Primary Question Research Articles

Learning analytics for enhanced professional capital development: a systematic review.

This article presents a systematic review aimed at examining the utilization of learning analytics (LA) to enhance teachers' professional capital. The study focuses on three primary research questions: (1) exploring the characteristics and approaches of LA in professional capital, (2) investigating suggestions from LA for assessing and improving professional capital, and (3) examining variables studied in enhancing the most intricate dimension of professional capital using LA. To address the research objectives, a systematic review was conducted focusing on the key concepts "learning analytics" and "professional capital." Following the procedures outlined encompassed in four stages: identification, screening, inclusion, and adequacy. The PRISMA 2009 protocol guided the systematic review process. The findings of the study underscore the efficacy of LA as a catalyst for improving professional capital, particularly through collaborative learning and the utilization of tools like forums and online learning platforms. Social capital emerges as a pivotal component in integrating diverse types of professional capital, fostering opportunities for knowledge creation and social networking. In conclusion, the study highlights the paramount significance of addressing teachers' professional capital development through collaborative approaches and leveraging technology, particularly in primary education. The article concludes by emphasizing the imperative for more research and knowledge dissemination in this field, aiming to ensure equity in learning and address the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Protocol for open-label, randomised, controlled trial of intensive surveillance vs. standard postoperative follow-up in patients undergoing surgical resection for oesophageal and gastric cancer (SARONG trial).

TPS416 Background: Despite recent improvements in oncological and surgical treatment for patients with oesophageal and gastric cancer, 60% of patients with locally advanced disease who are treated with a curative intent will develop tumour recurrence and die within three years of completing treatment. In the absence of robust scientific evidence national or international guidelines have failed to reach consensus on the optimal surveillance strategy after primary treatment of oesophageal or gastric cancer. Methods: The primary research question of the proposed randomised controlled trial (RCT) is does the routine use of a structured follow-up program with regular radiological and endoscopic investigations improve survival in patients who have had surgical treatment for oesophageal or gastric cancer with curative intent? We aim to assess whether structured follow-up, including radiological and endoscopic investigations after completing curatively intended treatment, improves survival in patients with oesophageal or gastric cancer. The secondary aims of this RCT are to determine the impact of a structured post-treatment surveillance upon the detection and treatment of cancer recurrence and health-related quality of life, including anxiety and to assess the cost-effectiveness. We will undertake a national prospective, multi-centre, randomised controlled trial of structured follow-up including radiological and endoscopic investigations versus standard clinical follow-up. The setting will be at least 24 large oesophago-gastric cancer UK cancer centres. We will aim to recruit 952 oesophageal and gastric cancer patients receiving surgical resection for curatively intended treatment of oesophageal or gastric cancer +/- neoadjuvant/adjuvant chemo(radio or immuno)therapy. At 4-12 weeks after surgery for oesophageal or gastric cancer, patients will be assessed for eligibility for inclusion in the trial. Patients will be randomised 1:1 to receive either intensive follow-up for up to 3-years, with clinical and computerised tomography (CT) investigation every 6 months, and an endoscopy at 12 months or to current standard NHS follow-up, i.e. clinical review at 6 and 12 months followed by targeted investigation as required based upon the onset of new symptoms. The primary outcome is 3-year all-cause mortality and secondary outcomes include health-related quality of life (including anxiety), 3-year disease-specific mortality, pattern and treatment of tumour recurrence, and cost-effectiveness of follow-up in both study arms. The findings of this RCT will inform national and international guidelines for patients with oesophageal and gastric cancer, as this will be the first RCT to provide robust evidence concerning the value of surveillance in this population. Clinical trial information: 14417629.

Framing Black feminist pedagogy through the contours of Black feminist thought: Black feminist praxis in and beyond the traditional classroom

ABSTRACT Marked by the tireless labour and contributions of Black women, the Black feminist tradition has significantly influenced the field and practice of education, broadly conceived, in which pedagogy plays a vital part. Little scholarship, however, has explored the relationship between Black feminist thought’s knowledge validation process and Black feminist pedagogy. This conceptual paper addresses that gap, using the contours of Black feminist thought to structure Black feminist pedagogy. Two primary questions are explored: 1) In which ways are Black feminist thought and Black feminist pedagogy compatible? and 2) How can Black feminist thought’s contours serve as a framework for analysing practices of Black feminist pedagogy? Illustrating how the contours of Black feminist thought help operationalise Black feminist pedagogy, the paper draws on diverse cultural examples from politics, religion, higher education, and public media to demonstrate that Black feminist thought and Black feminist pedagogy are deeply compatible and that their merger represents one form of Black feminist praxis. This paper contributes to scholarship seeking to uplift the work of Black women through critical appraisals of their labour and that which seeks to further Black feminist theories and practices in the interest of intersectional racial justice.

Impact of Digitalization on Automotive Technology Curriculum Concerning Student Psychomotor Achievement

Through the implementation of digital learning content, this study sought to investigate the impact of digitalization on automotive technology curriculum. A quasi-experiment was conducted to assess the functionality and usability of the digital content, as well as its effect on psychomotor performance. 47 students enrolled in the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Honours) in Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Mechatronic (Automotive) programme participated in the study. The study found that the digital learning content had a significant positive influence on the psychomotor achievements of the students. The functionality of the digital learning content was evaluated based on its capacity to deliver the desired learning outcomes and its compatibility with the existing curriculum. In addition, we evaluated the efficacy of the digital content by measuring its usability, navigation, and overall user experience. The analysis is based on the four primary research questions to determine the effect of digital learning content on students' cognitive and psychomotor achievement in automotive technology programs. IBM SPSS Statistical Version 23 was utilized to analyse the listed variable. p 0.05 is the significance level for all analyses. The findings are presented in the sections that follow. These evaluations revealed that the digital content is functional and effective, providing students with a positive learning experience. In addition, the results of these tests indicated that the digital learning content effectively facilitated the learning process. Finally, students were evaluated based on their ability to complete practical tasks related to the course material. The results of these evaluations demonstrated a significant increase in the psychomotor performance of the students, indicating that the digital learning content was able to improve their practical skills. This study concluded that incorporating digital learning content into the curriculum for automotive technology had a significant positive influence on the psychomotor achievements of students. The digital content is functional, usable, and effective in facilitating learning, providing students with a positive educational experience. These results suggest that incorporating digital learning content into a programme for automotive technology can be a valuable addition to conventional learning methods.

Increasing Reading Comprehension through the Use of Kaili Folktales

The research employed Kaili folktales to increase reading comprehension of the ninth grade students at SMP Negeri 20 Palu. The primary research question is whether incorporating Kaili folktales through this environment my increase students’ reading comprehension. The research used a pre-experimental design in a quantitative approach that included a pre-test, treatment, and post-test. The research population was the 87 ninth grade students of SMP Negeri 20 Palu, with 29 students as sample from class IX B selected through purposive sampling. The research instrument was a reading comprehension test that was given as a pre-test and post-test. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 22. The results showed that using Kaili folktales increased students’ reading comprehension significantly, as evidenced by a higher mean score in the post-test compared to the pre-test (61.972>34.221). The p-value determined of 0.00, which is lower than the alpha value of 0.05, supported the conclusion that applying of Kaili folktales increased students’ reading comprehension statistical significantly. As a result, the researcher concluded that Kaili folktales might effectively increase students’ reading comprehension of the ninth grade at SMP Negeri 20 Palu

The Soviet Era in Russia’s Millennium History. Rereading Viktor Trostnikov

The article focuses on the works of the renowned Russian religious thinker Viktor Trostnikov and his perspectives on the Soviet period. The primary question guiding his creative output was: “What was the ultimate meaning behind the sufferings and hardships that befell Russia in the 20th century?” Viktor Trostnikov’s reflections on the Soviet epoch, which largely coincided with the greater part of his life, appear more objective and significant compared to the reasoning of authors adhering to either pro-communist or anti-communist views. Viktor Trostnikov regarded Marxism as a heretical doctrine that, through its pseudo-scientific nature, poisoned the minds of the Russian people. The religious nature of Marxism influenced the Christian sentiments of the people, facilitating the success of the October Revolution. The doctrine of communism was a Christian heresy, Christianity without Christ. During the Soviet era, the Russian people retained the ability to believe in something higher than the material world. Leninism provided the people with an inspiring and uplifting dream. The Christian paradise in the heavens was replaced by a terrestrial communist utopia in the future. Throughout the Soviet period of Russian history, state atheism failed to dismantle the deeply rooted traditional spiritual and moral values of Orthodox civilization within the people’s souls. Viktor Trostnikov highlighted instances of genuine asceticism during the Soviet era. Despite the USSR being an atheistic state until its dissolution, covertly our country remained the Third Rome. Viktor Trostnikov proposed considering the history of Russia of the 20th century, including revolutionary events and the Soviet era, from the perspective of Russian civilization. Crucially, during this challenging period, the people managed to preserve the core of their culture and civilizational identity, which was “camouflaged by external godlessness”. Viktor Trostnikov offered a distinct understanding of Stalin’s figure, the relationship between authorities and the people during the Soviet era, the role of industrialization in Soviet history, and the role of art in the country’s life.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the music industries of Brisbane and an evaluation of the policy response

ABSTRACT This paper examines the effects of policy responses to the COVID-19 global pandemic on Brisbane’s music industries. The methods used for data collection combined a review of policy documents at different levels of government, an on-line questionnaire with music workers, and semi-structured interviews with musicians and music industry workers to understand the impacts of COVID-19 mitigation strategies on various music industries, as well as to examine any opportunities that may have arisen from this disruptive event. The primary questions informing this research are thus what were the impacts of Queensland’s zero COVID policy on the music industries of Brisbane, and what can be learned for future music industry-related policy interventions? Based on data collected from an on-line survey and on semi-structured interviews with musicians and professionals from the Brisbane music scene, we conclude that while the QLD state government response to the crisis recognised to an extent the importance of Brisbane’s music industries, policy responses were not always seen as equitable in relation to other industries and that policy responses to future disruptive events would be better served with greater consultation and consistency. Practitioner pointers COVID-19 planning and policy responses lacked consistency, in particular there was a perception of inequality in the audience numbers available to the local music industries versus the sports industry. Policy responses should have been more consistent, or the perceived lack of consistency should have been better explained. In order to better understand the effects of policy and planning on grassroots local music industries, a greater degree of government consultation is required. Music industries need to find ways in which greater industry vcollectiveness can be achieved to improve advocacy efforts.

Beyond traditional teaching: a systematic review of innovative pedagogical practices in higher education

Background Pedagogical best practices play a pivotal role in ensuring the academic success of students within the higher education landscape. This study aims to systematically synthesize innovative pedagogical best practices within the university context. Methods We conducted a thorough systematic review using the rigorous PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology. Our review involved comprehensive searches of scientific databases, including Eric, Scopus, and Proquest, covering both Spanish and English publications. We strategically employed Boolean operators like AND and OR to create a robust search equation. Our primary research question guiding this investigation was: “What innovative pedagogical practices have been developed in university settings to improve teaching and learning effectiveness?” This central question led us to delve deeply into the strategies utilized, pedagogical approaches adopted, and the noticeable impact achieved after their implementation. Additionally, we carefully established stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines to ensure methodological rigor. Results A total of 25 scholarly articles that met the pre-established criteria were meticulously identified and included in this systematic review. The results were thoughtfully categorized into three distinct teaching strategies: the first emphasizing student-centered approaches, the second showcasing the integration of educational technology, and the third highlighting evaluation and feedback methodologies. Conclusions This systematic exploration of pedagogical best practices underscores their paramount importance in driving continuous improvement in teacher training and fostering innovation within the educational arena. Such practices not only create an engaging and effective learning environment but also set the stage for ongoing advancements in the teaching and learning processes.

DIY Assistive Software: End-User Programming for Personalized Assistive Technology

Existing assistive technologies often fail to support the unique and personalized needs of blind and visually impaired (BVI) people. Thus, BVI people have become domain experts in customizing and 'hacking' assistive technology in order to creatively suit their needs. However, current assistive technologies are difficult to hack and alter at the individual level due to the skill and resources required. Due to these challenges, new approaches to supporting Do-It-Yourself (DIY) technology creation are needed to make applying the DIY concept to high-tech assistive technologies for BVI people more feasible. Through my dissertation, I aim to better support DIY assistive software design and development, so that BVI people can design, create, and customize assistive software for themselves and their communities. To accomplish this, I plan to address three primary research goals. First, through qualitative interviews, I present an understanding of why and how BVI people engage in assistive technology customization and adaptation, and the challenges and opportunities that arise from this practice. Second, I aim to investigate how end-user programming can be applied as an approach to DIY assistive technology creation, by designing, building, and evaluating a prototype end-user programming tool. Finally, I aim to understand and improve the real-world feasibility of end-user programming in this domain, by designing tools to improve the accessibility of debugging visual technologies. By addressing these primary research questions, my planned dissertation contributes to the HCI and accessibility community's understanding of DIY assistive software, accessible end-user programming, and accessible debugging techniques. By supporting BVI in creating and modifying their assistive software, this research aims to promote the democratization of technology creation and support BVI people in having greater control over AI-based technologies in their lives.

Teaching by texting to promote positive health behaviours in pregnancy: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial of SmartMom

IntroductionPrenatal education is associated with positive health behaviours, including optimal weight gain, attendance at prenatal care, acceptance of routine screening tests, smoking cessation, decreased alcohol consumption and breast feeding. Adoption...

AI-Assisted Formal Buyer-Seller Marketing Theory

Customer behavior, market dynamics, and technological advances have made it challenging for marketing theorists to provide comprehensive explanations and actionable insights. Although there are numerous substantive marketing frameworks, no formal marketing theory exists. This study aims to develop the first formal grounded theory in marketing by incorporating artificial intelligence and Forde's conceptual framework as a guiding lens. Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory tradition and Forde's conceptual framework and data analysis strategy were employed for this purpose. The data analysis strategy used with grounded theory‘s constant compare-and-contrast method comprises holistic and systems thinking, dramaturgical and situational analysis, perspective-taking, and deconstruction. To evaluate Glaser‘s assertion that all is data, artificial intelligence was incorporated into the research as the data source for retrieving the theoretical samples to address the primary research question: How can Forde's conceptual framework and artificial intelligence be leveraged to develop a formal marketing theory grounded in evidence? Of significance was the emergence of democratic marketing behaviors and the normalization of anti-democratic marketing approaches leveraged to manipulate buyers or gain access to segments of customers. Buyers and sellers can simultaneously benefit from and be prejudiced by marketing exchange dynamics. This finding lends credibility to the newly emerged framework of strategic actions where empowerment and disempowerment are leveraged to achieve specific goals. Considering this finding, it is suggested that businesses view marketing as a symbiotic relationship between two power centers, buyers, and sellers, who respectively strive to maintain human dignity and sustainability. Researchers are encouraged to apply the framework across substantive areas, international markets, public relations, political campaigns, and others.

СЛОВО «RUMOUR» КАК КОНСТИТУЭНТ ЛЕКСИКО-СЕМАНТИЧЕСКОЙ ГРУППЫ (НА МАТЕРИАЛЕ СЛОВАРНЫХ ДЕФИНИЦИЙ)

The target of the research is the word rumor, with the primary research question focusing on its relation to a lexical-semantic group. The relevance of addressing this problem is driven by the growing scientific interest in the category of uncertain knowledge, encompassing various products of mass communication, including rumors. This interest arises from the current stage of information society development characterized by an abundance of often unconfirmed information and its rapid dissemination. The multidimensional nature of the phenomenon of rumors attracts the attention of various scholars, particularly linguists. Linguistic aspects of rumors can be examined from different perspectives, including the approach and methodology of lexical semantics across different languages. The paper aims to identify the core elements of the lexical-semantic group to which the word representing the studied concept in the English language belongs, based on dictionary definitions. The research tools employed include a combination of classical methods such as logical-semantic analysis, utilizing the dictionary definition chain method, step-by-step identification method, and partial componential analysis. The research findings demonstrate that the studied lexical-semantic group comprises a minimum set of lexical units, including gossip, hearsay, and rumour. The primary identifier and keyword within the lexical-semantic group under investigation is the word rumour, serving as an integral componentof the lexical meanings of the constituents studied. The obtained results are considered foundational for subsequent semantic differentiation of the identified adjacent elements within the lexical-semantic group

Evaluation of the HEAL™ing Mental Health program: A prospective cohort study of short-term changes from a physical activity and lifestyle education program for people with mental health disorders living in rural Australia.

This study aimed to evaluate short-term outcomes of the HEAL™ing Mental Health program, an 8-week intervention for change in functional, behavioural and physiological health and wellbeing designed for people living with mental health conditions in rural or regional areas of Australia. A prospective cohort study was completed, reporting on 19 items (pre-program) and 15 (post-participation change), organised across seven domains. Participants took part in an Accredited Exercise Physiologist/Nurse led supervised group exercise (60 minutes) and healthy lifestyle education program (60 minutes). Separate linear mixed models with restricted maximum likelihood were used to examine the primary research question considering the effect of the program on: walking (min/week); planned, incidental and total physical activity (min/week); sitting time; active days; fruit and vegetable intake; body mass index; waist circumference; blood pressure; 6 minute walk distance; 30 second sit-to-stand; psychological distress symptoms; and stage of behaviour change. There were 99 participants (31 males, 68 females) out of 117 participants completed more than 50% of program sessions. Twelve of 15 measures achieved their desired target change and a statistically significant change toward the desired outcome was reported for 14 of 15 measures. Positive results were obtained for participants completing more than 50% of sessions, suggesting that HEAL™ ing Mental Health program is effective to increase physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices in individuals who self-report a mental health disorder.

Designing Software for Web-based Psychosocial Care: Longitudinal Design Science Research in U-CARE

This paper addresses the design of software for web-based psychosocial care – an increasing and highly relevant societal issue. The paper explores two primary research questions: 1) What design principles should guide the creation of web-based software for online psychological support, and 2) How can design science research facilitate the development and assessment of innovative eHealth solutions? Our research – a tailored DSR approach – was conducted over a 10+ year period within the multi-disciplinary research programme U-CARE. As information systems researchers, we worked as researchers and developers, in tight collaboration with psychologists, economists, medical doctors, nurses, and other key stakeholders. Through this process, we continually reflected and abstracted our experiences into design principles and DSR methodology. In response to the first research question, we introduce a set of design principles for web-based psychosocial support, shaped by the overarching LAME DSR approach. These principles include malleability for adaptability and sustainability, privacy and accountability in online environments, and a focus on stakeholder-specific functionalities like therapist dashboards and smooth authentication processes. In response to the second research question, we present the LAME DSR approach and an informed argument concerning its role in the establishment of a strategic, high-impact research environment.

A Survey on the Application of Lead-In in Rural Junior High School English Teaching in Henan Province of China

With the higher requirements of The English Curriculum Standards for Compulsory Education for English teaching design, the lead-in phase emerging as a critical component that has received more attention from frontline English teachers. However, a significant knowledge gap exists regarding the practical application of lead-in strategies in rural junior high school English classrooms. This study aims to address two primary research questions: the current state of lead-in practices in rural junior high school English teaching and the factors influencing the effectiveness of these strategies. To explore these questions, employing a quantitative research approach, a survey was conducted using a convenience sampling method, which involved selecting 40 English teachers from 7 rural junior high schools in Henan Province. The data from the questionnaire survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS 25.0. The findings highlighted various challenges faced by teachers during the lead-in phase, such as limited teaching resources and students’ low English proficiency levels. Furthermore, the study identified teachers’ professional development and experience as crucial factors affecting the effectiveness of lead-in strategies. The conclusion drawn from the study suggests that enhancing the lead-in phase in rural junior high school English teaching necessitates a multifaceted strategy encompassing improved resource allocation, teacher training, and the implementation of innovative teaching methodologies. Based on these findings, the study recommends increasing investment in rural English education infrastructure, strengthening teacher professional development, and promoting the exploration of diverse lead-in strategies to better cater to the needs of students.

The Role of Tourism in the Development of Afghanistan

Tourism is recognized as a tool for development and has limitless growth potential. The tourism environment encompasses economic, social, and cultural factors and plays a vital role in the natural environment. Achieving sustainable tourism, which is linked to managing and preserving natural resources, is of utmost importance. This article utilizes credible sources to examine the role of tourism in sustainable development in Afghanistan. Given the significance of the tourism industry, this research aims to draw attention to the importance of tourism in Afghanistan's development. The primary research question revolves around how we can harness the potential of the tourism industry for Afghanistan's development. For this research, a descriptive-analytical method and literature reviews have been employed, with meticulous collection and analysis of reputable sources such as scholarly articles, books, reports, case studies, and relevant databases. The findings of this research indicate that due to Afghanistan's diverse cultural and environmental attractions, tourism can play a crucial role in sustainable development. This industry can contribute to economic growth, increased government tax revenue, enhanced international trade and export of tourism services, infrastructure improvement, job creation, environmental preservation, and cultural heritage conservation. It can also improve the economic conditions of women and promote handicraft industries. In conclusion, this research suggests that adequate measures are necessary to promote the sustainable growth of tourism in Afghanistan. Precise planning, a deep understanding of natural and cultural resources, environmental preservation, education, and employment generation should all be prioritized. Furthermore, promoting tourism requires shared responsibility from the government, local communities, and the tourism industry.

PREDICTION OF FINANCIAL DISTRESS IN SELECTED FMCG COMPANIES USING THE ALTMAN Z-SCORE MODEL

Financial statement analysis has played a crucial role in evaluating a company's potential for financial difficulties, such as its ability to repay debts. Initially, credit suppliers utilized financial statement analysis to assess the creditworthiness of borrowers. However, in today's landscape, financial statement analysis has become widespread, involving a diverse range of ratios and catering to various users which include the suppliers, commercial banks, agencies involved in credit rating, existing and potential investors, higher management and others. Financial distress denotes to a company's incapacity to meet its financial commitments as they come due. Academic research in accounting and finance has predominantly emphasized defaulters of bond holders or bankruptcy as indicators of distress. The primary question revolves around whether the likelihood of distress significantly fluctuates based on the magnitude of financial statement ratios. This research study analyses the how sound the financial health of the company is and what are the probabilities of bankruptcy of selected companies belonging to the FMCG sector in India with the help of revised Altman Z-score model. This study focuses on the analysis of twenty (20) selected Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies listed on the Stock Index i.e Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). These companies represent various segments such as Personal care, Food and Beverages, Alcohol and Cigarettes, Dairy, Food, Soaps and Detergents, Tobacco products, home care and other consumer durables. Based on the study's findings, it can be inferred that a majority of the companies in the FMCG sector in India exhibit good financial health and fall within the Safe Zone according to the Altman Z score model. The companies initially classified in the grey zone have shown improvements in their financial well-being in subsequent years. The Pearson correlation analysis reveals a noteworthy positive relationship between the variables and the Altman Z scores. Consequently, the study validates the effectiveness of the Altman Z score model as a reliable tool for predicting and forecasting the level of and impact of financial distress in companies. Emphasizing both the analytical and practical significance, this study aims to showcase the inherent value of using financial ratios. By employing financial ratios, this research underscores their potential to provide meaningful insights and practical applications in assessing corporate performance. As a result, investors can utilize this study to identify financially stable companies and make informed investment decisions based on the findings.

Aerospace Power Development in India and Implications for Pakistan

This paper evaluates the trends of aerospace military power development strictly in the India-Pakistan conflict setting. It analyzes the combat potential of aerospace technologies and explores how they add to the net war-fighting strengths of the respective India and Pakistan militaries. The primary question is to identity the gap in aerospace domain between India and Pakistan while making recommendations for Pakistan. The study finds serious efforts of aerospace military power development by India which challenges the military security of Pakistan. Pakistan has the leverage in employing drones for multiple roles against India but their potential remains limited due to minimal space infrastructure for navigation and communication. The study uses the comparative method to analyze the profiles of India and Pakistan for aerospace development trends and to assess the emerging threats for Pakistan. It further enables us to foresee the evolving nature of future conflicts because aerospace technologies are likely to remain at the core of possible war in future.

Critical Perspectives on ELF theory and Research

The undeniable prevalence of Englisha s a Lingua Franca (ELF) is juxtaposed with the insufficient recognition of its extensive use in local English education. This research offers critical insights into the disparity between ELF theory and research, drawing on a thorough examination of the last 5 to 8 years across various databases, including peer-reviewed empirical studies. The findings underscore the widespread use of English as a lingua franca among individuals from ASEAN countries. However, there is a noticeable scarcity of research addressing the incorporation of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) into programs aimed at preparing future teachers and the execution of English language teaching. The review delves into two primary domain questions and advocates for a reassessment of conventional approaches, particularly in light of the historical reliance on Native Speaker (NS) English as the exclusive benchmark for language proficiency, with NSs serving as the predominant models.

Enhancing Speaking Proficiency through Self-Discovery: Utilizing Johari Window Techniques in Student Learning

Effective speaking hinges on confidence and comfort, yet many students grapple with these aspects, often feeling lost and unsure about their abilities. This study investigates the application of Johari Windows to aid first-year English Program students at IAIN Parepare, who commonly encounter challenges in speaking. Our research focuses on two primary questions: How does the Johari Window facilitate students' self-discovery, and how does it contribute to the development of their speaking skills? Adopting a mixed-method approach, this study blends quantitative and qualitative data. We engaged 48 first-year English Program students at IAIN Parepare, utilizing observations, questionnaires, and focus group discussions as our primary data collection tools. Additionally, the data were analyzed using SPSS. Our findings reveal that many students exhibit uncertainty or neutrality in identifying with the characteristics and traits of the 'open self,' highlighting the complexities of self-awareness and the fluid nature of self-perceptions, which vary among individuals. The study also notes differing self-views across various characteristics. Crucially, implementing the Johari Window in speaking skill development, particularly in forum discussion groups, has significantly bolstered students' awareness of their public speaking strengths and weaknesses. This enhanced awareness has been instrumental in their journey toward becoming more confident and effective speakers.