Post Graduate Research Articles

Quantitative Assessment of the Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Awareness among Postgraduate Commerce Students in the Coimbatore District, India

Aim: Key motive is to research the prevailing level of awareness level of commerce post graduate students on cyber crime and cyber security in their day-to-day life. Design/ Methodology/Approach: In the current research paper, data has been collected based on census method using high ended questionnaire from 178 M. Com students from University in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nādu in India. The accumulated information is further analyzed in testing their level of awareness using descriptive statistics and Anova to check the difference with respect to their demographics. The Researchers want to know how college students feel about being aware of cybercrime and cyber security so they are looking into that. Findings: The study has identified the factors for the level of awareness on cybercrime with 5 variables and cybersecurity with 6 variables. These variables have different perspective with respect to the demographic factors of the commerce post graduate students. Especially the Course of study and the year of study creates difference in the awareness level. Research Limitations: The study is a valuable understanding for the students in commerce stream at their post graduate level in knowing their level of understanding and awareness of cybercrimes and cyber security. This study has only focused on the commerce post graduate students of university and it is restricted to the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nādu alone. The results cannot be generalized commonly for the students in post-graduation. Originality: The study is original contribution to understand the awareness of commerce post graduate students in Tamil Nadu. It can be definitely used for further references in terms of level of awareness of students from different range or the study can be further expanded by the researchers and policy makers in developing the safety and awareness measures towards cybercrime and cybersecurity.

The Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Monkey Pox (Mpox) Among Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students in Gujarat, India.

The global spread of monkeypox (mpox) has raised concerns about public health preparedness, particularly among young adults. This study aimed to assess and compare the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding mpox among undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students in Gujarat, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 605 students (402 UG, 203 PG) from one of the tertiary hospitals (PG) and a medical colleges (UG) in Gujarat. A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding mpox. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and independent t-tests. PG students demonstrated significantly higher knowledge scores than UG students (mean score 8.4 vs6.5 out of 10, p<0.001). They showed greater awareness of mpox (187/203, 92.1% vs314/402, 78.1%, p<0.001) and a better understanding of transmission routes, symptoms, and preventive measures. PG students also exhibited more positive attitudes, with a higher perception of mpox as a serious threat (152/203, 74.9% vs 241/402, 60.0%, p<0.001) and a greater willingness to get vaccinated (172/203, 84.7% vs 281/402, 69.9%, p<0.001). In terms of practices, PG students reported better adherence to preventive measures, including regular hand hygiene (127/203, 62.6% vs201/402, 50.0% always practicing, p=0.002) and wearing face masks in crowded places (168/203, 82.8% vs298/402, 74.1%, p=0.017). Significant differences in KAP regarding mpox exist between UG and PG students, with PG students consistently demonstrating higher levels of awareness, more positive attitudes, and better preventive practices. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance mpox preparedness among university students, with particular attention to undergraduate populations.

Perceived Quality of Higher Educational Institutions in Maharashtra: Students Perspective

In recent times, Indian education system has seen an upsurge in post graduate management institutions due to growing demand of management discipline. Mere existence to function in the system will certainly not help the institutions in the long run. Service quality is often seen as a good competitive strategy that not only service organizations, but also educational institutions worldwide employ to increase their competitiveness in the tertiary sector. Hence, providing quality education is the need to be addressed here. Given a fact that students have become more informative and are exposed to different educational platforms, institutions are readily being at their disposal. The present study was carried out in Maharashtra, India where 26 Institutes from three regions Pune, Nagar and Nashik participated in the study. The objectives of study were to analyze students’ perception on the quality of higher education based on their demographic profile and impact of diverse educational background of students on perceived quality of education. SERVQUAL was used to collect the data. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics viz chi-square eta and regression analysis. The results of the study revealed that students’ perception on the quality of higher education and their gender, graduation and region are independent. There is no impact of diverse educational background of students on perceived service quality of HEIs.

Shifting Gender Dynamics in Indian Higher Education: PG and Ph.D. Enrolment Trends

Indian higher education is experiencing a rise in female enrolment in higher education and female students became higher than that of male students for the first time in 2019-20. However, when analyse discipline wise trend of girls’ enrolment in Postgraduate (PG) and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programs, we find contrasting trends highlight a complex dynamic. By leveraging data from the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) reports, this analysis sheds light on the current representation of female students in higher education with focus on PG and Ph.D. programs. The contrasting enrolment patterns in PG and Ph.D. programs highlight the uneven progress towards gender equality in education across different fields of higher education in India. This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of these dynamics and the persistent barriers that hinder the achievement of true gender parity.

Assessing the AI Acumen: A study on the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of dental students towards artificial intelligence

The influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be seen in every nook and corner of life. It has become an essential part of human life. Its influence in medical field is also noticeable but in certain aspects utilization of AI in dentistry has not been up to a great extent. This questionnaire-based survey was done to assess the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of dental students about AI. A self-administered closed ended questionnaire consisting of 36 questions was distributed among 3100 interns and post graduate students studying in different parts of Rajasthan. The questionnaire consisted of demographic details of respondents as well as fundamental KAP towards AI.Response rate was 90.32%. The results showed that about 56.75% of respondents had poor knowledge of AI and its application in dentistry. Although their attitude towards AI was fair (48.75%) but their practical experience of using AI was poor (57.89%). There was a significant difference between the KAP of postgraduates when compared to interns (p value &amp;#60; 0.05). Pearsons’s correlation test showed that there was no correlation between knowledge and attitude or knowledge with behaviour as well as attitude and behaviour.There is a lack of awareness about the use of AI in dentistry among dental students. So, there is a need for implementation of practical courses to improve the knowledge as well as practice of AI in dentistry.

Phenomenological Study of English Language Teachers in Pakistan

English language education in Pakistan holds significant importance, serving as both a medium of instruction and communication. Firstly, the study seeks to identify the professional traits; secondly, to explore the opportunities for professional development, available to English language teachers; and thirdly, the research seeks by addressing these objectives, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding English language teaching in the Pakistani context and offers valuable insights for enhancing teaching effectiveness and teachers’ competency. The study was qualitative in nature. Population of the study were all teachers those are serving on post graduate level. The researcher selected 30 participants for the research study. For the collection of data researcher constructed the interview according to the objectives of the study. Researcher conducted the interview of the participants. By using thematic analysis, the researcher analyzed the data and the results of the study indicated that majority of participant reported that effective English teachers have good verbal and written communication skills, which allow them to convey complex concepts and ideas clearly and understandably. Furthermore, they used group activities, discussions, and projects that engage students and encourage them to take ownership of their learning. Majority of participants reported that technological proficiency is one of their salient features. Incorporating technology into the teaching process can enhances engagement and provides access to a wealth of online resources. It helps the students to take part in classroom activities effectively. Additionally, most of the ELTs mentioned that various educational activities such as workshops to train the teachers for curriculum development and assessment techniques can be helpful for English language teachers. Enhancement of professional skills among English teachers will play an important role to promote English Language in Pakistan. Teacher may have the discussion and exchange the ideas for better teaching in English Language Teaching Workshops, conferences, and seminars.

Climate change and societal transformation: a cohort-based international experiential learning program with an interdisciplinary focus on environmental education for graduate students

Climate change is not geographically homongeneous and disproportionally affects African nations, making the acceleration of knowledge sharing and mobilization among African-centric researchers critical for developing adaptative and preventative solutions. An interdisciplinary approach to environmental education is therefore essential. While mechanisms like short-term international exchange programs have been explored, little research has focused on a cohort-based approach centered on environmental education of international and interdisciplinary doctoral students and early career researchers. Drawing from the literature on international experiential learning and cohort-based models and employing a Theory of Change framework, we report on the outcomes of an innovative four-year environmental education short-term study program in Canada involving three cohorts of post graduate scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa. Our findings demonstrate that an interdisciplinary cohort approach is beneficial in accelerating research capacity for tackling complex problems such as climate change. Furthermore, participating scholars benefited from cross-learning, research dissemination, community engagement, network development, and enhanced soft skills. Recommendations for successfully organizing and delivering a cohort-based international exchange program are also discussed.

An Update on the Independent Plastic Surgery Match (2019-2022): Trends, Predictors, and Program Leaders' Perspectives.

A previous study by the authors noted a decline in independent plastic surgery residency programs and rising applicant participation. This study provides updates on match trends and influential predictors, and gathers program leaders' views on the future of the independent track. Match data (2019-2022) were obtained from the San Francisco match after American Council of Educators in Plastic Surgery approval. Variables influencing match success were analyzed, and program leaders were surveyed about desirable applicant traits and program trajectories. From 2019 to 2022, 243 of 428 applicants matched. Programs and positions declined by 10% and 9.5%, respectively. Applicants rose to 42.3%, but match rates fell from 82% to 56%. Osteopathic graduates doubled, whereas international graduates increased to 53.8%. Successful matches were associated with US allopathic medical school graduates, university-affiliated general surgery residencies, eight or more interviews, United States Medical Licensing Examination scores greater than 230, and high post graduate year (PGY)1-3 American Board of Surgery In-service Training Examination scores (PGY1-64.7%, PGY2-61.2%, PGY3-60.7%; P < 0.05). Of surveyed programs, 55.6% aimed to continue running the independent track in the next year. Conversely, 7.4% planned to discontinue in the next year, 22.2% within 2-5 years, 7.4% within the next decade, and 7.4% were unsure. Although support for the independent plastic surgery track remains, program participation diminishes as applicant interest increases, intensifying match challenges. Increasing number of interviews improves match potential. Program leaders display varied commitments, with looming plans for some programs to discontinue offering this track. Applicant evaluation pivots on strong recommendations, research, and test scores.

Burnout among medical residents, coping mechanisms and the perceived impact on patient care in a low/ middle income country

BackgroundBurnout is a syndrome that result from chronic workplace stress and it characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and low personal accomplishments. Studies report higher burnout levels in medical personnel compared to the general population. Workplace burnout has been directly linked to medical errors and negative coping strategies such as substance abuse. The aims of this study were to assess the level of burnout in medical residents, evaluate their impressions about coping mechanisms and assess perceived impact on patient care in a low/ middle income country setting.MethodsThis was a cross sectional, mixed methods survey carried out at Aga Khan University, Nairobi Kenya. The Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Services Survey was used to assess the level of burnout. High-risk scores for each subscale are defined as > 27 in emotional exhaustion, > 10 in depersonalization, and < 33 in personal accomplishment. Overall high risk of burnout was defined as high-risk scores in 2 or more of the 3 categories. Categorical variables were analysed using descriptive statistics and reported as frequency counts and corresponding percentages. Chi-square test was applied to test for association of burnout and the categorical variables. P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. To assess the impressions on patient care and evaluate the coping mechanisms employed in the context of burnout residents participated in four focus group discussions reaching thematic saturation.Results95 out of 120 residents consented to participate in the study, 47.3% of whom had a high risk of burnout. A significant association was found between gender and burnout risk with more female residents having high risk of burnout compared to their male counterparts; 58.0% and 35.6% respectively (P value 0.029). Residents in paediatrics and child health had the greatest risk of burnout (8 out of 10) compared to those in other programmes (P value of 0.01). Thematic analysis from focus group discussions revealed that main sources of stress included departmental conflict and struggle to balance work and other aspects of life. All focus group discussions revealed that burnout and stress are associated with negative coping mechanisms. Respondents reported that when under stress, they felt more likely to make medical errors.ConclusionThis study reported high risk of burnout among post graduate residents which is consistent with other global studies. The sources of stress cited by residents were mostly related to the workplace and many perceived sub-optimal patients care resulted from burnout. This highlights a need for preventive measures such as wellness programs within the training programmes.Trial registration numberNot applicable.

Effectiveness, Consumer’s Perception, and Behavior Towards Healthier Choice Logo on Indonesian Instant Noodles in Jakarta

This study was conducted to identify the availability of instant noodle products with and without the Healthier Choice (HC) logo that reflects Indonesian instant noodles nutrition labelling uptake by the food industry as well as to investigate the logo’s effectiveness in influencing customers to choose healthier noodle products and consumers’ perception and behavior toward the HC logo. Quantitative research consists of a market survey on HC logo usage in 120 instant noodle variants with different brands and an online consumer survey with a voluntary sampling technique involving 458 consumers aged 18‒68 years residing in Jakarta. Nutritional information data (total fat, saturated fat, sodium and sugar) in two groups of products (HC and without HC (WHC) groups) was analyzed using t-test, while the consumer survey data was analyzed using t-test and ANOVA. The confidence level used in statistical analysis was 95%. Of only eleven products that featured the HC logo on the packaging, one did not fulfill the criteria. The t-test showed no significant differences between products “without HC logo” and “with HC logo” groups in all nutrition content except for sodium. The HC logo showed significant difference in effectiveness for different gender and age groups, it was better for women than man, and older (43−58 and 59−68) more effective than younger (16−26 and 27−42). The consumer perception and behavior was more affected the age group 43−58 and 59−68 than 16−26 and 27−42, the level of education group in elementary, junior, and senior high school also post graduate group more influenced than pre-university and bachelor, consumption pattern moderate and frequent better than seldom consumption. Further, the consumer behavior also more influenced all income level group except &gt;IDR20 million group.

Stress a determinant for bruxism in medical students-a qualitative and quantitative assessment.

Abstract- Background-Bruxism is an oral habit consisting of involuntary rhythmic or spasmodic nonfunctional gnashing, grinding, or clenching of teeth, unlike chewing movements of the mandible, which may lead to occlusal trauma. There are many scientific reports about the coexistence of bruxism, stress. Objective- the purpose of this study is to assess the development of symptoms of bruxism due to stress in medical students and to evaluate the correlation between occurrence of bruxism and perceived stress. Methodology- A mixed method survey questionnaire was prepared regarding questions based on scientific evidence of co-relation between bruxism, stress and stress faced by medical students. This survey based questionnaire was circulated digitally pan India and the respondents were undergraduate, post graduate students and junior and senior residents from different medical institutions. Therefore a random sample of 300 participants was selected, and gender, age, stress factors specific results were derived. Result- 14.7% of students are suffering from moderate bruxism and 85.3% of students suffering from severe bruxism due to stress. The test result showed that stress was main factor affecting the habit of bruxism with chi square value 12.39 and p value is 0.006. Conclusion- The study found that majority of the participating medical students reported to have bruxism majorly due to stress and Corelated variables majorly responsible for stress are large course of study, competition in this field, overthinking about the study related problems and uncertainty of result what is expected and do not feel happy with their own work performance.

Perception of Plagiarism Among Medical Postgraduate Students: An Observational Study.

Introduction Plagiarism is appropriating another person's ideas, words, results, or processes without giving appropriate credit and usually claiming them to be one's own. Thus, plagiarism is a dishonest act of fraud or cheating. Objectives The objective of this study is to assess the perception of plagiarism among medical postgraduate (PG) students. Materials & Methods: An educational observational study was conducted among second-year PG students about the perception of plagiarism by using pre-test and post-test questionnaires after an orientation session on plagiarism and data analysis before the start of dissertation analysis. Questions included were on awareness and attitude towards plagiarism. Results A survey involving 91 PG students assessed their understanding of plagiarism. Remarkably, the majority (97.7%) demonstrated awareness of plagiarism, yet only 18.6% had authored a published article. It was discovered that about 30% of the students had resorted to plagiarism at some point during their academic pursuits. Approximately 70.9% of the PG students were acquainted with the University's plagiarism policy. The survey highlighted a notable enhancement in plagiarism awareness among PG students, with their attitudes toward plagiarism evolving after participating in the session. Conclusion Plagiarism can be avoided by implementing rigorous guidelines, ensuring strict policy adherence, and providing comprehensive training before commencing work.Training, retraining, and strict institute policies will help increase awareness about plagiarism and reduce the percentage of plagiarism in scientific writing.

Factors influencing the use of Point Of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) on adult patients by Accident and Emergency Department (A&amp;amp;E) Doctors in Tertiary Care Hospitals in Colombo District, Sri Lanka; a Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction:Point of care ultrasound (PoCUS) is an essential component of A&amp;E setting all over the world. It is used for diagnosis and assisting bedside procedures. Usage of PoCUS has been shown to improve quality of patient care. There are no formal studies in Sri Lankan A&amp;E setting to assess level of its usage and the barriers of using it. This study aimed to assess these aspects among ED doctors in three tertiary care hospitals in Colombo district.Methodology:This descriptive study was conducted by self-administered questionnaires distributed among 72 ED doctors working in the above setting. Questionnaire consisted of questions related to sociodemographics, types of PoCUS performed, barriers to PoCUS use etc. Ability to perform PoCUS was assessed by Likert grading from 1 to 5 based on operator’s own opinion. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS.Results: All the tertiary care emergency services had access to an ultrasound machine. PoCUS has been used for a wide variety of bedside scans and therapeutic procedures. Majority has been used to detect free fluid in peritoneal cavity (66.6%) and FAST scans (65.3%). Post graduate doctors (PG) were more confident in configuring PoCUS machine for procedures than non PG doctors (82.8% vs 5.4%). Ability to perform PoCUS was associated with post graduate exposure, &gt;1 year of experience using it and doing &gt;300 procedures in last 3 months (p=0.001). Main barriers identified for PoCUS usage were lack of training and lack of quality ultrasound machine.Discussion: Though PoCUS is mainly performed by PG doctors, important scans such as FAST, intra peritoneal free fluid assessment are done by non-PG doctors too. Compared to similar international studies, less number of latter doctors were capable of doing PoCUS in Sri Lanka. Empowering these doctors with PoCUS skills will improve the sustainably of this service in emergency care setup as they work in units for longer duration. A study where candidates’ skills are assessed by a third party would have provided more accurate reflection of PoCUS usage.Conclusion: Embracing updated technology and further improvement and availability of PoCUS training among ED doctors will enhance sustainable emergency patient care in Sri Lanka.

Assessment of Professionalism among Postgraduate Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study from Patna, Bihar.

Professionalism is a core quality which has to be developed and imbibed by medical students. However, training in professionalism was not a part of the medical curriculum until recently when the Competency-Based Medical Education system was introduced for undergraduate medical students in India, by the National Medical Commission. However, there has been no formal training on professionalism, in the curriculum of postgraduate (PG) medical students in India. Therefore, in this study, we have done a quantitative assessment of the attitude towards professionalism among PG medical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 PG medical students of an autonomous institute in Patna, Bihar over a period of six months using the Learners' Attitudes on Medical Professionalism Scale (LAMPS) questionnaire. Data entry was done on Microsft Excel 2015 (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington, United States) and data analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Out of 200 study subjects, 55% (n=110) were PG students from clinical departments and 45% (n=90) were from pre-clinical and para-clinical departments; 25.5% (n=51) of them were from first year, 57% (n=114) of them were from second year, and 17.5% (n=35) were from third year PG training. The overall mean score for the LAMPS scale across all domains was found to be 2.78±0.178(mean±S.D). Clinical PG students (2.99 ± 0.217) received significantly higher scores than pre/paraclinical PG students (2.68 ± 0.176) (T-test value = 10.9262, p < 0.0001). This study highlights the disparity in professionalism scores between clinical and pre/para-clinical students, suggesting a tailored approach might be beneficial. In order to improve the attitude towards professionalism, structured courses/workshops should be inculcated into the PG training curriculum. Continuous evaluation of professionalism throughout medical training can lead to better preparedness for future professional roles.

Knowledge and awareness of pulp vitality tests among dental interns and postgraduates: A multicenter cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Aim: The aim of this study was to assess knowledge and awareness on pulp vitality tests among dental interns and postgraduate (PG) students. Methods: Using a standardized approach and employing focus group discussions, a 13-item questionnaire was developed. The questionnaires were shared with dental interns and PGs of various dental colleges through WhatsApp and their registered e-mail addresses as a Google Form link. Data from all the individuals were collected to assess and compare the knowledge among dental interns and PG students. Results: During 4 weeks, 358 of the total 428 responses were received. The final analysis was carried out using 340 responses (145 PG [42.6%] and 195 intern [57.4%] responses), of which 18 were excluded due to repeated responses. More than half of the participants needed more knowledge about pulp vitality testing. Conclusion: Dental PG students had better knowledge and awareness than interns, but implementing this in practice was relatively negligible. Knowing the importance of comprehending pulp vitality tests may aid students in reducing the possibility of damaging the healthy structure of the teeth.

Obituary: Surendra Abaji Pandhare (1940 – 2023)

Shri Surendra Abaji Pandhare, Retired Director, Geological Survey of India (GSI), did his schooling from Chandrapur. He completed his post graduation in Applied Geology from the University Department of Geology, Nagpur University, in 1965, topping the merit list. He worked with the Directorate of Geology and Mining (DGM), Maharashtra, for two years thereafter, and joined GSI as Assistant Geologist in February 1968. Shri Pandhare was promoted as Geologist in 1972 and as Senior Geologist in 1981. Posted at Raipur and Bhopal, he was engaged in systematic mapping. Thereafter, he was engaged in magnesite exploration in Bastar dist, bauxite in Amarkantak and East Coast, base metals in Sidhi district and iron ore in Raoghat area, all in the then undivided M.P. state. During 1968, he compiled technical information on the till then, all the GSI Engineering Geology projects in Central India and prepared a reference map. Shri Pandhare was transferred to the then Planning and Coordination Division (now Policy Support System Division), Central Region, GSI, Nagpur, in 1982, where he continued to be posted till 1998. Here, he handled matters related to technical coordination of field items in the Central Region, material management (stores) and was also inquiry officer for many vigilance cases . He was elected as President of the GSI Scientific Officers Association (GSISOA) for the 1993- 95 term. His keen administrative acumen helped him navigate through as a popular leader, during the turbulent years of career progression of GSI geoscientists. He was liked by a vast majority in the geoscientific fraternity of the GSI.

Rotation X: An Innovative Quality Improvement Focused Curriculum Built Into an Internal Medicine Residency

Background: The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) states that resident physicians must participate in quality improvement (QI) and patient safety (PS) initiatives during their training. Furthermore, once residents enter the workforce as attending physicians, their performance is often based on metrics related to the quality of care provided and the patient’s experience while in the hospital. However, many internal medicine residency programs have a variation of curriculum that is focused on QI and PS. Methods: At our institution, we sought to incorporate education in QI and PS in a longitudinal and structures fashion throughout a resident’s three years of training. Hence, Rotation X was created as both a collaborative and innovative one-week long curriculum with targeted teaching across the continuum of residency training. Rotation X was implemented as a mandatory rotation for all post graduate year (PGY) 1 and 3 trainees in our internal medicine program. During this rotation, learners meet with the clinical documentation improvement (CDI) team, learn about the process of completing a root cause analysis, and review a case with the quality improvement team. Learners also participate in multidisciplinary meetings including a nursing-physician series, focused on improving communication in the hospital, and met with patients nearing discharge to learn about their unique perspective during inpatient hospital stay. Results: All residents participating in Rotation X were surveyed over the course of a year to ascertain their perspective on the rotation. We collated responses from the PGY-1s (interns) and PGY-3s (senior residents). Of the PGY-3 class, at least 80% found the heart failure/pharmacy session, RN-MD session, root cause analysis (RCA) session, CDI session, and catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) rounds either very or extremely useful. Of the intern class, more than 75% found all session at least somewhat useful with at least half finding the sessions very or extremely useful to their training. Conclusions: With the growing landscape of QI and PS in medicine, we sought out to seamlessly integrate a focused curriculum into our internal medicine residency program. Rotation X, a one-week long rotation embedded with collaborative sessions, was curated to engage our learners in these domains. We found that the curriculum was well received by both our interns and senior residents. Our curriculum is easily adaptable and can be integrated into existing programs, with the capacity to tailor Rotation X sessions to a program’s goals and focus points in the domain of quality improvement.

Lessons learnt from Degree Apprenticeship’s Design and Development Practice at WMG

Degree apprenticeships (DAs) are a new educational route that combine work-based learning with academic study. They offer the opportunity to gain an undergraduate or postgraduate degree while working towards a professional qualification. This paper shares the lessons we learnt during the course conception, design, and delivery of Undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) Degree Apprenticeship (DA) programmes at WMG. The focus will be on the aspects of quality assurance and student experience. The quality of the learning and teaching process is essential for the success of DA programmes. This practice report explores the development and implementation of DA programmes at WMG, focusing on quality assurance and student experience. It discusses the unique challenges and considerations in designing apprenticeship curricula that meet both academic and industry standards. The report emphasises the importance of putting students at the centre of education, establishing policies for teaching quality, and maintaining effective processes to ensure programmes success and continuous improvement.

The future of project management simulation exercises

In recent times project management has become among the most popular post graduate courses at UK Universities particularly for international students. Students consider the skill set useful for employability and transferable for a wide range of future avenues helpful in an uncertain world. However, many start this course with no workplace experience and many of the project management concepts are difficult to grasp or cannot be fully tested except within a realistic project situation. Hence project management simulations or games have become increasingly popular to help resolve this issue. This research study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of a project management simulation exercise used by a leading UK University within their project management teaching programme at post-graduate level. A review of the literature included recent studies of simulation, the development of project management education thinking, experiential learning theory and the skill set required from modern project managers from the perspective of professional bodies, industry groups and academics. This produced a list of 17 skills or competences or knowledge areas including both hard skills such as schedule management and risk management and soft skills such as communication, collaboration, and innovation. Students from the 2021-22 academic year produced quantitative data via a survey relating to their self-perception of their skill level before and after the simulation. Tutors were interviewed to obtain a deeper insight into the mechanisms of learning, the conditions required and their thoughts on future simulation design development. This qualitative data was used to develop a conceptual model for future project management simulation design. The results show that from the student perspective this learning approach is highly effective with in almost all cases the level of competence started at below average and ended at above average after the simulation. Students consider this approach memorable and enjoyable, were fully engaged and would recommend to their peers. The problem of self-assessment was discussed but a link between student confidence and employability proposed. The conceptual model developed from the qualitative data includes not only simulation design but also game management and tutor skill development. Collaboration between industry partners, game developers and educationalists is proposed to develop the next generation of project management simulation exercises.

Adoption and Utilization of Online Open Courseware by Postgraduate and Doctoral Students: A Case Study

This study investigates the level of awareness about and usage of Online Open Course Ware (OCW) among Postgraduate (PG) and PhD students. It examines the challenges faced by students and identifies preferred OCW platforms. A structured Google questionnaire was distributed among PG and PhD students of various departments, yielding responses from 114 participants. Findings reveal high awareness of online learning, proactive engagement with digital educational resources, substantial utilisation of OCW platforms, and notable challenges including slow internet speed. Swayam emerged as the most recognised OCW platform, with hurdles including slow internet speed and lack of guidance. Despite positive attitudes towards online learning and OCW, further efforts are warranted to enhance awareness and address utilization challenges.