Instructional Techniques Research Articles

After the Graded Sermon: “Ungrading” as Theo‐Ethical Practice for Homiletics

ABSTRACTThis article considers how the practice of “ungrading” in the homiletics classroom can function not merely as a pedagogical technique, but as a theo‐ethical practice. Grounding ungrading in theological ethics in addition to critical pedagogical theory can lead us toward a pedagogical practice that builds anti‐racist and decolonial spaces in theological education. Drawing on Willie James Jennings' After Whiteness and Keri Day's Notes of a Native Daughter, the article seeks to name how ungrading in the homiletics classroom can operate as a small measure by which we might move theological education into that which “follow[s] God in building toward life” and “opens the joy of not knowing inside the joy of learning together”.

A Case Study: Implementation of Innovative Educational Strategies on Teaching Nuclear Chemistry at the College of Engineering Laguna State Polytechnic University – Sta. Cruz Campus

The outcome of the evaluation shows the level of students’ consistency with the expected learning outcomes and identifies the weaknesses that are present in them for training rationale. As a result, the data highlight the necessity of the creation of certain instructional techniques that would help the students confront the challenges that arise due to nuclear chemistry. Probably this would improve the understanding p of nuclear structure and properties when jigsaw and practical strategies are used to teach. A noticeable growth of homogeneity between subjects around the engineering specialization spectrum provides an idea of what works best. High marks achieved early may indicate deficits within the domain while progressing uniformly points towards learning needs being unaddressed. Learners’ interests and the perception of their knowledge may be enhanced by employing diverse tasking and assessment strategies within the instructional applications. Nuclear chemistry may remain a challenging science that does not motivate students to learn or retain information if its delivery does not change. The action plan is part of follow-up activities like conducting active learning through group work and experiments. Such procedures are reasonable as they provide and support evidence of understanding through feedback. Adjust the existing curriculum as a pedagogical strategy for generating credible new information supported by practical benefits. Impart additional learning and teaching in a way that assists challenged or struggling learners in adapting. Be open and discuss positive outcomes so that students become more self-assured and confident. As the above recommendations and action plans were also suggested by them, it is expected that engineering students who adopt nuclear chemistry will have their education experiences enhanced. This strategic approach does more than solve the challenges noted but also employs the resources and opportunities available to promote understanding of the subject. It is also expected that these strategies will be subjected to constant evaluation to improve their effectiveness and the students’ addresses.

EFFECT OF IN-SERVICE TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM ON TVET TRAINERS PERFORMANCE IN TECHNICAL SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN RWANDA,A CASE OF KICUKIRO DISTRICT

The general objective of this study was to examine the influence of an in-service teacher training program on the performance of TVET trainers in Kicukiro district. Specifically, this studys objectives were: to identify the level to which TVET trainer receive in-service teacher training program in Technical Secondary School Kicukiro District, to assess the level of performance of TVET trainers in Technical Secondary Schools in the Kicukiro District and to evaluate the relationship between in-service training program and TVT trainers performance in Technical Secondary School Kicukiro District. The combination learning theory and system theory was served as the researchers guide. The studys population was 207 people (197 teachers and 10 head teachers) from all of the Kicukiro Districts Technical Secondary Schools. The survey was designed in a descriptive manner. A sample size of 137 was chosen using Yamanes formula. Using random sampling and purposeful selection, the population was chosen as the sample size for the study. Every questionnaire was dispersed by the researcher. The format of the analysis was influenced by the particular qualitative and qualitative methodology employed as well as the format of the data. The data that was collected in this study was examined and displayed in the order of the research objectives utilizing frequency, percentages, and tables as descriptive statistics. Data was gathered via teacher questionnaires and head teacher interview guides. The researcher examined and interpret the results after going to the field. The study found that 84.5% of the respondents agreed that they participate in service teacher training program every time, 94% of the respondents agreed that In-service teacher training program is very necessary for all teachers, 52.5 of the respondents disagreed that In-service teacher training program is only for new teachers, 57.6% of the respondents Disagreed that In-service teacher training program is necessary for old teachers while 60.5% of the respondent disagreed that In-service teacher training program is not necessary at all. 83.8% of the respondents agreed that their participation in an in-service teacher training program has helped them improve personalities and instructional techniques in the classroom and at school, 89.7% of the respondents agreed that with the help of the in-service teacher training program, and they are able to acquire new methods of classroom management and instruction, while 94.1% of the respondents agreed that the in-service teacher training program motivates and makes teachers love their professions.The research suggests that the Ministry of Education, education planners, and stakeholders should enhance in-service training programs for TVET trainers in Kicukiro District, Rwanda, focusing on upgrading technical skills, improving instructional methodologies, establishing robust monitoring mechanisms, and investing in infrastructure.

Investigation of Computational Thinking Skills through Instructional Techniques, Games and Programming Tools

Computational thinking (CT) has become a vital approach to problem-solving. This method has been proven successful in various areas, especially science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and professional development. The integration of CT in education provides a practical approach to solving problems. This concept paper investigated the various uses of instructional techniques and programming tools to enhance CT skills used in previous empirical research. CT consists of four main pillars: decomposition, which refers to breaking down identified problems into smaller parts; pattern recognition, which involves finding occurring patterns that can be seen; abstraction through identification of important details and removing unnecessary information; and algorithm, where a step-by-step procedure is solution is made. By exploring instructional strategies and programming environments, this paper outlines the possible impacts of these instructional strategies, games, and programming environments on improvement in CT skills, thus providing a theoretical basis for future empirical studies. The strength and combination of these approaches provide a comprehensive learning experience. This paper also suggests instructional techniques and programming tools to enhance underexplored CT skills based on research gaps.

Exploring Food Processing in Natural Science Education: Practical Applications and Pedagogical Techniques

Food processing is an essential link in the chain that connects agricultural production with consumer nutrition and safety. This paper attempts to discuss how effectively food processing can be integrated into the curriculum of natural sciences to further the understanding of students about scientific principles through practical applications. Discussion of relevance to food processing prepares the ground for biology, chemistry, and environmental science, focusing on such core processes as fermentation, pasteurization, and conservation. This paper outlines how reviewing successful strategies and case studies, concept concretization of science is realized through practical activities and interdisciplinary projects, and larger goals are achieved in education for sustainability, food safety, and healthier eating. Besides, it underscores the place of technology and innovation through digital tools and virtual simulation in making the lessons interactive for the students in a career-oriented manner. The article concludes with the following practical suggestions for educators and advocates of the partnership among schools, industry, and community toward an enriched education preparing students with vocational skills.

The Impact of Teacher Attitudes and Beliefs on the Integration of Gamified Learning: A Study of Key Attitudinal Variables

The present study aims to explore the perspectives of educators in Saudi Arabia regarding the implementation of gamified learning approaches and their impact on the incorporation of gamified elements within educational environments, specifically emphasizing student engagement. A comprehensive dataset was obtained from a heterogeneous sample of educators hailing from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) by employing a rigorous quantitative research methodology. The study used a questionnaire survey to collect data from 100 teachers. The findings of this study unveiled an encouraging inclination among these teachers toward adopting gamified pedagogical techniques as an effective means of instruction. This study elucidated a robust association between positive teacher attitudes and the successful incorporation of gamified elements within instructional frameworks, leading to heightened levels of student involvement. While the experience of teachers certainly plays a role, it is important to acknowledge that the influence of positive attitudes towards gamification outweighs this factor. The results of this study highlighted the profound impact that gamified learning can have on promoting student engagement, underscoring its potential to bring about transformative changes in the educational landscape. Furthermore, these findings emphasized the critical role of cultivating positive teacher attitudes in ensuring the successful integration of gamified learning strategies.

Assessing interactional metadiscourse in EFL writing through intelligent data-driven learning: the Microsoft Copilot in the spotlight

The purpose of the current study was twofold: examining the efficacy of data-driven learning (DDL) (hands-on and hands-off approaches) in the realization of interactional metadiscourse markers (IMMs) among English as a foreign language (EFL) learners and analyzing the learners’ perceptions of DDL. The participants consisted of 93 male and female advanced language learners randomly assigned to one of the three groups: hands-on, hands-off, and control. Throughout the duration of treatment lasting for 10 sessions, the hands-on group employed the use of Microsoft Copilot, artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, on a computer screen to discuss and explore IMMs, but the hands-off group was exposed to IMMs through written texts that were physically printed on paper and articles to be examined through AntConc concordancing program. The control group received conventional instructional techniques including reading assigned course materials. The findings from a one-way analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) procedure indicated that both experimental groups outperformed the control group in the posttest of realizing and identifying IMMs. However, the post hoc comparisons showed statistically significant differences between the hands-on and hands-off groups, with the hands-on group performing more successfully in identifying IMMs. The results of the questionnaire data revealed that all the learners had positive perception of DDL. The results of the current study suggest using both hands-on and hands-off DDL methods helps learners develop their writing performance through metadiscourse realization.

Blending Tradition and Innovation: Student Opinions on Modern Anatomy Education

Anatomy education has evolved significantly with the introduction of diverse instructional techniques. This review evaluates these methods, including traditional cadaver dissection, three-dimensional (3D) model printing, virtual dissection using tools like the Anatomage table, problem-based learning (PBL), and the use of wax and plastinated models. Each approach presents unique benefits and challenges. Cadaver dissection remains invaluable for providing hands-on experience and a deep understanding of anatomical structures, although it faces ethical, logistical, and financial constraints. Wax and plastinated models offer durable, precise representations of anatomical structures without the ethical concerns associated with cadavers. Additionally, 3D printing and virtual dissection have emerged as effective supplementary tools, enhancing spatial understanding and allowing repeated practice. PBL integrates anatomical knowledge with clinical reasoning, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The main aim of this study was to gather and analyze students’ opinions on various anatomy teaching methods, while a secondary objective was to review the literature on novel and traditional approaches in anatomy education. This review emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of teaching methods to create a dynamic and engaging anatomy curriculum, preparing students for clinical practice.

The Direct Method in Language Teaching: A Literature Review of Its Effectiveness

The Direct Method in language teaching, which emphasizes teaching language through immersion and avoiding the use of the learner’s native language, has been widely used in educational settings for over a century. Its focus on oral communication, everyday vocabulary, and inductive grammar teaching has made it a popular approach. However, debates about its effectiveness compared to more modern teaching methods have persisted, particularly in terms of long-term language acquisition and proficiency. This literature review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Direct Method by analyzing studies conducted across various educational contexts. The review examines how this method impacts learners’ speaking, listening, and overall communicative competence. By synthesizing both qualitative and quantitative research, the study provides a comprehensive view of the strengths and limitations of the Direct Method. The findings indicate that while the Direct Method improves oral proficiency and listening skills in the short term, it may not be as effective for developing reading and writing skills. Studies show that the method fosters greater student engagement and motivation but may not adequately address the complexities of advanced grammar and academic language. Furthermore, the method’s effectiveness depends heavily on the teacher’s skill in creating immersive language environments. In conclusion, the Direct Method offers valuable benefits for beginner and intermediate learners, especially in communicative aspects of language. However, it requires supplementation with other approaches to develop comprehensive language proficiency. Future research should explore ways to integrate the Direct Method with more advanced instructional techniques for a balanced approach to language teaching.

FOSTERING VIETNAMESE EFL LEARNERS’ LEARNER AUTONOMY AND READING COMPREHENSION ABILITY THROUGH ONLINE PLATFORMS

The ability of learner autonomy is a prerequisite for many university students in Vietnam. However, it is a daunting task for EFL teachers and learners to achieve that learning outcome. The present study aims to delineate second-year English majors’ perceived learner autonomy and reading comprehension ability in an online reading course at Van Lang University, Vietnam, with two online platforms (synchronous via Microsoft Teams and asynchronous via Moodle). During the ten weeks of this course, different online reading and vocabulary practices were assigned to 65 students in two intact classes. The results were obtained from reading tests, questionnaires, and a follow-up interview. The findings revealed that they could perceive their learner autonomy more positively and statistically remarkably improve their reading comprehension ability after the course. The students’ insights into the course’s effectiveness confirmed several benefits in addition to a few barriers (i.e., technical issues, English proficiency levels, learning motivation, and online self-study skills). The results have specific implications for the practice of English reading instruction at the faculty. Viable online platforms and pedagogical techniques should be applied to foster the students’ learner autonomy and reading comprehension ability.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0796/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

The role of modelling during instruction in collaborative creativity

This research examines how modelling, a common instructional technique where a teacher or expert demonstrates a task or skill, impacts students' creative expression in artistic disciplines like music, dance, and visual arts. The study specifically focuses on elementary students engaged in creative collaboration activities, generating movements to music and altering lyrics to a folk song. Through audio and video recordings of student activity, the study observed how students interacted with both the teacher's and their peers' modelled examples. The findings indicate that students often imitated the teacher's examples and adhere closely to the model, creating some confusion for students during idea generation and the rejection of certain ideas.Findings show that in lessons where creative activities are designed to elicit a variety of ideas and make connections, how students interpret modelling can be complex. This highlights the need for clear communication about the intended use of modelling. Despite the small sample size, the study provides initial insights into the challenges and complexities of using modelling in creative educational tasks, emphasising the balance between imitation and creativity.

The pedagogical insights of mathematics teachers integrating artificial intelligence in rural upper primary schools of Namibia

This paper presents a qualitative intervention study that explores the pedagogical experiences of mathematics teachers integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies into teaching mathematics in rural upper primary schools in Namibia. The Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, which intersects teachers’ understanding of technology integration with pedagogical techniques and subject matter knowledge, was adopted for the study. The research involved 13 mathematics teachers selected through purposive sampling. Data collection included two sharing circle discussions, lesson observations, and semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis approach was employed to interpret the collected data. The findings reveal a diverse range of AI tools used by the selected teachers, such as Geogebra, Khan Academy, Virtual Tutors, and various problem-solving mobile applications, including Photomath, Mathway, and Microsoft Math Solver. These AI resources were noted for enhancing the visualisation of mathematical concepts, providing adaptive learning experiences, and promoting independent, paced learning that supports learners' learning styles. Teachers reported a marked improvement in learners’ comprehension and problem-solving abilities attributable to AI integration. Despite the benefits of AI in education, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas. Key issues include inadequate infrastructure, limited access to devices, and the need for ongoing teacher training in technological pedagogical content knowledge. Additionally, the lack of culturally relevant AI technologies hinders effective AI-supported learning in diverse contexts. Greater investment in localised AI educational tools is needed to achieve equitable and effective learning outcomes.

University EFL Students’ Perspectives on Educators’ Digital Competence at Qassim University

Personal and professional success in the digital age requires digital abilities. Increased expectations that graduates be adept in digitisation while joining the job need higher education institutions to successfully incorporate digital aspects. This study evaluates university EFL students' digital integrative attitudes and instructors' digital proficiency. Digital tools are emphasised for collaborative learning. Researchers seek to address two key questions: What are EFL students’ perspectives on digital learning? How do they assess teachers' IT skills? It appears through the end result not all instructos have the same digital competency and it is strictly field dependent. This variance in the digital capalities and field orientation decideis the choice of their preferredd pedagogical tools. Digital collaborative learning was used by both categories of students: engineering students and non-engineering EFL students to variable degrees. This suggests that punishing students may affect preferences and behaviours in this area. EFL students were confident in their digital tool usage, although they didn't comprehend all the features. This study's results may improve instructional techniques, institutional standards, and professional development programmes to improve educators' digital abilities. As digital technology integration evolves, global higher education consequences are enormous.

Transformative impacts of explicit morphological instruction on irregular inflectional acquisition in Saudi EFL learners

The study aimed to investigate the transformative effect of overt instruction on the acquisition of irregular inflectional morphemes by Saudi EFL learners. A mixed-method approach consisting of quantitative data and complemented with a qualitative descriptive analysis was adopted for this study to measure the transformative effect of explicit instruction through pretest and posttest procedures. Input Processing Theory and Processability Theory were used in this study to see the transformative effect of overt instruction between the control and experimental groups. The study employed visual aids and metalinguistic discussion instructional techniques to treat the experimental group with a one-hour session once a week, other than the normal classroom instruction sessions. In total, it continued for seven consecutive weeks. The results demonstrated that a p-value less than 0.001 for all three hypotheses developed in the study posited in favour of the alternative hypothesis and rejected the null hypothesis. Hence, the two groups significantly differed in their vocabulary knowledge: morpheme recognition and morpheme use in writing. The results support the hypotheses developed initially in this study that overt instruction of inflectional irregular morphological knowledge transfers to the EFL learners’ writing skills and facilitates L2 acquisition. The study has significant implications for foreign language learners, L2 teachers, and researchers.

TEACHING ENGLISH AS A PROFESSIONAL LANGUAGE: STRATEGIES AND METHODOLOGIES IN ESP EDUCATION

The rise of globalization has amplified the necessity for professionals across diverse fields to acquire proficiency in English, not only as a general communicative language but also as a specialized tool within their respective professions. English for Specific Purposes (ESP) has emerged as a crucial subset of English Language Teaching (ELT), focusing on the tailored needs of learners in specific fields, such as business, engineering, healthcare, and law. This paper explores effective strategies and methodologies in ESP education, highlighting best practices for teaching English as a professional language. The article discusses key theoretical approaches, pedagogical techniques, and the role of technology in enhancing ESP instruction.

Big Data Analysis and Digital Sharing Research on Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education in the Digital Economy Era

Within the rapidly evolving panorama of the virtual financial system, the function of training in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship has become more and more vital. This study aims to explore how big records analysis and digital sharing techniques can be leveraged to complement innovation and entrepreneurship schooling. The observation is grounded within the context of the virtual economy generation, characterised with the aid of the proliferation of virtual technologies and the exponential boom of facts. The middle objective is to research how instructional techniques can be more desirable thru the utility of large records analytics and digital sharing, thereby preparing college students extra effectively for entrepreneurial roles inside the digital age. The studies employ a deep learning technique, combining quantitative information evaluation with qualitative insights. Primary statistics could be accumulated through surveys and interviews with educators and marketers, even as secondary statistics will be sourced from existing educational literature and case research. The observe will awareness on key regions which includes the effect of huge facts on expertise marketplace developments and client conduct, the function of virtual sharing in fostering collaborative learning and innovation, and the integration of these technologies into curriculum design and pedagogical practices. Anticipated results include a set of recommendations for academic institutions on integrating large statistics and digital sharing tools into entrepreneurship training. The study targets to offer insights into how this technology can enhance college students’ analytical and innovative skills, put together them for the challenges of the digital economic system, and foster a tradition of innovation and entrepreneurial attitude.

INTEGRATING AI-BASED SPEECH RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE READING ASSESSMENTS WITHIN MOROCCO’S TaRL PROGRAM

This study examined the integration of artificial intelligence-powered speech recognition technology within early reading assessments in Morocco’s Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) program. The purpose was to evaluate the effectiveness of an automated speech recognition tool compared to traditional paper- based assessments in improving reading skills among 100 Moroccan first to third-graders. The mixed- method approach combined pre-post standardized reading tests with qualitative feedback. Results showed students receiving the AI-enabled speech recognition assessments demonstrated significant gains in reading achievement compared to peers assessed via traditional methods. Qualitative findings revealed benefits of instant feedback and enhanced engagement provided by the speech recognition tool. This study contributes timely empirical evidence on adopting learning technologies, specifically AI-driven automated speech assessment instruments, to enhance foundational literacy development within under-resourced education systems implementing student-centered pedagogical techniques like TaRL. It provides valuable insights and guidance for integrating innovative speech analysis tools within localized teaching and learning frameworks to strengthen early reading instruction and monitoring.

SOCIOLINGUISTIC PROFILE RESEARCH PAPER

This research paper explores the sociolinguistic profiles of learners in a sixth-grade classroom, focusing on the intersections between language, society, and individual characteristics. The study investigates the linguistic diversity within a group of Uzbek and Russian pupils learning English as a foreign language, highlighting the role of factors such as language background, socioeconomic status, and cultural identity in shaping their learning experiences. Two distinct learner subgroups are identified: one group of bilingual Russian-speaking students from urban, educated backgrounds, and another group of Uzbek-speaking students from monolingual, low socioeconomic backgrounds. Through analysis of these subgroups, the paper examines the influence of sociocultural dynamics on language learning behaviors and challenges. The study provides pedagogical and assessment implications, aiming to offer educators insights into adapting instructional techniques to accommodate the diverse needs and backgrounds of their students. By addressing these sociolinguistic dimensions, this paper contributes to understanding how language variety and social context affect language education and the notion of pedagogical implications and assessment implications are discussed.

Developing Positive Design with Innovative Thinking Framework: A design Pedagogical Approach to Enhance Subjective Well-being

Design thinking is the foundation of professional design education, and the shift from zero to professional design skill involves the completion of the transition from single-mindedness to independent and innovative thinking. In this exploratory study on design teaching, we build a novel teaching model by drawing on the connection between students' self-transcendent knowledge and formal knowledge in design thinking. Based on the Design for Happiness framework (DfH), this study uses Positive Emotional Granularity cards (PEG) to stimulate students to identify and categorize various positive emotions. We matched 15 furniture-related positive emotion keywords, summarized the corresponding design strategies, and subsequently generated Design for Happy Furniture cards (DfHF). We looked at new structural reorganizations of design teaching resources and effective teaching models and examples that might be used in course delivery. This study used the USE scale for quantitative analysis and triangulation for qualitative data analysis. The results indicate that this method is crucial for making it easier to convert design ideas into practice and for enhancing the efficiency of instructional techniques in a specific design procedure. The bottom-up approach is beneficial for creating sets of cards and design strategies, as well as for utilizing the cards in innovative ways to enhance students' creativity, engagement, and self-efficacy. DfHF cards are a valuable tool for promoting motivation and facilitating the constructive learning of creative skills. They not only improve students' creative thinking abilities but also expedite the design decision-making process and prioritize emotional integration and user well-being.

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Microteaching and School Environmental Introduction (PLP 2) in Developing Teaching Skills for Biology Education Students

The research presented a comparison analysis of the effectiveness of microteaching and PLP 2 in developing teaching skills for biology education students. Microteaching, a commonly used method in higher education, involves simulated teaching sessions where students receive feedback from peers and instructors. On the other hand, PLP 2 offers practical teaching experience in a school environment, providing real challenges and interaction with students in the classroom. This research evaluates and compares how both methods contribute to improving teaching competencies. The main findings indicate that while microteaching focuses on pedagogical techniques and classroom management, PLP 2 emphasizes adaptability to various learning environments and student engagement strategies. The study concludes that integrating both approaches into teacher education programs can better prepare aspiring educators with the comprehensive skills to teach in diverse educational contexts