Master's Program Research Articles

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.

Identifying skills required of new epidemiologists: a content analysis of Canadian job postings and master's programs.

The rise of emerging public health threats has increased the need for qualified epidemiologists in Canada. Our study aimed to identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required of epidemiologists entering the workforce and determine whether these align with those taught in graduate epidemiology programs. An inductive content analysis of Canadian job postings from May to December 2023 containing the keyword "epidemiology" and requiring master's degrees in epidemiology or related fields was conducted to identify the KSAs required in the workforce. Inductive content analysis of Master of Science (MSc) program descriptions and core course descriptions was completed to discern skills gained through Canadian graduate epidemiology and public health programs. Based on the 295 job postings analyzed, five KSA categories were identified: communication skills (n = 268, 90.8%), analytical skills (n = 267, 90.5%), soft skills (n = 254, 86.1%), research methodology (n = 217, 73.6%), and knowledge of epidemiological concepts (n = 170, 57.6%). Analysis of 18 MSc programs found that that all of them described analytical skills, research methodology, and epidemiological concepts within their curriculum. Communication skills were described in 94.4% (n = 17) of programs, while soft skills were mentioned in 50.0% (n = 9). However, only 66.7% (n = 12) of programs outlined learning objectives or specified the skills acquired from their programs in their descriptions. There was alignment between the needs of the Canadian epidemiology job market and MSc programs, particularly in analytical skills and research methodology. However, development of soft skills should be emphasized within graduate epidemiology programs to better prepare graduates for the job market. Future research should aim to develop competency statements for epidemiologists in training to ensure consistency across graduate programs and promote career readiness.

NAVIGATING CORPORATE CULTURE: PERSPECTIVES FROM GENERATION Z BUSINESS STUDENTS

This research is a qualitative study based on the focus group technique and examines the opinion of business students, as a niche of Generation Z, in relation to organizational culture and its role in choosing and keeping a job. For this purpose, 3 focus groups were conducted with students from the Faculty of Business and Tourism of the Bucharest University of Economic Studies. The first focus group had only 3 participants and served more to test the discussion guide. The next two focus groups had 10 and 12 participants respectively, boys and girls, with the difference that the second group consisted of undergraduate students and the third of students in a master's program. A surprising finding was that none of the 25 student participants in the 3 focus groups were familiar with the concept of organizational culture. However, after some brief explanations, they understood what the concept referred to and were able to participate in in-depth discussions. The key findings made it clear that Gen Z students are looking for companies with a positive culture and a workplace that allows them to have a good work- life balance. These aspects become even more important than a higher salary if it is to be achieved in a company with a toxic culture.

Can high-quality postgraduate Master's level programmes play a role in training dentists to deliver appropriate orthodontic treatment as non-specialists?

Can high-quality postgraduate Master's level programmes play a role in training dentists to deliver appropriate orthodontic treatment as non-specialists?

Olena Kasyanova1, Olga Kvasnyk2, Igor Bodnia3, Iryna Rudnyeva4, Olena Bespartochna5, Tamara Poyasok6 1Doctor of Pedago

This study elucidates the theoretical underpinnings and underscores the imperative of enhancing master's training programs for higher education teachers within the educational digitalization landscape on the public health education example. The research elucidates that at the core of this evolution lies the technological concept, necessitating the development of a meticulously grounded model for the purposeful and well-organized training of higher education faculty within a digitally transformed educational framework. This model delineates a meticulously outlined structure, content framework, a judicious selection of methodologies and techniques, and a methodical integration of technological advancements to ensure the realization of desired educational outcomes. The structural-functional model encompasses integral components such as the methodological-objective facet (incorporating societal demands, educational objectives, conceptual approaches to professional development, and digitalization elements), the constructive-procedural dimension (comprising educational directions, organizational forms in the digital paradigm), the profession-specific aspect (encompassing content, technologies, methods, pedagogical tools), and the analytical-effective domain (defining criteria, process metrics, diagnostic tools), in conjunction with organizational-pedagogical parameters. Emphasis is placed on nurturing a tailored educational milieu and fostering educational innovations to augment the efficacy of training enhancements with a specific lens toward public health implications. The article substantiates the criteria and metrics for bolstering master's training initiatives for higher education instructors, underlining the distinct facets of national educational digitalization and the unique dynamics among higher education stakeholders. The contemporary relevance of revamping master's programs for teachers is underscored through exploring diverse digital learning formats employing information technologies, digital resources, and cloud-based tools. Initiatives aimed at reshaping the master's educational landscape to align with the digital era will entail validating the proposed model's efficacy through experimental validation across domestic and international educational realms.

Educational paradigm shift: assessing the prospects of a master's course in green energy transition

This study examines the integration of emerging engineering technologies into STEM education with a focus on the green energy transition. Using a mixed-methods approach, including an international student survey conducted via Google Forms, the research identifies key factors influencing the demand for an innovative Master's program in Green Energy. Quantitative analysis through JASP software reveals a significant positive correlation between student interest in renewable energy related MSc courses and the perception of improved job opportunities in the green energy sector. Furthermore, the survey results indicate that students prioritize the inclusion of Mechanical, Electrical, and IT skills in the curriculum. Qualitative feedback highlights the critical need for practical skills in new research areas such as nanotechnology, quantum chemistry, Carbon capture, and Solar/Wind-based energy sources to meet the evolving demands of the green energy industry. These findings suggest that academic programs must be restructured to align more closely with the skills required for sustainable energy systems, thereby bridging the gap between academic preparation and market readiness.

Formation of Personnel Management Competencies among Bachelors of Nursing at Tyumen State Medical University

The discipline "Human Resources Management in a Medical Organization", included in the educational program for training bachelors in nursing at Tyumen State Medical University, includes two modular units: Fundamentals of Human Resources Management and Human Resources Management in a Medical Organization. Its relevance is confirmed by the results of employment of bachelors in nursing as senior nurses, continuity of training in the master's program in Nursing Management, and the opinion of employers.

Factors Affecting Students' Decisions in Choosing to Study for a Master's Degree of Souphanouvong University

The purpose of this study wastoinvestigate:1)the level of students' opinions on the importance of factors that encourage students to study for the Master's program of Souphanouvong University, and 2) factors affecting students' decisions in choosing to study for the Master's program of Souphanouvong University. This study was conducted a quantitative and qualitative study, the sample group are 220 students who have graduated and are studying at the master's level of Souphanouvong University, usingthe questionnaires as a tool in the study, the statistics analysis weremean, Standard Deviation, and Regression multiple analysis. The result of the study found that 1)the level of students' opinions on the importance of factors that encourage students to study for the Master's degree of Souphanouvong University as a whole gives a high level of importance with X̅=4.15andS.D=0.46, which includes the course advertising factor at many levels with X̅=4.15and S.D=0.46, motivational factorswith X̅= 4.14andS.D=46, and maintenance factor with X̅=4.07andS.D=0.54. 2)Factors affecting students' decisions in choosing to study for the Master's degreeof Souphanouvong Universityinclude personnel development factors, teachers (professors), environmental factors and learning resources, scientific research factors and academic services with a statistical significance level of 0.05.

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.

Current Geography Studies in Turkey

The main purpose of the study is to evaluate the master and doctoral theses completed in the field of geography in the National Thesis Center of Turkey YOK between 2020-2024 from a holistic perspective and to bring a new perspective to the studies to be conducted. In this context, a database consisting of thesis such as the year, subject, type, method, university of the author and the geographical region where the university is located was created. The database created was examined by subjecting it to a detailed analysis process. Within the scope of the study, a total of 876 graduate thesis were analysed. Of these thesis, 680 master programme and 196 belong to doctoral programme. Master thesis are more than doctoral thesis. The highest number of master thesis were produced in 2022, with 199 thesis. In contrast, a noticeable increasing trend is observed in doctoral thesis over the years. In both master (333) and doctoral (111) programmes, most thesis on human and economic geography were produced. This is followed by thesis on (master (262), doctoral (69)) physical geography. In human and economic geography, tourism geography (76) was studied the most compared to other subjects, while in physical geography, geomorphology (98) was studied the most. In terms of the methods used in the thesis, qualitative methods (298) are preferred more in master studies, while quantitative methods (102) are used more in doctoral thesis. Among the universities that produced the highest number of thesis, Atatürk University (59) stands out in master programme and Istanbul University (34) in doctoral programme. In the evaluation according to the geographical region of the university where the author is located, the Marmara Region ranks first in both master and doctoral programmes. These results will allow a better understanding of academic developments and trends in the field of geography and will be a direction for future research. In this context, the results of this study provide important findings on current geography theses in Turkey. According to the results of this study, it is thought that increasing the number of postgraduate thesis in the field of geography and improving the quantity and quality of students who want to do postgraduate education in the field can give a positive impetus to Turkey's development.

Better education required for professionals in healthcare regarding auditory processing disorder.

Global research has revealed inadequate levels of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) awareness and knowledge among related professionals leading to neglect of this specific type of hearing impairment that is estimated to present in 50% of children with learning disabilities (dyslexia included) and more than 70% of adults with presbycusis or mild cognitive impairment. The aim of the current study was to record APD awareness and knowledge among professionals working in both Healthcare and Education sectors. A 36-question questionnaire was developed and addressed to medical doctors of different specialties (ENTs and non-ENTs), therapists (speech & language therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists), and educators (of both typical and special education). The questionnaire was sent to Professional Societies of interest as well as a University Rectorate where authors are affiliated, requesting the spreading to all members, and was also posted to related private groups in social media. Data concerning APD-training and knowledge were gathered from 522 questionnaires. Level of knowledge was recorded both subjectively (self-rating) and objectively (pre-defined scoring of items). Analysis showed insufficient knowledge concerning APD among specialties. ENTs and/or therapists scored statistically significantly higher compared to other medical specialties and educators, while still lower than 50%. The current level of awareness on APD might negatively affect the way individuals with APD are addressed, all the way from referral to management. Levels of awareness and knowledge among professions which are related to APD either directly or indirectly can be further improved through formal education targeting bachelor, master and PhD programs of medical doctors, therapists and educators. We are proposing the development of educational programs that target ENT doctors so that children and adults receive more elaborate services both diagnostically and from a rehabilitation point of view. This will improve quality of life and mental health.

Upgrading Master's Training for Higher Education Instructors in the Digital Era: Public Health Education as an Example

This study elucidates the theoretical underpinnings and underscores the imperative of enhancing master's training programs for higher education teachers within the educational digitalization landscape on the public health education example. The research elucidates that at the core of this evolution lies the technological concept, necessitating the development of a meticulously grounded model for the purposeful and well-organized training of higher education faculty within a digitally transformed educational framework. This model delineates a meticulously outlined structure, content framework, a judicious selection of methodologies and techniques, and a methodical integration of technological advancements to ensure the realization of desired educational outcomes. The structural-functional model encompasses integral components such as the methodological-objective facet (incorporating societal demands, educational objectives, conceptual approaches to professional development, and digitalization elements), the constructive-procedural dimension (comprising educational directions, organizational forms in the digital paradigm), the profession-specific aspect (encompassing content, technologies, methods, pedagogical tools), and the analytical-effective domain (defining criteria, process metrics, diagnostic tools), in conjunction with organizational-pedagogical parameters. Emphasis is placed on nurturing a tailored educational milieu and fostering educational innovations to augment the efficacy of training enhancements with a specific lens toward public health implications. The article substantiates the criteria and metrics for bolstering master's training initiatives for higher education instructors, underlining the distinct facets of national educational digitalization and the unique dynamics among higher education stakeholders. The contemporary relevance of revamping master's programs for teachers is underscored through exploring diverse digital learning formats employing information technologies, digital resources, and cloud-based tools. Initiatives aimed at reshaping the master's educational landscape to align with the digital era will entail validating the proposed model's efficacy through experimental validation across domestic and international educational realms.

A scoping review of websites for forensic odontology training programs.

Forensic Odontology developed as a discipline in 1898 with the publication of its first textbook; however, 126 years later, a standardised core curriculum for formal training in Forensic Odontology has yet to be decided. This website scoping review aims to provide information on three main distinct categories (and 17 subcategories): Availability, Content, and Quality of Forensic Odontology education globally. The information on formal education programmes was gathered by conducting a web search using 'Google Search' in English, Arabic, Spanish, and French languages between June and July 2022. Fifty-six programmes from 18 countries met the inclusion criteria. Of the 14 master's and 42 diploma programmes, only 7.14% provided information on their websites from all the subcategories investigated. The highest numbers of master's and postgraduate diploma programmes were identified in Europe (18 programmes), South America (15), North America (11) and Asia (7). A practical aspect was included by 10 master's and 12 diploma programmes' websites. Research integration in various forms was included by 11 master's and seven diploma programmes. Programme providers and applicants must critically consider the quality of the programme being designed or applied to as there are currently no international training standards in Forensic Odontology. This study has developed an 'International Database of Forensic Odontology Programmes' (IDFOP).

Immersive Virtual Reality (VR) when learning anatomy in midwifery education: A pre-post pilot study.

The integration of technology within teaching offers efficient and diverse learning opportunities. Studies have shown that the use of virtual reality (VR), improves anatomical knowledge and spatial understanding. The aim of this pilot study was to examine whether the utilization of immersive virtual reality goggles as a learning tool for anatomy increase midwifery students' knowledge, and to explore the potential of replacing traditional classroom teaching with VR. We conducted a pre-post pilot study using a questionnaire before and after the use of VR as a learning tool in two cohorts of midwifery students in higher education. Cohort one had completed eight hours of classroom teaching of anatomy before participating in the VR session. The study included 44 midwifery students from two different classes at the same Master's program in midwifery at a university college in Norway. Student in both cohorts were in their first semester of midwifery studies and possessed a Bachelor's degree in nursing. Both cohorts had an increased average mean score in anatomical knowledge immediate after and 14 days after attending the learning session in VR. Students from the cohort that did not participate in anatomy lectures scored high on knowledge, both before and after the session in VR compared to the cohort that had additional classroom teaching in anatomy. Implementing VR as a learning tool, can contribute to increase spatial understanding and anatomical knowledge. By focusing on student learning in combination with learning activities and collaboration, the technology helps students gain understanding and knowledge.

Revolutionising classrooms with AI: Educators' insights on transformative opportunities and challenges

This paper examines the transformation opportunities of AI in education, focusing on its benefits and challenges from the perspectives of educators. The research methodology involves a qualitative study with practising educators who were students enrolled in a master's program in education at an open distance education university in South Africa. Data collection is conducted through an online discussion forum. The paper concludes that while AI offers exciting transformative opportunities such as personalised learning and effective education, it should be used wisely, complementing traditional teaching methods. It emphasises addressing biases, overuse, plagiarism, and data privacy issues. The study emphasises the need for more information on educator’s use and perceptions to pave the way for AI to complement educators and, in so doing, benefit all educators and students equally.

Virtual-based digital library website: A development for the educational technology master's study program at Universitas Negeri Makassar

This research and development study aims to produce a Virtual-based digital library website. The media development process refers to the ADDIE model. The media questionnaire respondents were 10 students (small group trial), 30 (large group trial) and 1 UNM PPs lecturer. The needs analysis was based on interview data with the Head of Study Program and questions on the student questionnaire. The digital library website development design used canva, flowchart, Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) version 7 and Codeigniter template. The results showed that the assessment of the material expert and media expert validators were each in the valid and very valid categories with an average of 3.8 and 4.5 out of a maximum value of 5. The level of practicality of the media obtained from a small group test of 10 students obtained a percentage of 83.75% (very high) and the results of the analysis of the lecturer response questionnaire obtained an average of 82.50 (very high category). The level of effectiveness of the Virtual-based digital library website media obtained from a large group test with a percentage of 83.46% (very high effectiveness). Based on the results of the analysis, it can be concluded that the development of a virtual-based digital library website in the Master of Educational Technology Study Program, Postgraduate Program, Makassar State University can help manage and become a link for various sources of reference and information.

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.

Analysis of the Use of Qris as Social Change Among Students

Background: This research aims to analyze the use of QRIS as an alternative to digital payments at Hasanuddin University, explore the factors influencing its adoption among students, and provide recommendations for increasing its implementation, while assessing social changes related to the shift from cash to digital money. Objective: This research aims to describe Hasanuddin University students' awareness of the use of QRIS as a digital payment solution and analyze the social changes that occur as a result of the use of QRIS among students. Method: This research uses a quantitative approach with descriptive research type. The population in this study were students registered in the Hasanuddin University FISIP Sociology Masters Program, and the sampling technique in this study was a probability sampling method with types. The type of method used was total sampling where the sample size was the same as the population with the number of research samples being 86 person. Results: The results of this research show that: first, the level of awareness of Hasanuddin University FISIP Masters students regarding the use of the QRIS application as a transaction method is in the "Enough" category with a TCR of 60.093; second, QRIS functions as a social fact that maintains social order by reducing criminal acts and building trust between individuals; third, there are five stages of the innovation diffusion process in the practice of using the QRIS application among students, namely the stages of introduction, persuasion, decision, implementation, and confirmation. Conclusion: Digital awareness in the use of the QRIS application among students of the Master of Sociology FISIP University of Hasanuddin involves seven main aspects: Posthumanism, Human-Machine Interaction, Digital Aesthetics, Fluidity of Identity and Consciousness, Technology and the Evolution of Consciousness, Transcendence of Physical Boundaries, and Interdisciplinarity.