Preferred Learning Methods Research Articles

NRK-ABMIL: Subtle Metastatic Deposits Detection for Predicting Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer Whole-Slide Images

The early diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in breast cancer is essential for enhancing treatment outcomes and overall prognosis. Unfortunately, pathologists often fail to identify small or subtle metastatic deposits, leading them to rely on cytokeratin stains for improved detection, although this approach is not without its flaws. To address the need for early detection, multiple-instance learning (MIL) has emerged as the preferred deep learning method for automatic tumor detection on whole slide images (WSIs). However, existing methods often fail to identify some small lesions due to insufficient attention to small regions. Attention-based multiple-instance learning (ABMIL)-based methods can be particularly problematic because they may focus too much on normal regions, leaving insufficient attention for small-tumor lesions. In this paper, we propose a new ABMIL-based model called normal representative keyset ABMIL (NRK-ABMIL), which addresseses this issue by adjusting the attention mechanism to give more attention to lesions. To accomplish this, the NRK-ABMIL creates an optimal keyset of normal patch embeddings called the normal representative keyset (NRK). The NRK roughly represents the underlying distribution of all normal patch embeddings and is used to modify the attention mechanism of the ABMIL. We evaluated NRK-ABMIL on the publicly available Camelyon16 and Camelyon17 datasets and found that it outperformed existing state-of-the-art methods in accurately identifying small tumor lesions that may spread over a few patches. Additionally, the NRK-ABMIL also performed exceptionally well in identifying medium/large tumor lesions.

Israeli medical faculties' response to the COVID-19 crisis vis-à-vis anatomical education: The cultivation of future academic leadership-A national mixed-methods study.

The COVID-19 crisis created unprecedented conditions for the medical academic system that enable it to showcase the real value of learning approaches in anatomical education. In parallel, the ongoing reassessment of the role of dissection in medical training, given the huge advances in imaging technology and science education, continued. The present study investigates the response of the six Israeli medical faculties to the pandemic vis-à-vis anatomical education. We reached out to medical students studying anatomy at the time of the crisis (N = 311), advanced medical students working as anatomy instructors (N = 55), and deans and heads of anatomy departments (N = 6). Applying a mixed-method approach, we used Likert scale questionnaires and held in-depth interviews with faculty members. Our results indicate that Israeli medical faculties were committed to a dissection-based anatomy curriculum and made substantial efforts to maintain it in the face of health restrictions. Students appreciated these efforts as this was their preferred learning method. Through a phenomenological analysis of interviews, we demonstrate how the crisis opened up a unique prism through which new insights into the debated role of dissection may be gleaned. Our analysis also reveals that anatomy instructors played a pivotal role in the crisis, not only because they carried out faculty policy, but especially because it gave them the opportunity to determine policy and show leadership. The crisis additionally enabled faculties to cultivate their leadership skills. Our research confirms donor body dissection as a mainstay of anatomical education and emphasizes its immeasurable value to the curriculum and future physicians.

Analysis of French Language Training Needs for Tourism Actors in Nusa Penida

This research is intended to review and characterize the French language training requirements for Nusa Penida tour operators to develop their foreign language skills. In Klungkung Regency, Nusa Penida Island which is located in the south of Bali Island is managed as a Regency. Dubbed “Bali Is Called Nusa Penida The Best Destination for Backpackers,” it ranks first out of 20 countries as the biggest destination for tourists worldwide, beating Vietnam, Madagascar, and other ASEAN countries, according to the New Dublin Based Online and Hostel-Booking Platform.
 Comparing the number of visitors from various European countries to Bali from 2016 to 2020, the number of French tourists occupies the top position. Likewise, the island of Nusa Penida sees many French visitors. The following questions were included in a questionnaire given to 50 respondents: What topic of French are you most interested in learning? What kind of French language education are you looking for? What French term or verb would you like to learn first? What kind of substance do you need? What learning method do you prefer?
 According to the responses, speaking and oral communication skills were cited by 70% of respondents as their top learning priority, followed by outreach by 50% of respondents and courses by 36%. 44% of respondents identified greetings as a function of the language they wanted to learn, while 24% chose greetings and giving information. 48% of respondents said they wanted travel information, and 26% said they wanted information about food. 34% of respondents chose reading and writing as their preferred learning method, while 28% chose to listen.

P-570 Which fertility education interventions have been delivered to adolescents and are effective in increasing fertility knowledge? A systematic review

Abstract Study question Which fertility education interventions have been delivered to adolescents and are effective in increasing fertility knowledge? A systematic review Summary answer Adolescents’ fertility knowledge is low, particularly when it comes to individual factors. Educational interventions are perceived as useful and can increase fertility knowledge. What is known already The importance of fertility education is now well-recognized, but most research has focused on young and emergent adults. Targeting these populations has often resulted in negative public opinion feedback including pressure to have children, with studies showing that increasing young women’s knowledge leads to higher anxiety levels. Despite recent calls for including fertility education within the reproductive health education framework at an age where prevention could be more effective, there are no systematic reviews on the effects of these interventions in adolescents. Study design, size, duration We are conducting a living systematic review based on a registered protocol (PROSPERO CRD42022345551, registered 26 September 2022). A literature search from 01.01.2010 to 29.09.2022 and an update has been planned. Databases included ISI Web of Science, PubMed, PsychArticles and PsychInfo. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Participants/materials, setting, methods A search was conducted using combinations of MeSH terms and keywords, (e.g. “adolescents”; “fertility knowledge”). Studies in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese, with both qualitative and quantitative methods, were eligible. Two reviewers independently selected studies and extracted data. A third researcher solved conflicts. A narrative synthesis approach was used. Main results and the role of chance Our search identified 5127 records after removal of duplicates, and 427 met eligibility criteria for full text analysis. However, <30 were included in the review (update planned). Studies included adolescents from all continents, with most participants from USA. Results revealed that adolescents have a low understanding of fertility risk factors, particularly individual ones when compared to environmental factors. The majority of adolescents agree that fertility knowledge should be included in sex education curricula and perceive this awareness as relevant for future decisions regarding family formation and existent options. The preferred source of information is online digital media, but adolescents acknowledge that information has to be delivered via several sources and that literacy is built through repeated and progressive exposure. Limitations, reasons for caution Included studies were limited to those published in peer review journals. The analyzed studies over-represent interventions in Western countries. There was no sufficient data to perform meta-analysis. Although these limitations suggest a cautious approach to data interpretation, the studies found constitute the best available evidence. Wider implications of the findings Our findings indicate that fertility education is not included in most reproductive health programs or interventions, and that evidence of effective interventions is scarce. Further prospective multicountry studies including fertility knowledge as main outcome are warranted to allow meta-analysis and compare results concerning preferred learning method and treatment options. Trial registration number not applicable

‘I hate when we learn off the mountains and rivers because I don’t need to know where they all are on a blank map?!’ Irish Pupils’ Attitudes Towards, and Preferred Methods of Learning, Primary Geography Education

ABSTRACT This study investigates 152 Irish primary pupils’ attitudes towards geography and their most preferred and least preferred methods of learning and experiencing geography at primary level. The findings indicate that Irish pupils have a neutral attitude towards geography with no significant difference between male and female pupils nor between class levels. Findings clearly show a direct link between teaching approaches and pupil attitudes with Irish pupils preferring hands-on, child-centred, experiential methods of teaching and learning and least preferring rote-learning and didactic and textbook-dominated approaches. Learning about physical features and distant places dominates with few references to the local area.

Oregon Project Firstline: A needs assessment of healthcare personnel infection prevention knowledge and training preferences

Background: Infection prevention and control (IPC) competency is critical for healthcare personnel (HCP) and patient safety. In collaboration with the CDC new national IPC training collaborative called Project Firstline, the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Healthcare Associated Infection (HAI) Program established a state-level program in 2021. The goal of Oregon Project Firstline is to provide relevant, accessible, and engaging IPC training materials for our state’s HCP. We assessed the IPC learning needs of Oregon’s healthcare workforce, and to understand the preferred methods and formats of training across the various HCP roles. Methods: OHA’s HAI program recruited HCP by distributing electronic surveys through multiple healthcare, regulatory, and public health partners’ email listservs and HCP-targeted newsletters. Survey responses were recorded from September 23 to December 10, 2021. The HAI program assessed respondents’ IPC knowledge, online and in-person job training preferences, frequently used training devices, and trusted sources for IPC information. An individual’s understanding of an IPC topic was categorized based on their self-assessed confidence in their knowledge and ability to teach the topic to others. In total, 6,382 surveyed responses were analyzed. Results: The average understanding among HCP was lowest in IPC topics relating to triage and isolation of contagious patients and fit testing of respiratory protection devices. For these topics, 3,208 HCP (66.21%) and 3,657 HCP (75.48%) HCP, respectively, did not understand the topic well enough to teach others (Fig. 1). The highest number of HCP (n = 2,512, 39.36%) requested additional training in methods on how to educate others about IPC topics (ie, “train the trainer”). Surveyed respondents most frequently used personal computers for job trainings in both work and at-home settings (n = 4,603, 72.12%) and 3,437 HCP (53.85%) were open to either in-person or remote formats for job education. The CDC and OHA were the most frequented and trusted IPC sources among surveyed HCP: 4,124 HCP (64.62%) and 3,584 HCP (56.16%), respectively. Conclusions: IPC is a critical topic in HCP training across all healthcare facility types and employee roles. Effective educational planning includes understanding the learners’ knowledge needs and preferred methods of learning. Our learning needs assessment identified important IPC knowledge gaps and will help ensure that our training courses will be offered in effective educational formats for Oregon’s diverse HCP. Future training will include appropriate triage of potentially infectious patients, respiratory fit testing, and general IPC “train the trainer” sessions. Additionally, we will offer both in-person and remote options.Disclosures: None

“Connect it down to the person”: Perspectives on Technology Adoption from Older Angelenos

AbstractOlder adults can face multiple barriers to digital device adoption. To better understand these barriers and other influential factors of digital device use, we conducted focus groups and interviews with adults ages 60+ in collaboration with a non‐profit senior services organization in our large metropolitan area. The average age of participants (n=41) was 74.7 years (SD= 7.4 years). The sample included both Spanish‐speaking (n=21) and English‐speaking (n=20) participants. We used an immersion‐crystallization framework for analysis, engaging in extensive iterative cycles to add, remove and amend codes to identify four major themes: 1) facilitators and 2) barriers of technology usage and digital device uptake, 3) negative aspects of use, and 4) preferred learning methods for digital device training. We found that participants primarily used digital devices to connect with family and friends and cited this ability to connect as a key driver of both initial and continued use. Family members, prior work experience, and community resources were the main facilitators while lack of know‐how was a major barrier. Participants cited substantial concerns about online scams and fraud with frequent device use. Participants preferred hands‐on methods for digital device training and stressed the importance of patient instructors and repetition. To align with our findings, policies that support older adults in overcoming barriers to digital access should comprehensively address secondary barriers to digital adoption by providing ongoing individualized training and social support.

Dental e-learning before, during and after COVID-19 pandemic: a cross sectional study among Saudi dental students

Background: Dental education has been shifting from face‑to‑face learning to e-learning, and this was profound during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess the overall experience and satisfaction of dental students towards e-learning in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted between November 2022 and January 2023. The survey questionnaire comprised items for both qualitative and quantitative analysis of data. Non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test along with Conover post-hoc analysis) were conducted to compare ‘e-learning experience’ and ‘overall satisfaction’, against the descriptive variables. Results: The sample of 250 participants comprised 52.4% females, 71.6% were in the age group 22 to 25 years, 96.4% were Saudi nationals, and 29.6% were 4th-year students. Approximately 72.8% of them described their IT skills as average and 55.2% of them had participated in e-learning activities before the COVID-19 pandemic. E-learning for practical/clinical sessions before the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, during the complete lockdown, after partial return following the lockdown, and after complete return following the lockdown are statistically significantly higher in participants who had participated in e-learning before the pandemic. Conclusions: The present study ascertained the positive perceptions of dental students regarding e-learning as a preferred learning method. However, the students of the preclinical and clinical years have a varying preference between traditional face-to-face education and online learning.

P05 Developing an open-access knowledge exchange platform for breast surgeons

Abstract Introduction Compiling information for best practice and exams is time-consuming. Furthermore, having this on-demand is not always feasible. A group of breast surgery trainees sought to develop a resource that could easily be accessed from a computer or mobile device, and that consolidated all relevant literature. The aim of this survey was to assess the needs for such a resource and inform its design. Methods An online survey was sent to current breast trainees and consultants working in the North East, Northwest and Yorkshire. Oncology trainees in the Northeast were also canvassed. Questions included demographics;, stage of training and qualifications;, online resources used;, potential gains and needs from a resource and preferred learning methods (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, note-making). Results A total of 33 participants completed the survey:24 breast surgeons and 9 oncologists. 60% of the respondents were in higher training (ST5-ST7). The most commonly used resources by breast trainees were ABS (87.5%), NICE guidance (75%) and iBreastbook (45.8%)., Oncology trainees commonly reported using NICE guidance (77.8%), ESMO (77.8%) and NCCN (55.6%). The majority of the respondents identified as visual learners (N=20, 60.6%). 93.9% of respondents would like to have access to recent papers on the online resource, 90% would like access to consolidated guidance. Conclusion Based on the pilot survey results, we have developed an online learning resource (Best of Breast Resource) that addresses these needs. This has been released and is being collaboratively iterated with participants with the aim to release it more widely in the breast community.

Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Amongst Emergency Medicine Residents in Singapore

Introduction:Emergency Medicine (EM) physicians are crucial members of the disaster medical response. In Singapore, the EM residency program spans five years, with junior residents (JRs) progressing to senior residents (SRs) in three years after passing the MRCEM exam or its local equivalent. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions toward disaster medicine among EM residents in Singapore.Method:A cross-sectional study was performed for 90 EM residents for the academic year 2020/2021. A self-administered, 44-item online questionnaire based on the Emergency Preparedness Information Questionnaire (EPIQ) was delivered via GoogleForms™. This assessed familiarity through 10 dimensions, with a minimal score of one and a maximal score of five. The survey also included questions on attitudes towards emergency preparedness and preferred learning methods. Data was collected from May 2020 to November 2020, and analyzed with SPSS.Results:The response rate was 41%. Of these, 75% were JRs and 25% SRs. The overall mean familiarity with disaster preparedness was 2.43 ± 0.90. There was no statistically significant difference of overall mean familiarity between JRs and SRs. Overall, they fared best in the dimension on isolation & quarantine with a mean score of 2.91 ±1.05 and worst in the dimension on psychological issues with a mean score of 2.34 ±0.95.Residents felt that disaster medicine was relevant to their practice with a mean score of 4.22 ± 0.98. They also felt that it was necessary to learn more about it, with a mean score of 4.16 ±0.90. The highest ranked preferred learning method was workshop/simulation training (45.5%), followed by lectures (23.4%).Conclusion:EM Residents have a poor overall familiarity with emergency preparedness, however, they recognized its importance and relevance. The preferred formats of learning were simulation/workshop training. More must be done to improve the overall competency of EM residents in disaster medical response.

ESL Pre-university Learners’ Needs Analysis for Web-based English Academic Vocabulary Learning Resource

A needs analysis will assist ESL practitioners in designing instructional materials more efficiently by filling in the gaps where language learning is lacking. By adapting Hutchinson and Waters' (1987) needs-analysis model, this study investigates ESL pre-university learners’ English academic vocabulary learning needs as regards their attitude, learning experience, preferred learning method, and preferred content for a web-based learning resource. A questionnaire survey was distributed to 117 ESL Life Sciences Foundation students from a foundation studies centre in Kuala Lumpur. The quantitative data collected were analysed descriptively using SPSS Version 26. The findings showed that the learners had positive attitudes towards learning academic vocabulary. Even so, they faced language issues rooted in their lack thereof, particularly in productive skills, such as academic speaking and writing. Their current implicit ways of acquiring academic words and limited resources need to be revised. They also displayed high interest and readiness to explore other learning means, such as a web-based learning resource. The learning needs in the resource include presenting academic words in contexts through sample sentences and by using basic English words, such as synonyms. Additionally, learners need various vocabulary learning exercise types and multimedia. The study informs ESL practitioners on the criteria and elements to be considered to design, development, and successful delivery of academic vocabulary instruction that is effective, practical, and contextualised.

The Influence of Inquiry Learning Model in Improving Students' Critical Thinking Skills in View of Learning Styles in Science Learning in Elementary Schools

One of the skills that students need to possess in the 21st century is the ability to think critically. Students' critical thinking skills can be developed in natural science learning. Nonetheless, not all learning models can help students improve their critical thinking skills. Undoubtedly, a suitable learning model must be chosen; the most crucial step is understanding the student's preferred learning method. This study, therefore, aims to determine the influence of the inquiry learning model in improving students' critical thinking skills in terms of various student learning styles. This study used a quantitative research approach. The method used was an experimental research method with a 2x2 factorial ANOVA experimental research type. This research was conducted in class V at eight elementary schools in Majalengka Regency, with a total sample of 262 students. The data collection instrument employed was an essay test. The data analysis techniques utilized were the normality test, homogeneity test, and the Two-Way ANOVA test using the SPSS version 25 application. The results of this study demonstrated that the critical thinking skills of students with a kinesthetic learning style had a higher average score than those with an audio-visual learning style when the teacher applied the inquiry learning model to natural science learning. It was because the activities of the inquiry learning model in science learning involved a lot of physical movement activities, which are characteristics of students with a kinesthetic learning style.

Nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice with regards to nutritional management of diabetes mellitus

BackgroundThe prevalence of diabetes is increasing rapidly worldwide. Nurses work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to improve diabetes management. Yet, little is known about nurses’ role in nutritional management of diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) toward nutritional management of diabetes.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted with 160 nurses, who were recruited between July 4 and July 18, 2021 from two referral tertiary teaching hospitals in Iran. A validated paper-based self-reported questionnaire was used to assess nurses’ KAP. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis.ResultsThe mean knowledge score of nurses about nutritional management of diabetes was 12.16 ± 2.83, and 61.2% showing a moderate knowledge level on nutritional management of diabetes. The mean attitudes score was 60.68 ± 6.11, with 86.92% of participants demonstrating positive attitudes. The mean practice score of study participants was 44.74 ± 7.81, with 51.9% having a moderate level of practice. Higher knowledge scores were observed among male nurses (B = -7.55, p = 0.009) and those with blended learning as a preferred learning method (B = 7.28, p = 0.029). Having an opportunity to provide education to patients with diabetes during shifts affected nurses’ attitudes positively (B = -7.59, p = 0.017). Practice scores were higher among nurses who perceived themselves competent in the nutritional management of diabetes (B = -18.05, p = 0.008).ConclusionNurses’ knowledge and practice in the nutritional management of diabetes should be increased to help improve the quality of the dietary care and patient education they provide these patients. Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this study both in Iran and internationally.

The Role Of Machine Learning Techniques In Exploration Of Impacts Of E-Learning During Covid-19 Pandemic: A Comparative Analysis Of Models

The coronavirus, which originated in Wuhan (China), has expanded to both developed and poor nations, with the developed nations like America, Italy, etc. currently suffering the most from its effects. Lockdown has had the greatest negative economic effects. This pandemic also affected the education system, so it is clear that education has been impacted by the COVID 19 outbreak. The occurrence prompted educators to consider different teaching strategies during the confinement. Thus, it opens the door for online learning, Learning has entered the digital realm in the current circumstances. where students and academic experts are virtually connected. E-learning is very easy to use and comprehend. This study will assist in determining the students' interest in online learning, as well as their preferred learning styles, platforms, and methods of material delivery both during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. To discover more about how e-learning has helped during this pandemic, this study was conducted for technical education students as well as those who attend colleges and universities in Gujrat State. In this study, various machine learning models were evaluated to find out the best model or technique to analyse impact of e-learning during this pandemic and the student’s interest towards the e-learning. The proposed model also compared with the previously implemented models and achieved the higher accuracy i.e. 88.56%, 91.45% for training and testing respectively.

English Second Language learning from childhood to Adolescence: a narrative case study of an international Saudi student in the United State

Language is essential because it enables humans to express their needs and motivations to one another. It's crucial to a child's development since it's the means by which they learn to communicate with others and enrich themselves intellectually. The purpose of this second language narrative study is to discover individually a second language learner's experience in terms of learning or acquiring the second language. This qualitative analysis was developed into twenty interview questions, which encompassed a participant' preferred learning styles and methods. The findings of the study realized that the way the participant learned a second language at an early age depended entirely on particular methods which may delay language learning progress. In addition, the study recommended, it is crucial to address the issue of avoiding first language interference. The results of the study furthermore brought attention to the internal and external factors that can determine the success level in the acquisition of the language.

Upaya Peningkatan Kualitas Baca Tulis Al-Qur’an Santri TPA di Desa Santapan Timur Kecamatan Kandis-Ogan Ilir

One of the problems we face today is the limited number of lessons, teachers, facilities and learning methods for reading and writing the Quran and little interest of children. Such things happen in the village of Santapan Timur during this period. From the observation that almost all children are more interested in watching TV or playing with smartphones than in learning to read and write the Quran, there are so many children and young people who have never been able to read or write the Quran. .This situation is so alarming that it requires reasonable action by various parties to resolve this matter quickly and accurately. The purpose of this academic paper is to improve the ability of TPA students to read and write the Quran. This activity took place from 25 June 2021 to 31 July 2021 at his residence of Mr Syarnubi as Quran teacher in Santapan Timur village. The result obtained from the activity is that the ability of students to read and write the Quran is still relatively lacking, so there is a need for a correct method of teaching Quran reading and writing. Methods that can be used include adapting a student's preferred method of learning to enhance their ability to absorb lessons. However, after the training was conducted, the students' ability to read and write the Koran improved.

Serious Games and Gamification: Health Care Workers' Experience, Attitudes, and Knowledge.

With the rapid advancement of digital technology due to COVID-19, the health care field is embracing the use of digital technologies for learning, which presents an opportunity for teaching methods such as serious games to be developed and improved. Technology offers more options for these educational approaches. The goal of this study was to assess health care workers' experiences, attitudes, and knowledge regarding serious games in training. The convenience sample consisted of 223 participants from the specialties of internal medicine and psychiatry who responded to questions regarding sociodemographic data, experience, attitudes, and knowledge regarding serious games. This study used an ordinal regression model to analyze the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and experiences and the idea or wish to implement serious games. The majority of healthcare workers were not familiar with serious games or gamification. The results show gender and age differences regarding familiarity and willingness to use serious games.With increasing age, the respondents preferred conventional and traditional learning methods to playful teaching elements; younger generations were significantly more motivated than older generations when envisioning using elements of serious games in the future. The COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged the use of new technologies and digitalization. This study describes positive attitudes toward serious games, mainly in younger people working in health care. Serious games present an opportunity to develop new approaches for postgraduate medical teachings and continuing medical education.

Learning Styles of Undergraduate Medical Students and their Relation with Preferred Teaching-Learning Methods

This descriptive type of cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the learning styles of undergraduate medical students and their relation with preferred teaching-learning Methods. The study period was from July 2017 to June 2018. The study was carried out among the students of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th phases of the MBBS course at three government and four nongovernment medical colleges in Bangladesh. Out of seven medical colleges, four were within Dhaka and three outside Dhaka. The sample size was 1004. Medical colleges were selected purposively, and a convenience sampling technique was adopted for data collection. Bangla translated version of Fleming's VARK (visual, auditory, read/write, and kinesthetic) questionnaire was used to identify the learning styles of students. Linear regression was used to compare the VARK learning styles scores with teaching-learning Methods. The study revealed that out of 1004 medical students 64.2% preferred multimodal learning styles, and the rest, 35.8% preferred unimodal learning styles. Among unimodal learning preferences, auditory (A) and kinesthetic (K) were the most preferred sensory modalities of learning. The most preferred teaching Methods among the students were bedside teaching (29.9%), followed by tutorials (25.9%), and practical sessions (20.6%). The most preferred learning method among the students was mixed Methods (60.3%). A positive correlation was present between VARK modes and teaching-learning Methods (P <0.05). Majority of students preferred multimodal learning styles. Students are able to learn effectively as long as the teacher provides a blend of visual, auditory, read/writing, and kinesthetic activities. The study recommended that teachers be aware of the medical students' learning styles and that aligning teaching-learning Methods with learning styles will improve their learning and academic performance.
 TAJ 2022; 35: No-2: 19-26

Attitudes about Cigarette Smoking, Perceived Consequences of Smoking, and Seeking Assistance with Cessation among Black and White Cigarette Smokers: A Qualitative Study.

Research has identified significant racial differences in cigarette smoking behavior, associated disease risk, likelihood of cessation, and mortality from smoking-related diseases. The current study assessed, via qualitative narrative analysis, racial differences in participants' motivations for smoking, perceived consequences of smoking, and how participants deal with cravings/withdrawal, as well as thoughts and feelings about quitting, seeking assistance with quitting, and the importance of social support in quitting. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 Black and 11 White cigarette smokers. Data were analyzed using the Thematic Networks Analysis process, which entailed coding the data and constructing thematic networks by identifying basic and organizing themes. While there were no descriptive racial differences identified in participants' motivation for smoking or perceived consequences of smoking, differences existed between Blacks and Whites in terms of approaches in dealing with smoking cravings and withdrawal, perceived self-efficacy in controlling cravings, preferred methods of learning about and receiving smoking cessation assistance, and overall preference for receiving cessation-related support. Further investigation is needed into racial differences in methods to deal with cigarette cravings and withdrawal, preferences for receiving cessation information, and social support for cessation. This research will further develop our understanding of and ability to address factors underlying racial disparities in smoking behavior and cessation, as well as inform the development of future smoking cessation interventions.

The different preferences of learning among emergency medicine residents in Riyadh during their residency program

Objective: This study focused on emergency medicine (EM) registrars at King Saud Medical City to assess their preferred learning methods during extracurricular time. Also, the relationship between certain demographic characteristics and preferred learning modalities was investigated. Methods: In this descriptive study, a validated questionnaire designed and tested by Utah University in the United States of America was used. It was a simple survey designed to cover all important points in short time. The survey was distributed using the online tool SurveyMonkey. Results: This study results found that podcasts were the most chosen modality by participants as it was beneficial and they spent their time more on podcasts. Age of participants was shown to be associated with use of internet and Google as learning tool. Conclusion: It was found that participants chose podcasts as a learning channel more than other modalities of EM registrars at all levels and their extracurricular educational programs. Age was substantially correlated with less use of Google and online searches for educational purposes.