Public University In Malaysia Research Articles

Exploring Language Learning Strategies of TESL Practicum Students Through a Phenomenological Lens for Enhancing Language Competency

Proficiency in English as a second language (TESL) and effective cross-cultural communication skills are paramount for future educators. This study investigates the language proficiency learning strategies and motivations of TESL students in engaging with English communications beyond the classroom. This aspect is frequently underestimated in Malaysian educational contexts. Employing a phenomenological approach, qualitative interviews were conducted with 13 TESL practicum students at a Malaysian public university, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in backgrounds and experiences. The study spanned from August 2021 to August 2023, totalling 2 years. The duration of each interview ranged from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts using NVivo software unveiled significant themes such as using audio-visual materials, leisure reading, note-taking, self-speaking practice, music listening, teaching and learning, gamification, and football commentary. The implications of these findings extend to TESL students, academic researchers, English teachers, and higher education institutions, suggesting avenues for further research to enrich language proficiency and communication skills among TESL students. Integrating these strategies into language education curricula is essential for fostering effective communication skills among future educators, thereby contributing to the advancement of educational practices in Malaysia and beyond.

The Impacts of Democratic Learning Environment on Students’ Self-Enhancement: A Case Study in a Malaysian Public University

The Impacts of Democratic Learning Environment on Students’ Self-Enhancement: A Case Study in a Malaysian Public University

Beliefs on Second Language Learning among Pre-service Teachers in a Public University in Malaysia

The purpose of this research was to identify the Teaching of English as a Second Language (TESL) pre-service teachers’ beliefs about second language (L2) learning, to determine whether there is a significant difference in beliefs among the TESL pre-service teachers of different years of study and how these beliefs were formed. These are important as the pre-service teachers’ beliefs would have a direct influence on their practices as a teacher in future. This research was conducted with a sample size of 113 respondents using a mixed method design. Data collection is using the Belief About Language Learning Inventory, often known as BALLI approach to ensure a comprehensive understanding of individuals' beliefs. In addition, data was gathered using semi-structured interviews thus, guaranteeing a more in-depth understanding of the participants' experiences and beliefs. Descriptive statistics showed that the highest mean score was recorded for the “motivation and expectations” dimensions. The ANOVA results showed statistically significant difference in the mean scores amongst the different years of study. Interview results indicated that beliefs were dominantly influenced by social support and exposure to the L2, and intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Results of the study could inform course developers and lecturers as to which aspects of language learning and pedagogical knowledge need to be focused on in the pre-service teachers’ curriculum.

Exploring Malaysian ESL Pre-service Teachers' Perceptions on Knowledge of Learners, Digital Literacy and 21st Century Competency

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Goal 4 is centred on providing good and quality education for all. To achieve this goal, the supply of quality teachers, particularly in English as a second language (ESL), should be increased to align with the current globalisation in which individuals are well equipped with English language skills. Hence, teacher training programs play a significant role in producing quality teachers and taking notice of the knowledge needed by ESL pre-service teachers in the 21st century. However, there is a gap in previous studies in understanding the knowledge of ESL pre-service teachers, particularly on digital literacy, knowledge of learners and 21st-century competency. Thus, this study aims to explore the ESL pre-service teachers' perspectives towards knowledge of learners, digital literacy and 21st-century competency to be an effective teacher in the 21st century. This paper employed a full qualitative method with 10 ESL pre-service teachers at a public university in Malaysia. The data were collected through a focus group discussion and were analysed using thematic analysis. Based on the findings, the ESL pre-service teachers reported that it is pivotal for them to know and be able to implement 21st-century skills in their classrooms. Additionally, the ESL pre-service teachers mentioned that they should be able to have digital literacy and have awareness towards learners. This study contributes to teacher training programs in understanding the knowledge needed by a modern teacher. Future research could investigate the challenges ESL pre-service teachers face in the 21st century.

THE EFFECT OF PERCEIVED SUPPORT ON SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING OF ACADEMIC INSTITUTION STAFF

This study aimed to examine the effects of perceived support on subjective well-being (SWB) among university staff in the context of COVID-19. The research sample comprised of 522 employees from Malaysia public universities, which included both academicians and non-academicians. The respondents completed two online questionnaires. Statistical analyses used were descriptive statistics and regression. The results revealed that perceived support directly affects higher institution employees’ subjective well-being. The study confirmed the importance of perceived support for university employees’ subjective well-being.

Navigating Post-Graduation Crossroads: Seeking Employment or Continuing Education

Hasan Syamsuddin, a native Indonesian, a recent graduate of a public university in Malaysia, faced a pivotal juncture post-graduation: choosing between entering the workforce or pursuing further education. His journey encompassed profound introspection and exploration. Returning to Malaysia for convocation, Hasan reflected on his undergraduate years, contemplating the crossroads between political science and entrepreneurship. He navigates the complexities of dual aspirations – a global career in international relations or entrepreneurial pursuits aligned with his passion for arts and crafts. Amid burnout and rest, Hasan proactively sought opportunities, delving into internships, volunteers and entrepreneurial endeavors. The weight of responsibility as a firstborn intensified the pressure to decide on a path shaping his professional trajectory. Hasan's intricate preparations and scholarship applications for Romania, the US, and the UK showcased his unwavering commitment to learn about and contribute towards global change in international relations.

Changing a major

Pursuing a degree programme of one’s childhood dream and blessed by one’s parents could not guarantee that the person will be able to complete his studies. The case walks the readers through the experience of Hasan who completed his matriculation studies and enrolled into MBBS (medical) programme of a public university in Malaysia. Hasan realized that there was a misfit between his aptitude and the nature of medical studies when he was in his second year. The case chronicled Hasan’s actions and reactions in coping with his poor academic performance, fulfilment of his parents’ wish, his lack of concentration and inability to digest his courses, changing to another academic discipline with his current university, or withdrawing from his university and making a new application to other public and private universities. There are compelling lessons that students, instructors, university authorities and parents could generate and contemplate after going through Hassan academic adventure.

ChatGPT, a partnering tool to improve ESL learners’ speaking skills: Case study in a Public University, Malaysia

The emergence of ChatGPT, an OpenAI chatbot, has revolutionised our education system to a new phase. It is an innovative approach to future learning, including in the English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom. Since its inception, ChatGPT has been remarkably used by most educators and learners. Nevertheless, its application in the flipped classroom, especially in enhancing ESL learners’ speaking skills, is notably an innovative and novel phenomenon. Besides, educators’ challenges in giving instant feedback to learners and creating an engaging learning environment in the flipped classroom emerged as a crucial consideration. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of ChatGPT as a partnering tool in developing ESL learners’ speaking skills in the flipped classroom setting in a Malaysian public university. This study also scrutinises ESL learners’ challenges in using ChatGPT to develop speaking skills. The researchers employ a mixed-method design incorporating a five-point Likert scale questionnaire and focus group interviews. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data was analysed through thematic analysis. The findings of this study offer significant implications for various stakeholders in the educational industry. Policymakers, course designers, educators, learners, and even the Ministry of Education will obtain valuable insights, especially in decision-making, innovative teaching approaches, and learners’ speaking abilities in the ESL flipped classroom.

Load Profile Forecasting using a Time Series Model for Solar Rooftop and Integrated Carpark of a Public University in Malaysia

A precise and accurate load prediction is critical in a developing country like Malaysia to save the energy consumption. Power producers use load profile data and statistics to analyze and forecast the quantity of electricity required to be available at a given time. Load forecasting is the process of predicting future load requirements and this research focuses on the short-term load forecasting (STLF) for solar rooftop and integrated car park built at one of the public universities in Malaysia. Power system planners and demand controllers must ensure that there is enough generation to meet the increased demand. Load forecasting models that are accurate can lead to better budgeting, maintenance scheduling, and fuel management. This project seeks to anticipate the highest demand of power utilized by the consumer based on prior load profiles using a Multiple Regression Time Series model developed using MATLAB software. It consists of the following steps: data collection, clustering, series transformation using differentiation transform to remove trend and seasonal structure from the dataset, model identification using autocorrelation function (ACF) and partial correlation function (PCF), model estimation using ARIMA time series errors and maximum likelihood probability, and finally model forecasting using Auto Regression (AR), Moving Average. In this case, the goal is to ensure the power production equals electricity demand, and achieving the target will assure energy security, dependability, and the capacity to maximize profits while minimizing losses.

The evolution, challenges and prospects of implementing Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in Malaysian public universities

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have emerged as a promising educational innovation, aiming to democratize access to quality education on a global scale. In the context of Malaysian public universities, MOOCs have garnered significant interest in enhancing educational outreach, improving learning outcomes, and fostering lifelong learning opportunities. However, the implementation of MOOCs in this setting faces several challenges that impact their effectiveness and long-term sustainability. This review was written based on a careful analysis of the published MOOC literature (2008-2023) identified through journals, database searches, searching the Web, and chaining from known sources to form the base for this review. The review intends to understand how the evolution of MOOCs affects the prospects of MOOCs and how universities incorporate MOOCs into their educational frameworks. In addition, this paper aims to explore the current and anticipated future challenges that hinder the successful integration of MOOCs especially in public universities across Malaysia. The key challenges identified in the present implementation include limited faculty buy-in and engagement, lack of appropriate technological infrastructure, concerns over course quality and accreditation, and difficulties in assessing and recognizing learners’ achievements. Additionally, issues related to cultural barriers and language diversity within the Malaysian context are also found to influence the effective utilization of MOOCs. Looking into the future, this paper will also explore additional potential challenges that may arise in the continued implementation of MOOCs in public universities in Malaysia. Anticipated challenges include evolving pedagogical practices, ensuring equitable access for all learners, addressing the digital divide, and keeping pace with rapidly advancing technology. By shedding light on the current and future challenges faced by public universities in Malaysia in implementing MOOCs, this research aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, administrators, and educators to enhance the efficacy of MOOCs and leverage their potential for advancing education in the country. Recommendations stemming from this research may include faculty training and development, investment in technological infrastructure, fostering collaborations with private sectors, and designing inclusive and culturally sensitive learning environments. Ultimately, understanding and addressing these challenges are crucial to ensuring the successful integration of MOOCs within the Malaysian higher education landscape, contributing to the nation’s efforts to provide accessible, high-quality education to a diverse and aspiring population.

Smoking prevalence, exposure to secondhand smoke, and factors associated with smoking among medical, dental, and pharmacy students in a public university in Malaysia.

Smoking among medical, dental, and pharmacy students is an issue in every university worldwide, which will impact future smoking cessation services as they are future healthcare providers. This study investigates the smoking prevalence, exposure to secondhand smoke, and factors associated with smoking among medical, dental, and pharmacy students at a public university in Malaysia. The self-administered online survey utilized in this cross-sectional study was derived from the Global Health Professions Students Survey (GHPSS), which involved medical, dental, and pharmacy students. A total of 328 participants completed a questionnaire from June to August 2022, with a response rate of 91.1%. The overall smoking prevalence was 4.6% among the medical, dental, and pharmacy students who participated in this study; 46.7% of current smokers were exposed to secondhand smoke at home compared to 17.6% of non-smokers (p=0.011); and 66.7% of smokers were exposed to secondhand smoke in public compared to 40.3% of non-smokers (p=0.043). In all, 99.1% of respondents supported the smoking ban and 46.7% of current smokers supported the smoking ban in discos/bars/pubs, compared to 82.0% of non-smokers (p=0.002). Of the participants, 96.6% received lessons on the danger of tobacco, and 65.5% received smoking cessation training. Among factors associated with current smoking was gender; male students had a 19-fold higher likelihood of smoking than female students (adjusted odds ratio, AOR=19.25; 95% CI: 4.25-87.19, p<0.001). In addition, home exposure to secondhand smoke was four times more common for current smokers (OR=4.11; 95% CI: 1.43-11.79, p=0.009). Although smoking prevalence was low among the students in this study, there was a higher percentage of them exposed to secondhand smoke at home and in public.

Engineering Students’ Lifestyle in a Malaysian Public University during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Unhealthy lifestyle among university students is an apparent issue in their quality of life. The criticality of this issue is supplemented by reports that students’ lifestyle was severely impacted due to the pandemic and abrupt shift to online learning. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the lifestyle of engineering students at a Malaysian public university. This paper also seeks to determine gender differences in students’ lifestyles. Questionnaires were distributed to respondents via Google Forms to uncover their eating habits, physical activity, and sleeping habits. Data were collected for three months from four engineering programmes. Simple random sampling was employed, and 120 responses were obtained. The findings revealed that the students have been practising a moderately unhealthy lifestyle; possess average eating habits; are physically inactive, and do not attain sufficient sleep. This study also observed no significant differences between male and female students’ eating and sleeping habits. In contrast, a significant difference was reported between male and female students’ physical activities. The results also determined a moderate correlation between eating habits and sleeping habits and also between eating habits and physical activity. The findings recommend universities implement precautionary measures such as constructing relevant courses and health programmes to raise students’ awareness of the importance of a holistic lifestyle.

A Review of Customer Satisfaction Survey on Facilities Management Performance within Private Finance Initiatives (PFI) at Malaysia Public University

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the primary research undertaken to establish customer satisfaction survey (CSS) for the facilities management practices and performance at Malaysia private finance initiatives (PFI) university campus. The single case study approach is a research method used in this research to analyse a single case or phenomenon in depth. In this approach, a single unit of analysis, such as, a case study of PFI campus of a public university in Malaysia is studied in detail to gain a deep understanding of the case and its context. The findings of this paper revealed that the overall, FM Company ‘A’ CSS increased from 3.26 in 2014 to 3.94 in 2022, with some fluctuations over the years. It is a positive trend that indicates that the company has been improving its services over the years and meeting stakeholder expectations. This paper reached out to address the CSS for FM practices and performance under the Private Finance Initiatives (PFI) at Malaysia Public University after 9 years of its implementation. It gives a better understanding of PFI concept and FM practices in the country. The review also helps to identify practices and measures to the FM performance impact to the university operations.

Exploring Students’ Perceptions of ChatGPT: A Study of Public University in Malaysia.

ChatGPT has sparked both excitement and skepticism in education. The release and rapid diffusion of ChatGPT has forced teachers and researchers around the world to grapple with the consequences of artificial intelligence (AI) for education. To analyze its impact on teaching and learning it is crucial to understand how students perceive ChatGPT and assess its potential and challenges. This study investigated students’ perception of ChatGPT in higher education. About 360 students responded to a questionnaire which gauged their perceptions regarding use of ChatGPT in teaching and learning at their university. Most of the students rated their level of awareness as very aware and extremely aware. For ability to use ChatGPT they rated themselves as medium or High. The results show that the students admire the capabilities of ChatGPT and find it interesting, motivating, and helpful for study and work. The results show that the students admire the capabilities of ChatGPT and find it interesting, motivating, and helpful for writing assignments However, many students feel that ChatGPT’s answers are not always accurate and most of them are knowledgeable about potential benefits and limitations of ChatGPT. So, most students think that ChatGPT needs to be improved but are optimistic that this will happen soon. Most students also mentioned that ChatGPT can provide to students’ instant feedback and enhance the learning process and experience. When it comes to the negative impact of ChatGPT on learning academic cheating is the issue they highlighted. We conclude that ChatGPT can and should be used for learning. However, students should be aware of its limitations. The study a found positive relationship between awareness and attitudes to ChatGPT and perceptions towards ChatGPT. The main determinant of perception towards ChatGPT is attitudes toward ChatGPT. Educators should try using ChatGPT and guide students on effective prompting techniques and how to assess generated responses. The developers should improve their models to enhance the accuracy of given answers. The study provides insights into the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT in education and informs future research and development.

The New Educational Norm in Malaysian Universities is Online Education Worthwhile

This paper investigates factors that influence of online learning classes participating and students’ academic performance amidst the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysian public universities. The study, involving 439 students, examines the relationship between the utilization of online learning platforms and students’ educational outcomes. Specifically concentrating on a public university in Malaysia, the research underscores the pivotal role of online learning modalities during the pandemic. The findings offer valuable insights into the determinants that shape students’ academic achievements through their engagement with online learning tools during this global health crisis. This study marks a pioneering effort in exploring the nexus between online learning adoption and academic performance during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Factors associated with poor sleep quality among dental students in Malaysia.

Good sleep quality is crucial for dental students as they must have optimal cognitive function, memory, and decision-making to accomplish their learning requirements. This study aims to determine sleep quality, its associated factors, and the association between sleep quality and academic performance among dental students in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study involved dental students at four public universities in Malaysia. A validated Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire was used to assess their sleep quality. An additional self-administered questionnaire was employed to obtain the students' sociodemographic profile, lifestyle, and academic performance. The data were analysed using descriptive, chi-square, and multiple logistic regression. Three hundred eighty-four dental students participated in this study. About half of the dental students (51.6%) have poor sleep quality. The mean of sleep hours per night was 5.72 (SD 1.06). The sleep quality was significantly poor among Malay students (P = 0.023), students who stayed at hostel (P = 0.002), and those who consumed caffeinated drinks (P = 0.028). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the poor sleep quality was significantly associated with self-perceived poor academic performance (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 2.95, 95% CI [1.25-6.96], P-value = 0.013) and students skipping class (AOR 1.70, 95% CI [1.00-2.91], P-value = 0.046). Most of the dental students in Malaysia have poor sleep quality. Ethnicity, accommodation, and caffeine consumption were significantly associated with sleep quality. Awareness to sleep quality among dental students is needed to ensure they are able to cope with the challenging dental school learning environment.

Student Insights: Challenges in Acquiring Critical Academic Reading Skills

Acquiring critical academic reading skills is crucial for university students, as the skills enable them to evaluate texts effectively. Despite exposure through university courses, many students struggle to attain these skills. This study aimed to identify the necessary academic reading skills deemed challenging by the students and the underlying reasons for these difficulties. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using a questionnaire with a Likert scale ranging from “strongly confident” to “not at all confident”, and open-ended questions, were conducted on 229 respondents at one public university in Malaysia. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively, while content analysis was employed to categorize the reasons. The results revealed that a small percentage of the respondents felt completely confident with all the skills, while some partially mastered the skills and others doubted their skills. The most challenging skills were making inferences, analysing context, detecting assumptions, and evaluating arguments. The reasons for these challenges included linguistic factors, such as limited vocabulary and insufficient language proficiency, and non-linguistic factors, like confusion, lack of confidence, and inability to comprehend text. The findings indicate that critical thinking should be taught separately to help students focus on these specific skills, emphasizing the importance of targeted strategies to overcome these issues.

Exploring Informal Caregivers’ Perspectives on Oral Care for Stroke Patients

Stroke often results in physical disability and functional impairment, which may severely limit patients' ability to care for personal hygiene, including oral care. This study aimed to identify the challenges faced by informal caregivers in managing the oral health of stroke patients. This study conducted semi-structured individual interviews with eight home-based caregivers of stroke patients recruited from a community-based clinic facility of a public university in Malaysia. The interviews took 30-45 minutes to complete and were transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed thematically using a phenomenological approach. Relevant themes that emerged were variations in oral hygiene care, caregivers’ concerns in providing oral care, dental clinic utilization, and caregivers’ perceived educational and training needs. This study highlights the challenges faced by caregivers in managing the oral health of stroke patients. Improving access to dental services for stroke patients and tailoring educational programs to suit the specific learning needs of caregivers, as identified in this study, may result in improved health outcomes for stroke patients.

Gender-Based Utilization of Indirect Language Learning Strategies Among Non-Native Arabic Speakers at a Malaysian Public University

This quantitative study aims to investigate the indirect language learning strategies among non-native Arabic speakers employed by 116 Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) students who have enrolled in the Arabic Language course for one semester in the year 2022. Data collection for this study utilized the Strategies Inventory of Language Learning (SILL) questionnaire, developed by Oxford in 1990. Descriptive statistics were employed to discern the preferred prevailing indirect language learning strategies favoured by male and female students in the Arabic Language course. Additionally, the independent sample t-test was applied to scrutinise potential significant differences in the utilization of indirect learning strategies between male and female learners. The study’s findings underscore the prevalence of metacognitive strategies as the predominant learning approach among these students, with affective strategies and social strategies following closely in popularity. Furthermore, the mean scores for indirect learning strategy variables among both male and female learners suggest that there are no noteworthy distinctions in the application of metacognitive, cognitive, and social learning strategies during their Arabic language learning journey. Hence, the study recommends that social learning strategies can be considered as part of improving the Arabic learning language process.

The influence of transportation, social norms, cultural identity, and affective disposition in transnational media enjoyment.

The globalization of the media market is forcing decision-makers to understand the psychological processes behind local audiences' enjoyment of foreign TV dramas. Transportation is a well-established psychological theory and framework utilized to elucidate and anticipate audience engagement and enjoyment in the cognitive process of experiencing a narrative text. Although there is a substantial body of literature on transportation and media enjoyment, there is a noticeable absence of studies on the relationship between audiences being "transported" into the narrative world of TV dramas and, particularly, the pleasure audiences derive from interacting with media content within a cross-cultural acceptance context. The research employs a quantitative design, with responses collected from 353 students enrolled at a Malaysian public university. It aims to validate the influence of social norms, cultural identity, and affective disposition on narrative immersion while watching foreign TV dramas, as well as the subsequent enjoyment of media among local audiences. The results indicate that social norms, cultural identity, and affective disposition significantly influence transportation and enjoyment. Furthermore, the influence of cultural identity on social norms has a positive moderating effect on transportation. Storytelling that complies with social norms while offering new perspectives can maximally engage audiences, potentially altering their narrative cognition and deepening their immersion in fictional narratives. Cultural identity can shape audience perceptions and reactions to cross-cultural media consumption, ultimately influencing the degree to which audiences are drawn into the narrative. Furthermore, the audience's emotional connection to characters in the narrative or to situations in the drama significantly influences the overall cognitive and immersion levels.