Pedagogical Framework Research Articles

Formation of technical competencies of undergraduate students in higher education

This study explores how university students develop technical competence to meet societal and industry demands, with a particular emphasis on their ability to set goals, organize group work, and plan technical activities. A comprehensive model of students' technical competence is proposed, comprising three key components: technological, informational, and value-motivational. The research findings, illustrated through detailed tables and diagrams, reveal the varying levels of students' technical competence. The experiment confirmed the hypotheses about the necessity of developing technical competence and established a clear link between the effectiveness of training and the proposed criteria-based structure. Ongoing research is focused on designing a professionally oriented, pedagogical training framework to further enhance competence in this discipline. Keywords: Diagnostics; profession; student; technical competencies; university.

Physical Activity Levels and Body Mass Index in Sport Education. Is There a Difference?

ABSTRACT Purpose: The goals of this study were: (1) to assess students’ physical activity levels in a sport education season according to the phases of the model, adjusted for body mass index; (2) to uncover the contribution of the phases of the model to the World Health Organization recommendations; (3) to understand its impact in students with overweight/obesity. Methods: A total of 42 primary education students with a mean age of 10.68 ± 0.69 years, enrolled in one year 5 (10–11 years) and one year 6 (11–12 years). Physical Education lessons of the same school agreed to participate. Students in both groups experienced a 14-lesson learning unit in team handball through the sport education. Each participant wore an ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer to measure physical activity levels, counts/minute and steps counted. Cole and Lobstein cutoff points were used to determine groups based on body mass index (thin, normal-weight, overweight/obese). Results: The results showed that the overweight/obese group achieved scores for moderate to vigorous physical activity and sedentary time that were not significantly different from the normal-weight group. According to the phases, the preseason was the most active and contributed most to the World Health Organization recommendations in all groups. Conclusions: Sport education could be considered an appropriate pedagogical framework to help overweight/obese children achieve moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and sedentary scores similar to their normal-weight classmates. Key elements of sport education include performing roles, learning work routines, and having the autonomy to choose games/tasks, all of which promote physical activity amongst all students.

The Ethical Dilemma of Educational Metaverse

This review investigates the ethical issues of integrating Metaverse technology in educational settings. Our study reveals significant ethical considerations, including privacy concerns, data security risks, and the widening digital divide. We identified critical challenges such as user safety, intellectual property rights, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence. To address these challenges, we propose robust solutions including enhanced privacy protections, initiatives to bridge the digital divide, and frameworks to ensure safe and inclusive environments. Additionally, we underscore the necessity of developing new pedagogical frameworks and management models to effectively incorporate Metaverse technologies. Our findings suggest that while the Metaverse offers immense potential for revolutionizing education, maintaining ethical standards and thoughtfully mitigating potential risks is crucial. By implementing the proposed solutions, educational institutions can harness the full potential of Metaverse technology while safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders.

May the Force(s) be with You: The Utility of Using a Game-Based Approach to Teach Biomechanics

Many high school students fear and dislike introductory biomechanics, which can add to the challenges physical educators face in teaching and supporting their students’ learning. There is evidence that active and participative learning approaches can improve student engagement with and understanding of biomechanical concepts. This can be done by teaching the theoretical and practical components of biomechanics within a specific pedagogical approach, namely Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU). As TGfU has been shown to significantly improve student engagement and learning in a wide variety of other related disciplines, this article provides strategies for introducing biomechanics using the TGfU pedagogy framework—which may also benefit STEM engagement and the application of STEM-related knowledge.

A New Ecological Contract

A New Ecological Contract is a pedagogical framework for design studios that focus on sites of socioenvironmental conflict. Through ecocritical video game design, students engage with situated impacts of large-scale climate issues by working through images of environmental impact assessment reports and baseline studies as archives of landscape transformation. This framework pursued two objectives: first, to awaken a critical and spatial political imagination in the context of a four-year constitutional referendum process that challenged the basis of the Chilean economy and its relationship to the environment from which it derives its riches, and second, to present students with a case for using their representational abilities to engage with situated impacts of large scale climate issues by going through environmental impact assessment reports’ images and baselines studies approaching a design brief otherwise.

Our Energy

This paper explores the role of architects, designers, and educators in catalyzing a radical shift towards more just and socioecological energy values and practices by scrutinizing three exercises that were introduced to students as part of a theoretical course on territorial design taught at ETH Zürich in the autumn of 2022. 1 Initially, the text presents the course and then outlines its affiliated lecture series focusing on questions surrounding energy entanglements. Following this, it elaborates on the formulation of the exercises, including their conditions, representation techniques, and templates, giving a selection of student work. The paper aims to serve as an exemplar of how we can, in architectural and design education, offer alternative approaches to teaching and un/learning. By sharing this pedagogical framework, the paper ultimately seeks to disseminate these articulations and thought processes, as a way to initiate a discussion around energy entanglements and imagine novel ways of designing our collective and equitable energy futures.

Asian American Critical Pedagogy Framework and Principles in Art Education

In this article, we, as Asian American visual arts and social studies educators, propose an Asian American Critical Pedagogy framework and its four principles. Building on critical race and social theories and pedagogies, we developed the four principles: Asian American critical consciousness, counternarratives and reclamation, heterogeneity and intersectionality, and joy and wellness. The four principles are the outcome of our collective theoretical exploration, autobiographical reflection, and the analysis of contemporary Asian American artists and their works. We hope the principles serve as a theoretical framework for future research and pedagogical exploration to recognize and expand the authentic voices and experiences of Asian American art educators and students and to offer insights for intersectional research with other marginalized communities.

Profound Love and Dialogue: Paulo Freire and Liberation Education.

Paulo Freire, Brazilian philosopher and educator, proposed an educational method for adults based on what he called "the problem posing method." This method was based on dialogue that he deemed necessary for education and was not oppressive and controlling. Freire argued that traditional educational methods were inherently oppressive because they served the interest of the elite, instituted what he called "the banking method" in hopes to turn people into better workers. In contrast to this, Freire advocated for an education that was liberating and required dialogue. Dialogue, however, could only take place with profound love. This article reflects on Freire's call for profound love and dialogue within his pedagogical framework, and its necessity for social and political change. Further, this article explores what Freire meant by profound love and dialogue, and explores how love and dialogue are applicable to current and future health literacy and health education efforts. [HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice. 2024;8(3):e118-e120.].

Post-Pandemic Mathematic Teachers' Perception on TPACK and Classroom Management Self Efficacy in Online Teaching

Educational technology professionals commonly utilize the Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework. Yet, the existing studies lack an examination of the influence of mathematics teachers' perceptions of TPACK on their Classroom Management Self-Efficacy in the context of online teaching. This quantitative cross-sectional survey aimed to explore the potential impact of TPACK on mathematics teachers’ online classroom management, which is significant to improve online teaching. The study involved 232 mathematics teachers from Kuwaiti primary schools who were randomly selected through cluster sampling, who completed a questionnaire consisting of 42 items. The questionnaire aimed to investigate both teachers’ perception of classroom Management Self Efficacy in online teaching, and their TPACK perceptions. Through the utilization of multiple regression analysis, the data revealed a significant correlation between the TPACK component (CK, TK, PK, PCK, TCK, TPK, and TPACK) and classroom Management Self Efficacy in online teaching. Consequently, this study highlights the validity of TPACK as a model to elucidate teachers' effective management of online classrooms. The results of this study contribute to international studies on online teaching efficiency, teaching practices, and teacher technological competencies.

School teachers’ perceived knowledge and affordances for using technology in teaching

Teachers’ knowledge about technology and teaching with technology is decisive for how affordances of technology integration are taken up. Two questionnaires were administered in 21 high schools in Kazakhstan: one about types of teacher knowledge based on technological pedagogical content knowledge framework and one about affordances of technology integration. The analyses show a relatively high level of all types of teacher knowledge and a large variation in perceived affordances, with relatively low scores for support from the school leader and time available to design and plan technology integration in class. Furthermore, different types of knowledge were related to different affordances, which means that a focus on a high level of all types of teacher’s knowledge of technology might help best to benefit from most of the affordances. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.

Technology integration in science classrooms: Empowering student teachers for improved physics teaching with simulations

This study employed a descriptive case study design to examine the integration of technology in science education, focusing on the professional development of student teachers in Ghana. Using the technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) framework as a theoretical lens, the study aimed to address the gaps in existing teacher education programs. Through a technology integration training workshop, the progress of four student teachers in developing their competencies for integrating technology into the teaching of high school physics using simulations was tracked and examined. Drawing on a combination of quantitative (survey) and qualitative data (focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, observations, and lesson artefacts) sources, findings revealed that the student teachers improved their teaching with technology, which was evident in their developed TPACK, improved content knowledge and developed competencies in the exploration of Physics Education Technology simulation environments. These outcomes suggest a transformative shift in student teacher's teaching approaches, transitioning from a teacher-centered paradigm to a learner-centered one, particularly within the context of simulation environments. Despite initial challenges associated with insufficient content knowledge, establishment of relationships among physics content, teaching strategies and the identified affordances of the simulation environment as well as the shift from traditional to learner-centered approach, the study underscores the pivotal role played by the professional training arrangement implemented for the research.

Exploring medical first responders’ perceptions of mass casualty incident scenario training: a qualitative study on learning conditions and recommendations for improvement

ObjectiveDespite participating in scenario training, many medical first responders (MFRs) perceive themselves as inadequately prepared to respond to mass casualty incidents (MCIs). The objective of this study was to conduct...

Mock Wards: Incorporating a Theoretical Framework to Create a Blended Virtual and In-Person Clinical Reasoning Education Platform.

Introduction The coronavirus 2019 pandemic highlighted virtual learning (VL) as a promising tool for medical education, yet its effectiveness in teaching clinical reasoning (CR) remains underexplored. Past studies have suggested VL can effectively prepare students for clinical settings. Informed by the Milestones of Observable Behaviours for CR (MOBCR) and whole-case theoretical frameworks, the Mock Wards (MW) program was created using a novel blended in-person learning (IPL) and VL platform. MW consisted of case-based small-group formats for medical students interested in learning approaches and differentials to commonly encountered presenting symptoms and diagnoses in internal medicine. This study sought to use MW's blended design to qualitatively analyze CR development and compare its utility between VL and IPL. Methods Qualitative analysis was conducted using in-depth semi-structured interviews with first-year pre-clerkship medical students (n = 8) who completed the MW program and participated in the study. The interview guide was informed by the MOBCR framework. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a directed qualitative content analysis approach. Translational coding and HyperRESEARCHTM (Researchware, Inc., Randolph, MA) software-generated mind maps guided the theme development. Results Three overarching themes were constructed: (1) tailoring pedagogical frameworks to learning modalities, (2) learning through interactivity, and (3) balancing accessibility with learner engagement. Participants emphasized that teaching CR skills is modality-specific and not fully interchangeable, with IPL being superior in facilitating social cohesion, non-verbal communication, and feedback. In contrast, VL required structured approaches and relied more on verbal communication and pre-made digital materials. IPL also enhanced interactivity, peer relationships, and spontaneous communication, whereas VL faced challenges such as social awkwardness and technological constraints hindering effective collaboration. VL provided superior accessibility to facilitate distributed learning and management of concurrent academic obligations. Conclusion The MW-blended platform highlights the importance of focusing on modality-tailored pedagogies, emphasizing group interactability, and balancing VL accessibility against decreased engagement within the IPL environment when teaching CR skills. Blended education models may benefit from a scaffolding approach, using IPL as a prerequisite to VL to improve CR development and alignment within a learner's zone of proximal development.

Can we play with science? Preschool teachers’ discussion about play-responsive teaching and how science content can be introduced into play with support of digital tools

ABSTRACT This article is from a continuous professional development project where preschool teachers are introduced to the framework Play-Responsive Early Childhood Education and Care (PRECEC). Aspects of play and teaching are discussed in focus groups, before and after a first attempt to enact and re-enact play-responsive teaching, with science content. In the attempts, digital pictures or videos are projected in play to create an experience of science content. The technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) framework is used to analyse the complex and dynamic connections between pedagogical knowledge (PK), here with a focus on PRECEC, content knowledge (CK) and technological knowledge (TK). The results show that the preschool teachers often separate play and teaching. A concern is raised by the preschool teachers that they might influence or ruin the play if they participate. However, promising possibilities for play-responsive teaching were created when preschool teachers projected digital pictures and videos representing science content in a created play world.

Person‐centred research supervision: Facilitating encounter with researchers and enquiry

AbstractAimsDrawing upon Schmid's invitation to develop congruence in practice, training and research within the person‐centred approach, this study presents a theoretical model for counselling and psychotherapy research supervision. This is contextualised through the author's early‐career academic experiences, particularly a lack of training, literature or guidance in pedagogical frameworks underpinning research supervision for psychotherapists.MethodThis study conceptualises research supervision using person‐centred theories, in line with critical realist methodologies. Two case studies are presented in which person‐centred research supervision model is implemented.FindingsThemes emerged that corroborated the person‐centred research supervision model proposed and its underpinning literature, which had growthful and challenging dimensions. This highlighted the aspects of vulnerability in supervisory relationships, abdicating expertise as research supervisor and integral congruence between researcher and research project.ConclusionThese findings indicate there is merit in further research being conducted evaluating this person‐centred research supervision model, in order to further develop or challenge its efficacy in practice.

Generative AI in Higher Education: Graduate Teaching Assistants’ Practice and Reflection on ChatGPT for Module Assessment

The rapid evolvement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the launch of ChatGPT and other Generative AI tools have concerned Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), which now need to develop comprehensive pedagogical guidelines and frameworks in this emerging AI era. These advancements have sparked discussions and research on their implications on assessment design and student assessment, with multiple opposing perspectives emerging. Whilst ChatGPT is perceived as an important opportunity for enhancing student learning, it is considered as a significant threat to academic integrity and student skills development. These differing perspectives create the need for teaching staff to reflect on their pedagogical practices on ChatGPT and Generative AI and propose potential paths forward for HEIs. Although research on Generative AI and assessment design is rapidly growing, the perspective of Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) as teaching staff uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between faculty and students, is under-represented. To this end, in this practice paper, GTAs reflect on their dual identities as student and tutor to evaluate differing positions to the role of ChatGPT to support or hinder assessment. By being involved in a ChatGPT project for student assessment for MSc students in Engineering degrees, the authors present their reflections on the impact that ChatGPT and Generative AI technologies may have on HEIs, with a focus on assessment design, as well as on potential paths forward for the sector. This practice paper contributes to the ongoing discussions and research on the development of pedagogical guidelines and frameworks in the Generative AI era.

Doing critical disciplinary literacies in teacher education: A pedagogical framework

Doing critical disciplinary literacies in teacher education: A pedagogical framework

Blended Learning in the Saudi EFL Classroom: Insights from Teachers on Pedagogical Impact

In an era where technology seamlessly blends with teaching methodologies, this study examines EFL teachers’ perceptions in Saudi Arabia regarding the impact of blended learning methodologies on student engagement compared to traditional teaching approaches. This paper aims to explore the challenges these teachers encounter in implementing blended learning and its perceived effects on learning outcomes. Through a qualitative research design, the study engaged 42 EFL teachers, selected randomly to encapsulate a wide array of genders, academic backgrounds, teaching experiences, and levels of technological proficiency. A bespoke, researcher-developed questionnaire with open-ended questions was strategically employed to extract in-depth insights into the teachers’ experiences and perceptions regarding blended learning within the Saudi educational context. Thematic analysis was utilized to uncover patterns and themes within the responses. The findings reveal that while blended learning methodologies are recognized for their potential to moderately enhance student engagement through increased participation, attentiveness, and enthusiasm for learning, challenges significantly temper their effectiveness. These include technological barriers, disparities in digital literacy, and the complexities of integrating blended learning into existing pedagogical frameworks. Despite these obstacles, the study identifies a cautious optimism among EFL teachers about the potential of blended learning to enrich educational outcomes, provided that the aforementioned challenges are systematically addressed. This research is significant as it contributes critical insights into the evolving role of blended learning in EFL education, highlighting the need for strategic implementation and support mechanisms to fully leverage its benefits in enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes in Saudi Arabia. Based on these findings, implications, limitations, and recommendations were provided.

Inclusive pedagogy in online simulation‐based learning in undergraduate nursing education: A scoping review

AbstractBackgroundEquality, diversity and inclusion initiatives seek to embed the concept of inclusive pedagogy to promote inclusive educational environments. However, no evidence synthesis exists which examines whether and how the concept of inclusive pedagogy is addressed in online simulation‐based learning in the undergraduate nursing education literature.AimsTo map the evidence regarding the adoption of inclusive pedagogy in online simulation‐based learning in undergraduate nursing education.DesignA scoping review.MethodsData were extracted, synthesized and presented in narrative and table format.Data SourcesA systematic search of five databases and five sources of grey literature was conducted to search literature published between 1st January 2010 to 1st June 2022.ResultsThirty‐eight papers published between 2011 and 2022 were included. The results are presented under three identified themes: (1) Learner diversity; (2) Theoretical frameworks promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in online simulation and (3) Online simulation feedback.ConclusionInclusive pedagogy has not been considered or embedded in its entirety in online simulation in undergraduate nursing education literature.Implications for the profession and/or patient careUtilizing an inclusive pedagogy framework may prove advantageous in generating inclusive teaching approaches to support all students.ImpactThis review will interest educators and managers that wish to incorporate equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives in nursing education.Reporting MethodThis scoping review has adhered to the EQUATOR guidelines: the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews checklist.Patient or Public ContributionNo Patient or Public Contribution.

Healthcare students’ awareness of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in anatomy curricula: An Irish single institution-based study

Healthcare students perceive anatomy as a difficult subject to study, yet there is limited literature to explain why students think that anatomy is difficult to learn. Studies have assessed student opinion of anatomy teaching strategies, but there is no specific research regarding healthcare students' perception of pedagogical frameworks utilised in anatomy curricula. Considering the importance of student experience, the design of anatomy curricula should include the perspectives of students. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework which aims to optimise learning opportunities. There is no specific research on healthcare students' awareness or perception of UDL in anatomy curricula. A questionnaire was administered to first-year undergraduate medical, dental, occupational therapy (OT) and speech and language therapy (SLT) students studying anatomy. Demographic data and participants’ perception of UDL were gathered. The response rate was 83%. The majority of participants were female (69%) and studied medicine (59%). Ninety-seven percent of participants had not heard of UDL. After a brief explanation of UDL, 91% thought that UDL had been implemented in anatomy laboratory sessions and 52% thought UDL had been implemented in anatomy lectures. Although the majority of participants were not aware of UDL, they identified aspects of UDL in their anatomy curriculum. UDL helps create an inclusive learning experience. The discussion about the design and delivery of anatomy curricula should include the opinions and perspectives of healthcare students.