Private Universities Research Articles

Factors associated with risky sexual behaviors among undergraduate students in Thailand

BackgroundRisky sexual behaviors refer to actions or practices that increase the likelihood engaging in sexual intercourse. Such behavior can lead to HIV infection/AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancy. The impact of risky sexual behaviors is a growing public health concern. These issues pose significant challenges to public health, particularly among university students and younger age groups who may be more vulnerable to various factors. Thus, this research aimed to examine the factors and sexual health literacy associated with risky sexual behaviors among undergraduate students in the four major regions of Thailand.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted among 916 undergraduate students in their final semester of the 2023 academic year, from March to May 2024, at public, autonomous, and private universities across four regions: northern, central, southern, and northeastern of Thailand. The study employed multistage random sampling method. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to assess risky sexual behaviors and the data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression.ResultsA total of 916 students participated in the study. The prevalence of risky sexual behavior was 46.84% (95% CI:43.56% to 50.12%) students engaged in risky sexual behaviors. Risky sexual behavior was significantly associated with grade point averages (GPA) between 2.00–3.00 could protective risky sexual behaviors was 42% as compared to GPA > 3.00 (AOR = 0.58, 95%CI:0.42 to 0.79), ex-substance use (AOR = 3.48, 95%CI:1.46 to 8.26), Current smoker (AOR = 2.90, 95%CI:1.90 to 4.43), negative attitudes toward risky sexual behaviors (AOR = 2.32, 95%CI:1.32 to 4.06), access to places of ill repute and access to sexual arousal stimuli (sometime) (AOR = 2.23, 95%CI:1.41 to 3.52), social influences (high level) (AOR = 0.29, 95%CI:0.15 to 0.55), and sufficient to excellent level of the application of information about sexual health (AOR = 0.48, 95%CI:0.26 to 0.87) of statistical significance at P < 0.05, which was significantly associated with risky sexual behavior.ConclusionThe findings of this study offer important insights for preventing risky sexual behaviors among undergraduate students across four regions. By promoting healthy sexual practices and encouraging behavior modification, negative consequences can be reduced. Public health care providers, policymakers, and stakeholders should implement tailored strategies, such as comprehensive sexual education and accessible health services, to address the specific needs of these students. These targeted interventions can significantly reduce the prevalence of risky sexual behaviors.

Manajemen Blended Learning Pasca Pandemi Covid-19: Studi Kasus Sekolah di Indonesia

This study aims to find out the main factors that contribute to blended learning management in Indonesia. The research is focused on identifying the management process which includes, planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating the blended learning management program at SMAN 2 Jember, SMKN 1 Wanayasa Banjarnegara and SMP 1 Prambanan Yogyakarta. This research is qualitative descriptive research with a naturalistic approach. The results show that the four functions of the management process have a very large influence on the results of the blended learning management program. First, the planning of the blended learning program involves all school stakeholders, as well as through the creation of a regular schedule. Second, in terms of organizing blended learning programs, the school goes through the curriculum work process so that teachers fill out a daily journal, to monitor activities. Third, the implementation of the blended learning program based on the learning process in the classroom by providing materials and explanations, as well as information transformation through room meeting to do practice questions at home. Fourth, learning evaluation is carried out through google classroom for attitude knowledge, and practicum for skill aspects, as well as private universities and UAS. Blended learning management policies involving all school stakeholders, filling out daily journals, learning in the classroom and delivering material through room meetings can optimize the learning process in the post-covid-19 pandemic period.

Artificial intelligence technologies in Emirati private universities: challenges and effectiveness in improving the quality of education

Artificial intelligence technologies in Emirati private universities: challenges and effectiveness in improving the quality of education

An investigative study on the causes of depression and the coping strategies among clinical medical students in private universities in North Central Nigeria

BackgroundDepression is among known mental health conditions and students in schools of medicine are not immune to it. In this investigative study, 211 clinical medical students of two private universities from North-Central Nigeria were examined on depression prevalence, the contributory factors and their coping strategies.MethodsThe Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), the Medical Student’s Stressor Questionnaire (MSSQ) and identified coping strategies according to Coping Oriented to Problems Experienced Inventory (COPE) were instruments of data collection.ResultsThe results were obtained by both descriptive analysis and test of association between some categorical variables. The depression prevalence amongst the participants was 159 (75.4%). Females (124 (78.0%)) were more depressed than males (35 (22.0%)). Factors identified as contributing to depression were the heavy academic workload (124 (78.5%)), insufficient family time (93 (58.1%)) and financial constraints (54 (34.0%)). The most utilized method of coping with their stress was engaging on social media (133 (84.2%)), followed by talking with relatives or friends (99 (62.7%)) and use of recreational drugs (20 (12.8%)). The findings from this study have shown that more than three-quarters of the respondents suffered from varying degrees of depression from mild, 63 (29.9%), moderate, 53 (25.1%) to severe, 43 (20.4%).ConclusionsThe heavy academic workload was a major source of depression. Colleges of Medicine should take pro-active steps towards their students’ mental health and academic workload should be well spaced to reduce the stress imposed by the frequency of examinations.

Characteristics of interventions that address racism in the United States and opportunities to integrate equity principles: a scoping review

BackgroundAs a driver of racial and health inequities, racism is deeply ingrained in the interconnected systems that affect health and well-being. Currently, no common frame is employed across researchers, interventionists, and funders to design, implement, and evaluate comprehensive interventions to address racism. Consequently, there is a need to examine the characteristics of interventions implemented in the United States that address racism across social and structural determinants of health and socio-ecological levels. Additionally, we utilized a Health Equity Action Research (HEART) framework to assess how interventions integrate equity principles.MethodsThis scoping review examined the characteristics of multi-level interventions that addressed racism and appraised the interventions using a Health Equity Action Research frame. A comprehensive search strategy was conducted across nine electronic databases between 24 October 2022 through 15 November 2022. Records were included if they were available in English, discussed or evaluated a multi-level intervention or program conducted in the United States, and discussed or evaluated the intervention or program regarding the health and well-being of racialized and ethnically minoritized groups.ResultsA total of 13,391 records were identified, of which 91 met the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis. Most records reported the racialized group impacted by an intervention, of which the majority were racialized as African American or Black (n = 42) and Hispanic or Latino/a/x (n = 18). Eighty-one (89%) of interventions reported health outcomes and concentrated on the individual level. Most funders reported across the records, and 86 (51%) were a federal agency or department. A further 43 (25%) were private foundations, 12 (7%) were nonprofit organizations, 10 (6%) were private universities, and 4 (2%) were public universities. Regarding alignment with the HEART framework, 14% of interventions reported a mixed-methods approach, 45% reported community engagement, and less than 1% reported researcher self-reflection.ConclusionsMost interventions prioritized people who are racialized as Black and report health outcomes. Since intervention designs, objectives, and methodological approaches vary, no standard frame defines racism and health equity. Applying the HEART framework offers a standard approach for interventionists and researchers to examine power, integrate community voice, and self-reflect to advance health equity.

Who is the next leader? Understanding women leadership development and succession planning in Saudi Arabian higher educational institutions.

Leadership development and succession planning is a valuable strategy for closing the gender gap and providing an equal chance for males and females to be trained and involved in leadership roles. This strategy is an incredibly effective tool in higher education, where there is a significant disparity between male and female academic leaders. Despite its effectiveness, succession planning remained an overlooked component of the higher education system. Further research studies enhance our understanding of the current state of succession planning and the factors that affect the recruitment and selection of future academic leaders. Hence, this study aims to identify the current women's leadership development and succession planning practices in public and private universities in Saudi Arabia. A qualitative study was conducted in a Saudi Arabian higher education setting. The interest in Saudi Arabia stems from the fact that succession planning is less likely to be practiced since gender discrimination is apparent when assigning leadership positions. Results indicate that top powers typically select leaders since succession planning is absent in Saudi Arabia's higher education institutions. In this circumstance, networking and relationships play a significant role, as these institutions have no formalized succession planning process. In a highly gender-segregated society like Saudi Arabia, women are deprived of expanding their networks and showcasing capabilities to male decision-makers. The results of this study further identified the underlying components of the women's leadership and succession planning process in the Saudi Arabian setting. This study contributes to leadership and succession planning knowledge and its implications, which may extend opportunities for practitioners, consultants, and policymakers to include women in higher education succession planning.

Digital Skills’ Impact on the Use of Digital Learning Tools

Innovations and developments in the ICT sector drive significant changes in how higher education institutions (HEIs) execute their teaching and learning processes. HEIs have always succeeded in the implementation of ICT tools for the facilitation of the process of teaching and learning. However, they have faced many challenges related to using these tools. Various tools have been introduced, not only for teaching and learning but also for socialisation. These tools include social media tools that are used to achieve different activities in response to the demands of society. Social media, however, is more utilised than digital learning tools, causing major concerns because users appear more interested in social media tools to perform academic activities than in digital learning tools. Students entering the university spaces are often comfortable using their phones but less comfortable using laptops or PCs. These, however, are the primary devices used in digital classrooms at institutions of higher learning. The basic ability to use them is crucial in succeeding in today’s digitised e-learning classrooms. This study investigates the impact digital literacy could have on using digital learning tools in HEIs. The study employed quantitative research methods using a survey developed and distributed to university alums to assess their digital skills upon entering their studies and how this impacted their learning experience. The participants were recruited from two public universities and one private university in the Eastern Cape. The purpose of the study was to formulate a checklist, based on the analysis of the data collected, that will inform the digital literacy factors impacting the use of digital learning in HEIs. While the study acknowledges that different students have different learning needs, it was still possible to create a solution through the suggested checklist consisting of eight (8) interventions developed to guide universities in improving the use of digital learning tools in their institutions.

Post-pandemic impact on a private University in Malaysia: adapting strategies for sustainable education in chemistry

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic marked an unprecedented disruption in global education systems, affecting a vast population of approximately 1.6 billion learners across over 200 countries. Specifically, within Malaysia, where private universities hold a significant role in shaping the educational sphere, the pandemic brought about notable shifts in higher education. This research focuses on the post-pandemic impact on a private university situated in the Malaysian capital, focusing on transformations in teaching and learning approaches, student engagement, and technological integration in chemistry education. Through an in-depth analysis of diverse data sources from students and literatire review, this study aims to shed light on the challenges faced by the teaching and learning process in chemistry and the strategies employed to mitigate the adverse effects. In addition, the study also discusses the potential long-term transformations in higher education that may persist beyond the pandemic and offers recommendations to ensure the resilience and adaptability of private universities in Malaysia. Understanding the post-pandemic impact on private universities is crucial for formulating effective policies and strategies to enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education in the evolving educational landscape.

Analysis of the Construction Sequence of a Reaction Wall in a Structural Laboratory Supported by the VDC Methodology

The structures laboratory is a crucial facility for supporting research development related to the construction industry. This kind of laboratory has several components, and one of its key components is the reaction wall. The reaction wall supports the execution of experimental tests on structural elements under specific configurations and loads. Constructing a reaction wall presents challenges due to the highest standards to be met. This research analyzes the construction process of a reaction wall at a private university in Peru. Initially, a schedule was proposed by a contractor. However, the client, knowing the complexity of such construction, asked to review the initial schedule to ensure that it would meet the constructability requirements under the integrated product-organization-process approach given by the virtual design and construction (VDC) methodology. The result of this study pointed out the need to revise the original proposed schedule, extending the construction time to 66% due to the lack of construction processes compatible with the requirements for the reaction wall’s execution. Finally, a survey was conducted to observe the learning curve associated with implementing the VDC methodology.

Conceptualizing university students’ food choices based on theory of planned behavior

Background Several students use hostel facilities offered by their colleges and universities while pursuing higher education. A crucial change is witnessed in their food habits during their stay at the campus, which is vastly different from their home experience. Method The study employs the theory of planned behavior to conceptualize and understand the food choices of university students while following the qualitative research methodology and the phenomenological approach. The snowball sampling method is applied to select participants for the study. We selected twenty-six undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing programs in technical and health science from a private university at Udupi with residence in the university campus for two to four years. Interviews with candidates were conducted online and audio-recorded with participants’ consent. Results The transcribed interviews were coded and categorized to obtain themes, which were then conceptualized to develop the model based on the theory of planned behaviour. The duration of their stay on campus allowed students to gain a perspective on the food events and the food they consumed at the university dining facility (UDF) guided by factors, such as taste, price, availability of time(during academic activity), accessibility to healthy food, academic stress and lack of knowledge on nutrition. Two factors emerged from the interviews, one, there was no display in the dining facility about the nutritional value of the food served; and, second, students preferred to dine out on unhealthy food rather than at the university because food from outside the campus, even though unhealthy, was easier on the pocket. Conclusion The study provides insights into the role of UDF in serving healthy and nutritional food to students for better health and improved academic performance. This work brings to light the relationship between students’ food choices and their impact on academic performance.

Strategies for Improving the Quality of English Teaching for Postgraduate Entrance Exams in Private Colleges Based on Outcome-Based Education (OBE)

With the deepening of educational reform in China, the teaching of English for postgraduate entrance exams in private colleges faces challenges such as unclear teaching objectives, outdated curriculum content, monotonous teaching methods, and inadequate assessment systems. As an emerging educational model, Outcome-Based Education (OBE) offers effective solutions to these problems through clear learning outcomes, innovative teaching strategies, and a comprehensive assessment system. This paper analyzes the current situation and challenges of English teaching for postgraduate entrance exams in private colleges based on the OBE concept and proposes specific strategies for improving teaching quality. The research shows that restructuring teaching objectives, optimizing teaching content and resources, innovating teaching methods, and establishing a scientific assessment system can significantly enhance teaching quality and students' competitiveness in postgraduate entrance exams. This paper aims to provide theoretical support and practical guidelines for the reform and practice of English teaching for postgraduate entrance exams in private colleges.

Assistance in Preparing Quality Documents for Private Universities in Kampar Regency

Assistance in Preparing Quality Documents for Private Universities in Kampar Regency

Findings of Using Schema-Building Activities to Improve EFL Learners’ Listening Comprehension

EFL students at a university in Ho Chi Minh City faced some problems in learning listening skills. This study aimed to investigate factors influencing listening learning and whether schema-building activities impact students’ listening comprehension at a private university in Vietnam, which then gave some possible suggestions to improve EFL learners' listening teaching and learning. The study was experimental research, so the researcher employed pre-and post-tests, questionnaires, and class observations to collect the data to address two research questions. A total of 123 students participated in the research, and they were classified into the experimental group (60 students) and the control group (63 students). The findings revealed that schema-building activities had an impact on enhancing EFL students’ listening comprehension. The study's findings contributed some contributions to teaching and learning Second Language (L2) listening skills using schema-building activities. The findings serve as guidelines for teachers and students to teach and learn listening skills and for school managers with material development.

The Role of Stakeholder Engagement in Enhancing CSR in Private Universities in Kenya

This study explored the role of stakeholder engagement in enhancing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) within private universities in Kenya, focusing on Instagram as a strategic communication tool. This research investigated how stakeholder engagement through Instagram can enhance CSR efforts in Kenyan private universities, providing insights into effective strategies for leveraging Instagram to drive positive social impact and promote responsible practices. A qualitative research design was employed by stakeholder theory, focusing on five prominent private universities in Kenya: Management University of Africa, KCA University, Kabarak University, and St. Paul's University. Semi-structured interviews with corporate communication experts provided in-depth insights into their CSR strategies. Additionally, a qualitative content analysis of Instagram posts identified patterns and trends in stakeholder engagement. The findings highlight that Instagram plays a key role in building a sense of community among stakeholders, including students, staff, alumni, and the community. Through transparent communication and interactive content, universities can foster trust and collaboration, essential for successful CSR initiatives. The study emphasizes understanding stakeholders' motivations and expectations to create effective engagement strategies. By utilizing Instagram's interactive features, private universities can enhance their CSR efforts, promoting social responsibility and sustainable development.

Teacher-Student Interaction, Learning Motivation, And Classroom Participation In Private Colleges In China

Teacher-Student Interaction, Learning Motivation, And Classroom Participation In Private Colleges In China

Informatization of Educational Management in Private Colleges of Guangdong Province: Challenges, Investments, and Infrastructure Improvements

This study explores the state of informatization in educational management within private colleges in Guangdong Province, using H College as a case study. Despite recent advancements, the informatization process faces significant challenges, including misconceptions about digital management, insufficient investment, a lack of digital sharing mechanisms, and suboptimal user experiences for both students and faculty. Through a comprehensive analysis of educational indicators, investment patterns, and the current status of digital resources, this paper highlights the critical need for a strategic approach to educational management informatization. The findings underscore the importance of fostering a service-oriented framework that prioritizes the needs of teachers and students while advocating for increased investment in infrastructure and digital platforms. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to modernize educational governance in private higher education institutions, ensuring they can effectively meet the demands of the evolving educational landscape.

A Content Analysis of Vision and Mission of Private Universities in Mogadishu in the Light of Competitive Advantages

This study aims at analyzing the vision and mission of eleven private universities run in Mogadishu based on their competitive advantages. Quantitative analysis was applied where the author used coding in QDA MINER.LITE 1.4.1 for data analysis under three categories reflected by the content of the vision and mission posted on their official website, namely; Academic &amp; Research, Values &amp; Culture, and Social Need &amp; Development. Each category has a sub-category. The results of the study generally showed that the non-competitive advantages of the universities 71% while competitive advantages scored up 29%. The study also explored that the most competitive advantages of the universities concentrated on the dimensions: values &amp; culture and social needs &amp; development. Besides, there is a variance among the universities regarding their non-competitive advantages and competitive advantages. Finally, the study recommends enhancing the quality of the statement strategies of the vision and mission for the private universities in Mogadishu in line with national and international standards.

Co-workers’ Solidarity and Citizenship Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Work Engagement

ABSTRACT The work environment plays a detrimental role in shaping workplace behavior of employees. Recent studies focused on the influence of work environment factors on individual and organizational level outcomes. We extend this work by exploring the impact of coworkers’ solidarity on organizational citizenship behaviors through work engagement in private universities in Ethiopia. A survey method was used to collect data from 335 employees selected using a proportionate stratified sampling method. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect primary data from employees composed of academic and administrative staff. The data collected was examined using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling through Smart PLS 3.0 software. A bootstrapping path analysis algorithm with a resample of 5000 was employed to generate direct and indirect effects and significance of path coefficients in testing hypotheses. The study found that solidarity among coworkers affects citizenship behavior of employees positively and significantly and work engagement played a partial mediating role in this relationship. The study recommends that private universities should give due attention to cultivating coworkers’ solidarity to derive the required behavior on the part of employees.

Enhancing student critical thinking and learning outcomes through innovative pedagogical approaches in higher education: the mediating role of inclusive leadership

This quantitative study examines the influence of innovative pedagogical approaches (IPA) on enhancing student critical thinking (SCT) and student learning outcomes (SLO) in higher education, with an emphasis on the mediating role of inclusive leadership(IL). Using a sample of 321 students from public and private universities in Pakistan, the research reveals that methods such as problem-based learning, flipped classrooms, and interactive teaching significantly boost academic performance and cultivate critical thinking skills. The findings indicate that innovative pedagogical approaches positively and significantly impact student critical thinking (β = 0.536, t = 6.539, p < 0.001) and learning outcomes (β = 0.551, t = 12.725, p < 0.001). Additionally, inclusive leadership mediates the relationship between innovative teaching methods and both student critical thinking (β = 0.331, t = 3.833, p < 0.001) and learning outcomes (β = 0.405, t = 8.662, p < 0.001). Data were collected using survey questionnaires adapted from established studies on inclusive leadership, innovative pedagogical approaches, student critical thinking, and learning outcomes. These results highlight the essential role of inclusive leadership in enhancing the efficacy of innovative pedagogies by creating a supportive and diverse learning environment. The study suggests that implementing active learning strategies and integrating technology in the classroom, along with inclusive leadership practices, can significantly improve student engagement, critical thinking, and overall academic performance. This research offers valuable insights for educators and policymakers seeking to enhance teaching and learning experiences in higher education.

Influence of personal and career burnout on female employers' subjective evaluation of workplace acoustic environment.

Burnout is an increasingly common problem in modern work settings that significantly affects people's health and well-being. Several studies have emphasized the impact of career burnout on employees' performance and efficiency. It is unknown whether career burnout mediated by personal burnout may affect employees' perception of their workplace physical environment attributes. This research aims to understand if personal and career burnout can affect employers' acoustic environment evaluation of their workplace. Considering commonly experienced or highly experienced personal and career burnout among working women, the study targeted female university faculty members. The research involved stratified sampling and employed data from 272 individuals across five public and private universities in Tehran. Collected data were analyzed using SmartPLS (latest release 4.1). The results revealed a significant link between personal and career burnout and the subjective evaluation of workplace acoustic environment. Career burnout mediated the relationship between personal burnout and negative evaluation of the workplace acoustic environment. This study provides compelling evidence that experiences of burnout, whether related to personal or career aspects, substantially impact the subjective assessment of the acoustic environment within the workplace. The results underscore the complex interplay between an individual's degree of burnout and their subjective perception of the acoustic dimensions of their work environment. The findings extend our understanding of how psychological factors might shape our interpretation of the physical workplace.