Practical Skills Research Articles

Structured training initiative (STI) for caregivers of children on peritoneal dialysis: a prospective study of the impact on the rate of peritonitis.

Training caregivers performing PD is an important measure to prevent peritonitis. A low literacy rate hinders training in low-resource settings. We designed a structured training initiative (STI) and objective structured assessment (OSA) using visual and kinesthetic resources with minimal use of written resources. We studied the impact of STIs on caregivers' knowledge and practical skills and the rate of peritonitis. This prospective study conducted initial STI (iSTI) for caregivers of children initiating PD and retraining STI (rSTI) for those already on PD. OSA was administered after completion of training, and those scoring < 95% were retrained. Re-assessment was done at 3, 6, and 12months, and those who scored < 95% underwent re-training. The rate of PD peritonitis and the time to first peritonitis were compared between the STI group and the cohort on PD in our center who received standard training before STI (controls). Caregivers of 40 children were included. The median duration of iSTI and rSTI was 19.5 (18, 20) and 9 (9, 9.5) hrs, and the OSA scores were 97% (97%, 98%) and 96% (96%, 98%), respectively. Only 5% required retraining. There was a significant reduction in the rate of PD peritonitis (0.29 vs. 0.69 episodes/patient-year; p < 0.001) and longer time to peritonitis (189 vs. 69days; p < 0.001) in the STI group when compared to the controls (n = 32). STI was effective in training caregivers for peritoneal dialysis. There was a reduction in the rate of peritonitis and a longer time to first peritonitis in the STI cohort.

Effectiveness of Microlearning as an Additional Teaching Instrument in Orthopaedics and Traumatology University Course

Orthopedics and traumatology are clinical specialties that require continuous learning and skill enhancement. Traditional teaching methods may not always be sufficient to meet the needs of contemporary learners. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of microlearning as an additional tool in orthopedics and traumatology university courses alongside traditional teaching methods. The study concluded that microlearning significantly improved students’ knowledge retention, practical skills, and overall performance compared to traditional teaching methods alone. The findings suggest that integrating microlearning into orthopedics and traumatology curricula can improve student learning outcomes and better prepare them for real-world practice.

Awareness about Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination among Undergraduate Female Students at the University of Agadir, Morocco: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study

Breast cancer is a pressing public health issue globally and in Morocco, with rising cases among women. This study aims to evaluate breast cancer awareness and self-examination practices among female university students, informing future educational interventions. A cross-sectional study surveyed 437 students at Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, using a questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge of breast cancer, risk factors, symptoms, and breast self-examination (BSE). Results showed high awareness of breast cancer (95.3%), with social networks and media being primary information sources. However, only 48.25% had intermediate knowledge levels, and BSE awareness was moderate (60.8%) with low practical skills (28.0%). Reasons for not performing BSE included lack of knowledge and discomfort. Significant associations were found between knowledge levels and age, year of study, study options, and information sources. Despite high awareness, there is a crucial need to enhance knowledge about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and BSE practices among young women in Morocco. Educational programs targeting university students are essential for promoting early detection and improving attitudes toward breast health.

Practicing traditional cultural games skills according to random and game-based practice schedules can improve gross motor skills performance

The aim of this research was to examine the effects of using a random and game-based practice schedule for Traditional Cultural Games (TCG) skills on the performance of gross motor skills. Specifically, skills of two types of TCG, Chindro, an individual TCG, and Pittu-Garam, a team TCG, were practiced. 102 primary school children, ages seven to ten, attended a total of eighteen sessions of skill practice in 6 weeks, practicing TCG motor skills found in the game of Chindro or Pittu-Garam. For each TCG, participants were assigned to either random or game-based conditions, contributing to four experimental groups (Chindro random, Chindro game-based, Pittu random, and Pittu game-based). Gross motor skills performance was measured, before and after the experiment, according to the Test of Gross Motor Development-2. Particularly, the performance of six gross motor skills, Catch, Overhead Throw, Underhand Roll, Hop, Leap, and Jump, were assessed. Additionally, through a transfer test, the same skills were evaluated from a real-world game situation. In the skills performance test, all four groups significantly improved gross motor skills performance by the end of the experiment. However, there was no difference found between the groups based on game-based and random selection in the skills performance test and the game transfer test for both TCG. Practicing TCG skills according to high interference practice schedules, whether individually or in combination, improved gross motor skills performance. The study indicated that a game-based practice schedule could be a substitute for a random practice schedule when planning a training session involving high-interference practice schedules.

Tests in Moodle: optimizing the educational process for students of technical specialties

The article considers introduction and use of test items in Moodle system with the purpose of improvement. This study considers the challenges faced by university teachers and students of technical specialties in the modern educational environment. It emphasized the need to develop not only theoretical, but also practical skills. The role of electronic learning tools is highlighted, the importance of online platforms, namely the Moodle distance learning system, is emphasized. The main focus of the article is the application of tests on the Moodle platform in order to optimize the educational process and assess the performance of students of technical specialties. The study is the results of a survey of university teachers and students of Institute for Cybersecurity and Digital Technologies and Institute for Advanced Technologies and Industrial Programming of MIREA – Russian Technological University on the use of Moodle and the use of tests to assess knowledge. The work also covers various aspects of the use of Moodle in the educational process, focusing on the development of practical skills and effective assessment of learning achievement. University teachers shared their experience of using Moodle for educational purposes, identifying the advantages and features of introducing test items in the system. The students expressed their opinion about the perception of the platform as well as the level of satisfaction. The results of the survey were presented as quantitative and qualitative data and subsequently analysed statistically. It also focused on the advantages and limitations of using Moodle in technical education from the point of view of the participants in the process. These findings can be a valuable resource for educators as well as for platform developers seeking to improve functionality tailored to the needs of technical education programs.

A tale of two centres: A cross-institutional peer review of integrated assessment use in direct entry programs

Direct Entry Programs (DEPs) at Australian universities are designed to enhance students’ English language and academic skills, with the primary goals of preparing and assuring students’ readiness for university studies. Given that university tasks often require the integration of language skills (e.g., writing assignments using information from lectures, articles, and textbooks), this paper proposes the use of integrated assessment tasks in DEPs to increase the authenticity in their assessment approach by using tasks that replicate actual university learning, teaching, and assessment practices. To encourage the shift from standard practice of separate skills testing to integrated assessment, we present key findings of a literature review in integrated assessment use in language programs and show how integrated assessment is implemented in two institutions in Sydney, Australia. The paper also highlights advantages of cross-institutional peer review and proposes an argument-based validity framework for test design that language centres can use to guide good practice.

Exploring the implementation and perception of competency-based assessment practices among Vietnamese EFL instructors

This qualitative study explored the perspectives of Vietnamese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers on the implementation of competency-based assessment (CBA) within the higher education context. Amidst the global shift towards competency-based education, this research aimed to understand how instructors in Vietnam navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by CBA, focusing on its impact on teaching practices and student learning. The objective of this study was to examine the adaptations and responses of EFL teachers to the implementation of CBA, identifying how these adaptations influence teaching effectiveness and student learning experiences. Employing semi-structured interviews with 10 EFL teachers from two institutions, the study was grounded in constructivist and social constructivist theoretical frameworks, facilitating a nuanced exploration of the participants’ experiences. The findings revealed several key themes: significant challenges in transitioning to CBA, including adapting to new methodologies and a lack of resources; the transformative potential of CBA for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes; the need for targeted professional development to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation skills; and the role of CBA in fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, student autonomy, and inclusivity. Additionally, the study highlighted the complexities of providing effective, individualized feedback within CBA frameworks. The discussion underscores the importance of these findings in informing the development of more effective competency-based educational strategies and highlights recommendations for enhancing teacher training and assessment design to better support competency development. These insights contribute to the discourse on competency-based language education, suggesting implications for policy, practice, and future research. By highlighting the specific challenges and strategies employed by Vietnamese EFL teachers, this study offers valuable perspectives for instructors, policymakers, and researchers aiming to advance the implementation of competency-based assessment in language education globally.

FORMATION OF STUDENTS’ READINESS FOR PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY IN THE PROCESS OF PRACTICE ACCORDING TO THE PROFILE OF THE FUTURE

Team Actuality. Practice according to the profile of the future profession plays an exceptional role not only in instilling theoretical information, but also practical abilities and skills in the training of future sports coaches. The purpose of the research – to substantiate the theoretical foundations of the formation of the components of professional readiness of students in the process of practice according to the profile of the future profession. Research methods: general scientific – analysis, comparison, systematization, generalization of scientific and methodical literature, pedagogical testing; methods of mathematical statistics. 50 students of the specialty 017 "Physical culture and sports" of the National University of Physical Education and Sports of Ukraine took part in the testing. Research results and key conclusions. The modern view on formation of readiness of students' for professional activity in the course of practice according to the profile of the future profession. The structure of the coach’s readiness for future professional activity as a set of motivational, creative and reflective components is substantiated. Emphasis is placed on the fact that from today’s standpoint it is important to develop new approaches to the content and organization of industrial practice, which stimulate student activity to master professionally oriented knowledge, skills and abilities. It is shown that there is a need for theoretical justification of the form, content (diagnostic, organizational, communicative and motivational functions) and structure of production practice, as a necessary condition for the formation of readiness of future coaches for professional activity.

PEMBERDAYAAN KADER MELALUI PELATIHAN PIJAT OKSITOSIN UNTUK PENCEGAHAN MASTITIS

Oxytocin massage has proven effective in reducing the risk of mastitis in breastfeeding mothers by helping the breasts to relax and improving milk flow, thereby reducing swelling and milk duct blockages. Education on proper breastfeeding techniques is crucial to prevent worsening conditions and increasing the risk of mastitis. This community service activity aims to provide education and oxytocin massage training to posyandu cadres in the Puskesmas Pancana Makassar area. The community service method involves direct guidance from trained facilitators to the cadres, which includes proper and safe massage techniques as well as understanding the benefits for breastfeeding mothers, while cadre participation is documented and analyzed to evaluate the impact of the training on increasing knowledge and skills in oxytocin massage techniques and mastitis prevention. The results of this activity show that oxytocin massage training effectively enhances the practical skills of posyandu cadres, with 80% of cadres achieving good skills after the training compared to only 10% before the training, thus contributing to the prevention of mastitis and improving the quality of health services at posyandu. Integrating oxytocin massage into posyandu cadre training programs is crucial in preventing mastitis, enhancing maternal mental health, and strengthening the emotional bond between mother and baby. Therefore, this training not only improves the practical knowledge of cadres but also has a significant positive impact on supporting family health and well-being at the community level.

Integrating feedback mechanisms and ChatGPT for VR-based experiential learning: impacts on reflective thinking and AIoT physical hands-on tasks

ABSTRACT This study investigates the application of Virtual Reality (VR) in the educational field, particularly its integration with GAI technologies such as ChatGPT to enhance the learning experience. The research indicates that while VR provides an immersive learning environment fostering student interaction and interest, the lack of a structured learning framework and personalized feedback may limit its educational effectiveness and potentially affect the transfer of VR-learned knowledge to physical hands-on tasks. Hence, it calls for the provision of more targeted and personalized feedback in VR learning environments. Through a randomized controlled trial (RCT), this study collected data from 77 university students, integrating experiential learning in VR for acquiring AIoT knowledge and practical skills, and compared the effects of traditional feedback versus GPT feedback on promoting reflective thinking, learning motivation, cognitive levels, and AIoT hands-on abilities among the students. The results show that the group receiving GPT feedback significantly outperformed the control group across these learning indicators, demonstrating the effectiveness of GAI technologies in providing personalized learning support, facilitating deep learning, and enhancing educational outcomes. This study offers new insights into the integration of GAI technology in VR learning environments, paving new pathways for the development and application of future educational technologies.

Optimization Path for Employment-oriented Training of Computer Majors in Higher Vocational Education

This article proposes an optimization path for the employment-oriented demand in the training of computer professionals in vocational colleges. A series of improvement measures have been proposed by analyzing the current situation. Firstly, focus on optimizing the practical teaching process and increasing internship opportunities for cooperation with enterprises, to enhance students’ practical skills and work experience. Secondly, strengthen the cultivation of soft skills, including communication and teamwork abilities, and cultivate students’ ability to adapt to the real working environment. At the same time, establish a close integration model between industry and education, offer courses closely related to the needs of enterprises, and improve the employment competitiveness of graduates. Finally, teachers should encourage students to participate in project practice, cultivate the ability to solve practical problems, pay attention to industry development trends, and flexibly adjust teaching content. Through these measures, it is expected to better meet the demand for high-quality talents in the computer industry, and enhance the employment competitiveness and career adaptability of graduates.

Evaluating the perceived impact and legacy of master’s degree level research in the allied health professions: a UK-wide cross-sectional survey

BackgroundPost graduate master’s degree qualifications are increasingly required to advance allied health profession careers in education, clinical practice, leadership, and research. Successful awards are dependent on completion of a research dissertation project. Despite the high volume of experience gained and research undertaken at this level, the benefits and impact are not well understood. Our study aimed to evaluate the perceived impact and legacy of master’s degree training and research on allied health profession practice and research activity.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey design was used to collect data from allied health professionals working in the United Kingdom who had completed a postgraduate master’s degree. Participants were recruited voluntarily using social media and clinical interest group advertisement. Data was collected between October and December 2022 and was analysed using descriptive statistics and narrative content analysis. Informed consent was gained, and the study was approved by the university research ethics committee.ResultsEighty-four responses were received from nine allied health professions with paramedics and physiotherapists forming the majority (57%) of respondents. Primary motivation for completion of the master’s degree was for clinical career progression (n = 44, 52.4%) and formation of the research dissertation question was predominantly sourced from individual ideas (n = 58, 69%). Formal research output was low with 27.4% (n = 23) of projects published in peer reviewed journal and a third of projects reporting no output or dissemination at all. Perceived impact was rated highest in individual learning outcomes, such as improving confidence and capability in clinical practice and research skills. Ongoing research engagement and activity was high with over two thirds (n = 57, 67.9%) involved in formal research projects.ConclusionThe focus of master's degree level research was largely self-generated with the highest perceived impact on individual outcomes rather than broader clinical service and organisation influence. Formal output from master’s research was low, but ongoing research engagement and activity was high suggesting master’s degree training is an under-recognised source for AHP research capacity building. Future research should investigate the potential benefits of better coordinated and prioritised research at master’s degree level on professional and organisational impact.

Fungal conservation through a private initiative: the Mushroom Research Centre (MRC) in Thailand

The conservation of fungi is an integral part of ecosystem conservation. The Mushroom Research Centre’s strategic approach to fungal conservation offers valuable insights. Located in northern Thailand, this institution has emerged as a research and training hub for mycologists across Asia, providing them with practical knowledge and skills. Its influence has not been limited to the region, making it a compelling case study for the potential impact of private conservation initiatives.

Застосування CAD/CAE-системи Solidworks у задачах аналізу міцності деталей верстатних пристосувань

The strength of parts is a critically important characteristic of the design of Clamping Fixtures. Calculating the strength of parts of Clamping Fixtures is necessary both when designing new structures and when checking existing ones. Traditional calculation methods, such as nominal stress calculation, although easy to use, have low accuracy. This creates a need for more accurate and efficient strength analysis methods. Modern CAD/CAE systems, in particular SolidWorks with the Simulation application, provide powerful tools for engineering calculations and finite element modeling. The algorithm of static calculation presented in the article on the example of the "Grip" part demonstrates the sequence of actions during strength analysis in the SolidWorks environment. This algorithm includes creation of a 3D model, generation of a finite-element mesh, material selection, determination of anchoring and loading conditions, calculation and analysis of results. An important stage of the analysis is the choice of the material of the part. At the same time, it should be taken into account that the databases of foreign CAD/CAE systems may not contain some domestic materials, which requires the selection of analogues with similar characteristics. The system allows you to visualize the results of calculations in the form of colored diagrams of stress and strain distribution. This greatly facilitates the analysis and interpretation of the results, allowing the critical areas of the structure to be quickly identified. The use of CAD/CAE systems for strength analysis of machine tool parts has a number of advantages compared to traditional methods. It increases the accuracy of calculations, reduces the time for their implementation, allows you to easily make changes to the design and instantly assess their impact on the strength of the part. The proposed method allows you to carry out both design and verification calculations of details of Clamping Fixtures. This makes it a versatile tool for structural engineers. The implementation of such strength analysis methods is particularly relevant both for the educational process and for real production. In terms of training, it allows students to gain practical skills in working with modern engineering systems. In production, it helps to improve the quality of design, reduce the number of errors and optimize structures.

Lifestyles and Academic Stress in University Students of Health Sciences: A Mixed-Methodology Study

The global health emergency generated by the COVID-19 pandemic (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) led to the implementation of extraordinary measures such as confinement and isolation in many countries to mitigate the spread of the virus. (1) This study analyzes the lifestyles and academic and perceived stresses of university students of health sciences during the period of online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The relationship between lifestyles and academic stress was examined. (2) A parallel mixed-method convergent study was conducted, with a correlational non-experimental design. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed in parallel, with parametric and nonparametric testing for quantitative data and Miles and Huberman’s approach to qualitative analysis. The qualitative findings complemented the quantitative results. The number of students who participated in this study was 2734, from six programs in health, nursing, medicine, clinical laboratory, physiotherapy, dentistry, and clinical psychology at the University of Chimborazo, Ecuador. (3) Overall, the health science students had “Unhealthy or health-compromising lifestyles”, medical students being the ones who have healthier lifestyles. However, more than 80% experienced and perceived stress during the period of online learning and social isolation due to the pandemic, women being the ones who experienced it at a higher level. (4) The online learning modality during the COVID-19 pandemic modified lifestyles and generated stress in health science students, due to changes in daily routines, sedentary lifestyle, and stress, as a result of social isolation. Therefore, the students prefer face-to-face teaching, perceived as enabling more enriching interactions with their teachers and peers and the opportunity to develop essential practical skills in their health practice.

Acceptability and preliminary effects of the volunteer-supported Meaningful Moments program to engage older adults with advanced dementia on a hospital-based specialized dementia care unit: a mixed methods study

BackgroundNamaste Care offers practical skills for healthcare providers, volunteers, and families to meaningfully engage individuals with dementia in activities (e.g., music, massage, reminiscing, socialization, aromatherapy, snacks). A hospital-based specialized dementia care unit for patients with mid- to late-stage dementia offered an adapted version of the Namaste Care program, which was called Meaningful Moments. The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability and preliminary effects of this novel approach using trained volunteers for older adults with mid- to late-stage dementia.MethodsA mixed methods multiphase design was used. Qualitative description was used to explore acceptability of the Meaningful Moments program delivered over 6 months through focus groups (e.g., charge nurses, therapeutic recreationists, nurses, social workers) and individual interviews with one volunteer and two family members. A prospective pre-post-test study design was used to evaluate the preliminary effects of the program for patients with dementia and family members. Outcomes included quality of life, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and pain for patients with dementia and family carer role stress and the quality of visits for families. Data were collected from June 2018 to April 2019. Descriptive analyses of participants’ characteristics were expressed as a mean (standard deviation [SD]) for continuous variables and count (percent) for categorical variables. Focus group and individual interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The generalized estimating equations (GEE) method was used to assess change in the repeated measures outcome data.ResultsA total of 15 patients received the Meaningful Moments interventions. Families, staff, and volunteers perceived that patients experienced benefits from Meaningful Moments. Staff, volunteers, and families felt fulfilled in their role of engaging patients in the Meaningful Moments program. Individualized activities provided by volunteers were perceived as necessary for the patient population. There were no statistically significant improvements in patient outcomes. There was a statistically significant decline in family carer role stress.ConclusionsUsing a one-on-one approach by volunteers, patients experienced perceived benefits such as improved mood and opportunities for social interactions. There is a need for tailored activities for older adults with advanced dementia through practical strategies that can offer benefit to patients.

Student Teachers’ Views on Developing Practical Online Art Skills During Teaching Practice

Student Teachers’ Views on Developing Practical Online Art Skills During Teaching Practice

Student Teachers’ Views on Developing Practical Online Art Skills During Teaching Practice

Student Teachers’ Views on Developing Practical Online Art Skills During Teaching Practice

Pragmatic Competence in Second Language Learners

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to analyze pragmatic competence in second language learners. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to pragmatic competence in second language learners. Preliminary empirical review revealed that pragmatic competence is crucial for effective communication in a second language, often lacking in learners despite their grammatical proficiency. Explicit instruction in pragmatic norms and strategies significantly improved learners' communication abilities. Cultural immersion and authentic language use were found essential for developing practical pragmatic skills. The study also highlighted the importance of considering individual differences, such as motivation and language aptitude, to tailor instruction and enhance pragmatic training effectively. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Speech Act Theory, Politeness Theory and Socio-Cultural Theory may be used to anchor future studies on pragmatic competence in second language learners. The study highlighted the need for a broader theoretical understanding that integrates sociolinguistics and cognitive sciences, recommended incorporating pragmatic skills into language curricula through authentic dialogues and interactive activities, and advocated for policies that prioritize pragmatic competence in language proficiency standards and assessments. It emphasized the importance of cross-cultural awareness and recommended collaborative efforts among educators, researchers, and policymakers to develop comprehensive frameworks. The study also suggested ongoing research to monitor the effectiveness of these changes and adapt educational practices accordingly.

Let’s talk about work: pilot study of an education program on discussing work participation with cancer patients for general practitioners in training

BackgroundCancer patients report that they lack support from healthcare providers when it comes to returning to or maintaining employment. In the education of general practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands, there is little attention given to discussing work participation with patients. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate a newly developed education program for GPs in training that focuses on discussing work participation with cancer patients.MethodsTwo groups of in total twenty-one GPs in training participated in the education program. GPs were educated about the importance of discussing work participation with patients, work-related problems cancer patients can experience, and advice they can give to support cancer patients regarding work issues. In this pilot study using a mixed-method design, participants evaluated the program in two self-developed questionnaires and in a focus group discussion.ResultsSeventeen participating GPs (81%) indicated that the education program was suitable for implementation in the education curriculum. Eleven participants (52%) reported that they had never discussed work participation with cancer patients before. Directly after the education program, eighteen participants (86%) reported that they planned to discuss work participation more often with their patients. Four months after the program, 67% indicated they had applied their new knowledge and skills in practice by discussing work participation and by referring cancer patients to occupational health professionals or online resources. According to the GPs in training, integrating the topic of work participation into other education for GPs in training and focusing on a broader group of patients could improve the impact of the education program.ConclusionsAccording to the results of this pilot study, the newly developed education program increased the awareness of GPs in training on the importance of discussing work participation with cancer patients. Future studies should focus on whether cancer patients experience more support from their GPs for maintaining and returning to employment after their GP has participated in the training program.