Reflection Method Research Articles

Bringing ‘it’ out of the body and into matter: Fostering a contemplative and corresponsive methodology for costume design pedagogy

Using materially oriented, embodied and reflective design methods can significantly enrich the educational experience in costume design by deepening students’ understanding of their design processes while increasing their creativity. This article analyses the pedagogical benefits of applying body-awareness-based devising methods, typically used in contemporary performance creation as a starting point, combined with a contemplative teaching approach. With the increased popularity of various devising and process-led approaches to performance-making, there is a growing need to build new knowledge on devised, process-oriented costume design approaches. This inquiry corresponds to the current shift in costume research and pedagogy, emphasizing the influence of costume’s material agency and the embodied experience of costume in enriching the performance-making process. The article is based on a research workshop held at Aalto University, Finland, in May 2023, with master-level students in costume design and fashion. The workshop employed an observational, stimulus–response methodology that focused on observing the variety of stimuli that materials ‘in’ and ‘of’ themselves evoked through an iterative sequence of sensitizing exercises. The students became mindful of and attuned to the materials they worked with, gradually guided towards instinctive, associative ideation alongside material engagement. The study shows that by engaging in material-led and body-aware work through reflective practice, students can empathetically access their own experiences and use them as a source of inspiration, resulting in a creative process that feels natural and responsive. The article argues that such methods applied to costume design pedagogy promote emancipatory and transformative aspects of learning, as they foster a connection between the students’ ‘self’ and their artistic work.

Identification of localized moisture defects in power cables based on frequency domain reflection coefficient spectra method

Abstract Based on the frequency domain reflection method, this paper studies the reflection coefficient spectrum characteristics of the head-end of the cable. The vector network analyzer is used to obtain the logarithmic amplitude, linear amplitude, and phase spectrum of the normal cable and the local heat aging cable. By comparing the reflection coefficient spectrum of the cable with/without the fault, the typical characteristics of the cable with local dampness defect are obtained. The experimental results show that: within 1 MHz-100 MHz, the logarithmic amplitude and linear amplitude of the reflection coefficient spectrum increase with the time of dampness. The frequency and amplitude of the first trough show a decreasing trend. The number of positive peaks of the phase waveform of the damped cable is smaller than the normal cable. The test results show that: within 1 MHz-100 MHz, the logarithmic amplitude and linear amplitude increase with the increase of the moisture time. The frequency and amplitude of the first trough of the reflection coefficient spectrum of the logarithmic amplitude and linear amplitude show a decreasing trend. The number of positive peaks in the phase waveform of the cable after the moisture is less than that of the normal cable, and the period of the waveform becomes larger. The results can provide a reference for the detection and identification of localized moisture defects in cables.

VSP Modeling With The Reflectivity Method And Semblance Processing

The present work deals with a specific detail of the VSP technique for estimating local compressional, 𝑣𝑃, and shear, 𝑣𝑆 , wave velocities focused on reservoir characterization and seismic interpretation in sedimentary basins. This investigation was based on the presence of fluids (water, oil, gas) in porous rocks and its relationship with the 𝛾 = 𝑣𝑆 𝑣𝑃 ratio, which mainly affects the shear wave velocity. The forward modeling was based on the reflectivity method to simulate seismic sections along depth in the borehole, considering the presence of a reservoir formation with an anomalous 𝛾 ratio value. The seismic processing of the vertical, transversal, and radial components produced by VSP modeling was based on band-pass filtering for upward and downward field separation, semblance picking, and NMO correction for estimating 𝑣𝑃 and 𝑣𝑆 wave velocities. Additionally, we compare different semblance measures to validate the NMO correction. The results show an accurate estimate of the 𝛾 ratio in the target layer, even considering receivers at different depths and high noise levels in the VSP sections. Besides that, the 2D numerical experiment reveals information about the sensitivity of the 𝛾 parameter in a layered medium with velocity variation, principally around regions with the potential presence of oil and gas.

Identification of local thermal aging defects in power cables based on frequency domain reflection coefficient spectroscopy method

Abstract This paper is based on the frequency domain reflection method to measure the reflection coefficient spectrum at the first end of the cable. A vector network analyzer is used to obtain the logarithmic amplitude and phase spectra of normal cables and locally thermally aged cables. By comparing the reflection coefficient spectra of cables before and after the fault, the typical characteristics of localized cable aging are obtained. The test results show that with the increase of local thermal aging time, the logarithmic amplitude shows a decreasing trend between the frequencies of 10 MHz and 100 MHz. The phase diagram of the locally thermally aged cable shows that the number of positive peaks of the waveform is smaller than that of the normal cable between the frequencies of 10 MHz and 100 MHz. And the waveform period increases. The results can provide a reference for the detection and identification of local thermal aging defects in cables.

Detection of Two-Phase Slug Flow Film Thickness by Ultrasonic Reflection

Slug flow is a common phenomenon in closed pipes, occurring in two-phase flow where liquid and gas phases mix, impacting the custody transfer or the efficiency of chemical reactions. This study aims to detect and analyze slug flow film thickness in two-phase flow, providing detailed structural flow information. The ultrasonic or Doppler reflection method is employed to identify slug flow and detect detailed thickness. Additionally, electrical resistance tomography (ERT) is used to image and confirm the presence of slug flow. A high-speed camera records the slug flow's shape in real time, validating its existence. The ultrasonic reflection method offers high accuracy, with a measurement error rate of less than 1% based on experimental results. The study uses a homogeneous block calibration method to measure slug flow thickness. Graphical results reveal clear differences between the slug flow regime, inner pipe wall, and outer pipe wall, with the first echo of slug flow being easily observable. The accuracy of results is attributed to the combination of FPGA (Field-Programmable-Gate-Array) instruments and measurement methods, showcasing the study's novel approach. This research introduces a new perspective or novelty on slug flow in multiphase flow studies, highlighting an innovative method for detecting film thickness.

Leveraging Narrative Reflective Writing to Teach Nursing Students About Social Determinants of Health by Harnessing "Small Moments".

There is increasing recognition that social determinants of health (SDOH) profoundly affect health outcomes. Frontline nurses must grasp how SDOH shape health disparities and inequities. This paper describes an innovative pedagogical approach that leverages didactic, experiential, and reflective methods, specifically a "small moments" writing activity, to enhance students' understanding of SDOH. Nursing students (n=135) from a southeastern U.S. university participated in the activity, and 72 provided consent for inclusion in this analysis. Themes related to students' understanding of SDOH were identified, and implications for nursing practice were considered. This integrative approach deepened students' understanding of SDOH. Narratives highlighted economic instability, cultural barriers, and systemic inequities as drivers of health disparities. Students described greater awareness, empathy, and culturally competent care. Student narratives showed evidence of critical thinking, empathy, and advocacy, crucial skills for addressing health disparities.

High-sensitivity ocean temperature sensor usinga reflective optical microfiber coupler andmachine learning methods.

This paper proposes a novel seawater temperature sensor, to the best of our knowledge, that utilizes an optical microfiber coupler combined with a reflective silver mirror (OMCM). The sensor's sensitivity and durability are enhanced by encapsulating it in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Additionally, a specially designed metal casing prevents the OMCM from responding to pressure, thus avoiding the challenge of multi-parameter demodulation and increasing its adaptability to harsh environments. The paper analyzes the advantages of the new sensor structure and evaluates its performance in terms of temperature sensitivity and compressive strength through experiments. Finally, the paper employs machine learning demodulation methods. Compared with traditional demodulation methods, the particle swarm optimization support vector regression (PSO-SVR) algorithm demonstrates a substantial reduction in the demodulation error. Specifically, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) relative to the full scale drops from 2.16% to 0.157%. This paper provides an effective solution for high-precision monitoring of the ocean environmental temperature.

A Reflective Thematic Analysis Into the Perceptions of Pregnant Radiographers Regarding the Usefulness of the PregiDose Mobile App to Enhance Fetal Dosimetry and Well-Being: Qualitative Exploration.

Pregnancy apps are widely used by pregnant women, who benefit from self-tracking features to support their health goals. Pregnant radiographers are considered a high-risk group of health workers practicing in ionizing radiation environments. Radiation exposure above threshold limits can cause harmful genetic effects on a fetus. Accordingly, pregnant radiographers are required to wear special fetal dosimeters, which provide real-time readings of radiation dose exposure to the fetus. Pregnant radiographers have the responsibility to self-track their fetal doses to ensure that the threshold limit of 1 mGy is not exceeded. The traditional method used to track doses includes a written log of doses in a notebook. Thus, PregiDose, a unique offering in the context of pregnancy apps, was developed to enhance fetal dose tracking and monitoring using technological methods. This study aims to describe the users' perceptions of the app's usefulness using PregiDose in a natural setting. The overarching framework adopted for the study was a design science research (DSR) methodology encompassing five steps, namely (1) problem awareness, (2) suggestion, (3) development, (4) evaluation, and (5) conclusion. This paper presents the evaluation step of DSR. DSR step 4 included a qualitative approach to explore users' perceptions regarding the app. Data were collected using a semistructured interview guide. Open-ended questions were guided by the app's core features, namely dose tracking, education, and wellness. In total, 17 pregnant radiographers in South Africa enrolled to use the app, 9 (53%) engaged with the app, and 4 (24%) agreed to participate in the feedback interviews. The data were collected from October 2023 to March 2024 and analyzed using a reflective thematic data analysis method. Three overarching themes emerged from the data, namely (1) usefulness of PregiDose, (2) barriers to PregiDose adoption and use, and (3) recommendations for the advancement of PregiDose. Users labeled the app's usefulness as positive and perceived it as a modern approach to traditional dose-tracking methods. They perceived the graph output of the dose-tracking feature to be useful for viewing their accumulative doses. They did not fully engage with the journaling feature, indicating that it was a personal preference and not a practice they would usually engage in. Physiological barriers, such as fatigue and "pregnancy brain," were contributors to decreased engagement. Finally, because of the demanding workload and fast-paced nature of the radiography department, users recommended the automation of fetal dosimetry through the Internet of Things. PregiDose is an occupational health and safety mobile app developed for pregnant radiographers through a DSR approach. The app offers a modern method of dose tracking consistent with technological advancements in the context of self-tracking. However, future implementation would require using Internet of Things to make fetal dose tracking more effective.

The Effect of Teaching Strategies on English Language Learning in Libya

This study examines the impact of teaching strategies on English language learning in Libya, focusing on the challenges Libyan teachers face in secondary schools. The research investigates the effectiveness of different teaching methods and explores innovative strategies, including interactive technologies, in the classroom. The primary aim is to assess how these strategies influence student engagement, language proficiency, and overall learning outcomes. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating a quantitative analysis of survey data from ten high school English instructors in Hoon. The results indicate that educators frequently employ supportive techniques, including offering comments and encouraging task completion. The study reveals substantial deficiencies in self-assessment and contemporary evaluation techniques, suggesting a dependence on conventional pedagogical methods. The absence of modern methodologies, such as student reflection and peer assessment, may restrict students' active engagement and impede their linguistic advancement. This research paper also identifies differences in teaching practices based on teacher demographics, including gender and years of experience. More experienced teachers were found to employ a broader range of strategies, suggesting the need for mentorship and professional development for newer educators. The study emphasizes integrating technology-enhanced tools and reflective assessment techniques to foster a more effective and engaging learning environment. The conclusions drawn from this research paper recommend that targeted professional development programs be implemented to support teachers in adopting more reflective and modern teaching methods. These programs should focus on enhancing teachers' skills in self-assessment techniques, peer evaluation, and technology integration in the classroom. By doing so, English language instruction in Libya can be significantly improved, contributing to better student outcomes and excellent English proficiency. Overall, the study underscores the need for a dynamic and adaptable approach to teaching English, where traditional methods are supplemented by innovative strategies that actively engage students and equip them with the necessary skills to succeed in a globalized world.

THE IMPACT OF PEER COACHING ON MOROCCAN EFL TEACHERS: ENHANCING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MOTIVATION, AND REFLECTIVE PRACTICE

This study explores the effects of peer coaching on Moroccan EFL teachers' motivation, self-efficacy, and professional growth. Teachers' opinions and experiences with peer coaching are investigated through focus group talks. Peer coaching is considered a useful instrument for professional development, promoting reflective teaching methods and boosting teacher confidence, according to the findings. However, time constraints and inadequate training were mentioned as obstacles. We noticed that novice and experienced teachers differed in their excitement. Peer coaching can improve teacher development in Morocco and other similar educational situations, according to the study, provided that it receives institutional support.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Teachers’ Perspectives on the Effectiveness of Moral Strategies for Character Formation in Public Secondary Schools in Kakamega County, Kenya

Philosophers and educationists contend that education plays a critical role in inculcating learners with moral values for character formation. Moral education for character formation is not an issue of personal choice but fundamental to society in promoting economic growth, prosperity, and order. However, there are a number of problems that hinder the process of reaching the identified ideal of character formation. Some of the challenges are associated curriculum content and the strategies applied by teachers. In school moral education for character formation is promoted through the teaching of subjects such as Christian Religious Education, Hindu Religious Education, or Islamic Religious Education, however they are exam or Cognitive oriented. This is manifested in unacceptable behaviors that are exhibited by students such as school arson, drugs and substance abuse, obscene behavior, and exploitation of school and other public resources. Therefore, this article sought to investigate teachers’ perspectives on the effectiveness of moral strategies for character formation in public secondary schools in Kakamega County, Kenya. Phenomenological theory guided this study. On the other hand, phenomenological hermeneutical method was applied in the study. The study employed a descriptive phenomenological research design to explore teachers' perceptions of moral education strategies for character formation in public secondary schools in Kakamega County, Kenya. This design was chosen because it enables the researcher gain insight into participants' lived experiences of a phenomenon without prejudices and preconceptions. It utilized an interpretive paradigm to understand teachers' perceptions of their social realities, focusing on subjective experiences and perspectives related to moral education. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 15 participants from seven public secondary schools. Unstructured interviews were employed to collect the data. The data collected was analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke's six steps. The study established that there was mixed reaction on the effectiveness of strategies used in moral education for character formation. The minority of the participants observed that all the strategies were ineffective, while the majority indicated that guidance and counseling although less proactive, is the best strategy for moral education for character formation. The few who mentioned punishment indicated that it was the best method, although illegal and illicit in the current Kenyan schooling context. The study concluded that moral education strategies in public secondary schools in Kakakmega county, Kenya are largely ineffective, with only a few approaches like class meetings, student leadership, and clubs fostering deeper student engagement. Most strategies are implemented reactively and lack consistent emphasis, limiting their impact on character formation. To improve effectiveness, a more proactive approach and better implementation mechanisms are needed. The study recommends that teachers in Kakamega County be trained to use multiple moral strategies that require extensive student participation and include practical and reflective methods to promote character education. Moreover, moral education should be an integrated approach to ensure that students receive ethical education in many areas of learning to strengthen their morality in applying moral education in many facets of their learning.

Research Driven Dialogs: A Method for Social and Scholarly Impact

Research Driven Dialogs (RDDs) are a method for collective sense-making and collaborative reflection on research findings by a range of stakeholders hoping to better understand and address a complex problem. Research findings are opened up through a process of dialog; implications for practice and action are co-designed by participants in ways that are compatible with institutional and sociocultural realities. RDDs thereby coproduce knowledge in ways that maximize social impact and deepen and contextualize scholarly insights without imposing excessive time-burdens on stakeholders. We present an overview of the stages of RDDs through a development leadership project in Sri Lanka and Indonesia, outlining how these can be designed to maximize research outcomes and extraneous benefits.

THE IMPACT OF PEER COACHING ON MOROCCAN EFL TEACHERS: ENHANCING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MOTIVATION, AND REFLECTIVE PRACTICE

This study explores the effects of peer coaching on Moroccan EFL teachers' motivation, self-efficacy, and professional growth. Teachers' opinions and experiences with peer coaching are investigated through focus group talks. Peer coaching is considered a useful instrument for professional development, promoting reflective teaching methods and boosting teacher confidence, according to the findings. However, time constraints and inadequate training were mentioned as obstacles. We noticed that novice and experienced teachers differed in their excitement. Peer coaching can improve teacher development in Morocco and other similar educational situations, according to the study, provided that it receives institutional support.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0796/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Estimating the Spin of MAXI J1348–630 from Intermediate and Soft States Using Insight-HXMT Data

We present a broadband spectral analysis of the soft-intermediate and soft states using Insight-HXMT observations of the black hole binary MAXI J1348–630 during its outburst in 2019. We employ a combination of reflection and continuum fitting methods to measure the spin of the black hole and determine a spin of a = 0.79 ± 0.13, which is consistent with most of the previous results. Additionally, we investigate some sources of systematic uncertainty that could bias the measurement. The valid spectral hardening factor can partially account for the spin evolution observed during the outburst. Other potential factors, such as assumptions about the corona’s structure and their interaction with reflected photons, can also affect the accuracy of spin measurements. Furthermore, our analysis reveals that MAXI J1348–630 exhibits a significantly high disk density (∼1022 cm−3), with a moderate iron abundance of approximately 2.5 times solar.

Comparison of Diffuse Reflectance and Diffuse Transmittance Vis/NIR Spectroscopy for Assessing Soluble Solids Content in Kiwifruit Coupled with Chemometrics

Kiwifruit, as a climacteric fruit, undergoes rapid ripening and senescence after harvest, making it highly susceptible to softening, rotting, and spoilage. Therefore, monitoring the key quality parameters of kiwifruit, particularly the accurate detection of soluble solids content (SSC), is considered crucial. The performance of two spectral acquisition methods—diffuse reflectance and diffuse transmission—in detecting SSC in kiwifruit was compared. Various preprocessing methods and feature wavelength selection techniques were employed, and regression models were constructed using partial least squares (PLS) analysis. The stability and accuracy of the models were validated through an independent validation set. The results indicated that the spectral data acquired by the diffuse reflectance method, preprocessed using Savitzky–Golay smoothing and combined with competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), yielded a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.98 for the prediction set, with a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.66. In contrast, the spectral data obtained by the diffuse transmission method, preprocessed using multiplicative scatter correction and combined with CARS, achieved an R2 of 0.95 and an RMSE of 0.93 for the prediction set. This study demonstrated that both methods were effective for detecting SSC in kiwifruit, with the diffuse reflectance method showing the greater advantage.

Lunar surface permittivity distribution along route of Yutu-2 rover

Abstract On January 3, 2019, Chang’E-4 (CE-4) landed in the Von Kármán crater within the South pole-Aitken Basin on the Moon’s farside. The lunar penetrating radar (LPR) onboard the Yutu-2 rover is the same as the Chang ‘E-3 mission, which can obtain information about the thickness and strutures of lunar regolith as well as upper crust along the excursion path. The permittivity of lunar material is one of the important parameters for interpreting radar data and can also be obtained by LPR. In this paper, we use the metal plate reflection method based on LPR data and panoramic camera (PC) data to estimate the relative permittivity distribution of 1373m route during the first 53 lunar days. We estimated an average relative permittivity of ~2.78, which is less than ~2.9 of Chang’E-3 (CE-3).

How do mentors perceive and perform their role in a reflection-based mentoring programme for medical students?

To explore how mentors perceive and perform their role in a longitudinal mentorship programme with the objective of guiding medical students in becoming reflective learners. A qualitative exploratory study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 16 mentors from the Ghent University medical education mentoring programme. Participants were selected by purposeful sampling on gender, years of experience and area of specialisation. Interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Afterwards, all transcripts were re-analysed combining the resulting themes to identify different mentoring profiles. Our analysis yielded three themes. First, the basic conditions for mentorship showed wide differences in competencies that mentors considered necessary. Second, goals and purposes of mentoring identified roles ranging from ombudsperson, confidential advisor, role model to guide towards professional and personal growth. Third, attitudes to the mentoring programme revealed a wide variation from fully embracing to rejecting the reflective method. Further analysis led to three mentor profiles: reflective, sharing and advising. Even reflective mentors struggled in varying degrees with applying the guidelines, mostly depending on prior experience with reflection. Advising mentors found the intervision techniques too constrictive and expressed doubts about the usefulness of the programme. In this reflection-based mentoring programme, different mentor perceptions strongly determined how reflection is being taught to medical students. This may affect the students' professional identity formation. Training should enable mentors to reflect on their beliefs and mentoring style. Further research is needed on the effects of reflection in mentoring and on mentor selection.

Infrared emissivity measurement methods considering target reflective characteristics

Emissivity measurements are of great significance for infrared thermal radiation and infrared remote sensing. However, traditional methods often face challenges such as difficulties in non-contact measurement, small measurement areas, and unsuitability for non-Lambertian surfaces. To address these issues, we propose the reflective distribution model integral method (RDMIM). This method is based on a reflective distribution model using the scattering-reflective deviation angle (SRDA). By regressing and integrating the object’s reflective distribution model, it achieves accurate non-contact measurement of non-Lambertian surfaces under normal temperature conditions. Additionally, the measurement scheme has been further optimized to improve measurement efficiency while ensuring the accuracy of the model regression. Finally, the proposed RDMIM method has been validated through experimental measurements. The results have shown that this method has advantages in non-contact and large-area measurements. Moreover, the systematic error is smaller when the reflective characteristics of the reference body and the target are relatively similar.

Ultra-sensitivity of surface plasmon resonance sensor using halide perovskite FASnI3 and 2D materials on Cu thin films

This paper studies a novel surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor using a BK7 glass prism, a copper (Cu) metal plasmonic layer, which combine a halide perovskite (FASnI3) with two-dimensional (2D) materials such as phosphorus black, graphene and TMDC (MoS2, MoSe2, WS2, WSe2) for the detection of breast cancer cells. We have optimized the thickness of each layer in order to obtain maximum sensitivity. A numerical study mainly uses the transfer matrix principle, while the attenuation total reflection method involves examining the reflection properties. The evaluation of SPR biosensor configurations serves to obtain optimal performance. The simulation results indicate that the integration of halide perovskite (FASnI3) and 2D materials into the BK7/Cu/medium sensing structure significantly improves the sensitivity and figure of merit (ZT). The outstanding results in terms of sensor performance characteristics are observed in the BK7/Cu (48 nm)/FASnI3 (5 nm)/BP (0.53 nm) configuration. The figure of merit and sensitivity estimated at 123.11 RIU−1 and 459.28°/RIU, with a notable improvement of 338.45 %.

Multi-angle spectrophotometric reflectance methods for determining refractive indices

The experience of developing and applying methods for measuring the refractive coefficients of crystals of the highest and middle categories based on multi-angle spectrophotometric reflection methods is presented: by the reflection spectrum from one face at an angle of incidence of light close to normal, and by the reflection method when light falls at Brewster angle. The advantages and limitations of the methods and the requirements for the samples are described. It is shown that the reflection method at an angle of incidence close to normal is applicable for optically isotropic media. The Brewster angle method is applicable for crystals of the highest and middle categories. The measurement accuracy of both methods has been determined. The applicability of these methods is shown for samples of crystals of the highest and middle categories Gd3Al2Ga3O12:Ce and La3Ga5.5Ta0.5O14 respectively.