Real-world Contexts Research Articles

Consultations about randomised controlled trials are shorter and less in-depth for socioeconomically disadvantaged patients compared to socioeconomically advantaged patients: qualitative analysis across three trials

BackgroundPatients from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds are underserved in randomised controlled trials, yet they experience a much greater burden of disease compared with patients from socioeconomically advantaged areas. It is crucial to make trials more inclusive to ensure that treatments and interventions are safe and effective in real-world contexts. Improving how information about trials is verbally communicated is an unexplored strategy to make trials more inclusive. This study examined how trials are communicated verbally, comparing consultations involving patients from the most and least socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.MethodsSecondary qualitative analysis of 55 trial consultation transcripts from 41 patients, sampled from 3 qualitative studies embedded in their respective UK multi-site, cancer-related randomised controlled trials. Patients living in the most and least socioeconomically disadvantaged areas, defined using English Indices of Multiple Deprivation decile scores, were purposively sampled. Analysis was largely thematic and drew on the constant comparison method.ResultsRecruiters communicated clinical uncertainty in a similar way for patients living in different socioeconomic areas. Consultations with disadvantaged patients were, on average, half the duration of those with advantaged patients, and tended to involve recruiters providing less in-depth explanations of trial concepts, used phrasing that softened trial arm risks, and described trial processes (e.g. randomisation) using informal or metaphorical phrasing. Disadvantaged and advantaged patients differed in the concerns they expressed; disadvantaged patients voiced fewer concerns and asked fewer questions but were also less likely to be invited to do so by recruiters.ConclusionInteractions about trials unfolded in different ways between patients living in different socioeconomic areas, likely due to both patient- and recruiter-related factors. We present considerations for recruiters when discussing trials with patients from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, aimed at enhancing trial communication. Future research should examine disadvantaged patients’ and recruiters’ experiences of verbal trial communication to inform guidance that addresses the needs and preferences of underserved groups.

The Japanese Film AI Amok (2020) and the Collapse of Realist AI Vision

AI Amok (2020), directed by Yu Irie, offers an incisive exploration of artificial intelligence’s role in a near-future Japanese society and is set in the year 2030. Employing the analytical framework provided by Bordwell and Thompson’s Film Art: An Introduction, this research explores the film’s narrative construction, visual storytelling techniques, and its thematic depth, particularly focusing on the portrayal and implications of artificial intelligence. Distinct from the often distant futures depicted in science fiction cinema, AI Amok presents a vision of the future that mirrors current technological trajectories, especially in healthcare and urban development. This stands in contrast to films like Blade Runner 2049 (2017) and Her (2013), which envision more abstract futures. AI Amok thus distinguishes itself through a narrative that integrates AI into societal fabrics, confronting the ethical quandaries this integration elicits. The analysis reveals a scenario that feels immediate and tangible, offering a credible sight into the technological advancements and challenges of the near future. Moreover, the study highlights AI Amok’s nuanced depiction of AI’s roles within healthcare and government, suggesting a reflection on and projection of these technologies’ evolving paths. Unlike the overt technologization seen in The Matrix (1999) or Ex Machina (2014), AI Amok opts for more subtle visual effects to convey AI’s ubiquity, providing a unique perspective on AI’s potential to shape societal dynamics. This approach enriches the discourse on science fiction cinema, contributing a distinctive viewpoint to the ongoing debates concerning the ethical development and integration of artificial intelligence in real-world contexts.

MyBack - effectiveness and implementation of a behavior change informed exercise programme to prevent low back pain recurrences: a hybrid effectiveness-implementation randomized controlled study protocol

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is a common health condition and the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. Most LBP episodes have a favourable prognosis, but recurrences within a year are common. Despite the individual and societal impact related to LBP recurrences, there is limited evidence on effective strategies for secondary prevention of LBP and successful implementation of intervention programmes in a real-world context. The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of a tailored exercise and behavioural change programme (MyBack programme) in the secondary prevention of LBP; and evaluate acceptability, feasibility and determinants of implementation by the different stakeholders, as well as the implementation strategy of the MyBack programme in real context.MethodsThis protocol describes a hybrid type I, randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and implementation of MyBack programme in the context of primary health care. The Behaviour Change Wheel framework and FITT-VP principles will inform the development of the behaviour change and exercise component of MyBack programme, respectively. Patients who have recently recovered from an episode of non-specific LBP will be randomly assigned to MyBack and usual care group or usual care group. The primary outcome will be the risk of LBP recurrence. The secondary outcomes will include disability, pain intensity, musculoskeletal health, and health-related quality of life. Participants will be followed monthly for 1 year. Costs data related to health care use and the MyBack programme will be also collected. Implementation outcomes will be assessed in parallel with the effectiveness study using qualitative methods (focus groups with participants and health providers) and quantitative data (study enrolment and participation data; participants adherence).DiscussionTo our knowledge, this is the first study assessing the effectiveness and implementation of a tailored exercise and behaviour change programme for prevention of LBP recurrences. Despite challenges related to hybrid design, it is expected that data on the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and implementation of the MyBack programme may contribute to improve health care in patients at risk of LBP recurrences, contributing to direct and indirect costs reduction for patients and the health system.Trial registration numberNCT05841732.

Emotional contagion in a collective ritual.

Collective gatherings are often associated with the alignment of psychophysiological states between members of a crowd. While the process of emotional contagion has been studied extensively in dyads as well as at the population level, our understanding of its operation and dynamics as they unfold in real time in real-world group contexts remains limited. Employing a naturalistic design, we investigated emotional contagion in a public religious ritual by examining the relationship between interpersonal distance and autonomic arousal. We found that proximity in space was associated with heightened affective synchrony between participants in the context of the emotionally laden ritual (a Hindu procession) compared with an unstructured walk along the same route performed by the same group. Our findings contribute to the understanding of collective emotions and their underlying psychophysiological mechanisms, emphasizing the role of cultural practices in shaping collective emotional experiences.

WAYS OF USING ORIGINAL MATERIALS IN ADVANCED COURSES OF LANGUAGE FACULTIES

The article talks about the ways of using authentic materials in the upper courses of language faculties. The author of the article points out that the use of authentic materials in the language learning process in the upper courses of language faculties is of great benefit, and these authentic materials help students to familiarize themselves with the language and provide opportunities for students to use it naturally in real-world contexts, including idiomatic expressions, cultural references, and various notes and styles. serve. These functions related to authentic materials show that the inclusion of these materials in the target language classes in the upper courses of language faculties is an important factor in the formation of multicultural identity and one of the main goals of language teaching. The author comes to the conclusion that authentic materials mainly enrich students' vocabulary, develop verbal creativity, linguistic abilities, and improve listening, speaking and pronunciation skills.

Outcome with pertuzumab, docetaxel, and trastuzumab (PTH) regimen in patients with HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer: Real-world data from a single center in India.

e13037 Background: Pertuzumab, Docetaxel and Trastuzumab (PTH) regimen constitutes one of the standard treatment regimens in human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC). The real-world outcomes of its use from the Indian sub-continent are lacking. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of HER2-positive MBC treated with an upfront PTH regimen at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India, between Aug 2016 to July 2023. A total of six cycles of PTH [pertuzumab (840 mg loading followed by 420 mg), docetaxel (75 mg/m2), trastuzumab (8 mg/kg loading followed by 6 mg/kg) q21 days] were planned along with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (GCSF) prophylaxis. Patients were continued on maintenance trastuzumab after 6 cycles (till disease progression) and hormonal agent if indicated. The primary outcome was progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary outcome was overall survival (OS), overall response rate (ORR) rates, and toxicity. Results: Eighty-seven were included with a median age of 48 years (range, 25-73). Overall, 38 (43.6%) patients had hormone-positive (estrogen receptor and or progesterone receptor) disease and 48 (55.17%) were premenopausal. Thirty-five (40.2%) patients had received prior adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment. Eighty patients (91.5%) had visceral metastasis and the most common site was the liver followed by the lung. After a median follow-up of 36 months, the median PFS was 15 months and OS was 42 months. The ORR was 85.3% and complete response (CR) was observed in 14(16.09%) patients. The survival outcomes were significantly better among those with hormone-negative disease and among those who achieved CR after 6 cycles of PTH. Grade 3/4 toxicity was seen in 12% of patients which led to dose modification, interruption, and change in chemotherapy. Two patients developed reversible left asymptomatic ventricular systolic dysfunction. None of the patients developed congestive heart failure. The most common grade 3/4 toxicities were diarrhea in 8 (9.1%) patients, cutaneous rash in 2 (2.2%) patients and thrombocytopenia in 2 (2.2%) patients. There were two cases of febrile neutropenia. Conclusions: In a real-world context, PTH is an effective and well-tolerated regimen for in patients with HER2-positive MBC in India. Hormone-positive disease has poor survival compared with hormone negative disease.

Neoadjuvant pertuzumab, docetaxel, carboplatin, and trastuzumab (PTCH) regimen in patients with HER2 positive early, locally advanced, and oligometastatic breast cancer: Real-world Indian experience.

e12556 Background: Pertuzumab/docetaxel/carboplatin/trastuzumab (PTCH) regimen constitutes one of the standard neoadjuvant treatments in human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) positive breast cancer. The real-world outcomes of its use from the Indian sub-continent are lacking. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 114 HER2-positive BC patients presenting with nonmetastatic or oligometastatic disease and treated with a uniform PTCH regimen in a neoadjuvant setting at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India, between Jan 2015 to May 2023. Total six cycles of PTCH [pertuzumab (840 mg loading followed by 420 mg), docetaxel (75 mg/m2), carboplatin (AUC 6), trastuzumab (8 mg/kg loading followed by 6 mg/kg) q21 days] were administered with primary GCSF prophylaxis. The primary outcome was invasive disease-free survival (iDFS). The secondary outcomes included pathological complete response (pCR) rates, overall survival (OS), and toxicity. Adjuvant trastuzumab is used for patients achieving pCR, while for patients not achieving pCR option of adjuvant trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) or trastuzumab was decided based on patient affordability. Results: One hundred and fourteen (114) patients were included with a median age of 47 years (range, 23-70). Overall, 52 (45.6%) patients had hormone-positive disease and 73 (64.01%) were premenopausal. Forty patients (35.08%) had stage II, 62 (54.38%) had stage III, and 12(10.5%) had oligometastatic disease. Sixty-one (53.5%) patients underwent breast conservation surgery and pCR was observed in 62 (54.38%) cases. With a median follow-up of 31 months, the 3-year iDFS was 81.5% and overall OS was not reached. Median iDFS was 33 months in patients with node-positive disease and was not reached in patients with node-negative disease. Three-year iDFS was 68.1% in patients who achieved pCR and 49.8% in those who did not achieve pCR (p=0.001). Grade 3/4 toxicity was seen in 26.7% of patients which caused dose modification and interruption in 13.9% of patients. The most common grade 3/4 toxicity was diarrhea in16 (14.03%) cases and thrombocytopenia in 11 (9.6)% cases . Febrile neutropenia was seen in 4 (3.5%) patients. Four patients (3.5%) had a reversible decrease in cardiac left ventricular ejection fraction. Conclusions: In a real-world context, PTCH is an effective and safe anthracycline-free regimen for use in curative (adjuvant and neoadjuvant) setting for HER2 positive breast cancer in Indian women Using neoadjuvant PTCH may improve pCR and obviate the need for adjuvant T-DM1 after surgery making it a cost-effective strategy in limited recourse setting. The survival outcomes were significantly better among those with node-negative disease and among those who achieved a pCR.

Chemotherapy Rechallenge or Reintroduction Compared to Regorafenib or Trifluridine/Tipiracil for Pretreated Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Propensity Score Analysis of Treatment Beyond Second Line (Proserpyna Study)

BackgroundThe optimal treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) beyond second line is still questioned. Besides the standard of care agents (regorafenib, REG, or trifluridine/tipiracil, FTD/TPI), chemotherapy rechallenge or reintroduction (CTr/r) are commonly considered in clinical practice, despite weak supporting evidence. The prognostic performance of CTr/r, REG and FTD/TPI in this setting are herein evaluated. Patients and methodsPROSERpYNa is a multicenter, observational, retrospective study, in which patients with refractory mCRC, progressing after at least 2 lines of CT, treated with CTr/r, REG or FTD/TPI, are considered eligible and were enrolled in 2 independent data sets (exploratory and validation). Primary endpoint was overall survival (OS); secondary endpoints were investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (RR) and safety. A propensity score adjustment was accomplished for survival analyses. ResultsData referring to patients treated between Jan-10 and Jan-19 from 3 Italian institutions were gathered (341 and 181 treatments for exploratory and validation data sets respectively). In the exploratory cohort, median OS (18.5 vs. 6.5 months), PFS (6.1 vs. 3.5 months) and RR (28.6% vs. 1.4%) were significantly longer for CTr/r compared to REG/FTD/TPI. Survival benefits were retained at the propensity score analysis, adjusted for independent prognostic factors identified at multivariate analysis. Moreover, these results were confirmed within the validation cohort analyses. ConclusionsAlthough the retrospective fashion, CTr/r proved to be a valuable option in this setting in a real-world context, providing superior outcomes compared to standard of care agents at the price of a moderate toxicity.

Development in context: Comparing short-term trajectories of expectancy, task values, and costs in four university STEM courses

University students studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) tend to lose motivation, on average, over time. However, detailed understanding of when and how students are most likely to lose motivation, as well as whether motivational trajectories differ across contexts, is lacking. Accordingly, we investigated trajectories of expectancy, task values, and perceived costs in four introductory STEM courses (N = 2,104). Latent change score models revealed nuanced patterns of change, indicating average motivational declines in expectancy and task values and average increases in cost perceptions observed in prior research tend to occur primarily at the beginning of the semester. Motivational trajectories also differed in the shape and timing of mean changes across the four STEM courses, suggesting motivational loss trends may not be universal. Variation in trajectories also related to course performance and major persistence, with different motivational beliefs playing different roles at various times in the semester. Findings highlighted the importance of early course performance in predicting motivational change, as well as the importance of motivational changes for short- and long-term outcomes. Findings underscore the contextualized nature of motivational constructs, as both change patterns and relations to correlates differed across settings, indicating a need for researchers to carefully consider how samples are aggregated and further uncover contextual features that shape motivation. Overall, our study findings add essential understanding of motivational strengths and needs in real-world classroom contexts, with implications for the design and timing of intervention for instructors by examining what developmental patterns are common across settings and which are more particular to specific settings.

Discriminating Deceptive From Truthful Statements Using the Verifiability Approach

When considering suspect statements, truthful statements contain more verifiable details compared to deceptive statements, supporting a core prediction of the Verifiability Approach (VA) to lie detection. However, this difference of verifiable details between truthful and deceptive statements is not always found. For example, the difference emerges for alibi statements, but not for other types of statements, such as statements related to insurance claims. While the VA appears to be a useful tool for detecting lying in laboratory-based studies, the effectiveness of the VA in real-world policing contexts remains unknown.

Bagaimana Hubungan antara Belief in Math dan Metode Project Based Learning dalam Pembelajaran Matematika?

Belief in math is a students' attitudes toward mathematics, where students can give a positive or negative response to the mathematics learning activities. Students are given a math problem and when complete it, they will think first, then by the time students are expected to make sure the answer and concepts used are appropriate. Any given cultivated mathematical problems always follow the real-world context in which the students participate actively and creatively. The task of project-based learning that given by the teacher to the students is one of some ways to solve the problem and make the students understand on their own way. This method was literature review that used to find out the relationship between student belief in math and learning mathematics using project based learning method. The relationship between belief in in math and project based learning is in their project learning that consists of several steps on their application aims to help students further develop, not only in knowledge but also belief in math student as the passage of the process of the project, students will be challenge theirself and trust to himself to completing their own projects.

Urgent Need to Understand and Prevent Gonococcal Infection: From the Laboratory to Real-World Context.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is widespread globally. Primary prevention is unsuccessful and antimicrobial resistance threatens optimal management. There is no specific vaccine and natural infection studies show that N gonorrhoeae can avoid and suppress immune responses. In addition to extensive variation in expression and specificity of many gonococcal surface antigens, it induces a robust inflammatory response through the Th17 pathway with a large influx of neutrophils and inflammatory cytokines but evades macrophages. The Th1- and Th2-mediated response is suppressed, resulting in low, short-lived antibody titers. Real-world evidence suggests that gonorrhea cases are reduced among recipients of Neisseria meningitidis group B vaccines containing outer membrane vesicles (OMVs). Although the first randomized trial of an OMV-containing MenB vaccine against N gonorrhoeae infection did not show statistically significant vaccine efficacy, ongoing trials might shed further light. Several candidate vaccine antigens for a gonococcal-specific vaccine are being evaluated preclinically but only one has reached clinical trials.

Menjelajahi Geografi melalui Pembelajaran Berbasis Proyek: Integrasi Pengukuran dan Pemetaan dalam Pembuatan Maket

Project-based learning has been implemented at Karangturi High School in Geography teaching for 10th-grade students, covering basic geography concepts and basic mapping materials. This project involves collaboration with the Physics subject in the measurement material. The focal point of this project is the creation of a school garden scale model, starting with direct field measurements as part of outdoor learning implementation. The dimensions of the garden are then calculated using a predetermined scale, and the garden model is constructed accordingly. This approach not only introduces basic geography concepts and basic mapping but also integrates physics concepts in measurement and scale. Through this project, students not only learn theory but also apply it directly in real-world contexts, enhancing their understanding of geography concepts and practical skills such as measurement and model making. Research findings indicate that this project-based learning in Geography is effective in improving students' understanding of basic geography concepts, basic mapping, and measurement, as well as enhancing their engagement and learning motivation. Practical implications of this research suggest that project-based learning approaches can be beneficial strategies in enhancing the effectiveness of Geography education in high schools, by integrating various subjects and encouraging active student engagement through engaging and relevant learning experiences.

Using Hyperlocal Projects to Teach Entrepreneurial Skills

This article presents a comprehensive exploration of employing hyperlocal projects as a pedagogical approach to teach entrepreneurship. Hyperlocal projects entail focusing on specific, localized communities to address real-world business challenges and opportunities. The study emphasizes the significance of integrating hyperlocal projects into entrepreneurship curricula, offering educators innovative methods to engage students and cultivate essential entrepreneurial skills. The paper outlines the implementation of the Madison Square Business Association project at Grand Valley State University, where students collaborated with a local non-profit to support businesses within a designated area. Through extensive data collection and collaboration with businesses, students developed persona descriptions, identified critical business issues, and proposed tailored support services. The project spanned two semesters, allowing students to iteratively refine their solutions and engage with local stakeholders. Key findings highlight the benefits of hyperlocal projects in entrepreneurship education. These projects foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills by immersing students in real-world business contexts. Moreover, hyperlocal projects facilitate community engagement, providing students with hands-on learning experiences while addressing local economic challenges. The article also offers practical insights into the implementation of hyperlocal projects, including strategies for project planning, stakeholder engagement, and assessment. Furthermore, it discusses the implications of hyperlocal projects for future research, emphasizing the need for long-term outcome evaluations, examinations of their impact on underserved populations, comparative analyses with other educational methods, and exploration of cross-disciplinary applications. Overall, this study underscores the value of hyperlocal projects in entrepreneurship education, encouraging educators to embrace innovative teaching approaches that promote real-world problem-solving and community engagement. By incorporating hyperlocal projects into curricula, institutions can empower students to become entrepreneurial leaders equipped to drive local economic development and social change.

Optimisation of spatiotemporal context-constrained full-view area coverage deployment in camera sensor networks via quantum annealing

Full-view coverage of a space area with a camera sensor network (CSN) is key to monitoring tasks like security monitoring. Unlike traditional CSN challenges that focus on mere target detection, the full-view area coverage problem (FVACP) demands recognition of targets irrespective of their locations or orientations. However, prior approaches often neglect real-world spatiotemporal context constraints like buildings and pedestrian dynamics, leading to inefficient CSN deployment. Moreover, FVACP’s complexity, being an NP-hard issue, underscores the need for effective optimisation strategies. Recently, quantum annealing (QA) has emerged as a promising solution, which potentially outperforms classical computing in optimisation tasks. Therefore, this study proposes a QA-based FVACP optimisation framework. It addresses spatial constraints by optimising candidate deployment points and tackles temporal constraints by optimising sensor orientations. These optimisation tasks are converted into quadratic unconstrained binary optimisation problems, which are suitable for QA techniques and benchmarking against classical methods. The effectiveness of the framework is validated through facial recognition-oriented experiments. Results demonstrate not only efficient CSN deployment with larger benefits and fewer cameras but also confirm the superiority of QA over classical computing given that it delivers approximate optimum outcomes across various scenarios. Consequently, CSN monitoring capabilities in real-world applications can be enhanced.

Physicians found an interactive tool displaying structured evidence summaries for multiple comparisons understandable and useful: a qualitative user testing study

ObjectivesTo evaluate and improve “Making Alternative Treatment Choices Intuitive and Trustworthy” (MATCH-IT)—a digital, interactive decision support tool displaying structured evidence summaries for multiple comparisons—to help physicians interpret and apply evidence from network meta-analysis (NMA) for their clinical decision-making. Study Design and SettingWe conducted a qualitative user testing study, applying principles from user-centered design in an iterative development process. We recruited a convenience sample of practicing physicians in Norway, Belgium, and Canada, and asked them to interpret structured evidence summaries for multiple comparisons—linked to clinical guideline recommendations—displayed in MATCH-IT. User testing included (a) introduction of a clinical scenario, (b) a think-aloud session with participant–tool interaction, and (c) a semistructured interview. We video recorded, transcribed, and analyzed user tests using directed content analysis. The results informed new updates in MATCH-IT. ResultsDistributed across 5 development cycles we tested MATCH-IT with 26 physicians. Of these, 24 (94%) reported either no or sparse prior experience with interpretation of NMA. Physicians perceived MATCH-IT as easy to interpret and navigate, and appreciated its ability to provide an overview of the evidence. Visualization of effects in pictograms and inclusion of information on burden of treatment (“practical issues”) were highlighted as potentially useful features in interacting with patients. We also identified problems, including undiscovered functionalities (drag and drop), suboptimal tutorial, and cumbersome navigation of the tool. In addition, physicians wanted definition/explanation of key terms (eg, outcomes and “certainty”), and there were concerns that overwhelming evidence from a large NMA would complicate applicability to clinical practice. This led to several updates with development of a new start page, tutorial, updated user interface for more efficient maneuvering, solutions to display definition of key terms and a “frequently asked questions” section. To facilitate interpretation of large networks, we improved categorization of results using color coding and added filtering functionality. These modifications allowed physicians to focus on interventions of interest and reduce information overload. ConclusionThis study provides proof of concept that physicians can use MATCH-IT to understand NMA evidence. Key features of MATCH-IT in a clinical context include providing an overview of the evidence, visualization of effects, and the display of information on burden of treatments. However, unfamiliarity with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation concepts, time constraints, and accessibility at the point of care may be challenges for use. To what extent our results are transferable to real-world clinical contexts remains to be explored.

Low PISA Performance Students: Factors, Perceptions, and Improvement Strategies

The PISA assessment serves as a critical tool for evaluating and improving educational systems worldwide. The ethical implications of low performance in PISA are significant, requiring a comprehensive approach to address both immediate educational needs and broader systemic issues. By leveraging insights from PISA and implementing evidence-based interventions, policymakers and educators can work towards creating a more equitable and effective educational environment for all students. This study investigates the underlying factors contributing to the low achievement of Jordanian students in the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) tests and proposes effective strategies to enhance their performance. PISA, developed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), evaluates 15-year-old students' skills in reading, mathematics, and science, focusing on their ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts. Despite its global significance, Jordanian students have consistently underperformed in these assessments. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including a comprehensive literature review, analysis of the Jordanian educational context, and surveys with educators and students. The findings reveal several key factors impacting performance: curriculum misalignment with PISA competencies, socio-economic disparities, high teacher turnover, and varying levels of teaching quality. Additionally, perceptions of PISA among educators and students highlight challenges related to unfamiliar test formats and applied knowledge requirements. Based on these insights, the study recommends a series of interventions to improve performance. These include aligning the national curriculum with PISA competencies, enhancing teacher training programs, integrating technology into learning processes, promoting extracurricular activities, and fostering active parental involvement. By addressing these areas, the study aims to provide a roadmap for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to enhance Jordanian students' performance in future PISA assessments and overall educational outcomes.

Active learning with biased non-response to label requests

AbstractActive learning can improve the efficiency of training prediction models by identifying the most informative new labels to acquire. However, non-response to label requests can impact active learning’s effectiveness in real-world contexts. We conceptualise this degradation by considering the type of non-response present in the data, demonstrating that biased non-response is particularly detrimental to model performance. We argue that biased non-response is likely in contexts where the labelling process, by nature, relies on user interactions. To mitigate the impact of biased non-response, we propose a cost-based correction to the sampling strategy–the Upper Confidence Bound of the Expected Utility (UCB-EU)–that can, plausibly, be applied to any active learning algorithm. Through experiments, we demonstrate that our method successfully reduces the harm from labelling non-response in many settings. However, we also characterise settings where the non-response bias in the annotations remains detrimental under UCB-EU for specific sampling methods and data generating processes. Finally, we evaluate our method on a real-world dataset from an e-commerce platform. We show that UCB-EU yields substantial performance improvements to conversion models that are trained on clicked impressions. Most generally, this research serves to both better conceptualise the interplay between types of non-response and model improvements via active learning, and to provide a practical, easy-to-implement correction that mitigates model degradation.

Unpacking Technical Assistance (TA) Strategies Within a State-Level Prevention Support System: A Mixed-Method Study in Determining Types and Amount of TA.

The research-practice gap between evidence-based intervention efficacy and its uptake in real-world contexts remains a central challenge for prevention and implementation science. Providing technical assistance (TA) is considered a crucial support mechanism that can help narrow the gap. However, empirical measurement of TA strategies and their variation is often lacking. The current study unpacks the black box of TA, highlighting different TA strategies, amounts, and their relation to intervention characteristics. First, we qualitatively categorized interactions between TA providers and implementers. Second, we explored how characteristics of implementing organizations and the intervention related to variations in the amount of TA delivered. Using data spanning six years, we analyzed over 10,000 encounters between TA providers and implementers. Content analysis yielded four distinct strategies: Consultation (27.2%), Coordination Logistics (24.5%), Monitoring (16.5%), and Resource Delivery (28.2%). Organizations with prior experience required less monitoring and resource delivery. Additionally, characteristics of the intervention were significantly associated with the amount of consultation, monitoring, coordination logistics, and resource delivery provided. The specific features of the intervention showed significant variation in their relation to TA strategies. These findings provide initial insights into the implications of intervention characteristics in determining how much of which TA strategies are needed to support implementations in real-world settings.

The mixed classroom: a pedagogical experiment with students and policymakers

The societal inability to respond accurately to the ecological crisis also requires a reflection on how universities can improve the impact of their practices. This paper reports on a prize-winning experiment aiming to strengthen the interaction of the university with the world of policymaking: a mixed classroom with students and policymakers. This classroom provides an environment in which policymakers and students co-produce insights, while giving policymakers direct access to academic knowledge and helping students to reflect on the dynamics of real-world contexts. The main goal of this study is to illuminate how learning in and through a mixed classroom experiment take places, for participants, teachers and organisational actors. To do so, we reflect on the continuous dialogue between our efforts as teachers and the experience of participants and others involved. To make sense of our teaching and institutional roles in this experiment, we suggest using the concept of ‘tinkering’. Further, to conceptualise the learning dynamics in a mixed classroom, we deploy the concept of ‘boundary crossing’, which turns out to be helpful in elucidating both individual learning (‘reflection’) and organisational learning (‘transformation’). Our study indicates that the notion of boundary crossing helps to effectively capture the learning situation we created and, as such, helps to redefine more generally how the science-policy interface can be understood and acted upon. For other educators interested in deploying mixed classroom-like approaches, we suggest that a tinkering approach can only work if there is sufficient room for experimentation, including failure and reflection, as well as ample time and funding. We also suggest critically looking at the constraints of the institutional logics and dynamics of higher education (e.g. the structure of semesters) and how their connection to the institutional logics and temporal dynamics of real-world contexts may be improved.