Najran University Research Articles

Perceptions of medical students at Najran University on the effectiveness of problem-based learning and team-based learning

BackgroundTeam-based learning (TBL) and problem-based learning (PBL) are two effective educational approaches used in medical education for increasing knowledge acquisition, learning motivation, and collaborative and communication skills among students. Few studies have been conducted in Saudi Arabia to evaluate medical students’ perceptions of these approaches.Aim of the studyThe present study aimed to evaluate the perceptions of current or previous preclinical students at the College of Medicine, Najran University (NU) about the effectiveness of PBL and TBL and to assess students’ perceptions regarding the strengths and limitations of both educational approaches and their preferences.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted on 106 preclinical students at NU, Saudi Arabia. The survey questionnaire was validated by a pilot study and designed based on Kirkpatrick’s evaluation model. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the collected data through IBM SPSS Statistics 2.0.Results73.6% of participants enjoyed PBL and found it motivating compared to TBL and classic lectures. PBL was reported as more effective for knowledge acquisition (50%), teamwork (62.3%), and high academic performance (58%).ConclusionIt is concluded that PBL was more favored by the students regarding the learning outcomes. TBL was reported to need more individual preparation and effort and require lecturer involvement, suggesting the need for structured facilitation in this learning approach and potentially indicating the challenges associated with coordinating team-based activities.

Knowledge Management in Saudi Universities and Its Utilization for Financial Resource Development: A Survey and Applied Study at Najran University

Purpose: The study aims to explore knowledge management in Saudi Universities and its use in enhancing financial resources from the perspectives of leaders and faculty members at Najran University. Methodology: A descriptive-analytical documentary approach and a field survey were used with a questionnaire administered to a stratified random sample of (78) leaders, faculty members, and assistants at Najran University. Findings/Conclusions: Results indicate that knowledge management at Najran University is highly practiced overall. However, the survey shows limited investment of knowledge in financial resource development. Significant gender-based differences were found, favoring females, while no differences were observed based on college, job position, or experience. There remains a significant gap between knowledge management and its use in increasing university resources. Practical Implications: A strategy is needed to leverage intellectual capital in resource development by promoting innovations, utilizing patents, and research centers, transforming knowledge into commercial products, and establishing effective global marketing partnerships. Originality/Value: This study fills a theoretical literature gap and offers practical solutions to convert theoretical knowledge into economic commodities that benefit society, aiding in diversifying funding sources for Saudi, Arab, and developing country universities.

Evaluation of alveolar bone loss among diabetic patients with class II amalgam restorations.

The relationship between Class II amalgam restorations and alveolar bone loss among diabetic and non-diabetic patients is evaluated at the Faculty of Dentistry, Najran University, KSA. Hence, we compared type 2 diabetic (n = 32) and non-diabetic patients (n=32) using clinical assessments and imaging techniques. Parameters such as bone loss rate, extent, age, and periodontal condition (plaque index and Gingival Index) were analyzed. Analysis of data shows that diabetic patients on average have higher bone loss.

The Role of Najran University in Promoting a Culture of Coexistence: Students with Disabilities in Perspective

This study aims to examine Najran University's role in fostering a culture of coexistence among students with disabilities, as perceived by the students themselves. It also seeks to investigate this role based on gender (male, female) and college (Sciences and Arts, Sharia, Education). To achieve these objectives, a questionnaire comprising 15 items was developed. The results revealed that Najran University plays a significant role in promoting a culture of coexistence among students with disabilities. In addition, the findings showed no statistically significant differences (at a significance level of 0.05) in the role of the culture of coexistence among students with disabilities based on gender or college. Based on these results, the study recommends enhancing the integration of students with disabilities to promote positive coexistence. This can be achieved by encouraging their participation in various university activities, including scientific, social, and cultural events.

تقييم أثر البرامج التدريبية على رفع الكفاءة الإنتاجية بجامعة نجران من وجهة نظر أعضاء هيئة التدريس والهيئة المعاونة

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of training programs on raising the employee’s productive efficiency at Najran University from the Staff viewpoint. The sample included all active staff at Najran University. The study relied on a comprehensive survey method. An electronic questionnaire was distributed collecting data from the respondents. The study findings showed that the training sessions provided by the Skills Development Unit in the Deanship of Development and Quality are appropriate in terms of time and content, and that the training sessions are effective in terms of contribution. Raising the productive efficiency of faculty members and supporting staff, and that the results of training programs have a clear impact on raising the productive efficiency of the staff. The study recommended the need to strengthen the role of staff members and supporting staff at Najran University and their participation in identifying training needs and building future training strategies.

Telemedicine for Facial Plastic Surgery Patients: Pros and Cons from the Patient’s Perspective

Abstract Aims and Background: Telemedicine is an exciting development that enables medical professionals and patients to communicate remotely. Telemedicine has been shown to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and cost savings. However, it also has disadvantages, including challenges in using online platforms and unease during physical examinations. The objective of this research is to evaluate telemedicine utilization as perceived by patients undergoing facial plastic surgery. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based study was conducted among 100 patients who experienced teleconsultation at Najran University Hospital. Results: Most of the patients (74%) were satisfied with their experience, and a large number (93%) indicated that teleconsultation saved them time and money. Conclusion: Most patients found telemedicine to be beneficial. However, many still consider it less reliable than in-person visits, with 78% indicating they were not willing to use teleconsultation in the future.

Influence of online versus traditional learning on EFL listening skills: A blended mode classroom perspective

Online learning is becoming more and more popular than traditional learning, and the need to investigate its influence within the framework of instruction and learning domains is — in today's emerging, cutting-edge technology world — an academic trend. The current study's problem intends to explore the impact of virtual versus traditional learning on the academic achievement of EFL students, a subject that has garnered substantial attention from English Language Teaching (ELT) researchers. This study aims to clarify if EFL students' academic progress in a listening skills classroom is influenced by traditional or online learning. The present research compiled information on how EFL students performed when English language teaching took place online as opposed to in a traditional classroom environment. This study, using an experimental research design with (N = 30) pairs of students (both male and female), was held at Najran University, KSA, in the academic year 2022–2023 b y using probability (random sampling). This study used pre-and post-tests to gather data from the subjects of the study, bifurcated into controlled and experimental groups employing the two modes of teaching, viz., online and traditional. The findings of the investigation proved that the experimental group achieved better performance compared to the control group in terms of results and scores. There are no significant differences based on gender. In addition, (N = 20) teachers teaching listening skills to EFL learners participated in semi-structured interviews. The qualitative analysis enlisted flexibility, accessibility, effective communication, collaboration, monitoring of student progress, and the use of a blackboard as constructive elements, followed by maintenance costs, wastage of available resources, long-term engagement, limited face-to-face interaction, and demotivation as critical perspectives. According to the findings of this research, the author recommends further studies with more variables.

The Usefulness of the Telegram App in Learning English as a Foreign Language: Teachers and Students Voices

The study attempted to investigate the effectiveness of the Telegram application (app) in learning English as a foreign language for undergraduate EFL learners. The study looked at how Telegram app constraints EFL learners experience when utilizing Telegram in learning a foreign language. This research, using a descriptive-diagnostic research approach, used a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to collect the data from 40 students and 20 teachers at Najran University which were chosen through a stratified sampling technique. The results revealed that both teachers and students think that Telegram can highly improve learning English as a foreign language. The results also showed the participant (student, teacher) played a role in varying the study sample's responses in favor of teachers. The findings of the interview show that many students struggle to learn the English language through Telegram due to constraints like device compatibility, health issues, lack of motivation, loneliness, distraction, and difficulty in uploading and downloading files, often unable to receive feedback or academic assistance due to technical staff and training issues. The results of this study have implications for teaching and learning English that can motivate both instructors and students to use social media-based tools.

The Culture of Social Innovation among Students at Najran University

The vision of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 2030 focuses on the importance of building a thriving economic and social community in which all institutions, especially higher education institutions, actively participate in developing and addressing societal issues. This study seeks to investigate the level of social innovation culture among students at Najran University, recognizing that it offers an opportunity to generate innovations, products, and new ideas that address societal needs. The study used a quantitative descriptive approach, and the researchers prepared a questionnaire consisting of (13) statements to assess the level of social innovation culture. It was administered to a sample of university students, totaling (319) male and female students. The study revealed several results, including that the overall social innovation culture averaged (2.51) at a high level. There were no significant differences in the level of social innovation culture based on gender, academic grade, and academic level. However, there were differences based on the specialization variable, favoring those with practical specialization.

Potentials of Fibre Optic Daylighting Systems in Najran University College of Engineering Corridors

Potentials of Fibre Optic Daylighting Systems in Najran University College of Engineering Corridors

Perceptions of Najran University Students on Utilization and Enhancing Soft Skills and Challenges

The study aims to identify the level of soft skills utilization among Najran University students and the challenges they face in developing these skills from their perspective. A descriptive-analytical approach was employed, where a list of soft skills was categorized into four classes, comprising a total of 37 skills from key competencies. A questionnaire was prepared to determine the importance of soft skills from the student's point of view, as well as to assess their satisfaction with their proficiency levels. In addition, it aimed to gauge their satisfaction with the methods and strategies used by the university in enhancing these skills and to identify the obstacles hindering their development. The survey was administered to 296 male and female students at Najran University. The results indicated that students highly valued the importance of soft skills. The ranking of soft skills categories, based on their importance to the students, was as follows: learning and life skills, effective communication skills, strategic planning and time management skills, and finally, leadership and teamwork skills. However, the results also revealed their dissatisfaction with their proficiency levels, as they expressed low satisfaction. Furthermore, they were dissatisfied with the methods and strategies employed by the university in developing these skills. Despite this, they strongly agreed that significant obstacles were preventing the development of these skills among them.

Difficulties and Challenges of EFL Simultaneous Interpretation Among Saudi Undergraduates.

Many Saudi interpretation students have challenges and difficulties during thestudyof simultaneous interpreting courses. Most Saudi students encounter interpretation difficulties due to inadequate training and the adoption of traditional teaching methods. This study aimed to investigate the challenges and difficulties that undergraduate simultaneous interpretation students in Saudi Arabia encountered and suggested the best solutions to address this issue. The study followed a mixed-method research design of quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods to answer the research questions. The study sample was randomly selected from two Saudi universities (Najran University and King Abdul-Aziz University). Two research tools were used: a close-ended questionnaire for interpretation students and a semi-structured interview for translation professors. Responses to the questionnaire indicated that interpretation students face diverse challenges in language, curriculum, methodology, and training. Language difficulties encompassed struggles with interpreting terminology, handling long sentences, and keeping up with fast speech. Challenges related to curricula included issues of density, lack of clarity, and outdated simultaneous interpretation textbooks. Teaching method challenges were characterized by insufficient intensive training and a lack of technology-based interactive strategies. Interviews with professors highlighted additional challenges perceived by students, such as low proficiency andlack ofmotivation, expertise, background knowledge, equipmentand labs. Professors recommended the following solutions: incorporating more practical and interactive interpretation activities, updating curricular content, offering skill-based training, and adopting modern interpretation techniques, equipment, and labs.

Aesthetic and Thermal Suitability of Highly Glazed Spaces with Interior Roller Blinds in Najran University Buildings, Saudi Arabia

Highly glazed spaces are visually appealing and trendy, but effectively managing their temperature in hot arid climates remains a significant challenge. This study evaluates the effectiveness of dark-tinted double low-E glass with internal roller blinds in reducing heat gain in glazed spaces in hot arid climates and investigates architects’ perspectives on these facades. It combines field measurements and a survey to assess the balance between thermal control and aesthetics in such environments. This study reveals that the current glazing significantly attenuates solar radiation ingress, evidenced by a marked indoor-–outdoor temperature differential (ΔT) of approximately 9.2 °C. The mean radiant temperature registers at 1.5 °C above the indoor air temperature, which can be attributed to the glazing’s propensity to absorb and retain solar heat, resulting in an inner glass surface temperature of 43 °C. The implementation of adjustable blinds has a dynamic influence on the heat transfer coefficient (HTC), effectively modulating the temperature by impeding natural convection currents. With the blinds retracted, the HTC stands at an average of 7.1 W/m2K, which diminishes to 5 W/m2K when the blinds are 50% closed and further reduces to 4.2 W/m2K when the blinds are fully closed (100%). Survey results suggest that architects prioritise glazed facades for aesthetics (52%) while facing challenges in thermal and energy efficiency (44%). Future studies should concentrate on developing novel glazing systems that integrate solutions for visual appeal, lighting and thermal efficiency in glazed facades, particularly in hot arid climates.

Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Airplane Ear Preventive Measures among Air Travelers of Najran University’s Staff

Passengers before air travel should be frequently advised on the possible preventive measures to reduce any sort of ear discomfort. A cross-sectional survey-based approach was adopted to assess the prevalence of OBT, source of information on preventive measures for OBT, and respondents’ level of knowledge of preventive measures for aeroplane ear discomfort. 206 respondents i.e., air travellers of Najran University’s staff were sampled using a purposive sampling technique. Results highlighted that the prevalent symptoms of ear discomfort during air travel, which are most commonly observed such as ear pain, popping noises, reduced hearing, dizziness, and ringing noises in the ear. Also, findings explored that OBT is the severe health issue caused during air travel however mild concerns include pain or loss of hearing, vertigo and ear discharge. Most respondents were aware of ‘Chewing gum or sweets’ and ‘Yawning or swallowing’ as prevention measures, and ‘Blowing against a pinched nose (Valsalva maneuver)’ as preventive measures for ear discomfirt during air travel. ‘Internet’ (11.2%), ‘Posters/Leaflets in aeroplanes’ (7.8%), ‘Posters/Leaflets in airports’ (6.8%), and ‘Social Media’ are the most common sources of information for preventive measures to reduce prevalence of OBT. Adopting passive methods like yawning, moving the jaw, swallowing, etc. are quick techniques to deal with ear discomfort.

Impulsivity and aggression as risk factors for internet gaming disorder among university students

Internet gaming addiction is a global problem, especially among young individuals. Exhibiting characteristics similar to other addictions, Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is linked to adverse mental health outcomes. Identified as risk factors for dependence behaviors, the association of impulsivity and aggression with IGD is relatively under-researched in the student population. The present sample of 350 university students (Mage = 21.30 years, SDage = 4.96 years) from Najran university in Saudi Arabia completed an online questionnaire that included the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short-Form (IGDS9-SF), the Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire-Short Form, and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-15). Results indicated that impulsivity and aggression were positively associated with IGD severity and both personality traits explained 34.6% of the variance in IGD scores. Further bivariate analyses suggested that individuals spending 7 or more hours on internet gaming were more likely to exhibit high impulsivity and aggression, and had a relatively higher severity of IGD. These results suggest that individuals with these personality traits may be more vulnerable to developing an addiction to internet gaming. These findings need to be confirmed in future more robust studies; however, this exploratory study provides insights for potential programs to prevent IGD among young individuals.

The Effectiveness of The Mental Thinking Stimulation Model in Developing Probing Thinking in Statistics and Reducing Mental Wandering Among Female Students in The Psychology Department at Najran University

The purpose of the study was to determine whether or not female students at Najran University's Department of Psychology, College of Education, could increase probing thinking skills and lessen mental wandering when taught statistics using the model of stimulating mental thinking. In order to accomplish this, the study employed a one-group, quasi-experimental design. A statistics unit was created using a mental thinking model, and worksheets and a teacher's guide were created specifically for the female students. The Mind Wandering Scale and the Probing Reasoning Test in Statistics made up the study instruments. Pre- and post-tests using research instruments were administered to forty female students from Najran University's College of Education's fourth-level psychology department. The statistical probing thought exam revealed a decline in mental wandering and an increase in the level of female pupils in the research group. The average scores of female students in the pre- and post-application for probing thinking in statistics showed a statistically significant difference, and the post-application resulted in less mental wandering. A list of suggestions and ideas were made in light of the study's findings.

A Proposed Vision About the Requirements for Transforming Najran University into A Green University

The purpose of this study was to formulate a suggested plan for converting Najran University into a green university. Four scholarly articles that lay the foundation for creating a suggested plan for converting Najran University into a green university were published before this study. The first dealt with Requirements for Najran University to transform into a green university in light of the experiences of some Arab and international universities, The second study dealt with Faculty members’ opinions on the requirements for Najran University to become a green university, The third study dealt with: Students’ opinions about the requirements for Najran University to become a green university, The fourth study dealt with, Employees’ opinions about the requirements for Najran University to become a green university, The last phase involves using the findings of these studies to develop a suggested plan for Najran University's transformation, taking into account the views of staff, students, and professors as well as the experiences of a few other international, Saudi, and Arab universities.

Employees’ Opinions About the Requirements for Najran University to Become a Green University

The purpose of this study was to find out what the staff at Najran University thought about the needs for making the university greener. The study employed a descriptive technique in order to accomplish its purpose. Additionally, a questionnaire was created and given to 92 workers, both male and female. The investigation produced a number of findings, the most significant of which are: The study's findings revealed reactions to The study sample of staff members received a score of (2.80) (Neutral) on the conditions for making Najran University a green university. On every axis of the questionnaire, employee responses varied statistically significantly based on the gender variable (males and females). On every axis of the questionnaire, with the exception of the first and third axes, there are statistically significant differences between the replies provided by employees based on their experience level (5–10/more than 10 years).

Requirements for Najran University to Transform into A Green University in Light of the Experiences of Some Arab and International Universities

This research paper aimed to study the most important requirements for transforming Najran University into a green university, by studying the concept of the green university and the green scale. The study used the descriptive approach to study the experiences of the most important international green universities that occupy an advanced position in the green scale of universities, then the most important Arab universities and Egyptian universities. I also presented a research paper to rank Egyptian, Arab and Saudi universities in the green scale for universities, and through these experiences I came up with a set of requirements that could contribute to the transformation of Najran University into a green university.

Students’ Opinions About the Requirements for Najran University to Become a Green University

The purpose of this research report was to find out what the students thought about the conditions for making Najran University a green university. In order to accomplish the study's objective, 570 male and female students were administered a questionnaire that was created using the descriptive technique. The investigation produced a number of findings, the most significant of which are: Students' replies to the study sample about what would be needed to make Najran University a green university yielded an agreement score of (3.83). With the exception of the first axis and the questionnaire as a whole, there are statistically significant differences in the replies provided by the students based on the gender variable (males and females). Regarding all axes of the questionnaire, there are statistically significant differences between students' responses according to the academic level variable (first - third / fourth - sixth / more than sixth) in all axes of the questionnaire except for the questionnaire as a whole. There are statistically significant differences between student responses according to the college specialization variable (theory - practical).