. Drawing on the results of a first- and secondyear undergraduates’ survey, conducted in January 2023, this paper determines the factors influencing students’ interest in the program and assesses the quality of compulsory and elective disciplines. Finally, it identifies crucial problem areas in master’s education developing modern managers, shapes clearer description of a graduate of “Business Development Management” program, and outlines new areas for management education development. The authors propose to replace disciplines with poor scores and expand a list of elective courses (also taught in foreign language); strengthen the practical focus of the learning process; introduce e-learning modules and the best practices of business gamification, which will allow using the knowledge gained and the developed soft and digital skills without time gaps between education and employment. Our findings have implications both for examining management education transformation and for creating and upgrading master's degree programs in management.

English-Medium Master's Degree Programs at a Saudi University: Attitudes, Experiences, and Obstacles

English-medium instruction has become a prevalent strategy for increasing the internationalization opportunities of Saudi universities and the international employability of their graduates. The findings of an interview (12 professors and 30 students) and an observation of three established Science, Social Science, and Engineering master's degree programs at a major Saudi university in Riyadh are presented in this article. In order to facilitate the implementation of English-taught master's degree programs, the purpose of this study was to identify the perspectives, experiences, and obstacles of higher education stakeholders regarding English-medium instruction. Findings showed that English-medium instruction is generally preferred by both professors and students. Although the need for support measures was not as high as expected, certain challenges remain, which can be addressed through focused initiatives. Notable issues include stakeholder unhappiness, a high workload for students, varying degrees of prior knowledge among students. The research highlights how crucial it is to include English for Specific Purposes (ESP) instruction in the curriculum and recommends adding more tools and resources to support teacher development. These measures could involve voluntary participation and incentive programs.