Practice Problem-solving Skills Research Articles

The effects of ‘small private online course + flipped classroom’ teaching on job competency of nuclear medicine training trainees

BackgroundNuclear medicine is an interdisciplinary field that integrates basic science with clinical medicine. The traditional classroom teaching model lacks interactive and efficient teaching methods and does not adequately address the learning needs and educational goals associated with standardized training for residents. The teaching model that combines Small Private Online Courses (SPOCs) with a flipped classroom approach is more aligned with the demands of real-life scenarios and workplace requirements, thereby assisting students in developing comprehensive literacy and practical problem-solving skills. However, this innovative teaching model has yet to be implemented in Nuclear medicine courses. This study aimed to explore whether the post-training competence for residents can be improved based on this new teaching model.MethodsA total of 103 first-year residents from Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 52) or a control group (n = 51) between July 2019 and June 2023. The experimental group utilized a SPOC and flipped classroom-blended teaching model, while the control group received traditional lecture-based learning (LBL). We assessed the theoretical evaluation scores and questionnaire responses from both groups to determine the effectiveness of the new pedagogical approach.ResultsResidents in the experimental group demonstrated a superior understanding of nuclear medicine content compared to those in the control group, achieving higher scores on pre-class assessments, after-class tests, and final exams (P < 0.01). A majority of the residents in the experimental group expressed that the innovative teaching model, which integrated SPOC and a flipped classroom approach, significantly enhanced their motivation and contributed to the development of their ‘professional skills,’ ‘patient care,’ ‘interaction and teamwork,’ ‘teaching proficiency,’ and ‘learning capabilities’. The teaching satisfaction survey indicated that the experimental group reported significantly higher levels of ‘overall satisfaction,’ as well as greater satisfaction with ' teaching methodologies ' and ' fulfillment of targeted clinical skills,’ compared to the control group (P < 0.01).ConclusionsThe SPOC and flipped classroom teaching model is better than traditional LBL in enriching residents’ professional knowledge and cultivating their post-training competence. It can effectively promote educational quality, improve residents’ learning, and enhance their satisfaction.

Exploring the Reform of University Education and the Cultivation of Innovative Talents

The field of higher education has undergone tremendous changes in the past few decades, and the traditional model of knowledge transfer is no longer sufficient to meet the needs of modern society for human resources. Students need more opportunities to develop innovation, practical problem solving and teamwork skills. Higher education is no longer just about transferring knowledge, but also about cultivating students comprehensive literacy so that they can stand out in a complex and changing environment. The purpose of this paper is to discuss in depth the strategies for cultivating innovative talents in the reform of college education, with special attention to the measures for building classroom teaching methods, practical teaching system and extracurricular academic and scientific competition mechanism. These strategies are not only the key to responding to the needs of today s society, but also an effective way to improve the quality of higher education. Through in-depth analyses and research, this study aims to provide useful thinking and guidance for educational reform in higher education.

Peningkatan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas VI dengan Penerapan Experiental Learning pada Mata Pelajaran IPA Materi Sistem Tata Surya

This study aims to enhance the learning outcomes of sixth-grade students in the subject of Science by implementing the Experiential Learning method on the topic of the solar system. The research methodology used in this study is Classroom Action Research (CAR) with an Experiential Learning instructional design. The research participants consisted of 23 sixth-grade students from SDN Oro-Oro Ombo, and the research instrument used was an observation sheet to measure students' learning achievements. The research procedure consisted of the pre-cycle phase, cycle one, and cycle two. In the pre-cycle phase, an initial evaluation in the form of a pre-test was conducted to measure students' understanding before implementing the Experiential Learning method. Subsequently, in cycle one and cycle two, evaluations were conducted in the form of post-tests to measure the extent of students' comprehension after participating in the Experiential Learning-based instruction. The research results showed that in the pre-cycle phase, there were 4 students (17%) who achieved the proficiency level. This number increased to 9 students (39%) in cycle one, and there was a further improvement in cycle two, with 18 students (78%) reaching the proficiency level and meeting the criteria. Therefore, it can be concluded that the implementation of Experiential Learning in teaching the solar system significantly improves the learning outcomes of students in the Science subject. The students demonstrated an increased understanding of concepts, information retention, and scientific thinking skills. Additionally, this method also enhances students' interest, motivation, and practical problem-solving skills. Therefore, it is recommended for teachers and educational institutions to consider using the Experiential Learning method as an engaging alternative in the teaching and learning process to achieve better learning outcomes in the Science subject, especially in the topic of the solar system. Keywords: Experiential Learning, Learning Outcomes, Solar System.

Fostering Creative Problem-Solving Abilities in Chinese Language and Literature Majors

This paper discusses the importance and necessity of fostering creative problem-solving abilities among Chinese language and literature majors. Traditional teaching methods such as lecturing have limitations in cultivating students' creative problem-solving abilities, lacking open-minded thinking training and interdisciplinary practices. The evolution of Chinese language and literature education from emphasizing language rhetoric to literary history is analyzed for its impact on student capability development. To effectively enhance students' creative thinking and practical problem-solving skills, the recommendation is to introduce diversified methods and interdisciplinary training in teaching, enabling students to flexibly apply literary knowledge to address real-world issues. This reform not only contributes to cultivating well-rounded professionals in the field of literature but also provides crucial support for societal and literary research advancement.

Learning by doing using the Life Cycle Assessment tool: LCA projects in collaboration with industries

Active learning, also called "learning by doing" (LbD), has resulted in positive learning outcomes in several higher education degrees. This paper describes an LbD experience within Chemical Engineering education aiming to enhance learning and transferable competencies using a Life Cycle Assessment course as a vehicle. This compulsory course belongs to the European Project Semester (EPS) program taught in the fourth year of the Chemical Engineering Degree at the University of Cantabria. From the beginning, the activity has targeted LCA practice with a strong emphasis on performance and its application as a decision-making tool in real case studies through close collaboration with regional companies. Working in partnership with industrial companies has favoured a win-win-win situation as students could apply knowledge as future LCA specialists. In contrast, companies gained valuable insights to improve their environmental performance, and lecturers enhanced their industrial networks. A public session carried out at the end of the activity created an enriching debate on subjects from a diversity of points of view (e.g., the selection of impact categories, the proposed improvements for environmental impact reduction, etc.). According to the lecturers, the competencies acquired by students through this LbD experience in life cycle assessment have notably evolved, demonstrating not only an enhanced understanding of environmental impacts across a product life cycle but also a significant improvement in critical thinking, team collaboration, and practical problem-solving skills, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application in real-world scenarios. This is in line with the student’s perception that considered, such as "problem resolution", "capacity for analysing" and synthesis and "capacity for information" management. These are essential not only for future LCA practitioners but for chemical engineers.

Analysis of Effective Pathways for Music Majors' Participation in Project Research

College students must learn theoretical knowledge, and develop practical problem-solving skills to boost their employability. Currently, however, many lack the ability to apply theory to practice, are unprepared for project-based research, and are unsure how to engage in such activities. This study focuses on the innovation training projects conducted by music majors participating in the College Students' Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition. It examines the importance and value of student involvement in research projects, describes the project itself and its implementation, and highlights enhanced capabilities for music majors post-participation, including improved proficiency, enriched teaching experience, and better teamwork. The project, "Sister Qianqian Talks Music—100 Essential Pieces of Classical Music for Children," illustrates how music majors can gain broader exposure to other initiatives and develop the comprehensive skills needed for future research participation. The paper outlines effective strategies for music majors engaging in research projects and offers recommendations on methodological choices, providing valuable insights for their career advancement and success.

The power of laughter: a study on humor and creativity in undergraduate nursing education in Egypt

BackgroundCreativity in nursing education is crucial for developing practical problem-solving skills, and humor is a valuable tool for stress management and fostering a positive learning environment. This study explored the relationship between creativity and humor among nursing students.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted with 265 convenient undergraduate nursing students aged 20 to 25. The Short Scale of Creative Self (SSCS) and the Multidimensional Sense of Humor Scale (MSHS) were used to measure creativity and various aspects of humor.ResultsShowed a significant positive correlation between humor and creativity (r = 0.238, p < 0.001). Positive correlations were found between Humor Production, Coping or Adaptive Humor, and Appreciation of Humor with creativity (r = 0.254, 0.230, and 0.461, p < 0.001, respectively). In contrast, Attitudes Toward Humor and Humorous People were negatively correlated with creativity (r=-0.343, p < 0.05). Humor accounted for 16.2% of the variance in creativity.ConclusionThe study concluded a strong link between humor and creativity, with positive correlations observed between creative self-efficacy and creative personal identity with different aspects of humor. The study recommends the incorporation of humor into nursing education and healthcare settings to encourage creative problem-solving and reduce burnout among students and staff.

A qualitative study of mentors’ perceptions and experiences of a near-peer mentoring program for medical students

IntroductionDuring their academic studies, medical students may encounter a variety of challenging situations. It is no wonder that they have a higher prevalence of poor mental health than the general population. Mentoring programs have proven useful in promoting mental health in medical education. The study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of medical students as mentors in a near-peer mentoring program.MethodsA qualitative study was carried out between March and April 2022 at Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary. Five focus group discussions (FGDs) included 26 medical students who were enrolled as mentors in the mentoring program. The recordings were transcribed verbatim and anonymized. An deductive and semantic approach was adopted, and the data were analyzed with thematic analysis.ResultsThree major themes were identified: professional and personal growth and reflections on the mentoring experience. Mentors reported growth in social and practical problem-solving skills, self-confidence, psychosocial benefits, and both personal and professional development. The program had a great impact on students’ sense of self-efficacy, self-awareness, perception of their competencies, and adherence to their boundaries.DiscussionIn conclusion, the mentors strongly emphasized the professional and psychosocial benefits they perceived while participating in the mentoring program. Therefore, the experiences obtained during the mentoring are important milestones. Mentoring programs could greatly improve students both personally and professionally so that later, they will be the best possible professionals in the field of health care.

Advancing sustainable chemistry education: Insights from real-world case studies

This study aims at analysing the integration of innovative teaching methodologies through the implementation of two case studies, “Plasticized Childhood” and “Unpacking Burgers,” in the context of Green Chemistry (GC) and Sustainable Chemistry (SC) education. The case studies were devised with the objective of engaging students in real-world scenarios, thereby fostering critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills. “Plasticized Childhood” examines the environmental and health impacts of plastic toys, while “Unpacking Burgers” delves into the complexities of plant-based meat alternatives. The Classroom Observation method was employed to systematically observe and analyse student interactions and learning outcomes. Our findings illustrate the transition from GC to SC, emphasising considerations beyond material substitution, such as marketing strategies and health implications. The case studies highlighted the pivotal role of the chemical industry in propelling sustainable innovation and the value of interdisciplinary approaches. One challenge was addressing student sensitivities around controversial topics, as well as the need for more specialised content in graduate programmes. The study illustrates the value of integrating real-world scenarios into chemistry education, equipping students with the skills and conditions to address sustainability challenges through innovative, ethical and responsible solutions. It would be beneficial for future research to concentrate on the improvement of case study methodologies and the strengthening of interdisciplinary collaborations, with the aim of further advancing sustainable chemistry education.

Needs Analysis for Practical Guide Based Augmented Reality (AR) in an Effort to Support Basic Physics Practicum Activities During the Covid-19 Pandemic

This study aims to conduct a field study on the need to develop Augmented Reality (AR) assisted practicum guidelines. Data collection instruments were in the form of questionnaires and interview guidelines. The subjects in this field study were students who became practicum assistants, physics laboratory staff, and lecturers of basic physics courses. Questionnaire data and interview results were analyzed qualitatively to see the real conditions of the practicum. Based on the results of data analysis, it is known that practicum manuals are still dominant in text, and practicum activities can be directed to practice problem-solving skills. The phenomenon of coastal areas can also be associated with physics practicum material. Based on the results of the practicum assistant's questionnaire, it is known that AR can facilitate physics practicum, so it is necessary to develop an AR-assisted practicum guide that presents audio-visual presentations. Based on the results of the interviews, it is also known that the constraints on practicum activities during this pandemic were that not all practicum courses were available at PheT to carry out virtual practicums, counter-dependence with assistant explanations in carrying out practicum procedures, so strict procedures could not be carried out, so it could be interpreted that a solution was needed an alternative practicum guide that is equipped with a video tutorial about practicum procedures. AR technology can be used to visualize tutorial videos that can be accessed offline.

Design Thinking as a Case-based Learning for College General Education Courses

Design thinking is vital for attaining sustainable development goals (SDG) or SDG in education. This article investigates the status of design thinking education in realizing SDG in education. The intentional requirement for using innovative design to enhance national competitiveness is discussed regarding the "Made in China 2025" policy document. It then investigates the current status of design thinking curriculum development in China, counting the adoption of Western models and the formation of project cooperation mechanisms, the combination of design thinking into general education courses, and the rise of online courses over the development of the Internet. Five international best practices of design thinking courses are offered, i.e., Stanford University, the University of Miami, the Royal College of Art, Vanderbilt University, and Tama Art University. These practices tell the different features of design thinking courses and emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, actual problem-solving, And the cultivation of a humanistic spirit and social responsibility. The article then highlights vital lessons and conclusions from design thinking education in general higher education courses. These include the importance of human-centered, social, and computational thinking, the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing collaborative empathy, and the practical problem-solving skills and creativity that design thinking can undertake. To sum up, the design thinking course is an effective way to improve the design thinking level of college students and change the existing teaching methods of various majors, and it has significant benefits for both students and enterprises. Overall, the paper provides a comprehensive picture of the importance of design thinking education in achieving educational sustainability, highlighting its potential for developing innovative and practical problem-solving skills in college students and its relevance to various disciplines and industries.

과학영재교육 프로그램 평가 기준 개발 연구

Objectives The purpose of this study was to develop evaluation criteria to follow when developing science gifted education programs, selecting high-quality programs among already developed gifted education programs, or improving the deficiencies of the components of the selected program.&#x0D; Methods The three-point curriculum evaluation rubric developed by NAGC in the U.S. was developed in the form of a first checklist, and six evaluation participants, including researchers, applied it to the science gifted education program, and the evaluation criteria were revised to the second. The 2nd revised evaluation criteria were finally revised by evaluators who will analyze 101 GED-equipped programs with researchers to present opinions based on actual user's perspective during the evaluation practice, and the evaluation criteria were properly revised and developed according to Korea's educational conditions.&#x0D; Results Based on the two main characteristics of differentiation and talent development, we developed a 36-point checklist-type evaluation criteria for science gifted education programs with 11 main characteristics aimed at practical problem-solving skills. The 11 main characteristics consist of 10 main characteristics that can be commonly used in all subjects and 1 subject characteristic according to the subject.&#x0D; Conclusions It can be used as an effective criterion for the development and selection of high-quality science gifted education programs. Common standards can be used in all subjects when developing gifted education programs, and the criteria for subject characteristics can be replaced for each subject.

Mental Health Status and the Readiness of Nursing Students to Serve During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Aims: This study aims to assess the state of mental health of nursing students in Kosovo and their willingness to provide professional health services for individuals at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, undergraduate nursing students from three higher education institutions in Kosovo participate from May 25, 2020, to June 5, 2020. Data was collected through a structured, anonymous, self-directed questionnaire via the online platform-google forms. Questions about nursing knowledge, skills and competencies, and willingness to work, if necessary, in healthcare facilities in Kosovo before graduation during the COVID-19 pandemic, were organised according to the Likert scale. Results: Four hundred and seventy-two nursing students (82% female; and mean age 20.3±1.8 years) participated in the study. 18.2% of students required further evaluation for depression, 48.3% for anxiety, and 30.7% for stress. 77.8% of students agreed that they had acquired sufficient knowledge, 80.6% that they had sufficient skills, and 75.9% that they had sufficient competencies, during their studies, to work as nurses. Female students had higher stress (8.55±4.06) and anxiety scores (6.65±4.08) compared to their male counterparts (7.46±4.35; and 5.02±4.07; respectively) (p&lt;0.05). There was no statistically significant difference among categories of stress, anxiety and depression, and nursing student’s willingness to work or not during COVID-19 pandemic (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Most nursing students in Kosovo appear ready and willing to join qualified nurses in healthcare institutions in delivering health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Highlights: Most nursing students are willing to provide health services during the pandemic. The female students had higher stress and anxiety scores than their counterparts. This study discovered that students needed psychological support during the pandemic. Serving during the pandemic will put into practice problem-solving skills.

MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER ACTIVITIES AT UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, THAI NGUYEN UNIVERSITY, VIETNAM

In response to the requirements of general education reform, University of Education, Thai Nguyen University must simultaneously perform two tasks of improving the quality of training and developing scientific research activities and technology transfer. Therefore, many tasks for the teaching staff are studying and fostering to improve their professional qualifications, informatics, foreign languages, investing in research, compiling programs, textbooks, and learning materials. In the renewal of training objectives from providing knowledge as the main thing to promoting the capacity and qualities of students, scientific and technological activities play an important role. Students experience through scientific research activities to practice their thinking methods and practical problem-solving skills. At the same time, scientific products will enhance the reputation of the university. In fact, the university's scientific research and technology transfer activities have prospered, but have not been really synchronous and effective.

Techniques for Strengthening 21st Century Learners' Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking, as opposed to technical or professional abilities, enhances intellectual capacities and promotes the development of multi perspective thinking. It promotes the growth of the mind's analytical and creative regions. Enhancing critical thinking abilities in higher education constructs an excellent platform for aspirant engineers. To analyze complex problems, investigate various techniques, and design solutions, critical thinking skills are required. The most vivid imaginations are born to artists and musicians. Teaching artists how to use software and graphics tools is relatively simple; however, transforming engineers into artists is far more difficult. Students who use visualization in their studies are encouraged to look at the world from various angles. Sports and academics complement each other well. There are also links between the arts, logic, and athletics. It is beneficial to understand the relationship between critical thinking and academics. This study covers some strategies related to puzzle solving, problem-based learning, design thinking, picture analysis, and experiential learning in order to develop critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills. Keywords— critical thinkers; Experiential Learning; Holistic edification; skills

A virtual reality learning platform for steam generators

Virtual reality (VR) has proven to be an effective tool for industrial training, offering immersive and interactive learning experiences. However, it is important to accurately simulate the behavior of the equipment in order to provide realistic training activities to the users. On these premises, the PITSTOP project aims at developing an immersive learning tool, based on the integration of dynamic models and a VR environment. Following this methodology, the first learning platform for industrial-scale steam generators was created. Adopting a mixed physics-based data-driven approach, a fast but accurate dynamic model was developed and calibrated on real data of the auxiliary steam generator of the gas turbine combined cycle plant of Tirreno Power in Vado Ligure, Italy. Accessible through an Oculus Quest VR headset, the platform allows learners to interact with a virtual steam generator and adjust control parameters to observe the effects on the system. In this way, learners can gain a better understanding of steam generation principles and practice problem solving and decision-making skills in a safe, controlled environment. The platform also provides teaching materials and an evaluation mode such that learners can assess their knowledge and estimate the correctness of their actions. This article presents an overview of the VR learning platform, with a focus on the specific features of an industrial scale application. The capabilities of the tool are demonstrated through the recreation of real operational procedures of the Tirreno Power steam generator within the VR platform.

Physics Textbook Enriched with Videos Based on Augmented Reality Technology: Practice in Problem Solving Skill in Dynamics of Rotation Concept for Senior High School Students

Problem-solving skills are one of the skills needed in the 21st century. This article describes the results of research on the development of physics textbooks added to videos based on augmented reality technology on rotational dynamics material. This research result textbook is designed for practicing the problem-solving skills of high school students. The research method used is Research and Development with the Dick & Carey model. Physics textbooks have been created which are presented in various views with stages to practice problem-solving skills. The presentation is presented in video-based augmented reality technology, table data, graphics, images, mathematical analysis, and verbal analysis for each sub-topic. The stages of problem-solving in the developed physics textbook present problems at the beginning of the chapter, present several questions to focus on the problem, formulate hypotheses about the problem, current material in various views, and explain phenomena based on physics concepts. To learn. The results of this study have been validated by physical material experts, learning experts, and textbook media experts. Experts provide an extensive opinion on all aspects assessed.

LEGO application for a microelectronics powered upper limb exoskeleton.

In general, the main aim of education through models is based on stimulating young people's ability to think logically and use their creativity to develop practical problem-solving skills. Over time, the standard educational process has identified the need to find and use new ways of transmitting basic information in the teaching of students and this way has been quantified by the phrase - serious games. This approach allows a faster and more efficient access of users (pupils-students) to the information bases and a correct and beneficial transmission of their theoretical and practical training. Thus, in the first part of the paper a number of aspects related to educational resources based on Lego pieces and an analysis of the opportunity of their use in the processes of instruction, learning and creation are presented. In the second part of the paper, an analysis of the different variants of Lego pieces assemblies used for the development of exoskeleton shapes or for upper limb training is carried out, as well as for the study of the possibility of obtaining versatile and customized variants. In the third part of the paper, the experimental model of a microelectronically actuated upper limb exoskeleton is presented, useful in training procedures for the rehabilitation of elbow joint and wrist movements. In the final part of the paper, observations obtained from the construction of the system and conclusions regarding the use of such a demonstration-educational model in practical problem-solving skills development actions are presented.

Acute and chronic stress predict anti-depressant treatment outcome and naturalistic course of major depression: A CAN-BIND report

BackgroundIn treatment studies of major depressive disorder (MDD), exposure to major life events predicts less symptom improvement and greater likelihood of relapse. In contrast, the impact of minor life events has received less attention. We hypothesized that the impact of minor events on symptom improvement and risk of relapse would be heightened in the presence of concurrent chronic stress. We also hypothesized that major events would predict less symptom improvement and greater risk of relapse independently of chronic stress. MethodsAdult patients experiencing an episode of MDD were enrolled into a 16-week trial with antidepressant treatments (n = 156). Forty-three fully remitted patients agreed to participate in a naturalistic 18-month follow-up, and 30 had full data for analyses. Life events and chronic stressors were assessed using a contextual life stress interview. ResultsGreater exposure to minor events predicted greater improvement in symptoms during acute treatment, but this relation was specific to those who reported greater severity of chronic stress. During follow-up, however, major life events predicted increased risk of relapse, and this effect was not moderated by chronic stress. LimitationHigh attrition rates led to a small sample size for the follow-up analyses. ConclusionsExposure to minor events may provide an opportunity to practice problem-solving skills, thereby facilitating symptom improvement. Nevertheless, acute treatment did not protect patients from relapse when they subsequently faced major events during follow-up. Therefore, adjunctive strategies may be needed to enhance outcomes during pharmacotherapy, consolidating benefits from acute treatment and providing skills to prevent relapse.

Problem- Based Cybersecurity Lab with Knowledge Graph as Guidance

Lecture-based teaching paired with laboratory-based exercises is most commonly used in cybersecurity instruction. However, it focuses more on theories and models but fails to provide learners with practical problem-solving skills and opportunities to explore real-world cybersecurity challenges. Problem-based Learning (PBL) has been identified as an efficient pedagogy for many disciplines, especially engineering education. It provides learners with real-world complex problem scenarios, which encourages learners to collaborate with classmates, ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of the concepts while solving real-world cybersecurity problems. This paper describes the application of the PBL methodology to enhance professional training-based cybersecurity education. The authors developed an online laboratory environment to apply PBL with Knowledge-Graph (KG) based guidance for hands-on labs in cybersecurity training.Learners are provided access to a virtual lab environment with knowledge graph guidance to simulated real-life cybersecurity scenarios. Thus, they are forced to think independently and apply their knowledge to create cyber-attacks and defend approaches to solve problems provided to them in each lab. Our experimental study shows that learners tend to gain more enhanced learning outcomes by leveraging PBL with knowledge graph guidance, become more aware of cybersecurity and relevant concepts, and also express interest in keep learning of cybersecurity using our system.