Practical Evaluation Research Articles

Determining ideal practices for student course evaluations using a modified Delphi approach.

While approaches for utilizing student course evaluations (SCEs) have been discussed in the literature, there remain opportunities to identify ideal practices for SCEs. Thus, the objective of this project was to generate consensus on best practices in creating, administering, and using SCEs. A modified Delphi approach was utilized to generate a set of items based on the literature and prior work. Experts were identified from different roles, institution types, and geographic regions to participate in the panel. Consensus-building rounds were performed until no new ideas were introduced using an electronic survey platform. Data were analyzed descriptively each round. After the second round, 47 items met consensus. Key recommendations included enhanced training of students to provide feedback, transparency with students on how feedback is utilized, using SCEs as one element of data sources, and the importance of ensuring intentional approaches based on theoretical constructs used in the field of course evaluation. This Delphi study established consensus on approaches programs can use to optimize SCEs, according to experts from across the academy. Though some items are very specific, there are opportunities for individualization based on program priorities.

Research on the design and image perception of cultural landscapes based on digital roaming technology

AbstractThe preservation and advancement of cultural heritage continue to present significant challenges, arising from conflicting objectives, concepts, methodologies, and limited resources. Image perception not only serves as an observational tool for cultural heritage but also as a research method to uncover deeper meanings and implications. To explore the complex dynamics of cultural heritage and address the risks of its deterioration, this study employed virtual engine software (Unity 2019) to create digital landscapes for immersive exploration. An image perception evaluation framework was established through field surveys and behavioral synthesis experiments across five key areas, including ancient tree ecosystems and architectural sites. Our findings revealed that participants showed the greatest interest in the ancient tree ecological area, indicating a strong attachment to historical continuity and natural progression. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis further demonstrated that participants experienced positive emotional responses, suggesting that well-designed cultural landscapes can enhance mental well-being and uplift mood. Additionally, participants expressed a strong willingness to discuss the ancient tree eco-region, with image perception playing a crucial role in motivating information sharing and driving conservation efforts. This study introduces an innovative model—Design Practice, Immersive Experience, and Image Perception Evaluation—which offers a new perspective for the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage sites.

A non-intrusive reduced-order model for finite element analysis of implant positioning in total hip replacements.

Sophisticated high-fidelity simulations can predict bone mass density (BMD) changes around a hip implant after implantation. However, these models currently have high computational demands, rendering them impractical for clinical settings. Model order reduction techniques offer a remedy by enabling fast evaluations. In this work, a non-intrusive reduced-order model, combining proper orthogonal decomposition with radial basis function interpolation (POD-RBF), is established to predict BMD distributions for varying implant positions. A parameterised finite element mesh is morphed using Laplace's equation, which eliminates tedious remeshing and projection of the BMD results on a common mesh in the offline stage. In the online stage, the surrogate model can predict BMD distributions for new implant positions and the results are visualised on the parameterised reference mesh. The computational time for evaluating the final BMD distribution around a new implant position is reduced from minutes to milliseconds by the surrogate model compared to the high-fidelity model. The snapshot data, the surrogate model parameters and the accuracy of the surrogate model are analysed. The presented non-intrusive surrogate model paves the way for on-the-fly evaluations in clinical practice, offering a promising tool for planning and monitoring of total hip replacements.

Multi-Objective Optimization of Steel Pipe Pile Cofferdam Construction Based on Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm

This paper develops a multi-objective optimization model to address the absence of systematic and practical evaluation methods for selecting construction schemes for steel pipe pile cofferdams. The model aims to minimize duration and cost while maximizing quality. Additionally, it proposes an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA) to solve this problem. First, a tent chaotic map is introduced to initialize the sparrow population, enhancing the diversity of the initial population. Second, the principle of non-dominated ordering is introduced to sort the parent and offspring populations during the iteration process, and the appropriate individuals are selected to form the offspring population. Finally, gray correlation analysis is applied to optimize the Pareto solution set and determine the final construction scheme. The effectiveness and superiority of the ISSA is verified by using the Changsha Jinan Avenue project as a case study. The results indicate that the quality of the optimized construction scheme remains at a high level of 0.90 or more; the duration is shortened by 18 days, a reduction of 21%; and the total cost is reduced by CNY 220,000, saving 3% of the cost.

Research priorities: Establishing discipline-based education research in prosthetics and orthotics.

Education research, as a field of study, is relatively new to the health professions. Research and scholarship in prosthetics and orthotics education is limited, and the priority areas and needs of individuals interested in pursuing this area of research and scholarship are unknown. The objectives of this study were to collaboratively identify the areas in which education research in prosthetics and orthotics is needed, to prioritize these areas, and to evaluate the resources needed to support those interested in pursuing education research. Mixed methods. The researchers used a participatory action research approach. Focus group sessions were held at the 2022 International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) Global Educators Meeting. Findings from the focus groups informed creation of a survey that was distributed internationally. The results of this survey were presented to attendees at the 2023 ISPO World Congress for review and ranking. Findings from focus group discussions were used to create a 20-item survey. High priority categories included providing feedback to students, program evaluation, and clinical education and internship. Protected time and funding, faculty development, and program resources were identified as items needed to support faculty in pursuing education research. At the ISPO World Congress, participants highly rated the categories of academic v. clinical practice, program resources, and program evaluation. Many categories were identified as priorities for orthotic and prosthetic education research, and ways to support faculty pursuing this work were highlighted. This study identified opportunities for education researchers to focus their efforts on directly impacting needs of education programs and the profession.

Practical Evaluation of Instruments for Determining the Exact Position During Artillery Operations of the Czech Artillery

Practical Evaluation of Instruments for Determining the Exact Position During Artillery Operations of the Czech Artillery

DFT-guided synthesis of N, B dual-doped porous carbon from saccharina japonica for enhanced oxygen reduction catalysis

IntroductionThe oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a crucial determinant of the energy transformation capacity of fuel cells. This study investigates the performance of N and B dual-doped carbon in ORR.MethodsSix models using density functional theory (DFT) are developed to compare the performance of different doping strategies. A highly efficient dual-doped carbon ORR catalyst (S-850-1) is synthesized from Saccharina japonica, containing 4.54 at% N and 1.05 at% B atom.ResultsElectrochemical analysis reveals that S-850-1 significantly outperforms the nitrogen mono-doped carbon S-850, exhibiting a higher half-wave potential of 0.861 V and a greater limited current density of −5.60 mA cm⁻2, compared to S-850’s 0.838 V and −5.24 mA cm⁻2. Furthermore, S-850-1 surpasses the performance of 20% Pt/C, demonstrating enhanced durability and exceptional resistance to CO and methanol. The 1.40 V open circuit voltage produced by S-850-1 when integrated into a Zn-air battery can power an LED light.DiscussionBoth theoretical and practical evaluations validate the excellent ORR performance of nitrogen and boron dual-doped carbon, as evidenced by the agreement between the electrochemical results and DFT calculations. This work not only extends the range of ORR catalysts derived from biomass but also provides guidance on creating and producing affordable, effective catalysts that utilize natural resources.

The Rehabilitation of the Old Medina of Bejaad, Morocco: a Technological Approach (BIM) to Enhance the Built Heritage

Objective: This study proposes a process of revitalization and regeneration of the old medina of Bejaad, as well as a methodology for the technical analysis of its urban fabric and traditional structures, while respecting the inherent values of its constructions. Through data related to the location of each building and a more in-depth investigation, a global relationship with its environment and history is established. Theoretical Framework: The old medina of Bejaad, through its ancient fabric and its potential social and economic wealth, should be leveraged for the development of this spiritual city. This built heritage is characterized by buildings that, for the most part, have preserved an uncommon restraint, maintaining the art of past construction and the secrets of local housing. Its housing is composed of two types of built fabric: traditional and more recent structures. These two types of buildings are connected by a network of public spaces that bring the inhabitants together. Method: Creation of specific Building Information Modelling (BIM) object libraries, derived from three-dimensional models created by 3D scanning using Lidar technology. Results and Discussion: The results of this investigation highlight the need to identify new methodologies for studying the built environment, which no longer focus solely on individual building types, but encompass the broader scale of the fabric, within which it is possible to assess the constructive relationships between the elements composing the block. This is achieved through a process of adopting measures for the protection, rehabilitation, and appropriation of their living environment. Originality/Value: The study proposes a practical evaluation approach by providing precise data to improve the preservation of the built heritage of the old medina of Bejaad, with the aim of establishing an architectural, urban, and landscape charter for the city and its components.

Machine Learning in Vascular Medicine: Optimizing Clinical Strategies for Peripheral Artery Disease

Abstract Purpose of Review Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), a condition affecting millions of patients, is often underdiagnosed due to a lack of symptoms in the early stages and management can be complex given differences in genetic and phenotypic characteristics. This review aims to provide readers with an update on the utility of machine learning (ML) in the management of PAD. Recent Findings Recent research leveraging electronic health record (EHR) data and ML algorithms have demonstrated significant advances in the potential use of automated systems, namely artificial intelligence (AI), to accurately identify patients who might benefit from further PAD screening. Additionally, deep learning algorithms can be used on imaging data to assist in PAD diagnosis and automate clinical risk stratification. ML models can predict major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and major adverse limb events (MALE) with considerable accuracy, with many studies also demonstrating the ability to more accurately risk stratify patients for deleterious outcomes after surgical intervention. These predictions can assist physicians in developing more patient-centric treatment plans and allow for earlier, more aggressive management of modifiable risk-factors in high-risk patients. The use of proteomic biomarkers in ML models offers a valuable addition to traditional screening and stratification paradigms, though clinical utility may be limited by cost and accessibility. Summary The application of AI to the care of PAD patients may enable earlier diagnosis and more accurate risk stratification, leveraging readily available EHR and imaging data, and there is a burgeoning interest in incorporating biological data for further refinement. Thus, the promise of precision PAD care grows closer. Future research should focus on validating these models via real-world integration into clinical practice and prospective evaluation of the impact of this new care paradigm.

Feasibility of a new transmural care pathway for advance care planning for older persons: A qualitative study into community care registered nurses’ perspectives

BackgroundTransmural palliative care interventions aim to identify older persons with palliative care needs and timely provide advance care planning, symptom management, and coordination of care. Nurses can have an important role in these interventions; however, their expertise is currently underused. A new transmural care pathway with a central role for the community care registered nurse in advance care planning aims to contribute to the quality of palliative care for older persons. ObjectiveTo examine the perspectives of community nurses on the feasibility of a new transmural care pathway for advance care planning for older persons. DesignA qualitative study design using semi-structured interviews. Setting(s)Interviews were performed with community nurses of three participating homecare organizations in the Netherlands between March and May 2023. Participants19 community nurses. MethodsA topic guide was based on (1) challenges in advance care planning identified from the literature and (2) concepts that are important in assessing the feasibility of complex healthcare interventions provided by the Normalisation Process Theory framework. A combined inductive and deductive thematic analysis was performed. ResultsFour themes were identified: views on the transmural care pathway, community nurses’ needs to fulfil their role, key points regarding implementation, and evaluation of the new practice. In general, community nurses were positive about the feasibility of the new practice as it provided a more structured work process that could facilitate interprofessional collaboration and improve the quality of palliative care. Overall, the feasibility of the new practice, from community nurses perspective, was determined by (1) clear roles and responsibilities in the transmural care pathway, (2) standardized registration of advance care planning, and (3) close involvement of community nurses in the whole implementation process. ConclusionsWe highlighted important factors, from the perspectives of community nurses, that need to be considered in the implementation of a new transmural care pathway for advance care planning. A clear division of roles and responsibilities, standardized registration of advance care planning, and involvement of community nurses during the whole implementation process were mentioned as important enabling factors. This knowledge might contribute to successful implementation of a transmural care pathway that aims to enhance the quality of palliative care for older persons. Tweetable abstractCommunity nurses’ perspectives on the feasibility of a transmural care pathway for advance care planning for older persons.

Brazilian Portuguese version of questionnaires assessing evidence-based practice competencies in healthcare students: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and measurement properties

BackgroundWhile several instruments assess evidence-based practice (EBP) competencies, few are available for the Brazilian population, particularly healthcare students. ObjectiveTo perform a cross-cultural translation of the Student Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire (S-EBPQ) and Evidence-Based Practice Evaluation Competence Questionnaire (EBP-COQ) into Brazilian Portuguese; to adapt and validate the Brazilian Portuguese versions for use with healthcare students from diverse courses; and to assess the measurement properties of the translated and adapted versions. MethodsFour hundred forty-two healthcare students were included, and three versions were tested: S-EBPQ-BR, EBP-COQ-BR for nursing students, and EBP-COQ-BR for healthcare students. We assessed internal consistency, reliability, construct validity, responsiveness, and ceiling/floor effects. For reliability, participants completed the questionnaires twice, one week apart. For responsiveness, they completed them after participating in an educational program. ResultsNo issues were identified with understanding or applicability. For overall scores, the translated questionnaires demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.87-0.92), good to moderate reliability (ICC3,1=0.63-0.88), construct validity with moderate to very strong correlations to the Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire (r=0.43-0.89), no ceiling or floor effects, and adequate responsiveness with significant pre- and post-educational program score differences. For subscales, the majority of them demonstrated satisfactory measurement properties, except for S-EBPQ-BR attitude (low internal consistency, poor reliability, and ceiling effect), EBP-COQ attitude (inadequate construct validity), and EBP-COQ skills (inadequate construct validity). ConclusionThe Brazilian Portuguese versions of S-EBPQ and EBP-COQ exhibit strong measurement properties, including high internal consistency, adequate reliability, valid construct validity, and responsiveness. However, some subscales present suboptimal internal consistency, reliability, and construct validity.

THE THEORY OF ORGANIZATIONAL ACTION IN THE INTEGRATED WORKER HEALTH CARE SUBSYSTEM (SIASS): ELUCIDATING BEHAVIORS AND INTEGRATING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ACTIONS

This article investigates how the Theory of Organizational Action can improve work processes and management in the Integrated Subsystem for Employee Health Care (SIASS), focusing on employee behavior, organizational culture, and interactions between individual and collective actions. The research demonstrates that the principles of this theory can be applied to strengthen occupational health management in SIASS, highlighting the role of individual and organizational action, as well as social interactions in creating a more collaborative and efficient work environment. The results indicate that the Theory of Organizational Action offers a deeper understanding of internal dynamics, highlighting the need to align individual behaviors with institutional and collective objectives, aiming at optimizing management processes. In addition, the approach allows identifying critical points and opportunities for improvement in occupational health practices, contributing to a healthier and more productive work environment. The study recommends that future research carry out comparative analyses between different SIASS units, to expand the practical evaluation of theoretical concepts and provide support for the development of more effective management strategies, adapted to the specificities of each unit that makes up the SIASS network.

Penanganan Gangguan Belajar Anak Disleksia Melalui Spelling Method

Everyone has different abilities and levels of intelligence, including children with learning difficulties such as dyslexia. Dyslexia is a neurological brain disorder that affects reading and writing skills, rather than being the result of poor learning. It involves challenges in information processing in the brain, so dyslexic children often have difficulty reading words quickly and accurately. This research aims to analyze the treatment of learning disorders of dyslexic children through the spelling method. The methodology used in this research involves a qualitative approach using case studies. The data collection techniques used were observation, interview and documentation. The observation and interview techniques used question guidelines that had been prepared, while documentation was carried out with data analysis techniques which included data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of this study show that the spelling method is an effective teaching technique for children with dyslexia. This method involves phonetic understanding, phonological awareness, as well as a consistent and collaborative multi-sensory approach between schools and parents. The studied child showed significant improvement in reading ability after the application of this method, through repeated practice and periodic evaluation that ensures effectiveness and supports the achievement of the child's academic potential.

Research on Teachers' Teaching Behavior in Kindergarten Art Teaching Activities

At present, most of the research on teachers' teaching behavior focuses on primary and secondary schools, and pays little attention to preschool education. Therefore, this study aims to understand the status quo of teachers' teaching behavior in kindergarten art teaching activities, observe teachers' teaching behavior, analyze its influencing factors, and put forward effective strategies for existing problems.Based on observation method, this study combined with interview method to analyze and summarize teachers' teaching behavior, guiding and demanding practice behavior, evaluation and feedback behavior of activity results, and put forward suggestions to enhance children's subjective status, attach importance to children's sense of experience, and improve teachers' reflective ability.

The Practice Model and Effectiveness Evaluation of Digital Transformation in Folk Art Education in Guangzhou Universities

This article briefly expounds on the connotation of digital transformation in folk art education in universities, as well as the application value of Guangzhou folk art in ideological and political education in universities. Subsequently, it elaborates on the practical models and effectiveness evaluation strategies of digital transformation in folk art education in Guangzhou universities, aiming to enrich research outcomes in this field and enhance the quality of folk art education.

Evaluation of practicality of wireless charging for electric vehicles in the next 10 years

As the electric vehicle market is expanding rapidly due to the need for sustainable development; a solution is needed to deal with current problems related to electric vehicles, this includes relatively limited driving range, relatively lack of charging spots during busy season, and the inconveniences of plug-in charging, such as dealing with cables. Therefore, wireless charging technology capable of charging electric vehicles while they are in motion becomes a potential solution. Assessing whether this technology will be mass-applied in the future is crucial. Given the limited current research that evaluates the practicality of wireless charging technology for electric vehicles with a time scale, this article aims to assess the aspects of safety, cost, efficiency, materials, user acceptance and other factors to determine the likelihood of making wireless charging practical for electric vehicles in the next decade. Furthermore, by distributing questionnaires to electric and gasoline car owners to gather participants’ opinions and expectations on wireless charging for electric vehicles, statistical analysis of the questionnaire results; interview with a professor at Shanghai University who is an expert in magnets and electricity, conducting secondary research, this article concludes whether wireless charging technology for electric vehicles can be implemented in the decade or not. As an impact, this article includes a time scale by conducting an evaluation instead of implicitly mentioning the time scale.

The economics of mental ill-health in the EU/EEA

Abstract This presentation will provide an overview of the challenges and costs of mental ill health in 29 EU/EEA countries and an economic assessment of options to address current policy gaps. Nearly 20% of people in the EU/EEA experience mental ill health, with a particularly high prevalence among vulnerable groups such as people on low incomes or young people. However, in the majority of cases, and particularly for those with milder forms, these conditions go undiagnosed. Even when diagnosed, access to quality health services is sub-optimal, mainly due to financial issues or waiting times. The European Union and its Member States have identified mental ill health as a major public health threat, but there are still significant policy gaps and a lack of evidence on the most effective and cost-effective interventions to implementation. Building on its methodology for identifying and evaluating better public health policies for better lives, the OECD has recently extended the scope of its economic work to mental health. This presentation will start by providing an estimate of the health and economic burden of mental ill health in EU/EEA countries and will present evaluations of best practices in this field recently introduced by EU Member States. The talk will not only present the results of the analyses but will also use the identified case studies to discuss the approach used and some of the methodological issues involved in carrying out economic analysis for a set of diseases with high burden but relatively low mortality.

Plan for the crisis!

Abstract Background The COVID-19-crisis has posed major challenges for organisations providing care in terms of fulfilling their contracts as well as maintaining their quality standards. This project aimed to analyse the implementation of gender and diversity sensitive crisis preparedness in health and social care organisations in Austria. The innovation of this project lies in the organisational crisis preparation including the interfaces of all organisations and actors involved in the care of a vulnerable person. Methods A comprehensive survey and analysis of existing structures and processes was carried out. A participatory approach was used to develop modular guidelines tailored to different crisis scenarios. This was followed by a detailed process analysis, integration of good practices and the creation of assessment tools for practical evaluation. Staff training and technology needs were identified, followed by an assessment of the applicability of the findings to other social sector organisations. Results This project created guidelines with modular structures that enable preparation for crises and their consequences. Thereby strategies for risk mitigation and good practice examples, e.g. from the COVID-19 pandemic, were developed. A self-assessment of the status of crisis preparation as well as the continuous monitoring with special consideration of the intersectional diversity of the target groups and their vulnerability was developed and made available on the web. Conclusions The project results in guidelines as well as a self-assessment and monitoring tool directly benefiting the participating organisations. Through its transferability to other organisations the project promotes overall crisis resilience and sustainably strengthens the care for vulnerable groups in times of crisis. In addition, solidarity-based help in crisis situations is promoted. The project promotes not only organisational, but also individual as well as macro-social and economic benefits. Key messages • The project developed guidelines for gender and diversity sensitive crisis preparedness for health and social care organisations, including risk mitigation strategies and self-assessment/monitoring. • Crisis preparation must be systematically implemented in health and social care organisations involved in care of vulnerable persons.

With privilege comes responsibility: Why some privileged insiders transform institutions for societal benefit

Why do some privileged insiders take action to transform institutions for broader societal benefit, while others do not? Privileged insiders are those who, because of their education, socio-economic background, formal position, citizenship, gender, and/or race, derive advantages from existing institutional arrangements. While their relative privilege places them in a better position to influence institutions, prior research would suggest that they are unlikely to do so without the prospect of personal gain. We find that privileged insiders feel compelled to engage in prosocial institutional transformation when they situate the problem not with others but with themselves, acknowledging their own complicity in structural injustice. They can navigate the emotional discomfort triggered by moral emotions by taking small pragmatic actions that lower their emotional distress and initiate a cycle of experimentation with change. Finally, we show that the practical evaluative dimension of agency plays a central role in shaping institutional change agency. Foregrounding the role of emotions in practical evaluation, we reveal how transformative templates for action emerge from a deliberative engagement with the self.

Research and Consideration on the Reform Path of Practical Teaching Quality Evaluation in the Five-Year System of Higher Vocational Colleges

Practice teaching is an important part of the five-year system of higher vocational personnel training. A perfect practice teaching quality evaluation system is an important measure to test the effect of talent training and promote the continuous improvement of teaching quality. Based on this, this paper studies the reform path of practical teaching quality evaluation in higher vocational colleges for five years. Firstly, it expounds on the significance of the reform of practical teaching quality evaluation, then analyzes the existing problems in the current practical teaching quality evaluation, and puts forward the corresponding reform path given the existing problems. Including scientific formulation of evaluation standards, focus on practical teaching process, establishment of daily evaluation mechanism, construction of five-year continuous training and improvement mechanism, and optimization of teacher team construction, to improve the quality of practical teaching in five-year vocational colleges and cultivate more high-quality and high-skill applied talents for the society.