Practical Workshops Research Articles

Addressing the role of technology in internationalization at a distance: Voices of students' in international distance learning from Ghana—sub‐Saharan Africa

AbstractThe past two decades have witnessed a surge of distance learning in higher education across the world. Scholars have argued that this is due to the increasing use and recognition of technologies to act as a means, channel and source for internationalization of knowledge. Further, internationalization at a distance (IaD) has seen a rapid increase in universities in Ghana, sub‐Saharan Africa, due to increased use of digital technologies and high demand for foreign education. Yet, there remains limited research about the role of technologies in facilitating and mediating IaD in countries in sub‐Saharan Africa. Moreover, few studies have explored students' experiences in IaD regarding prospects and challenges in Ghana, sub‐Saharan Africa. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to explore students' experiences and voices regarding the role of technologies in facilitating and mediating distance learning including students' critical reflections on the technological shift of IaD in higher education (including the COVID‐19 pandemic period) in Ghana. Data were collected following a qualitative research design via an in‐depth semistructured interview of 28 students (16 females and 12 males) enrolled in IaD learning program in three foreign universities (two in the United Kingdom and one in the United States). Data analyses were done via a constant comparative approach. Findings showed that students experienced enhanced quality of learning through the varied use of technologies such as Zoom, Team and Google Hangouts. However, students faced challenges such as unequal access to technologies, intermittent Internet connections/outages, high cost of tuition and lack of social and teaching engagement. These findings in many ways contribute to a new understanding and knowledge building of students' experiences and challenges of IaD in sub‐Saharan Africa. Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic? The number of students in internationalization at a distance (IaD) education programs is increasing alongside the development of digital technologies and the expansion of digital infrastructure. Increasing demands for higher education in sub‐Saharan Africa have led to an increase in the number of students from Ghana in IaD. What this paper adds? Ghanaian students in IaD benefited from the use of various digital technologies, improving their engagement and facilitating the acquisition of digital skills. They faced barriers in accessing digital technologies and Internet connectivity. Implications for practice and/or policy Pretraining programs and workshops to enhance students' digital skills before starting distance education could be beneficial for Global South students in IaD. Education provider should support the access to digital technologies and Internet connectivity of Global South students in IaD.

Effectiveness of a Nutrition Counseling Intervention on Food Consumption, According to the Degree of Processing: A Community-Based Non-Randomized Trial of Quilombola Communities in South Brazil

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effectiveness of a nutrition counseling intervention on food consumption according to the Nova classification that reflects levels of food processing.MethodsControlled community trial was conducted in quilombola communities in the South of Brazil. Four communities were allocated to the control group (CG) and the intervention group (IG), two communities comprised each group. A total of 158 individuals (CG = 87; IG = 68) were included in the study. The intervention consisted of six theoretical and practical workshops on food and nutrition education, conducted over a 4-month period. We used a 24-hour recall at baseline and another post-intervention.ResultsThere was an increase in the consumption of traditional quilombola food as an effect of the intervention (from 14.5% to 20.7% in the IG, and from 12.7% to 16.0% in the CG, p = 0.05). There was no significant variation in the other Nova food groups according to time and intervention.ConclusionAn increase in traditional quilombola food indicates a resumption of traditional food intake and appreciation of local culture as an effect of this intervention at the community level.Clinical Trial Registration:www.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT02489149.

Storytelling: A learning tool to enhance medical students' empathy, attentive listening, clinical curiosity and reflection.

Listening to stories of sickness lies at the heart of the patient-doctor relationship. Storytelling serves as a powerful learning tool fostering empathy, attentive listening, clinical curiosity and reflection, key elements of narrative competence. The patient's story, their history, forms the fundamental core of diagnosis, and their emotions are central to crafting appropriate treatment plans that address their true concerns. This study reviews the benefits of storytelling as a learning tool, particularly in enhancing empathy, attentive listening, clinical curiosity and reflection within medical education. It also describes a practical workshop that demonstrates how storytelling can be utilised to inspire students to develop narrative competence in a supportive learning environment. Since the stories draw on participants' clinical experience, in both primary and secondary care, the article aims to engage clinicians involved in medical education and the teaching of communication skills.

Teaching innovation: enhancing undergraduate student pharmacist consultation skills by introducing ‘Fishbowl’ prescribing workshops

Abstract Introduction The new ‘Standards for the initial education and training of pharmacists’1 outline the skills, knowledge, and attributes required to enable pharmacists to independently prescribe at the point of registration. Third-year MPharm students at the University of Nottingham have previously practised consultation skills in professional practice workshops, conducting shorter form, over the counter-type consultations. These lacked the depth required for pharmacy students to develop skills they will now need. Therefore, we identified a requirement for advanced consultation practice, including prescribing, alongside clinical history taking, to better prepare students to be prescribers. Creation of a new module occurred, ‘Pharmaceutical Care and Prescribing’, including ‘Fishbowl’ workshops. ‘Fishbowl’ is a small group teaching method where an individual student engages in a discussion, while observers form a circle around them2. Students were able to ‘tap out’ of consultations at any point, to discuss consultation direction with their peers. Five case studies were written to incorporate a variety of clinical conditions, patient demographics and clinical settings, with a key emphasis of holistic, patient-centred care. All third-year students were timetabled for five workshops, in groups of around 25. Facilitators regularly discussed consultation progress, outstanding care issues and gave feedback on areas done well or needing improvement. Aim Do students perceive ‘Fishbowl’ workshops to enhance their clinical history taking skills and prescribing knowledge? Methods Following the five workshops, all third-year students (n=256) were invited via email to complete a Microsoft Forms questionnaire, to evaluate the workshop aims . The questionnaire included ten 5-point Likert-scale questions and free-text answers. Primarily quantitative methods were used with free-text responses used to contextualise results. This study obtained ethical approval from the University of Nottingham, School of Pharmacy Postgraduate Research Projects Ethical Approval group. Results 82 students (32%) completed the questionnaire. 91% of students felt they helped practice taking a clinical history. 80% of students felt they better understood how to include share care decision making into their consultations. One student commented, they were ‘very thought-provoking sessions and easy to interact and learn from each other’. 67% said the sessions helped them to better understand the pharmacist’s role in prescribing. With regards to prescribing awareness, a student commented ‘It would have been nice to have scenarios where we prescribed a POM in the end for more of the sessions to help us get used to thinking like prescribers.’ 85% of students would recommend the teaching technique to other MPharm students, 76% felt these sessions should be introduced in earlier years of the MPharm course. A few students commented that the facilitation style varied considerably depending on academics involved. Discussion/Conclusion ‘Fishbowl’ method of teaching provides a suitable environment for practising clinical history taking and prescribing and were generally well received by students. Further work is needed to integrate this teaching technique earlier in the MPharm programme. Facilitator skills play a significant part in student engagement, we need to ensure there is appropriate staff training to run this session type. Limitations of the study include lack of comparison against other student teaching tools.

Pelatihan Digital Marketing Berbasis AI sebagai Bentuk Pemerataan Teknologi di Pulau Batam, Kepulauan Riau

Batam City as a center of industry and trade has a large market The city of Batam, as an industrial and trade hub, holds significant market potential for the utilization of digital technology. While Batam has established infrastructure that facilitates inter-island access, digital transformation has yet to reach the smaller surrounding islands. The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) remains relatively unfamiliar to many communities on islands outside Batam. The objective of this training, organized by the student boarding school of UPN Veteran East Java, is to provide an in-depth understanding of digitalization and AI concepts in digital marketing as a means to support the economy of Batam Island’s communities. This Community Service Program (PKM) is implemented through socialization on AI concepts, the positive potential impacts of AI, and practical AI application workshops, in collaboration with the Director of the SPMAA Batam Foundation and ICT volunteers. The results of this PKM activity indicate a high level of enthusiasm among the community to learn about AI concepts and their use in marketing products on social media. Through this training, it is expected that MSME owners and the entire community on Batam Island will benefit from technological advancements, particularly AI, and that it will support the government’s efforts in promoting equitable digital transformation across Batam Island.

Welcome to the operating theatre! Introductory bootcamp in operating theatre specialities for medical students.

Since the early 2000's, the appeal of certain operating room specialties has decreasedamong medical school graduate students. The recent reform of the second and third cycles of medical studies in France provides an opportunity to set up teaching programs around operating room specialties. We have organised a teaching unit which is part of the final year of medical studies. The main objectives are: (1) to examine whether a boot camp can modify students' opinions and preconceived assumptions about a surgical and/or anaesthetist career (2) to determine whether these changes in perception, have an impact on students' interest in pursuing a surgical/anaesthetic career compared with the current situation. The "working in the operating theatre" boot camp (UETB) took place after the written exams of the sixth year of medical school, before students choose their future specialty for residency. This program included practical workshops, readings and time for exchanges surgeons and anaesthetists. At the beginning and at the end of the UETB, feedback forms were collected. The cohort included 59 students from the Toulouse medical school, academic year 2023-2024. After attending the UETB, there was a significant qualitative improvement in interest in a surgical and intensive care-anaesthesia career. Feedback on how the UETB influenced the choice of a future specialty was very positive, with statistically significant qualitive improvement., Additionally, the students' perception of a work-life quality as a surgeon and/or anaesthetist improved significantly. The outcome of this study makes a strong case for integrating additional exposure to the various surgical subspecialties into the graduate medical curriculum in France. By helping to dispel misperceptions of "a surgical/anaesthetist career" early on, opportunities such as the UETB program may enable addressing the attrition rate observed among surgical and anaesthetic residency applications.

Professional Development of Teachers in the Context of STEM Education as a Relevant Psychological and Pedagogical Issue

The article analyzes scientific research related to the issues of professional development of teachers in the context of STEM education, which is determined as a prerequisite for improving the quality of education. It is determined that the professional development of teachers in the context of STEM education involves mastering the knowledge and skills necessary for the implementation of STEM programs and methods, adaptability and cognitive flexibility, professional self-improvement, etc. This process should be systematic and continuous and requires training and professional development during courses, scientific and practical seminars, conferences, workshops, summer schools, and other educational events. The article presents the results of a study that highlights the psychological and pedagogical aspects of teachers' professional development in the context of STEM education, and identifies a number of problems with professional support for educators. The authors of the publication substantiate the relevance of teacher training to ensure the competitiveness and high quality of the educational process. The steps for effective professional pedagogical development in modern conditions are highlighted and a list of resources for the professional development of the teaching community in the context of STEM education is proposed.

Ethical considerations in surgical research conducted in African LMICs: a comprehensive narrative review.

Surgical research has revolutionized healthcare by improving the efficacy, safety, and efficiency of surgical interventions. This research has the potential to significantly impact healthcare delivery in Africa, where surgical diseases pose a major public health burden. Studies suggest surgery alone could reduce the global disease burden by 11%, with a substantial portion stemming from conditions prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa like traumatic injuries, childbirth complications, and surgical infections. However, conducting surgical research in Africa presents unique ethical challenges. The continent's diverse socio-economic environments and rich cultural contexts necessitate careful consideration of ethical principles. Traditional research models often don't translate well to African settings, raising concerns about informed consent, community engagement, and benefit-sharing. This review aims to shed light on various ethical dilemmas posed within surgical research, conducted in African countries. Further, standard practices and recommendations that involve a multi-pronged approach to mitigate said issues were explored. A meticulous analysis of the existing literature pertaining to the ethical issues proffered in Africa was performed. Databases employed comprised PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Pertinent case studies were also reviewed to comprehend said issues, providing comprehensive recommendations. In addressing the ethical challenges in the research, the importance of resource limitation, sociocultural factors, informed consent barriers, technological obsolescence, training deficits, power dynamics, vulnerable populations, regulatory oversight, and compliance was highlighted. The proposed approaches include conducting focused research lectures and practical workshops on surgery, organizing surgical boot camps for medical students, interns, and residents, promoting research in related fields such as anesthesia, radiology, and pathology, ensuring the presence of on-site surgeons as needed, and arranging outreach surgical and educational camps for patients. Promoting community engagement and training local researchers and surgeons are crucial for navigating the unique ethical landscape in Africa. By prioritizing ethical considerations, surgical research can contribute to improved healthcare outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system across the continent.

Academic reading: fear and trembling or being and belonging?

At the University of the West of England (UWE) Bristol, we are in the second year of a project to promote and improve reading skills. One part of our work has focused on embedding collaborative reading techniques within subjects to improve confidence in tackling texts, promote reading as a social practice, and boost belonging within disciplines and cohorts. Our poster presentation reviews the literature on student emotions towards reading, and how these influence their practices. We use this visual representation when liaising with academic colleagues to co-create and facilitate collaborative reading activities. Considerations of the role of student ‘affect’ foreground the motivational dimensions of the reading experience; we look at both pre-existing psychological and emotional barriers to engagement, and incentives and enablers that encourage confident reading and enjoyment of academic texts. We consider how the research literature accords with and further informs our empirical experience of running practical reading workshops. It is hoped that activities such as reading circles and textmapping relieve the individual from sole accountability for comprehension, bringing reading ‘out from the dark’. Deconstructing the process of reading through collaborative roles contributes towards the co-construction of understanding and knowledge, activating fresh insights. Discussion of reading through this shared approach potentially helps to develop student confidence, to nurture feelings of belonging, and to enhance cohort identity. However, we are mindful of the real-world impacts and outcomes of reading strategies for the diverse body of students that we encounter in higher education, with their wealth of difference in cognitive abilities, backgrounds, and cultural experiences. Through this literature review, it is intended that learning from work already published will contribute towards evolving best practice in channelling agency and easing anxiety in academic reading for all students.

Workshops: Enhancing communication for nursing students with patients with hearing disabilities

Abstract Background Nursing students need guidance on effective communication strategies for interacting with patients with hearing disabilities, emphasizing the importance of addressing this gap in their education as future healthcare professionals. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among nursing students at seven institutions before and after workshops led by guides with hearing disabilities from a non-profit organization Ma’agalei Shema and funded by the National Insurance Institute. Data was collected from 2023 to March 2024 and analyzed using SPSS software. Results 279 participants completed the survey before the workshops. and 136 responding afterward. Almost 80% were female. Before the workshops, 68.46% of students expected to gain communication tools for patients with hearing disabilities. About one-third believed the healthcare system offers accessible treatment to these patients, while only 22.22% foresaw no barriers. One-third reported no clinical contact with such patients. Among those who did, lip-reading (25.53%), writing (17.73%), assistance from family members (15.6%), and sign language (9.22%) were commonly used. Only 2.84% used professional sign language interpreters, and 20.57% reported never meeting a patient with hearing disabilities (8% reported “other”). Post-workshop surveys showed that around 82.48% of participants felt the workshops would significantly enhance their communication skills with such patients, with only 5.11% reporting a lack of practical tools received. Conclusions Practical workshops can significantly enhance communication skills and improve patient care. This study underscores the potential impact of minor adjustments in communication strategies on patient care, such as increasing the use of professional interpreters. Main messages: Providing training to nursing students in effective communication with these patients can streamline interactions, diminish reliance on family intermediaries, and enhance medical care. Key messages • Nursing students need guidance on communicating with patients with hearing disabilities to improve future healthcare interactions. • Practical workshops enhance communication skills, stressing the importance of minor adjustments for better patient care.

10.K. Skills building seminar: Practical and methodological guidance for conducting online qualitative surveys in public health

Abstract Online qualitative surveys are surveys which prioritise qualitative (open text) questions in data collection. Researchers have stated that these types surveys have rich potential for qualitative researchers. They are able to collect rapid insights into new or emerging areas of health, and are an effective way of reaching populations who may not otherwise engage in qualitative interview studies or focus groups. Although these types of surveys are increasingly used by public health and health promotion researchers, there is very limited discussion in the research literature to guide researchers about the practical and methodological aspects of such surveys. This creates some challenges for qualitative researchers - as well as funders, and peer reviewers - in assessing the rigour and robustness of these studies. Using data from a range of online qualitative surveys that we have conducted with youth and adults relating to gambling, alcohol, climate change, and the commercial determinants of health, we describe the processes associated with developing, implementing, interpreting, and writing up online qualitative survey data. In this practical and interactive multimedia workshop and developing on the work of Braun, Clarke and colleagues, with a focus on Big Q interpretivist qualitative approaches. We will provide: 1. Practical examples, and lessons learned from our own studies about survey design, question development, the importance of rigorous piloting strategies, the use of novel techniques to prompt detailed responses from participants, and the decisions that are made about data cleaning. 2. Examples of the types of responses that can be expected in different types of surveys, and how decisions are made about the quality of responses to questions. 3. Guidance about how to analyse the volume of qualitative data that is generated from such surveys, including developing robust mechanisms to ensure trustworthiness of decision making and data interpretation. 4. Tips based on our role as journal editors about how to present qualitative survey data, and how to respond to challenging reviewer comments. Participants will be provided with a booklet containing survey templates, question examples, tips and examples of how to respond to reviewer comments. Key messages • Online qualitative surveys have rich potential for collecting insights about emerging public health issues. • This workshop will provide practical and methodological guidance for researchers who are interested in using these surveys. Speakers/Panelists Hannah Pitt Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Simone McCarthy Deakin University, Armadale, Australia Samantha Thomas Deakin University, Geelong, Australia

Neurosurgical skills conference for medical students: A before and after study.

Undergraduate conferences may improve exposure to neurosurgery among medical students. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of a neurosurgical skills conference on medical students' comprehension and perceptions of the specialty. A before-and-after (BA) study design was employed to assess the effects of a conference that integrated presentations with hands-on sessions. Practical workshops covered craniotomy, spinal fixation, surface anatomy, intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring, basic surgical skills, and microsurgical simulation. Pre-conference and post-conference surveys, utilizing Likert scales, gauged participants' attitudes, prior neurosurgical exposure, and understanding of neurosurgical skills. Statistical analysis was conducted on dichotomized responses. Thirty-one participants completed both surveys, with the majority being 1st and 2nd-year medical students. Among the participants, 58.1% were female, and 77.4% identified with BAME ethnicities. Following the conference, there was a notable increase in comprehension regarding neurosurgical careers (from 58.1% to 96.8%, P < 0.001) and training criteria (from 22.6% to 93.5%, P < 0.001). The conference enhanced knowledge of indications for craniotomy (P < 0.001), ICP monitoring (P < 0.001), and spinal fixation (P < 0.001). Participants reported improved understanding of the steps involved in craniotomy (P < 0.001), familiarity with basic cranial surgical surface anatomy (P < 0.001), and confidence in performing basic surgical instrument ties (P < 0.001). Although interest in pursuing a career in neurosurgery remained high (from 87.1% to 90.3%, P = 1.000), a majority of participants, both BA the conference, expressed concerns about the impact on personal life (from 58.1% to 64.5%, P = 0.774). This study underscores the role of undergraduate mixed-method conferences in augmenting understanding of neurosurgery and nurturing early interest.

Mediterranean Diet-Based Sustainable Healthy Diet and Multicomponent Training Combined Intervention Effect on Body Composition, Anthropometry, and Physical Fitness in Healthy Aging

Background: Diet and exercise interventions have been associated with improved body composition and physical fitness. However, evidence regarding their combined effects in older adults is scarce. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a combined 12-week Mediterranean diet-based sustainable healthy diet (SHD) and multicomponent training (MT) intervention on body composition, anthropometry, and physical fitness in older adults. Methods: Diet intervention groups received a weekly SHD food supply and four sessions, including a SHD culinary practical workshop. The exercise program included MT 50 min group session, three times a week, on non-consecutive days. Body composition and physical fitness variables were assessed through dual X-ray absorptiometry, anthropometric measurements, and senior fitness tests. Repeated measures ANOVA, with terms for group, time, and interaction, was performed. Results: Our results showed that a combined intervention significantly lowered BMI and total fat. Also, significant differences between assessments in all physical fitness tests, except for aerobic endurance, were observed. Adjusted models show significant differences in BMI (p = 0.049) and WHR (p = 0.037) between groups and in total fat (p = 0.030) for the interaction term. Body strength (p &lt; 0.001), balance tests (p &lt; 0.001), and aerobic endurance (p = 0.005) had significant differences amongst groups. Considering the interaction term, differences were observed for upper body strength (p = 0.046) and flexibility tests (p = 0.004 sit and reach, p = 0.048 back scratch). Conclusions: Our intervention study demonstrates the potential of implementing healthy lifestyle and sustainable models to promote healthy and active aging.

Feasibility of a complex psychosocial intervention for families with parental cancer: acceptability, suitability, implementability, and perceived support

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the feasibility of a comprehensive psychosocial intervention for families coping with parental cancer.MethodsA quasi-experimental trial with intervention and control group, employing a mixed-methods approach, was conducted. A total of 472 families affected by parental cancer participated. The feasibility of the intervention was evaluated based on study monitoring measures (on-site visits, team supervision meeting observations, case conference observations, best practice workshops, coordinating information exchange between intervention sites, and reviewing intervention documentation), process evaluation (semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion) and survey data. Data analysis involved thematic coding and descriptive statistics.ResultsThe intervention was well-received by the participating families, with a high degree of acceptance observed. The feasibility of the intervention was found to be associated with specific dynamics within each family system and the motivation of the family members. The success of the intervention was described as dependent on the family-centered arrangement of the encounters, including factors such as frequency, duration, and mode, which greatly influenced its overall acceptability.ConclusionThe family-scout intervention demonstrates its feasibility as an effective intervention to reduce the burden experienced by families coping with parental cancer. Psychosocial oncology services should continue to develop and implement family-centered interventions to offer support to families during their cancer journey.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04186923. Retrospectively registered on 4 December 2019.

The lack of STEM vocations and gender gap in secondary education students

The gender gap in STEM vocations among high school students still remains a troubling reality. Several studies indicate that students in general have less interest in science and technology subjects, and this disparity is even more distinguishable among female students. In fact, the aforementioned gender gap in STEM begins to manifest itself at an early age and worsens during adolescence. Some of the multiple causes include cultural factors, gender stereotypes, and lack of female role models. Therefore, it is essential to promote gender equality and encourage inclusion and diversity in the educational environment as a key measure to reduce the gap. This is why in this study comprehensive research was carried out to analyse the factors that contribute to the gender gap in STEM careers. To this end, a survey was conducted of approximately 1,000 secondary education students from a range of centres in the Canary Islands. The survey yielded insights into the direct influence of close references on students and the lack of female role models. This allowed the identification of effective measures to increase women’s participation in these fields. One of the suggested solutions is the implementation of practical workshops, in which female figures play a key role. These workshops are used to demonstrate to students that there are numerous role models nearby who can motivate and encourage them to explore and develop their interest in the field of science and technology. By providing said opportunities and role models, our aim is to build their confidence and provide them with the necessary tools to take advantage of all the opportunities that the STEM field has to offer.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SATELLITE SYSTEMS AND NAVIGATION IN STEAM EDUCATION

The research focuses on the relevance of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in modern society, education, and the role of satellite systems. The STEAM approach combines technical and creative skills to provide students with a holistic education that encourages innovative problem-solving and critical thinking. Understanding the workings of geostationary satellites and navigation systems, vital to many modern technologies, is essential for developing the competencies students need in the digital world. An engineering approach to understanding the concepts and content we use in our everyday lives is pointed out. The research emphasizes that integrating these topics into the educational process promotes interdisciplinary integration of physics, mathematics, geography and informatics knowledge and enhances students' digital competencies. Using innovative pedagogical approaches such as simulations, project work, and practical workshops, teaching complex subjects such as satellite systems effectively while contributing to the development of creativity and critical thinking is possible. This approach ensures that the education system effectively prepares young people for life in a technologically advanced and globalized society, where science and technology are becoming increasingly important. Keywords: EGNOS, navigation, satellite systems, STEAM

Pencapaian Diferensiasi Produk Melalui Strategi Inovasi dan Kreativitas Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play an important role in the Indonesian economy, but often face challenges such as limited access to technology, quality of human resources, and marketing. This community service activity aims to help MSMEs achieve product differentiation through innovation and creativity strategies. The methods used include theoretical training and practical workshops. The results of the activity showed an increase in participants' knowledge and skills in developing innovative products and creative marketing strategies. Evaluation through questionnaires and interviews showed participant satisfaction and increased sales after implementing new strategies. Challenges faced included limited resources and time, which were overcome through collaboration with related institutions and follow-up programs. Thus, this activity succeeded in increasing the competitiveness of MSMEs in local and international markets, as well as contributing to the national economy. The sustainability of the program is pursued through ongoing mentoring programs and the formation of MSME innovation communities. These results show that innovation and creativity strategies can be an effective solution to overcome the challenges faced by MSMEs and improve community welfare.

The Influence of an Evidence-Based Practice Course on Saudi Nursing Students' Beliefs About and Implementation of Evidence-Based Practice: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study.

Background Previous research on evidence-based practice (EBP) beliefs and implementation among nurses in daily clinical practice has revealed a strong belief in EBP, yet its implementation remains inadequate. To prepare prospective nurses to meet this requirement, academic efforts have been made to incorporate EBP into the undergraduate nursing curriculum. Objective This study aims to examine the influence of a course focused on EBPon Saudi nursing students' beliefs about and implementation of EBP at one university using a cross-sectional comparative design. Method A cross-sectional comparative design was employed. The Evidence-Based Practice Belief Scale and the Evidence-Based Practice Implementation Scale were utilized. A questionnaire was distributed to 243 second-year undergraduate nursing students before they began the EBP course and after they completed it. Result A total of 130 students responded to the questionnaire before they started the course and 118 students after they completed the course. The results show that the mean score on the EBP Belief Scale (EBPB) was 55.69 ± 9.93 before the course but increased to 60.75 ± 11.45 afterward. Similarly, the mean score on the Evidence-Based Practice Implementation Scale (EBPI) was 31.59 ± 18.39 prior to the course and increased to 46.41 ± 21.93 post-course. Conclusion These findings suggest that students internalized the importance of staying updated on the latest research and expressed a willingness to implement EBP across advanced healthcare systems, which could contribute to positive patient outcomes. Additional practical workshops and training programs are essential to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance safe nursing care in clinical settings.

Experimental Study on the Management of Motorcycle Engineering Practice Workshops at SMKN 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMKN 1 Simpangkatis in Relation to Student Academic Achievement

The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors involved in managing practical workshops, including workshop space management, equipment management, and occupational health and safety (K3), in relation to student achievement in motorcycle engineering workshops at SMK N 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMK N 1 Simpang Katis. This research is an ex-post facto study using a correlational approach. The population consists of all 11th-grade students at SMK N 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMK N 1 Simpang Katis, totaling 120 students. The sample size, calculated using the Slovin formula with a 10% margin of error, resulted in 72 respondents. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires and tests, supported by Google Forms. The prerequisites for this research involved tests for normality, linearity, and multicollinearity. Hypotheses were tested using simple and multiple regression analyses. The results showed that workshop space management has a positive and significant impact on student achievement. Likewise, equipment management and K3 were found to have a positive and significant influence on student achievement. Overall, workshop management positively and significantly affects student performance at both SMK N 2 Pangkal Pinang and SMK N 1 Simpang Katis

대학 전공트랙제 기반 융합전공자의 전공적응 지원을 위한 비교과 교육요구 분석: H대학의 제2트랙을 중심으로

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the major adjustment and educational needs of students in convergence majors, and to suggest directions for the operation of educational programs aimed at major adjustment. Methods This study surveyed 83 students in convergence majors at H-University in Seoul, focusing on their major satisfaction, major adjustment, and educational needs for their major. For data analysis, the mean and standard deviation were calculated using the SPSS 22.0 statistical program. In addition, an independent sample t-test and univariate analysis of variance were conducted to confirm differences between groups. Results The results showed that, first, the students in convergence majors were generally satisfied with their major. second, major adjustment to the major track was high, satisfaction with course selection and goal orientation was high, but career decision confidence and support from the academic environment was relatively low. Third, in terms of extra-curricular requirements for adapting to the second major, students would like to have one to two hours of lectures, practical workshops and mentoring during the semester from industry or professional lecturers directly related to the second major. Conclusions The study will contribute to establishing a foundation for improving both curricular and extracurricular offerings for convergence major students.