Problem-solving Approach Research Articles

An Investigation into the Utility of Large Language Models in Geotechnical Education and Problem Solving

The study explores the capabilities of large language models (LLMs), particularly GPT-4, in understanding and solving geotechnical problems, a specialised area that has not been extensively examined in previous research. Employing a question bank obtained from a commonly used textbook in geotechnical engineering, the research assesses GPT-4’s performance across various topics and cognitive complexity levels, utilising different prompting strategies like zero-shot learning, chain-of-thought (CoT) prompting, and custom instructional prompting. The study reveals that while GPT-4 demonstrates significant potential in addressing fundamental geotechnical concepts and problems, its effectiveness varies with specific topics, the complexity of the task, and the prompting strategies employed. The paper categorises errors encountered by GPT-4 into conceptual, grounding, calculation, and model inherent deficiencies related to the interpretation of visual information. Custom instructional prompts, specifically tailored to address GPT-4’s shortcomings, significantly enhance its performance. The study reveals that GPT-4 achieved an overall problem-solving accuracy of 67% with custom instructional prompting, significantly higher than the 28.9% with zero-shot learning and 34% with CoT. However, the study underscores the importance of human oversight in interpreting and verifying GPT-4’s outputs, especially in complex, higher-order cognitive tasks. The findings contribute to understanding the potential and limitations of current LLMs in specialised educational fields, providing insights for educators and researchers in integrating AI tools like GPT-4 into their teaching and problem-solving approaches. The study advocates for a balanced integration of AI in education to enrich educational delivery and experience while emphasising the indispensable role of human expertise alongside technological advancements.

Process Evaluation of a Problem-Solving Approach for Analyzing Literacy Practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports Framework

A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework features a structured problem-solving process and the use of assessment data to develop, identify, and evaluate the impact of instruction and intervention to meet the needs of all students proactively. The purpose of this process evaluation was to examine the implementation of a novel problem-solving approach for analyzing literacy practices across the tiers of an MTSS framework (i.e., core instruction, strategic intervention). The aim of the initiative was to build the capacity of teachers to provide effective instruction based on the science of reading in two elementary schools. The findings from this process evaluation study provide evidence that a problem-solving approach for analyzing literacy practices resulted in improvements in the core curriculum, instruction, and intervention supports. Implications for improvement efforts at the school district and state department of education levels are discussed.

LIVED EXPERIENCES OF RECEIVING TEACHERS IN HANDLING BEHAVIORAL ISSUES OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

This qualitative phenomenological study provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges, strategies; coping mechanisms, and insights experienced by receiving teachers in addressing behavioral issues among students with special needs in inclusive education settings. Through in-depth focus group discussions with five receiving teachers from Island Garden City of Samal, Davao Del Norte, the study exposes the real struggle and complexities of managing diverse behavioral concerns. The thematic analysis uncovers the intricate web of both academic obstacles and behavioral manifestations, prompting the development and implementation of tailored strategies, including individualized behavior plans and collaborative problem-solving approaches. Moreover, the study highlights the vital role of coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from colleagues and prioritizing self-care practices amidst the demanding educational landscape. The insights gleaned from teachers lived experiences underscore the transformative potential of empathy, adaptability, and inclusive teaching methodologies. Ultimately, the research advocates for targeted professional development initiatives and collaborative support networks to empower receiving teachers to effectively navigate the unique challenges presented by students with special needs, especially students with behavioral issues. By promoting inclusive and supportive learning environments, this study contributes significantly to the enhancement of special education practices and resources. KEYWORDS: Special Education, Behavioral Issues, Receiving teachers, research, teaching, Inclusive Education, and special education practices.

A systematic review on the delivery optimization in food delivery industry

The systematic study seeks to offer an in-depth review of the many approaches and techniques used to enhance food delivery services. It is crucial to assess the current literature to find best practices and opportunities for development given the food delivery industry's recent rapid expansion. A thorough analysis of 20 publications from 2010 to 2023 has been done. The technique used to carry out the controls was then examined, the gaps in the literature were highlighted, and potential research directions were identified. In conclusion, the purpose of this study is to give a review of the literature on the use of route optimization models and to help academics and practitioners understand the performance measures, models, and problem-solving approaches used in various research papers.

Fiber Optic Sensor Based WIM System Innovation for Implementing Zero Over Dimension Overload

<p class="Abstract"><span lang="EN-US">Vehicles loaded with Over Dimension Overload (ODOL) cause damage to road infrastructure, traffic accidents, and endanger crossing transportation. ODOL vehicles also contribute to the death of people. This research focuses on characterizing the effect of moving loads on fiber optic light loss. Problem-solving approach through the optical fiber macrobending method. This research aims to be implemented in the WIM system concept. Macrobending comes from the weights contained in the body dump. The types of loading carried out are static and dynamic. Under dynamic loading, the speed variation is 0.1 m/s, 0.2m/s, and 0.3 m/s. The research results show that the greater the loading value, the greater the attenuation value of the optical fiber. This research applies to all three speed variations of the dummy dump truck, both front and rear wheels. Apart from that, the best sensitivity value is found at a speed variation of 0.1 m/s. The value is 2.029. This data can be used as a reference for the most recommended speed when a loaded vehicle passes through a fiber optic sensor-based WIM system.</span></p>

‘Pastoral and ecclesial madness’ Facing the failure of ‘democratism’ within the current civil turmoil in South Africa

‘Pastoral and ecclesial madness’ Facing the failure of ‘democratism’ within the current civil turmoil in South Africa

Balancing Language and Content: A Study of Negotiation Learning in Applied English Courses

This study examines the impact of subject content versus the English language on students whose first language is non-English. Focusing on Applied English juniors and above, the course in question required negotiation learning through English. Surprisingly, students often reverted to their native language (Mandarin Chinese) during scenario discussions and role-play, despite the assumption that English should be exclusively used. The semester-end survey, based on a 5-point Likert scale, revealed several key findings as follows. First, the course facilitated diverse problem-solving approaches. Secondly, negotiation skills were effectively put into practice. Thirdly, role-play activities played a critical role. Fourthly, teacher-delivered lectures enhanced content understanding. Interestingly, when asked about continuous English usage, approval significantly dropped when foreign students were present. These results suggest that prioritizing knowledge acquisition, skill internalization, and higher-order abilities is essential, even if the “whole English” pattern is not strictly enforced during class.

Elderly care facility location in the face of the climate crisis: A case study in Canada

The climate crisis poses a dual threat to the environment and human health, with older adults being particularly vulnerable. This study aims to establish a network of elderly care facilities designed to respond to climate-induced disasters—an essential element in creating resilient cities that address the challenges of elderly care within the context of the climate crisis. First, we formulate an equation grounded in expert opinions to estimate demand in each region based on factors such as the elderly population, average age, frailty, and proximity to healthcare service nodes. We then introduce an Integrated Coverage and Distance Facility Location problem (ICDFL), a novel approach tailored to address the unique needs of seniors during disasters while considering governmental budget constraints. The ICDFL, therefore, simultaneously pursues two key objectives: (i) maximizing coverage while respecting a maximum allowable coverage radius, and (ii) minimizing overall travel distance. The first objective ensures the resilience of elderly health, guiding healthcare policymakers, while the second considers transportation and service costs faced by government agencies. To address dual-objective optimization, we utilize the epsilon-constrained optimization technique, which enables precise management of both coverage and distance goals through an iterative problem-solving approach. We apply the proposed model to a real-world case study in southern Ontario, Canada, to validate its effectiveness. This is an important aspect of the study, as Canada’s warming trend is happening twice as fast as the rest of the world and its elderly population is expanding at an alarming rate. The results of our model provide guidance to policy makers and healthcare planners in improving emergency preparedness, thus creating a sustainable community for our growing elderly population and improving the well-being of older people during climate-induced disasters.

SAGES White Paper on the importance of diversity in surgical leadership: creating the fundamentals of leadership development (FLD) curriculum.

The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) has long recognized and championed increasing diversity within the surgical workplace. SAGES initiated the Fundamentals of Leadership Development (FLD) Curriculum to address these needs and to provide surgeon leaders with the necessary tools and skills to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in surgical practice. In 2019, the American College of Surgeons issued a request for anti-racism initiatives which lead to the partnering of the two societies. The primary goal of FLD was to create the first surgeon-focused leadership curriculum dedicated to DEI. The rationale/development of this curriculum and its evaluation/feedback methods are detailed in this White Paper. The FLD curriculum was developed by a multidisciplinary task force that included surgeons, education experts, and diversity consultants. The curriculum development followed the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation (ADDIE) instructional design model and utilized a problem-based learning approach. Competencies were identified, and specific learning objectives and assessments were developed. The implementation of the curriculum was designed to be completed in short intervals (virtual and in-person). Post-course surveys used the Kirkpatrick's model to evaluate the curriculum and provide valuable feedback. The curriculum consisted of interactive online modules, an online discussion forum, and small group interactive sessions focused in three key areas: (1) increasing pipeline of underrepresented individuals in surgical leadership, (2) healthcare equity, and (3) conflict negotiation. By focusing on positive action items and utilizing a problem-solving approach, the curriculum aimed to provide a framework for surgical leaders to make meaningful changes in their institutions and organizations. The FLD curriculum is a novel leadership curriculum that provided surgeon leaders with the knowledge and tools to improve diversity in three areas: pipeline improvement, healthcare equity, and conflict negotiation. Future directions include using pilot course feedback to enhance curricular effectiveness and delivery.

PENGEMBANGAN KOMIK EDUKASI BERBASIS CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING BERBANTUAN KVISOFT FLIPBOOK MAKER PRO UNTUK SEKOLAH DASAR

This research aims to develop and produce the effectiveness of an educational comic based on Creative Problem Solving (CPS) using Kvisoft Flipbook Maker Pro as interactive media for elementary school students. This research uses the ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) model development approach. The main innovation of this research is the use of the Creative Problem Solving approach in designing educational comic content. In addition, Kvisoft Flipbook Maker Pro is used to present comics interactively, adding a more interesting visual dimension. The research results include educational comics developed and evaluation results from field trials. Evaluation involves responses from students, teachers, and the appropriateness, attractiveness, and effectiveness of comics in increasing understanding of educational concepts. It is hoped that this research can contribute to the development of innovative teaching methods and increase student involvement in the learning process. The results obtained were that the teaching materials developed obtained a validity percentage of 89.06% (Content Validation), 80% (Graphic Validation), and 83.3% (Language Validation). The practicality of the teacher's response was obtained at 3.7 (very practical), while the student's response was 3.5 (very practical. Effectiveness can be seen from student learning outcomes, namely an N-Gain Score of 0.71 (High) in the quite effective category. This means, The teaching materials developed are valid, practical and effective for grade 3 elementary school students

Comparing the effects of patient safety education using design thinking and case based learning on nursing students’ competence and professional socialization: A quasi-experimental design

BackgroundPatient safety issues should be constantly monitored and sensitively recognized. In nursing education, it is necessary to find effective teaching methods to increase students' competencies in patient safety. ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a new method, design thinking (DT), and a traditional method, case-based learning (CBL), in patient safety education. DesignThis study used a quasi-experimental, pre-post control group design. SettingsA 30-h training tutorial was developed for intervention groups, DT and CBL, while the control group received no treatment. ParticipantsIn this study were junior nursing students receiving baccalaureate nursing education with experiences of at least 480-h clinical practice. A total of 53 students (21 in the DT group, 19 in the CBL group, and 13 in the control group) were recruited. MethodsClinical reasoning competency, patient safety competency, and professional socialization were measured immediately after the end of the educational program using DT and CBL, 4 weeks later, and 8 weeks later. Effects of DT and CBL were analyzed using a generalized estimating equation. ResultsBoth DT and CBL were effective in clinical reasoning competency (χ2 = 15.432, p = 0.017) and knowledge domain of patient safety competency (χ2 = 42.824, p < 0.001), showing no significant difference between the two. CBL was more effective in professional socialization than DT. ConclusionsDT was as effective as CBL in clinical reasoning competency and knowledge domain of patient safety competency. In the healthcare field, where improving the patient experience is becoming increasingly important, DT is worth applying as an educational method to train nursing students who can take a creative and human-centered problem-solving approach. It is expected that educational curricula utilizing DT will be developed not only in the field of patient safety but also in various patient care areas.

Entrepreneurial Design Thinking and Marketing Performance of Food and Beverage Firms in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The study examined the relationship between entrepreneurial design thinking and marketing performance of food and beverage firms in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This study adopted a correlational research design, with the population of the study comprising 25 food and beverage firms in Rivers State. Sequel to the population of the study, which is 25 food and beverage firms, the study adopted a census study with a focus on the managerial staff (production manager, quality control manager, marketing manager, and procurement manager). The questionnaire was distributed in a frame of four (4) copies per firm. A total of one hundred (100) copies of the questionnaire were distributed. The reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach's alpha test and it stood at 0.88, higher than the benchmark of 0.7. The data collected for this study were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. The Spearman Rank-Order Correlation Technique was employed to test the various hypotheses formulated. The empirical results of this study confirmed that all the dimensions of entrepreneurial design thinking (creativity, and problem solving) were found to be significant predictors of marketing performance as measured by sales growth. Since all the dimensions of entrepreneurial design thinking are significant predictors of marketing performance, it is therefore concluded that entrepreneurial design thinking has the potential of improving marketing performance of food and beverage firms in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Based on the findings and conclusions, the study recommends that: food and beverage firms should come up with creative designs, novel products and services that will catch the customer’s attention and improve marketing performance. Also, food and beverage firms, especially those facing different challenges, should adopt a problem solving approach to enable them to improve their sales growth.

Ecological city concept: Challenge and future research agenda in urban ecology perspective

Cities are no longer viewed as creatures with a linear-climax-established cycle but as ecosystems with dynamic and complicated processes, with people as the primary component. Thus, we must understand urban ecology’s structure and function to create urban planning and appreciate the mechanisms, dynamics, and evolution that connect human and ecological processes. The ecological city (ecocity) is one of the city conceptions that has evolved with the perspective of urban ecology history. The concept of ecocity development within urban ecology systems pertains to recognizing cities as complex ecosystems primarily influenced by human activities. In this context, individuals actively engage in dynamic problem-solving approaches to address environmental challenges to ensure a sustainable and satisfactory quality of life for future generations. Therefore, it is necessary to study how ecocity has developed since it was initiated today and how it relates to the urban ecology perspective. This study aims to investigate the progression of scholarly publications on ecocity research from 1980 to 2023. Additionally, it intends to ascertain the trajectory of ecological city research trends, establish connections between scientific concepts, and construct an ecological city science network using keyword co-occurrence analysis from the urban ecology perspective. The present study used a descriptive bibliometric analysis and literature review methodology. The data was obtained by utilizing the Lens.org database, was conducted using the VOS (Visualization of Similarities) viewer software for data analysis. The urban ecology research area ecology of cities can be studied further from density visualization of ecosystem services and life cycle assessment. Finally, the challenges and future agenda of ecocity research include addressing humans by modeling functions or processes that connect humans with ecosystems (ecology of cities), urban design, ecological imperatives, integration research, and improving the contribution to environmental goals, spatial distribution, agriculture, natural resources, policy, economic development, and public health.

Energy-Efficient Framework for Green Cloud Computing in Dynamic Resource Allocation

Cloud Computing has been a trending technology for a few years supporting computational services over internet. But ever since its adoption, cloud’s consistent challenge is in its dynamic resource allocation. The existing cloud model details the online and offline algorithms used to decide the dynamic resource allocation. The goal is to have a dynamic resource allocation framework that aligns to cloud data management’s objective of maximizing revenue with minimum cost. This encourages both consumers and cloud providers not only with energy-efficient power usage but also high CPU utilization. This article discusses the impediments of migrating to Public Cloud, what is dynamic resource allocation, HPC workloads with complex communication path on cloud platform, and the benefits of bare metal platform for latency-sensitive applications. We shed light on trade- offs (compute balance) between Private and Public Cloud, how existing resources can be leveraged, Random forest (RF) solutions including a study on hybrid cloud computing capacity optimization framework. Understanding RL architecture, problem solving approach, learning structure and Hybrid Cloud Management Architecture framework are also explored. Also given are a few RL implemented gaming examples on how it makes an impact. Lastly, we shall do the comparisons of RL with other Machine Learning (ML) approaches.

The Effect of Problem Solving Method on Learning Outcomes of Elementary School Students

This study aims to determine the difference in learning outcomes using the Problem Solving approach with classes that do not use the Problem Solving approach. This research uses quantitative approach by using quasi experimental method. This type of research is Nonequivalent Control Group Design with two groups, namely control group/class and experimental group/class. Both groups were given different treatments. The samples in this study were all Class V SDK Golo Mongkok which amounted to 40 students and were divided into two classes. Data collection techniques in the form of tests (pretest and posttest). The research instrument used is a test question. Data analysis used is Descriptive Statistics, Data Normality Test, Variance Homogeneity Test, Statistical Hypothesis. The results showed that the average learning outcomes of the experimental class were higher than the control class. Thus it can be concluded that the application of the problem solving method can improve student learning outcomes.

The Village Expansion Model for Village Governance and Public Service Improvement in North Lombok Regency

This study aims to analyze the model of village expansion for village governance and improving the quality of public services. The Explanatory Sequential Mixed Method was used in the analysis of this study. Using 122 respondents of village officials in North Lombok Regency in 2022 indicated that the village expansion model (objectivity, subjectivity and psychological) improves village governance (accountability, transparance, openness and rule of law) and the quality of public services (convenience, security, reliability, personnel attention, problem-solving approach, fairness, fiscal responsibility and citizens influence). In addition, good village governance can strengthen the quality of public services. This research implies that the model of village expansion used in participatory development planning is to strengthen strengths to overcome weaknesses.

There’s more to life than the monomyth: multiperspectival approaches to teaching narrative and story in university film and media departments

ABSTRACT This article critiques the ongoing dominance of the Hollywood monomyth in the film and television industry, at least in the UK if not more widely. It considers how this is impacting on the teaching of narrative and story in university film and media departments as they move towards stronger collaborations with industry. It argues for the importance of two-way dialogue to help equip students and their future employers for a world facing complex global challenges. Drawing on the author’s extensive experience in teaching and practice-led research, it advocates for a creative problem-solving approach which decentres conflict-driven models of narrative development, such as the Hero’s Journey, placing them alongside alternative models which engage with the relationship between conflict and harmony in a variety of different ways. Considering narrative structures such as Kishōtenketsu, indigenous storytelling methods and the author’s own work with the Polyphonic Documentary project, the need for a genuinely inclusive and expansive approach is brought to the fore. A mixed economy is considered to be essential, with experimental and traditional approaches preparing students for current industry demands whilst also encouraging them to shape future storytelling landscapes. The argument is made that this is crucial to foster a nuanced understanding of narrative and story that can respond creatively and effectively to the demands of a rapidly changing world.

Examining students’ problem-solving approaches in organic chemistry and its impact on performance and learning

This research paper examines the intricacies of problem-solving (PS) in organic chemistry (OC), exploring the internal and external factors that influence students’ success in this demanding discipline. Data was collected through a questionnaire administered to 128 City College of New York students during Spring and Fall semesters of 2022. The study revealed that students face challenges learning OC, which include memorization, understanding underlying concepts, and effective PS. Notably, there is a gap between students’ professed beliefs about effective PS strategies and their actual practices. While students acknowledge the importance of techniques such as annotation, trial and error, and questioning, they inconsistently apply these strategies in practice. Annotation emerged as a valuable tool, enabling students to externalize complex thought processes and reduce reliance on memorization. Trial and error, coupled with exposure to expert PS techniques, proved effective. The role of confidence in PS was highlighted, and the need to balance memorization of reactions and rules such as naming with a profound understanding of OC concepts was emphasized. Resonance as a justification for answers underscored the importance of understanding and applying principles rather than relying solely on memorization. The data highlights the importance of aligning beliefs with actions in the learning process and the need for a balanced approach that combines knowledge with effective PS techniques. The findings offer valuable implications for educators and students seeking to enhance their performance in OC.

Strategies for solving multiplicative problems using a conceptual model-based problem-solving approach. A case study with a student with autism spectrum disorder

This study examines the multiplicative problem-solving strategies used by a 14-year-old student with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disabilities during an instructional process based on the Conceptual Model-based Problem Solving (COMPS) approach. The instruction aimed to enhance conceptual comprehension of problem-solving by the use of model diagrams representing mathematical relations involved in word problems. These diagrams aid in selecting the appropriate operation for each type of multiplicative problem, including equal-groups, multiplicative comparison, and combination problems. We further discuss how the instructional process promoted conceptual understanding for the three problem types, highlighting the development of strategies (modeling, counting, and operations) and the pivotal role of the COMPS methodology components in this progression. The results indicate that the student adeptly adopted the COMPS approach, facilitating the transition from informal modeling to written operations, with his choice of strategies varying depending on the type of problem. While there was a higher utilization of modeling strategies in equal-groups and combination problems, modeling was not as frequently employed in comparison problems. We speculate how this differentiated strategy preference could be associated with certain characteristics of the disorder.

VOTAT in Action

Abstract: In our study, we integrated the vary-one-thing-at-a-time (VOTAT) strategy within epistemic activities in knowledge-lean problem-solving. VOTAT, altering a single variable while keeping others constant, was examined through a dual approach: an empirical analysis with MicroDYN tasks and a theoretical discussion. Empirically, we identified differences among participants who fully engaged in the VOTAT loop, those with incomplete loops, and nonusers. These distinctions were evident in their problem-solving approaches, hypothesis formulation, and decision-making efficiency. Theoretically, we contextualized VOTAT's role within epistemic activities, extending its application beyond the specific tasks in our study. Our findings reveal that VOTAT's use markedly impacts problem-solving processes, demonstrating varied cognitive strategies among different participant groups. This has implications for understanding problem-solving cognition and designing tasks that better capture the nuances of epistemic activities.