Sequential Explanatory Design Research Articles

Identifying and understanding digital exclusion: a mixed-methods study

ABSTRACT Many of our transactions and interactions are now exclusively online; however, whilst we live in a world which is becoming ubiquitously digital, digital exclusion remains a complex societal issue. This study aimed to identify the scale and characteristics of ‘digitally excluded’ individuals in one borough in North East England and investigate factors influencing experiences of digital exclusion. A two-phase, sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was used. Phase One utilised a survey which was sent to every household in the borough (N = >98,000). The surveys (N = 9181) were analysed using exploratory univariate analysis, followed by a two-staged regression model. Of those responses, 1130 individuals (12.3%) were identified as digitally excluded. Older adults with disability, no or low-level education, and residing in specific (micro) geographical areas, were at higher risk of digital exclusion. Smaller household sizes and lower income also contributed to digitally exclusion. To further enhance inclusivity, three focus groups were conducted with groups who were identified as being at higher risk of digital exclusion (N = 10). Discussions highlighted the complexities of digital exclusion and digital use across communities and within individual circumstances. Digital exclusion is multi-factored and complex. It requires regional institutions and local communities to collaborate in an integrated governance framework to improve digital inclusion.

Investigating Islamic Religious Education Teacher Beliefs Toward Multimedia Learning

<p><em>Teachers' beliefs regarding multimedia learning are essential. This study aims to explore teachers' beliefs about multimedia learning in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at Senior High School in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. This research employed the mix-method QUAN-QUAL, the exploratory sequential design. Nine teachers were involved based on a purposive sampling technique. Twenty-three questionnaire items were constructed to collect the quantitative data. An interview guide was used to collect the qualitative data. The quantitative data was collected through a cross-sectional survey, and the qualitative data was collected through a semi-structured interview. The SPSS version 26 was utilized to analyze the quantitative. Moreover, thematic or coding analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Multimedia learning was shown to have excellent potential to improve students' learning experiences. With proper implementation and adequate support, multimedia learning could effectively improve the quality of Islamic Religious Education. However, some challenges must be faced to achieve optimal learning outcomes. </em></p>

Employers feedback on the job performances of the Bachelor of Arts in English Language graduates

The study examined the employers feedback on the job performances of the Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) graduates of Kalinga State University. Employer's feedback is vital in honing future nation-builders as it provides input in evaluating a curricular program to determine whether it is congruent with the demands of the industries. It used an explanatory sequential research design, explicitly employing a quantitative-quality approach. Significantly, it revealed that the employers of the graduates are very satisfied with their job performances in the areas of competence, commitment, collaboration, and credibility. The employers identified the graduates’ strengths in terms of job traits such as flexibility, initiative, creativity, dependability, leadership potential, and intellect. However, the employers also identified their weaknesses as a lack of self-confidence and a lack of time management. The study further revealed that most employers require new recruits to have job skills such as communications skills, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills, cooperative skills, leadership skills, and research skills. Therefore, the study concludes that the BAEL graduates perform in their jobs with very much satisfaction from their employers. It significantly implies an effective curricular program, producing BAEL graduates with the required competence, commitment, collaborative skills, and credibility to perform in their chosen jobs.

Private clinical psychologists’ role in evaluation and treatment of childhood sexual abuse: A mixed methods study

BackgroundPsychologists play a significant role in addressing sexual violence against children and adolescents (SVCA) in Brazil. Most literature focuses on the role of public service psychologists in the intervention, resulting in the need to explore the role private clinical psychologists’ (PCP) play in SVCA treatment. ObjectiveThe study aims to: 1) investigate a possible relationship between sociodemographic factors, professional profiles, beliefs about SVCA, and PCPs’ decision to report the abuse, and 2) understand the role PCPs play in evaluating, reporting, and treating cases of SVCA. Participants and settingThe study sampled Brazilian PCPs. The quantitative phase consisted of 409 psychologists, and the qualitative phase consisted of 8 psychologists. MethodsThe study used a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design to achieve its goals. The quantitative phase consisted of the Sociodemographic and Professional Questionnaire, Scenario 7, and the Sexual Abuse Belief Scale (SABS) measures. The qualitative phase consisted of individual semi-structured interviews. ResultsThe descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression model illustrated factors increasing the likelihood of reporting SVCA by PCPs, including a history of treating confirmed sexual violence cases, taking a course on sexual violence, receiving SVCA information during undergraduate studies, having a master and doctoral degree, and having a single relationship status. The thematic analysis resulted in four themes: The definition of sexual violence, the selectivity of the cases, educational under-preparation, and the need to build a performance network. ConclusionPCPs require professional development to treatment SVCA, and schools of Psychology need to improve their curriculum regarding SVCA education.

Rethinking the implications of sprawl for sustainable urban development: Insights from the Ejisu Municipality of Ghana between 2003 and 2023

Urban sprawl has been the focus of substantial academic discussion due to its intricate nature. The dominant narrative of this phenomenon, particularly in the global south, points to its adverse implications on cities, despite its positive outcomes. This study contributes to this discourse by examining the positive implications of sprawl — essentially spatial expansion and urban growth — from the perspectives of households and local planning officials within the Ejisu Municipality of Ghana. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, satellite images were used to assess the nature and spatial extent of Ejisu Municipality between 2003 and 2023. Additionally, 500 households and four relevant agencies were interviewed to discuss the positive implications of sprawl on the area's development and suggest measures to promote sustainable urban sprawl and development. The results showed significant horizontal expansion in the built-up areas over the period - from 34.51 km2 (16.6%) in 2003 to 44.92 km2 (21.61%) in 2013 and 76.46 km2 (36.78%) in 2023 with a projected increase to 100.80 km2 in 2033. Macroeconomic factors, demography, housing preferences, transportation, and regulatory frameworks were reported to influence the nature and extent of sprawl. Sprawl was reported to have resulted in economic diversification and viability, improved quality of life, improved access to public services, affordable housing, and expanded road networks, among others. The study proposes implementing sustainable measures for urban sprawl, and effective land-use planning, coupled with the enforcement of well-designed regulatory frameworks.

Enhancing aviation English competency: A simulation-based approach for aspiring pilots

Aviation English (AE) represents a noteworthy area of investigation within the realm of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), aimed at fostering English language competency among aspiring pilots. In this study, a simulation-based aviation English course was designed and implemented for improved learning gains. The present study took place at a tertiary educational institution, focusing on the analysis of AE vocabulary development, the readback performance of student pilots, and the examination of participants' perceptions of simulation-based training. Employing a mixed-methods sequential explanatory research design, data were gathered from 21 ab-initio pilots enrolled in the Pilotage Training program. The quantitative results showed that participants significantly improved their readback performance and AE vocabulary knowledge over the course of a semester. With regard to the qualitative results, student pilots overall perceived the simulation-based training as an innovative and effective method. The present study, therefore, constitutes a notable advancement in the AE research domain by documenting, for the first time, the application of simulation-based training in the aviation context. Moreover, the study offers insights into the implications for ESP practitioners and stakeholders in the aviation sector, along with recommendations for future research, which are delineated in the study's conclusion.

Content Analysis of Bioenergetics’ Conceptual Presentation in Senior High School Biology Textbooks

Factors that bring about a low mastery level of bioenergetics, a core concept in biology, include relatively poor teaching-learning experience and low-quality textbooks, among others. To determine which textbook and teaching components have affected the low learning mastery of the topics in bioenergetics, the researchers analyzed the textbooks’ quality of content, language, layout, and figures, and the teachers’ experience, contentment, and challenges while teaching the topic, and effects to the learners. Using a sequential explanatory mixed method research design, ten (10) textbooks, and seven (7) teacher participants were purposively selected following a set of criteria. Descriptive and principal component analyses revealed that the textbooks' quality depends on two components: (1) competent and coherent visuals and content, and (2) consistency of style in the varied forms of assessment. Narrative analysis and Quasi-Statistics analysis revealed that teachers are not contented with the textbooks as they are inadequate to teach the subject matter. The lack of good learning materials, coupled with low competence to introduce the topics, resulted in the low mastery level of the learners. The researchers propose that periodic textbook assessment, retooling of teachers’ skills, and deepening teachers’ understanding are necessary to improve learners’ performance in bioenergetics. Finally, this paper is instrumental in providing educators, resources and curriculum developers, and researchers a feasible and practical path to improve textbook quality and address pedagogical gaps.

Impact of Direct Health Facility Financing on Health Insurance Enrollment and Service Quality in Dodoma Region, Tanzania

The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the Improved Community Health Fund (iCHF) are pre-payment schemes in Tanzania designed to achieve universal health coverage (UHC). Despite these efforts, public health facilities have historically struggled with poor-quality care. In response, the Direct Health Facility Financing (DHFF) mechanism was introduced in 2017, enabling health facilities to procure medicines and equipment directly from approved vendors when out-of-stock notifications are received from the Medical Store Department (MSD). This study evaluates the impact of DHFF on health insurance enrollment and service quality in the Dodoma Region. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach with an explanatory sequential design, a total of 35 respondents were involved in the proposed study, of which 30 were obtained from health insurance beneficiaries and 5 were from key informants. Results revealed increased health insurance enrollment for both NHIF and iCHF from 2018–2019 to 2019–2020, attributed to enhanced medicine availability, community education, and sensitization efforts. Beneficiaries reported significant improvements in health facilities, including better medicine availability, upgraded infrastructure, and improved attitudes from healthcare providers. Healthcare providers and authorities also noted improved service quality since DHFF's introduction. However, challenges remain, particularly with MSD's rigidity in notifying health facilities about out-of-stock items. Recommendations include enhancing the MSD's supply chain management to ensure timely notifications and deliveries. Future research should expand to multiple regions to account for cultural variations and additional factors influencing health insurance participation, enrollment, and service quality.

Development and psychometric testing of the clinical adjustment scale for student nurses (CAS-SN): A scale for assessing student nurses' adaptation in clinical settings

BackgroundNurse education is critical for preparing student nurses for clinical practice, but the transition to clinical settings poses numerous challenges. A standardized scale to assess student nurses' adjustment in the clinical area is lacking in the Philippines. ObjectiveThis paper described the development and evaluation of the Clinical Adjustment Scale for Student Nurses (CAS-SN). DesignAn exploratory sequential research design. SettingsNursing schools in three government owned universities in the Philippines. MethodsExpert panels and field pretesting established content and face validity. Inter-item and inter-total correlations and Cronbach's α were used to assess the reliability of the scale. Construct validity was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Criterion validity was evaluated with established measures. ResultsThe CAS-SN comprises 15 items across three subscales: (1) Professional Growth and Interpersonal Engagement, (2) Clinical Competence and Confidence, and (3) Coping and Support StrategiesReliability was excellent and the validity was satisfactory, with significant correlations with academic adjustment, psychological distress, and dropout intention. ConclusionThe CAS-SN was found to be a valid and a reliable for assessing student nurses' clinical adjustment. Implications for nurse educationThe CAS-SN provides a structured framework to assess and monitor student nurses' clinical adaptation, enhancing our understanding of their competence, resilience, and professional identity development. Its integration into nurse education programs can significantly improve the assessment of clinical learning experiences and contribute to better student learning outcomes.

Construction and validation of a Computerized Formative Assessment Literacy (CFAL) questionnaire for language teachers: an exploratory sequential mixed-methods investigation

The contributions of Computerized Formative Assessment (CFA) to teachers’ instructional practices and students’ learning outcomes necessitate the development of valid and reliable instruments for measuring teachers’ literacy. To address this necessity, this study adopted an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design via drawing on a dual deductive–inductive approach to develop and validate a Computerized Formative Assessment Literacy (CFAL) questionnaire for language teachers. The participants comprised 489 Iranian male and female English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers teaching from elementary to advanced levels at different language institutes in eight big cities across the country. The results of Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) revealed that CFAL consisted of six factors including practical, theoretical, socio-affective, critical, identity-related, and developmental. The results of Cronbach’s alpha demonstrated that the questionnaire and its six components had satisfactory levels of reliability. The findings are discussed and implications for developing professional programs aiming at determining and promoting teachers’ CFAL are presented.

Psychological Well-Being, Curiosity and Perfectionism among Filipino Young Professionals with Quarter Life Crisis: Basis for Existential Positive Psychology Wellness Plan

Quarter Life Crisis is a difficult encounter in the life transition from adolescence to early adulthood. This crisis revolves around social comparison, work satisfaction, intimate relationships, career consolidation, preoccupations and fears, struggle from transition, social isolation, and frustration and disappointments. This study examined the psychological well-being, curiosity, and perfectionism among young professionals with a quarter-life crisis. There were 318 participants in this study from two different cities in one province of Region IV-A in the Philippines. The study used a sequential explanatory mixed method design that combines qualitative and quantitative research. Based on the result, the research found that young professionals with quarter-life crises have low psychological well-being, low curiosity, and high perfectionism. The themes, low disposition, poor mindset, and weak personality were extracted from the texts to fully support the respective variables. Furthermore, the research proposed a psychological intervention plan for young professionals experiencing the crisis: the existential positive psychology wellness plan.

Delirium care burden of intensive care nurses caring for patients undergoing open-heart surgery: A mixed-method research.

Delirium is an acute confusional state characterized by inattention, cognitive dysfunction and an altered level of consciousness. Delirium causes negative outcomes in patients, and patients with delirium increase the workload of nurses. Therefore, it is important to recognize the challenges and burdens experienced by nurses caring for patients with delirium. To determine the subjective burden experienced by intensive care nurses caring for patients who have undergone open-heart surgery. A mixed-method sequential explanatory design. A non-probability purposive sampling method was used for the quantitative stage. Using OpenEpi, we employed the method of sample calculation with an unknown universe. The sample size of the quantitive study comprised 130 nurses. Quantitative data were collected with Google survey. For gathering qualitative data, online video interviews were conducted with 10 nurses, an interpretive phenomenological approach was used and content analysis was performed. In the quantitative phase, we found that the subjective burden was high. In the qualitative phase, five main themes emerged: difficulty in recognizing delirium, physical burden, emotional burden, burden in care management of patients with delirium and the effect of patients with delirium on other patients. The nurses experienced physical and emotional burden in delirium management and felt lonely while caring for patients with delirium. Because nurses play a key role in the care of patients with delirium, reducing the burden nurses experience when caring for patients with delirium should be considered important in ensuring that this patient population receives adequate care. Delirium patients create a care burden for intensive care nurses. To reduce this burden of care, in-service training in patient management and bedside teaching support should be provided to nurses. Furthermore, the use of a valid scale to diagnose delirium should be integrated into health policies. Nurses should not be left alone in the management of delirium. Managing delirium patients with a team including physicians, nurses and professionals from other health disciplines will ensure that patients receive high-quality care, thereby reducing the care burden of nurses.

Faculty Online Teaching Effectiveness Scale (FOTES): Instrument development and content validation

This study aimed to develop and psychometrically test the Faculty Online Teaching Effectiveness Scale (FOTES) based upon both student and faculty perspectives of online teaching and learning in higher education. Online teaching effectiveness is a crucial component of quality education, but it has not been well-defined conceptually, and few studies have been conducted, using relevant domains, to accurately measure online teaching effectiveness. The impact of online course delivery on teaching effectiveness remains unclear. An exploratory sequential mixed methods design was employed with three phases of instrument development and psychometric testing. The FOTES comprises 50 items in seven domains: teaching philosophy, self-efficacy, relationships, course content, learning activities, teaching practices, and satisfaction. The instrument underwent initial testing, yielding positive expert appraisals with good-excellent psychometrics. All domains of the scale were significantly correlated, except for teaching philosophy. The preliminary results of the FOTES provide the empirical evidence to advance additional psychometric validation. This newly developed instrument has the potential to enhance faculty capacity and skill in self-evaluating their teaching effectiveness in online courses, providing a valid and reliable measure. The resulting instrument is poised to promote outcome evaluation and strengthen teaching and learning processes.

VIRTUAL REALITY FOR CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN: A MIXED-METHODS FEASIBILITY STUDY IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

BackgroundImmersive virtual reality (VR) demonstrates potential benefits in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). However, few studies have investigated the feasibility and the acceptability of introducing immersive VR for use with patients with CLBP and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)AimTo investigate immersive VR's feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability as a rehabilitation intervention for adult patients with CLBP and explore the views of relevant Health Care Practitioners (HCPs) in the KSA.Methodology and MethodsA multi-centre, mixed-methods, explanatory sequential design was adopted to test immersive VR's feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability. An uncontrolled feasibility trial was conducted. The immersive VR intervention involved a training session followed by three sessions over one week using commercially available hardware and software. Feasibility outcomes were collected from patients immediately post-intervention. Patients and HCPs were recruited for semi-structured interviews.ResultsThirty-three patients and three HCPs were recruited. The feasibility a priori criteria were met for recruitment, retention, dropout, completeness of questionnaire data, treatment compliance and fidelity. Adverse events included one who reported aggravation of tinnitus, whereas two experienced dizziness. Qualitative data suggested that entertainment and motivation were key enablers. Barriers included technological capability and HCPs’ perceptions that immersive VR was time-consuming.ConclusionThe results suggested that immersive VR was feasible, acceptable, and tolerable among patients with CLBP and HCPs in clinical settings in the KSA. Further research focusing on the effectiveness is warranted in this field.Conflicts of InterestNone.Sources of FundingNone.Trial registration numberISRCTN14434517

Potential, Pitfalls, and Future Directions for Remote Monitoring of Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Multicenter Mixed Methods Study in Routine Cystic Fibrosis Care.

The current literature inadequately addresses the extent to which remote monitoring should be integrated into care models for chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). This study examined a remote monitoring program (RMP) in cystic fibrosis (CF) by exploring experiences, future perspectives, and use behavior over 3 years, with the aim of developing future directions for remote monitoring in CRDs. This was a mixed methods, multicenter, observational study in 5 Dutch CF centers following a sequential explanatory design. Self-designed questionnaires using the technology acceptance model were sent out to people with CF who had a minimum of 12 months of experience with the RMP and local health care professionals (HCPs). Questionnaire outcomes were used to inform semistructured interviews with HCPs and people with CF. Qualitative findings were reported following the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist. Anonymous data on use frequency of all people with CF were analyzed. Between the second quarter of 2020 and the end of 2022, a total of 608 people with CF were enrolled in the program, and a total of 9418 lung function tests and 2631 symptom surveys were conducted. In total, 65% (24/37) of HCPs and 89% (72/81) of people with CF responded to the questionnaire, and 7 HCPs and 12 people with CF participated in semistructured interviews. Both people with CF and HCPs were positive about remote monitoring in CF care and found the RMP a good addition to daily care (people with CF: 44/72, 61%; HCPs: 21/24, 88%). Benefits ranged from supporting individual patients to reducing health care consumption. The most valued monitoring tool was home spirometry by both people with CF (66/72, 92%) and HCPs (22/24, 92%). Downsides included the potential to lose sight of patients and negative psychosocial effects, as 17% (12/72) of people with CF experienced some form of stress due to the RMP. A large majority of people with CF (59/72, 82%) and HCPs (22/24, 92%) wanted to keep using the RMP in future, with 79% (19/24) of HCPs and 75% (54/72) of people with CF looking forward to more replacement of in-person care with digital care during periods of well-being. Future perspectives for the RMP were centered on creating hybrid care models, personalizing remote care, and balancing individual benefits with monitoring burden. Remote monitoring has considerable potential in supporting people with CF and HCPs within the CF care model. We identified 4 practice-based future directions for remote monitoring in CF and CRD care. The strategies, ranging from patient driven to prediction driven, can help clinicians, researchers, and policy makers navigate the rapidly changing digital health field, integrate remote monitoring into local care models, and align remote care with patient and clinician needs.

Determinants of Contraceptive Use Among Teenage Girls Aged (15-19) in Eastern Province, Zambia

Access to sexual and reproductive health information and services among the young people remains a highly contested issue in many traditional societies Zambia included. Access to youth-friendly health services such as contraceptives is vital for ensuring the well-being of adolescents. This study endeavoured to establish determinants of contraceptive use among teenage girls aged 15 to 19 years in Eastern Province, Zambia. This was a mixed methods study that employed a sequential explanatory design. In the quantitative arm, the study utilized the 2018 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS) women's dataset for Eastern Province, focusing on 326 teenage girls aged 15-19 years. The ZDHS data collection was done using multiple cluster sampling method and through household survey. The qualitative arm involved 6 focus group discussions with parents, 4 interviews with teachers and 6 interviews with healthcare providers in Petauke district. Contraceptive prevalence rate, and socio-economic and demographic factors influencing contraceptive use were measured in the quantitative part. The perception on teenage contraceptive use among key influencers was assessed in the qualitative arm. The prevalence of contraceptive use among teenage girls in Eastern province was at16%. Age, marital status, parity, visiting a health facility, being visited by a health provider and hearing about family planning on radio were significantly associated with contraceptive use (p< 0.05). Moreover, teenage girls who had ever been married had higher odds of contraceptive use than unmarried ones (AOR 3.57, 95% CI, 1.59, 8.01, p = 0.002). Further, those who heard about family planning at the health facility (AOR 2.37, 95% CI, 1.08, 5.21, p = 0.031) and those who heard on radio (AOR 2.55, 95% CI, 1.05-6.19, p = 0.038) had higher odds of contraceptive use than those who did not. The qualitative results found that most parents and teachers opposed the use of contraceptive by teenagers, while health providers supported it. Barriers to contraceptive use included religious beliefs, personal beliefs of healthcare providers, myths and misconceptions, and the fear of social stigma by teenagers. Whether or not adolescents have access to contraceptives, the decision to use them is heavily influenced by parents, and to some extent, teachers and health providers. Therefore, it is important to implement comprehensive educational programs not only for teenagers, but also for parents, teachers and healthcare providers, dispelling myths about contraceptives.

Evaluating the Impact of the Language Mindset Toolkit among Thai Undergraduate Students

This study reports the impact of a language mindset toolkit in influencing the language mindsets of Thai undergraduate students. An explanatory sequential mixed method design was used to determine how language mindset changes and know the students’ language learning insights through a focused mindset intervention. Data from 67 students chosen from convenience sampling completed language mindset surveys, journal entries, and semi-structured interviews were analyzed. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the survey data, while thematic and content analyses were utilized for journal entries and interview data. Key findings revealed a notable shift from a fixed to a growth mindset, particularly in language learning abilities. While mindsets related to intelligence and age sensitivity remained relatively stable, there was a marked change in participants’ belief in the malleability of their language learning abilities, underpinned by the principles of effort and persistence. Thematic analysis of journals supports these findings, with themes such as knowing about language mindset in learning, putting effort into language learning, setting goals in language learning, using strategies in language learning, and regulating emotions in language learning. Meanwhile, the content analysis of individual interviews revealed insights such as appreciating self, motivating self in language learning, and gaining self-efficacy. Growth mindset-oriented interventions could transform the students’ beliefs in language learning.

Evaluating the impact of a year-long external mentorship pilot program in classical hematology

AbstractEffective mentorship is a pivotal factor in shaping the career trajectory of trainees interested in classical hematology (CH), which is of critical importance due to the anticipated decline in the CH workforce. However, there is a lack of mentorship opportunities within CH compared with medical oncology. To address this need, a year-long external mentorship program was implemented through the American Society of Hematology Medical Educators Institute. Thirty-five hematology/oncology fellows interested in CH and 34 academically productive faculty mentors from different institutions across North America were paired in a meticulous process that considered individual interests, experiences, and background. Pairs were expected to meet virtually once a month. Participation in a scholarly project was optional. A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was used to evaluate the program using mentee and mentor surveys, a mentee interview, and a mentee focus group. Thirty-three mentee-mentor pairs (94.2%) completed the program. Sixty-three percent of mentee respondents worked on a scholarly project with their mentor; several mentees earned publications, grants, and awards. Mentee perception that their assigned mentor was a good match was associated with a perceived positive impact on confidence (P = .0423), career development (P = .0423), and professional identity (P = .0302). Furthermore, 23 mentees (66%) accepted CH faculty positions after fellowship. All mentor respondents believed that this program would increase retention in CH. This mentorship program demonstrates a productive, beneficial way of connecting mentees and mentors from different institutions to improve the careers of CH trainees, with the ultimate goal of increasing retention in CH.

Compliance with MAB-UNESCO Functions and Management Effectiveness Evaluation between 2017 and 2024: Case Study of the El Cielo Biosphere Reserve, Mexico’s Only State-Run Reserve Belonging to MAB-UNESCO

UNESCO’s MAB Programme promotes a people-centered conservation strategy to strengthen the sustainability of social and ecological systems. However, there exist knowledge gaps regarding its implementation in specific contexts. For this study, a mixed-methods sequential exploratory design was employed. In the first phase, an initial content analysis of the management program of the El Cielo Biosphere Reserve (CBR) and the functions of the statutory framework of UNESCO’s MAB program was conducted. This analysis, which was human-driven but facilitated by artificial intelligence tools, underwent rigorous triangulation and expert validation to strengthen the reliability and robustness of the findings. Subsequently, the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT3) was issued to researchers, community members, civil servants, and former civil servants related to the management of the CBR. The 2024 results (n = 15) were contrasted with those obtained in 2017 (n = 15) using a quantitative approach consisting of descriptive, non-parametric, and Bayesian statistical techniques. We identified some problems in the implementation of the MAB-UNESCO Programme in the CBR, mainly due to the outdated management program and lack of effective governance, as well as the lack of understanding of the implications of being a MAB-UNESCO biosphere reserve. A numerical trend of deterioration in the effectiveness of the CBR’s management was detected, with overall ratings of 44.78% and 29.62% in 2017 and 2024, respectively. This was associated with a lack of regulation, weak coordination among key actors, and a progressive reduction in funding. The findings of this study are useful to guide the transition of the CBR towards a conservation model that responds to current problems and contributes to the advancement of knowledge on the implementation of the MAB Programme in specific contexts.

Equipping Civil Technology Teachers with Hands-On Skills and Educational Resources for Effective Teaching of Practical Lessons

Continuous professional development for teachers will always be prioritized, especially in cases where there are obvious and conspicuous gaps in their subject-matter expertise and when they handle practical skills exercises with inadequate planning and delivery. Hence, this study explores the effects of equipping Civil Technology teachers with hands-on skills and provision of educational resources for effective teaching of practical lessons. This study purposefully sampled nine (09) Civil Technology teachers from Ekurhuleni East, Gauteng province of South Africa. This study was hinged on Stronge’s qualities of effective teachers as its framework. This study adapted a mixed method design where closed-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were considered relevant data collection instrument and sources. A sequential explanatory design was used to analyze the collected data. The findings reveal that even though teachers get continuous hands-on skills training from the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) annually, the trainings are often too generic and do not adequately boost teachers with confidence to teach specific skills (i.e., construction and plumbing) to learners. As a result, Civil Technology teachers could not actualize their continuous professional development training as an element of learning to become innovative skills teachers. The survey found that while certain Ekurhuleni East schools have instructional tools, some of the teachers were not trained to use them, which made it difficult to effectively teach practical lessons in Civil Technology. Therefore, this study recommended that the Gauteng Department of Education should focus on discipline specific instructional strategies that will promote innovation in skills-based activities in Civil Technology.