Professional Development Research Articles

Efficient learning design

This paper investigates the efficiency of assistant professors and postdocs’ learning design interventions in connection with their participation in a teacher professional development (TPD) program (n = 62). Using the concept of Efficient Learning Design and a survey among educators, the efficiency of their designs is analysed, and the underlying factors are identified. The study shows that 92% (n = 57) of the design interventions had a positive impact, 73% (n = 45) had an impact equal to or higher than the required effort, and 8% (n = 5) made no significant difference or even had a negative impact. The paper identifies six factors for efficient learning design interventions based on the educators’ responses. These include leveraging opportunities where teaching requires redesign, guiding educators on effective pedagogical methods, utilising peer feedback and collaboration, creating reusable, technology-supported activities and materials, supporting educators’ design decisions and professional development, and ensuring a positive experience. Additionally, educators can benefit from a broad understanding of impact beyond improved learning outcomes.

Designing Immersive Reality Environments in Healthcare Education

This paper presents a proposed research framework aimed at addressing the critical need for innovative approaches in healthcare education by exploring the implementation of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies across Australasia. Utilizing an Educational Design Research (EDR) methodology, the proposed study seeks to develop a comprehensive, context-sensitive framework for the effective integration of AR and VR in healthcare curricula. The study navigates the unique challenges posed by Australasia's diverse cultural landscape, varying resource availability, and distinct institutional policies. Through iterative cycles of analysis, design, development, and evaluation, the proposed research intends to create and assess contextualized AR/VR experiences, their impact on student learning outcomes, and their potential to enhance healthcare education quality. The resulting framework and guidelines are intended to serve as a robust foundation for healthcare institutions across Australasia, potentially revolutionising healthcare professional training and ultimately contributing to improved patient care and public health outcomes. This proposed research not only addresses a significant gap in the current literature but also provides practical, evidence-based solutions for the successful adoption of cutting-edge technologies in healthcare education. Finally, the proposed framework generalisability to a global context focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of quality education and good health for all.

Diversity-responsive teacher educators in Flanders

ABSTRACT Higher education-based teacher educators are a unique group of practitioners: not only what they teach, but also how they teach is of instructional significance to students who want to become teachers themselves. Nonetheless, they are often overlooked in the research on inclusion, equity and social justice in education. This explorative study expands the knowledge base on teacher educators’ contribution to education that genuinely serves all students, here referred to as diversity-responsive education. Specifically, semi-structured interviews (n = 14) were conducted to pursue three objectives: (1) understanding perceptions of the concepts of diversity and approaching diversity; (2) mapping individual teacher educators’ practices to approach diversity; and (3) uncovering personal and contextual determinants for the implementation of diversity-responsive practices by teacher educators. Alongside its theoretical contribution, this study offers practical inspiration for practitioners, and both national and institutional policymakers operating in different regional contexts, guiding context-tailored professional development initiatives.

Community College Counselors’ Experiences Assisting Community College Students in Navigating Course-Taking at Multiple Institutions

ABSTRACT Community college counselors play an important role in supporting students’ decision-making as they navigate toward varied academic goals. Most community college students intend to transfer and thus must navigate the regulations and policies of two institutions, and many follow nonlinear enrollment patterns. Knowledgeable, personalized advising is an important resource for students in community colleges. Yet, counselors often juggle multiple roles, manage large counselor-to-student caseloads with limited resources, and must understand and meet the needs of a growing diverse student body. This study examines the factors that affect community college counselors’ ability to assist community college students in navigating multiple institutions at once while taking classes at a four-year university through a policy called cross-enrollment. To do so, we employed focus group interviews with 29 community college counselors from three community colleges in California. We found that institutional resources and support, cross-campus collaborations, counselors’ perception of the benefits and challenges associated with cross-enrollment, and counselors’ perception of the ideal cross-enrollment student were factors that affected counselors’ ability and willingness to facilitate cross-enrollment efforts. The findings suggest that improving the uptake of cross-enrolling is contingent on institutions improving their cross-institutional collaborations and providing community college counselors with adequate professional development and resources on the policy.

The Essence and Structure of the Concept “Professional Education of Students” Through Social Networks and Digital Media Platforms

The article is devoted to the disclosure of the concept of professional education in the era of digitalization, the importance of media platforms and social networks in preparing students for successful professional activity. Professional education is the basis of the educational process, which plays an important role in the development of society. It concerns not only students’ professional competencies, but also their personal qualities necessary for sustainable development in the conditions of modern economy and social environment. The concept of professional education concerns individuals and has significant implications both at the level of the country and in the global community. The main aspects of the social benefits of professional education are its contribution to the development of the economy, social stability, reduction of social constraints, the possibility for each person to achieve success in professional activities, the formation of civic responsibility and social solidarity. Thus, professional education contributes to the emergence of professionals who can adapt to the changing conditions of the labor market caused by new technologies, innovation and automation. Countries that pay attention to professional education have higher rates of competitiveness on the world stage and ensure stable economic development. Professional education helps to shape social norms and values and to adapt to the challenges of the digital age. Innovations contribute to cultural and economic growth, and professional education helps to develop these qualities in students. The article discusses the objectivity of lecturers’ and students’ interest in media platforms and social networks as new forms of professional education, training and expansion of educational space. The objective regularity and interest of researchers in studying this topic are highlighted.Materials and methods of research. The basis of the study is formed by domestic and foreign, scientific and research, philosophical and pedagogical literature, normative-legal acts, laws and regulations of the Russian Federation in the field of education and upbringing of youth. In the study of sources and materials on this topic, the methods of theoretical analysis were used. The analysis of conceptual and theoretical apparatus, comparison, generalization, synthesis, sample surveys were carried out. The experience of work on professional education in the system of higher education was studied and generalized. A review of published research papers and articles on the topic of professional education using media platforms was made in order to analyze the existing approaches, identify the main trends and determine the prospects for further research.Results. As a result of the study, the fundamental philosophical ideas of upbringing are considered. The aspect of formation of the concepts of “education” and “professional education” is studied; definitions of these terms and their interrelation in civil and moral formation of personality are given. The role of professional education in the training of students as future specialists is reflected. The role of social media in the context of the educational process is highlighted. The experience of social media researchers in professional education and educational process is studied and analyzed, and the rating of these concepts is compiled.Conclusion. The conducted analysis and conclusions of the research in the field of professional education can be used in pedagogical and scientific activities on the problem under consideration. The general and distinctive features of the concepts of “education” and “professional education” are deduced. The relevance of professional education through digital platforms is shown. The research prospects on this topic and social usefulness of professional education through social networks and media platforms within the country and the entire world community are proved.

Minor ailment interventions and the pivotal role of the community pharmacist in greece

Abstract Introduction Community pharmacists (CPs) play a vital role in providing advice and treatment for minor ailments, offering accessible and convenient healthcare services to the public1. The selection of appropriate management strategies is crucial for promoting self-care and empowering individuals to take an active role in addressing their health issues2. Aim This study aimed to measure the level of knowledge and perceptions of pharmacists regarding primary pharmaceutical care practices and the management of minor ailments. Methods This quantitative, cross-sectional study used a survey-based questionnaire developed after extensive literature review. It consisted of both closed-ended questions (multiple-choice questions) and Likert-type questions scale ranged from 1 to 5 (Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree) to rate their level of agreement or disagreement. Ethical approval was obtained from the Pharmaceutical Association of Attica (PAA). This study employed purposive sampling to select participants, ensuring their participation was both anonymous and voluntary. The study commenced in December 2023, and data collection (both face-to-face and electronically via the university’s Moodle platform) was completed by March 2024. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel®. Results The PAA informed 68 CPs from the Southern sector of Athens, and 60 CPs responded, resulting in a response rate of approximately 88.24%. The survey results show that the majority of respondents were women, N=33 (55%). The main age groups were 31-40 and 41-50 years, each with N=13 (21.7%), and most were pharmacy owners, N=34 (38.6%). Most participants were pharmacy graduates, N=52 (86.7%), with only N=8 (13.3%) holding postgraduate degrees. The majority of CPs were able to accurately identify and distinguish minor ailments. Only a small percentage mistakenly included conditions typically classified as chronic, with 8.3% (N=5) listing high cholesterol and 1.7% (N=1) listing hypertension.The survey-results indicate that a significant portion of the respondents perceive the role of the CP as central to the healthcare system, with 78.3% (N=47) affirming its importance. All participants felt confident in detecting and recommending treatment for minor ailments; 83.3% (N=50) considered their university training adequate. The main obstacles for CPs were a lack of time (90%, N=54) and the absence of compensation for extended services (50%, N=30). Additionally, 98.3% (N=59) supported lifelong learning, with continuous professional development in primary care being the top choice (46.7%, N=28), followed by advanced clinical training (36.7%, N=22). Participants hope to play a more active role in disease management within five years (35%, N=21) and seek autonomy in prescribing (30%, N=18). They expect support through collaboration (48.3%, N=29), policy reforms (28.3%, N=17), and compensated services (20%, N=12). Additionally, 96.7% (N=58) feel prepared to offer extensive pharmacy services, viewing it as an opportunity to demonstrate their clinical skills. Discussion/Conclusion This seems to be the first study of its kind in Greece.The study faced limitations such as potential response bias, restriction to a specific pharmacist population, and a limited time frame, which may affect generalisability. Despite these, the findings offer valuable insights into pharmaceutical care practices in Athens' southern sector, providing a foundation for future research and targeted interventions to enhance care in Greece.

ACCOUNTING EVOLUTION: FROM TRADITION TO DIGITAL INNOVATION IN MICRO ENTERPRISES IN HUMAITÁ/AM

This study explores the application and impact of digital accounting among Individual Microentrepreneurs (MEIs) in Humaitá/AM. The research, of a bibliographic and descriptive nature, aims to understand the evolution of accounting from its beginnings to the current practices adopted by MEIs, highlighting the historical, technological and regional transformations that influence accounting practices. The analysis focuses on how digital accounting can be an effective tool for the financial management of small businesses, especially in remote regions such as Amazonas, where access to technological resources and professional training can be limited. The study also addresses the challenges faced by MEIs in adopting new accounting technologies, identifying the main barriers and proposing solutions that can facilitate the transition to more modern and efficient practices. The results indicate that, although digital accounting offers significant advantages in terms of efficiency and financial control, its implementation requires a continuous effort of training and adaptation to local realities. The conclusion suggests that digital accounting, when well implemented, can contribute significantly to the economic development and sustainability of small businesses in Humaitá/AM, promoting more effective and strategic financial management.

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps policies regarding professional development

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps policies regarding professional development

Positive impacts of the take-home timeline as a reflective practice tool on teacher development: an exploratory study of novice public school teachers in China

ABSTRACT This study explores the impact of the take-home timeline as a novel reflective practice tool for novice public school teachers in China. Spanning one and a half years, the research tracked 16 novice teachers across three schools, examining how the timeline influenced their personal and professional development. Our findings, distilled from a thematic analysis of in-depth interviews, reveal significant enhancements in reflective practice among these teachers. The take-home timeline proved instrumental in helping teachers catalogue significant events, critically assess their teaching decisions, and plan their professional futures. This process not only deepened their reflective engagement but also bolstered their confidence and commitment to teaching. This study concludes that the take-home timeline is particularly valuable for novice teachers, enhancing their ability to navigate the complexities of teaching and accelerating their professional maturity. Hence, the study recommends broader adoption of take-home timelines in teacher education, emphasising their benefits in fostering a reflective mindset and supporting continuous professional development.

Using the five-factor questionnaire to study the personality of a specialist-cynologist of the security agencies of the Russian Federation

The article presents the results of using the Russian-language version of the “Big Five” personality questionnaire, in which personality is considered as a structure consisting of 5 factors, including many secondary factors. The subject of the study are psychological characteristics of the personality of dog handlers of law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as RF) at various stages of professionalisation. The author emphasises the relevance of studying and further psychological support of the professional development of dog handlers, with consideration to the fact that specifics of their service and professional activities in order to ensure the security of the country have no analogues and are unique. The results of a focused interview with experienced dog handlers with extensive experience in service cynology have formed the basis for constructing a psychograph for a specialist in the profile in question. Using the “Big Five” methodology, it is possible to identify the characteristic features of cadets studying in the field of training “Animal Science”, profile “Cynology”, and employees of canine services of the law enforcement agencies of the RF. The author correlates the results obtained and notes the correspondence of the psychological qualities of both groups of respondents to the professionally oriented qualities presented in the psychograph of a specialist dog handler of the law enforcement agencies of the RF. The five-factor questionnaire adapted by A.B. Khromov adequately describes the psychological characteristics of an individual and can be used in the study of various aspects of its professional development.

CHAIRMEN OF KOSTROMA DISTRICT COURT: THEIR ROLE AND PLACE IN THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM RUSSIAN EMPIRE (1871-1917)

Based on archival and historical materials, the article examines in detail the personalities of the chairmen of the Kostroma District Court for the period 1871–1917. Based on the study of the personnel of Kostroma District Court, the purpose of the study is to analyse the personalities of its chairmen as a special social group and their place in the system of judicial authorities of the Russian Empire. The main stages of their life path, formation and professional development as judicial figures are revealed. Topicality is due to insufficient research of the scientific biographies of the chairmen of the courts of post-reform Russia, as well as the expansion of the source base of research on their personalities. The author introduced new facts about the activities of the chairmen of Kostroma District Court into scientific circulation, which made it possible to recreate the portrait of judicial officials of the second half of the 19th – the early 20th century. Their estate origin, education, well-being, marital status, and official status are investigated. Their role and place in the activities of the judicial bodies of the Russian Empire are noted, including through effective public administration in the field of justice in the context of an increasing crisis of power. The conclusion is made about their personal contribution to the management of the judicial branch of government in Kostroma Province, their professionalism.

Establishing a biologics and biosimilars committee/network: assessing educational requirements of pharmacy and other healthcare professionals

Abstract Introduction Successful professional networking involves shared, mutually beneficial interactions between individuals and/or individuals and groups1. Biologics and biosimilar medicines prescribing is rapidly evolving with an increasing number of clinical indications in healthcare2,3. Despite their importance, the absence of a structured national network dedicated to these complex therapies has left a gap in professional education and resource sharing among pharmacists. Recognising the necessity for a cohesive support system, this work explores the learning and professional needs of pharmacists regarding biologics and biosimilars and the potential development of a national pharmacy network to address these gaps. Aim The survey aimed to explore the educational needs and preference for a network and/or committee for pharmacy and other healthcare professionals focused on biologics and biosimilars medicines. Methods An electronic survey was developed and deployed for pharmacy and other healthcare professionals involved in the management of biologics and biosimilars via email cascade and social media, 12th February - 6th March 2023. The survey explored the preferred structure of the proposed group; formal committee and/or informal network, what the group would deliver, and any educational needs for members. The survey included questions about the respondent’s roles, sectors of work, regions and their clinical area(s). The open text responses were themed. The NHS health Research Authority tool was used to identify this project as service improvement and development, therefore did not require ethical approval. Results The responses received were from 46 pharmacists, 1 pharmacy technician, 15 doctors and nurses and 4 participants whose roles were unknown, working across multiple sectors; hospital, community, industry, and academia with representation from the devolved nations (n=3) and internationally (n=1). Most respondents expressed a need for a dedicated network and committee n=52 (79%), n=10 (15%) formal network, and n=4 (6%) informal committee. Common themes in response to what the group should deliver and educational needs included; harmonisation of approaches to guidelines and policies, pathway design, reduction in unwarranted variation (68%); platform to share new ideas, knowledge and peer advice (44%); strategy and leadership in service delivery and promotion of best practice and cost training, horizon scanning (29%); working collaboratively to produce multi-centre research projects (24%); to create a structured training programme for health care professionals (9%). Discussion/Conclusion The survey results highlight a gap in the current educational and professional support systems for PP’s concerning biologics and biosimilar medicines. The identified learning needs point to a strong demand for a structured network that can provide targeted education, share best practices and facilitate professional networking. The expertise within the group can also create formal eLearning programmes for healthcare professionals. This work serves as a foundational step towards the development this network, highlighting the critical areas of focus and the collective interest of the pharmacy community in bridging these gaps. The network should also facilitate communication and collaboration across different sectors, fostering a more cohesive and informed pharmacy community. Such an innovative network would not only enhance individual competency but also contribute to the overall advancement of pharmaceutical care in this specialised area.

How do people use community pharmacies to manage sleep problems? A cross-sectional survey of pharmacy customers in England, UK

Abstract Introduction Insomnia and sleep problems have become increasingly common in the UK population, with research indicating a rise in the prevalence of sleep issues and the use of hypnotic medications1. Poor sleep can severely affect overall health and has been linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other conditions2. Community pharmacies are ideally positioned to advise people about sleep, but there is limited information about how people currently utilise them for sleep problems. Aim To understand how people use community pharmacies to manage problems with sleep Methods A researcher-administered questionnaire with customers at 16 community pharmacies in the East Midlands from the 6th to 25th of March 2023. People aged 18 and older were approached to take part. Survey questions included demographic information, general pharmacy use, and specific questions related to health-seeking advice for sleep problems. Responses were recorded using the Qualtrics survey platform and descriptive statistics derived using MS Excel. Ethical approval was given by the School of Pharmacy Research Ethics Committee at the University of Nottingham (2017-017er). Results 13,127 customers were approached to take part, and 4,985 consented and completed the questionnaire (response rate = 38.0%). Two thirds of participants were female (66.3%), half were above the age of 50 years (51.1%), and the majority identified as white ethnicity (79.8%). Just under one-third of participants reported purchasing a medicine, herbal remedy, or other product to help with sleep in the past (28.2%), of which 81.8% had purchased from a community pharmacy. The most common medicines purchased were anti-histamines (43.7%), followed by herbal remedies (34.1%). Only 19.1% of participants had previously sought advice for a sleep problem, of which 64.9% had sought advice from a GP/other healthcare professional, and 29.2% had sought advice from a community pharmacy. The most common advice received from a community pharmacy was to use a medicine (32.2%), with the second most common being sleep hygiene/lifestyle advice (22.8%). The most common advice received from a GP was also to use a medicine (36.4%). Discussion / Conclusion A significant proportion of survey participants reported purchasing a medicine, herbal remedy, or other product to help with sleep from a community pharmacy, highlighting the significant role of pharmacies in managing sleep issues. However, considerably fewer customers had sought advice for their sleep problem, identifying a potential gap in care. Current national guidelines do not recommend medication as first-line treatment for insomnia, emphasising sleep hygiene and behavioural therapy, with no role for sedative anti-histamines3. Despite this, our survey indicated the most common advice focused on medicines. This suggests an opportunity for enhancing the education of healthcare professionals and improving public awareness of managing sleep problems. Whilst this survey involved a large number of participants, we recognise it may not be fully representative of the wider UK population or practice. Further analysis of this survey and interviews with customers and pharmacists would help understand how the role of community pharmacies in managing sleep could be further developed to improve care.

Research of opportunities for the ecosystem approach to career planning by students at the State University of Management

The article presents the results of studying the possibilities of an ecosystem approach to career planning by students at the State University of Management (hereinafter referred to as SUM). At first, the gap between the level of practical training of graduates of Russian universities and the requirements of employers has been actualised. Then, the need for joint efforts of all interested labour market participants to create conditions for students’ conscious planning of career growth at all stages of education is emphasised. The experience of intra-university cooperation using the STC (student team consulting) method between the marketing department and practical training department in 2022–2023 has showed that solving this problem involves integrating, on an ecosystem basis, activities for the study of professional academic disciplines, project-based learning, practical training, and employment. As an experiment, 6 student consulting teams have solved a set of interrelated tasks, including the creation and ongoing maintenance of the Career Centre page in the VK social network, advertising campaigns and interviews at “Career Day in Transport and Logistics”, surveys on the employment of graduates and assessment of student satisfaction with practical training, analytical review of the labour market in Russia in 2020–2023 with a report at the All-Russian scientific and practical conference, examination of 5 ideas for marketing research projects in the field of career planning by students of the SUM with testing in social networks and assessments of the influence of actors in its ecosystem. In conclusion, based on the results of the research, the directions for the ecosystem approach to career planning by students at the SUM are formulated.

An evaluation of the impact of the Lambeth PCN pharmacist anticoagulation skills development project

Abstract Background Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent heart condition linked to significant morbidity and mortality due to its association with stroke.1 Despite the clear benefits of anticoagulation in reducing stroke risk, its underuse and suboptimal monitoring remain a concern.2 Aim This study aims to evaluate the impact of a pharmacist-led training programme in Lambeth, London, focusing on improving pharmacists' competency and confidence in managing Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs). It assesses if the training met pharmacists' needs, evaluates current monitoring patterns to determine if training was warranted, and identified areas for further training improvement. Methods The study involved 41 GP practices across 9 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in Lambeth. Practices were eligible based on their involvement in the management of AF patients prescribed DOACs. All pharmacists at these practices who were actively engaged in anticoagulation management and willing to participate in pre- and post-training assessments were invited to take part. Recruitment involved direct communication through practice managers and emails detailing the study’s objectives and benefits. DOAC monitoring data was extracted from patient medication records and subsequently compared to the South East London anticoagulation guidelines3 to establish compliance percentages. A competency assessment was conducted on pharmacists using a pre- and post-training checklist framework devised by the Consultant Anticoagulant Team at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust (GSTT). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test analysed this paired data, with a p < 0.05 set for statistical significance. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather insights on their training experience and perceptions. Transcripts were coded using NVIVO software to identify themes. Ethical approval was obtained from Kingston University London. Results Of the 2,987 AF patients across the 41 GP practices, 87.6% were on DOACs. Prescribing and monitoring trends were consistent across all GPs, with scope to improve compliance across all parameters, such as CHA₂DS₂-VASc score assessment prior to DOAC initiation. The competency assessment, completed by ten pharmacists, showed a significant improvement post-training, with mean scores rising from 3.3 to 4.1 (p< 0.00001). Improvements were seen across all domains, particularly in explaining the rationale for anticoagulation, showing CHA₂DS₂-VASc and HASBLED scores, and discussing modifiable HASBLED factors. Competency in patient communication remained highest, while managing particular cases like reversal procedures and patients with cancer showed lower competency, indicating areas for training improvement. The interviews, conducted with ten pharmacists, revealed three main themes: (1) Confidence and competence in anticoagulant prescribing and optimisation, (2) Evaluation of the training programme's effectiveness, and (3) Professional growth and career development. Pharmacists reported greater confidence in managing DOACs post-training, though challenges remained in patient engagement and collaboration with GPs lacking DOAC knowledge. Discussion / Conclusion The evaluation proved a positive impact on pharmacists' competency and confidence in DOAC management. Suboptimal monitoring practices in Lambeth highlighted the need for this training programme and its crucial role in improving patient outcomes. Limitations include a small interview sample and potential biases in self-reported evaluations. A longitudinal study is recommended to assess long-term impacts. Ongoing training and systematic data collection are essential, and similar training should be extended to other healthcare professionals.

‘Please, see me’; Informal and professional support of students with relatives with addiction problems: a three-year longitudinal qualitative study

Background and aimAddiction problems also affect the lives of family members. This study aims to examine: (1) young adult family members’ experiences with informal and professional support in coping with the impact of relatives’ addiction problems and (2) how these experiences evolve over time.MethodA three-year longitudinal qualitative study. Four rounds of in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews were conducted. Thirty students aged 18–30 years, participated in the study at baseline. 93% participated in at least two interviews, and 80% participated three or four times. The Stress-Strain-Information-Coping-Support model was used, and Directed Content Analysis was applied.FindingsFive major themes were extracted from the data: (1) Informal support; (2) Educational support; (3) Healthcare support; (4) Resilience factors; and (5) Developments over time. Informal and educational support were more often described as effective than healthcare support, although the number of participants who sought healthcare support increased over time. Effective elements of support included being able to discuss their experiences with people listening without judgment or unsolicited advice and having long-term relationships of trust with people from the social environment and professionals. Participants were mainly treated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Learning how to distinguish between accurate and inaccurate thoughts, especially about themselves, was considered effective. Body-oriented therapy was remarkably absent. Finding effective healthcare support was often a long and winding road through various therapies and therapists. Participants were not attracted to peer group interventions but needed advice on how to deal with their relatives. They also needed recognition by their relatives for harm done. This recognition was seldom given.ConclusionsIt is recommended to train educational and healthcare professionals to recognize the support needs of young people with relatives with addiction problems, to help them cope, or to refer them adequately. We also suggest broadening the scope of professional support offered to AFMs, including body-oriented and cultural interventions.

ELT Student Teachers’ Acceptance and Knowledge Base of Integrating Virtual Reality into Task-Based Contexts

This qualitative study explored the acceptance and knowledge base of English language teaching (ELT) student teachers regarding the incorporation of virtual reality (VR) into oral tasks to promote learner engagement within the framework of task-based language teaching (TBLT). Twenty-six ELT student teachers, pursuing their Master of Arts degree at a university in Hong Kong, were interviewed about their acceptance of VR oral tasks and assessed on their knowledge of task engagement and VR. Content analysis, guided by the technology acceptance model and the technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) framework, was conducted to analyse their interview data. The findings indicated their acceptance of VR-based oral tasks, based on their overall positive perceptions of VR, and confirmed their existing pedagogical knowledge of task engagement. However, their concerns regarding the effectiveness of VR-based oral tasks were influenced by their insufficient TPACK. The findings highlight their urgent need for professional training, not only to enhance VR experiential opportunities but also to learn how to develop teaching materials that integrate VR.

Examining the clinical role and educational preparation of heart failure nurses across Europe. A survey of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions (ACNAP) of the ESC

AimsTo describe the clinical practice and educational preparation of heart failure (HF) nurses across Europe and determine the key differences between countries.Methods and resultsA survey tool was developed, in English, by the Heart Failure Association Patient Care committee of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). It was translated into eight languages, before electronically disseminated by nurse ambassadors, presidents of HF national societies and through social media. A total of 837 nurses involved in the daily care of patients with HF from 15 countries completed the survey. Most nurses, 78% (n = 395) worked within a hospital outpatient setting, and 51% (n = 431) had access to a specialized HF multidisciplinary team. Nurses performed a range of activities including patient education to promote self‐care, virtual and in‐person symptom monitoring. A third had more than 5‐year experience in cardiac care and 22% (n = 182) prescribed HF medications. There was a significant correlation between HF nurses that prescribed HF medications and access to a specialist multidisciplinary team (p = 0.04). A small number of nurses, mainly from Belgium, supported invasive monitoring (n = 68, 8%) with 14% (n = 120) of mostly Danish nurses supporting exercise programmes. The majority of nurses surveyed were committed to further academic professional development, with 41% (n = 343) having completed a HF course.ConclusionThe role of the HF nurse varies across Europe, however involvement in patient education, symptom monitoring and follow‐up remain core to their practice. In specific activities including the prescribing of HF medications and involvement in invasive monitoring, practice has advanced with collaboration in the multidisciplinary team. Consequently, harmonization of education, training and career pathways are required to standardize HF care aligned with expert guidelines across Europe.

The influence of emotions on science teaching: a case study with three early childhood education teachers

Teaching science in early childhood education (ECE) is crucial for fostering essential scientific thinking skills, which are vital for young learners’ development and formative trajectories. While this educational level presents exciting opportunities for integrating science teaching, it also poses challenges related to teachers ́ cognitive, pedagogical, and emotional constraints. Recognizing the pivotal role of teachers’ emotions in shaping their practices, we aim to specifically examine the influence of teachers’ emotions on science teaching in ECE, an area that remains underresearched. We conducted a multiple case study involving three ECE teachers in La Plata, Argentina, who demonstrated a strong interest in improving their pedagogical practices despite acknowledging their difficulties and insecurities in teaching science. We explored their emotions and how they relate to science lesson planning and implementation through surveys, in-depth interviews, and observations. Data collection was designed in three stages: pre-active, interactive, and post-active teaching. First, we surveyed the range of negative and positive emotions that teachers experienced toward sciences, rooted in their personal and formative prior experiences, and examined how these emotions influenced their planning (pre-active stage). Subsequently, we investigated the emotions associated with science teaching in the interactive stage and recorded classroom observations to document how they implemented their plans. Finally, we conducted in-depth interviews with the teachers while they watched the recorded class videos, allowing them to reflect on their decision-making and implementation characteristics (post-active stage). Our findings reveal a dichotomy: negative emotions derived from past experiences reduce engagement, while positive emotions enhance motivation and enrich the learning environment. Negative emotions arising from the implementation of science activities in real classroom contexts may lead to canceled classes, whereas positive emotions foster persistence and optimism. We discuss the significance of emotional awareness in teaching practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing negative emotions through teacher training and professional development programs. This approach can enhance teacher confidence and satisfaction, ultimately contributing to improved early childhood science education.

Early years pharmacist retention – a listening exercise

Abstract Introduction Pressures on pharmacy workforces are increasing, with 88% of hospital pharmacists reporting high risk of burnout and 62% considering leaving their role due to the impact of work on wellbeing.1 Early years pharmacist (EYP) recruitment is increasingly challenging. Traditional pharmacist career pathways are in competition with increasingly preferred portfolio-based careers. Many trusts are introducing band 6 to 7 progressive schemes to improve retention, including at University Hospital Southampton (UHS). However, anecdotal departmental feedback suggests that EYPs feel this scheme is being applied unequally across different sections and there is discontent with differing workload and development opportunities. Aim To develop an understanding of concerns and expectations of Early Years Pharmacists at UHS. Methods All pharmacists in Agenda for Change band 7, and 6 to 7 progression posts, were invited to participate in an in-person forum. Attendance was voluntary but supported by the senior pharmacy management team. The group facilitator, a senior pharmacist known to participants, introduced the session topics, explained the rationale, then asked participants to provide written comments anonymously on a range of topics. Comments were gathered at the end of the session and thematically analysed with review from an experienced qualitative researcher. Whilst deemed a service evaluation, not requiring ethics approval, data was recorded and managed in accordance with best ethical practices. Results Twenty-Eight EYP attendees provided 102 separate comments. Themes identified related to departmental progressive post variations in; on-call expectations, mentoring, opportunities for formal credentialling, and feedback from line managers. The variations were perceived to be unjust. Commonly, points raised related to professional development. Issues included protected study time both for those undertaking post-graduate courses and those not, workload demands meaning that time for development was limited, and inequalities of access. Discussion/Conclusion As anticipated, there was discontent within the group particularly regarding perceived variations in workload, role opportunities and progression across the department. Additionally, there was some antipathy regarding whether things could be improved. However, the forum feedback suggested the opportunity to participate was well received, having provided participants an opportunity to raise their concerns in a confidential, collaborative, manner. Following initial headline feedback of EYP feeling unappreciated, all senior leaders were reminded of the importance of positive feedback and anecdotally the Trust systems for this have been used more frequently since this reminder. There are limitations with this evaluation, the group was too large to truly be considered a focus group and as such the facilitator was unable to interact with all members and probe for further information which may have been helpful. Furthermore, the facilitator was line manager for a small number of the participants, and they may have felt less able to make negative comments despite the anonymous comment collection. Several of the points raised have led to further questions and we now intend to conduct a formal qualitive study using semi-structured interviews with volunteers across the department to obtain more detailed insight into the challenges of this staff group. Meanwhile work will continue to make the EYP process and experience more equitable. Reference 1. Royal Pharmaceutical Society (2023). ‘Workforce and Wellbeing Survey 2023’. Available online. [Accessed 7th May 2024].