Skills Of Undergraduate Students Research Articles

CRITICAL THINKING DEVELOPMENT AS A KEY COMPONENT OF SOFT SKILLS IN EDUCATION

According to the competencies outlined in the current Higher Education Standard for the specialty 221 “Dentistry” within the field of knowledge 22 “Health Care” at the second (Master’s) level, students must be able to think abstractly, analyze and synthesize information, and demonstrate critical and self-critical thinking. Both general and specialized (professional, subject-specific) competencies highlight the necessity for students to critically understand educational challenges. The interpretation of these concepts aligns with widely accepted philosophical, scientific, legislative, and social perspectives. In this context, it becomes essential to identify effective methods for developing critical thinking in students as a component of Soft Skills, and to implement these methods in undergraduate education. Critical thinking serves as a key component that enhances students’ motivation to learn and prepares them for independent work. It plays a crucial role in acquiring both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. In order to improve and to develop critical thinking, undergraduate students must be able to interpret, analyze, and compare patient information; generalize, evaluate, and logically draw well-supported conclusions from the data obtained during patient examinations. The teacher must foster critical thinking in students by utilizing the technology of developing critical thinking, which operates through specific phases: challenge, comprehension, and reflection. To effectively cultivate critical thinking skills in undergraduate students, it is recommended to apply methods such as professional situation analysis, empathy, constructing effective arguments, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. These approaches will help develop critical thinking as a key component of Soft Skills in students.

Developing a Chinese Language Course Integrating Deep Learning Theory and OBE: Promote Critical Thinking Skill for Undergraduate Students in Guangzhou, China

This study aims to develop and evaluate a Chinese language course designed to enhance college students' critical thinking skills through the integration of deep learning theory and Outcome-Based Education (OBE). The research specifically addresses two questions: (1) What are the characteristics of a Chinese language course that integrates Deep Learning Theory and OBE? (2) What are the effects of this course on promoting critical thinking skills among undergraduate students? The study employs a quasi-experimental design, involving 120 undergraduate students divided into a control group and a test group from Nan fang College, Guangzhou, China. The control group received conventional teaching methods, while the test group participated in the newly developed course. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests using California critical thinking skills test (Chinese version), as well as semi-structured interviews. Results indicate a significant improvement in the critical thinking skills of students in the test group compared to the control group. The test group showed higher mean scores and lower standard deviations in post-test results, demonstrating the effectiveness of the course in enhancing critical thinking abilities. Qualitative data from interviews supported these findings, highlighting increased student engagement and deeper understanding of course materials. The findings suggest that this integrated approach can be effectively implemented in other educational contexts to achieve similar outcomes.

Strengthening Generic Skills in Undergraduate Students in Physical Education. Perception of University Professors

Purpose: Demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposal for strengthening generic and specific competencies, which are evaluated in the Saber Pro tests in students of the Bachelor's program in Physical Education at a Colombian university, through the perception of participating teachers. said proposal. Methodology: A qualitative methodology was implemented, with the purpose of trying to understand the reality and behaviors of individuals who belong to a certain social context (Vílchez, 2022), in addition to understanding and identifying various characteristics associated with the qualities and descriptions of a social phenomenon without resorting to the collection of specific numerical data (Morenos, 2021). Results and Conclusions: They indicate the development of innovative teaching strategies in academic spaces in order to strengthen competencies. Likewise, it demonstrates the viability of the proposal in relation to the teaching strategies that make a theoretical and practical approach, since they adjust to the focus and thematic contents of the subjects, therefore, they facilitate the assimilation and appropriation of the knowledge that requires a future graduate, thus concluding the need to incorporate innovative tools that promote the appropriation of knowledge to train better professionals in the area of Physical Education. Implications: This research provides implications for educational and government policy to continue to strengthen standardized testing policies in higher education. Originality/value: This research offers novelty by glimpsing the impact of the formation of the pedagogical model in higher education.

Emotional problems and academic performance: the role of executive functioning skills in undergraduate students

ABSTRACT Increasing mental health issues, such as emotional problems, pose a threat for the academic performance of undergraduate students. We propose a route connecting emotional problems and academic performance through executive functioning skills (EFS). Despite the abundance of research on the topic of EFS, there is a significant gap in understanding this route, specifically among a population of undergraduate students. The aim of this study was to examine whether EFS mediated the association between emotional problems and academic performance among undergraduate students. Cross-sectional data (n = 2,531) was used from a survey among Dutch undergraduate students from a large variety of faculties at a university of applied sciences. We assessed emotional problems using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, five EFS (cognitive inhibition, task initiation, sustained attention, planning, time management), and academic performance (study delay; yes/no). Mediation analyses were performed, using the Hayes PROCESS macro, adjusted for gender. We found that cognitive inhibition, task initiation, sustained attention, planning, and time management mediated the association between emotional problems and academic performance. Regarding separate EFS, no large differences were found. The data suggests that improving all EFS in undergraduates experiencing emotional problems could be a fruitful strategy for preventing academic delays.

Responsible and ethical conduct of research (RECR) diagnostic survey using case scenarios from biology course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs).

Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) are increasingly becoming the first, and perhaps only, research experience for many biology students. Responsible and ethical conduct of research (RECR) is crucial for the integrity of scientific research and essential for students to have an understanding of the scientific process at any academic level. However, there is a current lack of RECR education in biology CUREs. To understand the level of RECR knowledge and skills in undergraduate students, we created a diagnostic survey that uses case scenarios designed to illustrate RECR issues in the CURE classroom. Analysis of students' responses indicated that the overall percentage of students who are able to effectively use RECR terminology and identify the impact of RECR violations on science integrity and ultimately on society is low. Furthermore, some students equated RECR violations to academic dishonesty, indicating difficulties separating the research and academic aspects of CUREs. This diagnostic tool can aid instructors in identifying gaps in student RECR knowledge for the subsequent development of RECR educational interventions, particularly to ensure the integrity of the research performed in CURE settings.

Knowledge Discovery and Dataset for the Improvement of Digital Literacy Skills in Undergraduate Students

For over two decades, scholars and practitioners have emphasized the importance of digital literacy, yet the existing datasets are insufficient for establishing learning analytics in Thailand. Learning analytics focuses on gathering and analyzing student data to optimize learning tools and activities to improve students’ learning experiences. The main problem is that the ICT skill levels of the youth are rather low in Thailand. To facilitate research in this field, this study has compiled a dataset containing information from the IC3 digital literacy certification delivered at the Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT) in Thailand between 2016 and 2023. This dataset is unique since it includes demographic and academic records about undergraduate students. The dataset was collected and underwent a preparation process, including data cleansing, anonymization, and release. This data enables the examination of student learning outcomes, represented by a dataset containing information about 45,603 records with students’ certification assessment scores. This compiled dataset provides a rich resource for researchers studying digital literacy and learning analytics. It offers researchers the opportunity to gain valuable insights, inform evidence-based educational practices, and contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve digital literacy education in Thailand and beyond.

Computer-based inquiry to enhance science process skills in undergraduate students using physiological data.

The analysis of spontaneous tail coiling (STC) in zebrafish embryos is a functional parameter that allows the study of motor development. It has recently gained relevance as a biomarker to assess the neurotoxicity of environmental substances. Its practicability in the laboratory makes it an excellent pedagogical tool for promoting students' inquiry skills. However, the time and cost of materials and facilities limit their usage in undergraduate laboratories. This study presents the design of a computer-based educational module called ZebraSTMe, which is based on a tail coiling assay and aims to improve science process skills in undergraduate students by connecting them to relevant and novel content. We evaluate students' perception of learning, the quality of materials used, and the knowledge gained. Our results show that students perceived an improvement in their statistical analysis, representation, and discussion of experimental data. Additionally, the students evaluated the quality and ease of use of the materials and provided feedback for revision. A thematic analysis of the opinions revealed that the module activities promoted students' reflection on their professional strengths and weaknesses.NEW & NOTEWORTHY ZebraSTMe is a novel computer-based educational module that utilizes spontaneous tail coiling analysis in zebrafish embryos to enhance undergraduate students' scientific inquiry skills. By addressing the challenges of time, cost, and laboratory resources, the module improves students' science process skills and promotes reflection on their professional strengths and weaknesses. The innovative ZebraSTMe exemplifies the potential of integrating cutting-edge research topics into undergraduate education, leading to more engaging and effective learning experiences in physiology and other scientific disciplines.

Investigating the Effectiveness of Peer Feedback in Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Undergraduate Students

The purpose of this research was to determine whether or not undergraduates benefitted from receiving input from their peers when it came to the development of their critical thinking skills. A total of 60 freshmen taking an introductory philosophy course at a major public university in the United States served as the study's sample for a pre-test, post-test control group design. Students in the experimental group had their critical thinking tasks reviewed by their peers, while those in the control group did not. Changes in critical thinking were measured using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST). The results of the CCTST showed that the experimental group had significantly higher levels of critical thinking than the control group. This result demonstrates the potential of peer feedback as an instructional strategy for fostering critical thinking in undergraduates. Student access to chances for group study is also highlighted. These results have substantial repercussions for classroom practice. Peer feedback is a useful tool for teachers to help their pupils develop the critical thinking skills necessary for success in school and the workplace. Important social and cognitive skills, such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, can be fostered in students through collaborative learning tasks.

A professionally oriented distance learning course in a foreign language as the basis for the formation of undergraduate students’ research skills

Introduction. Nowadays society is in demand for skills required to conduct scientific research using a foreign language, among other things, but the problem is that students do not have well-formed research skills. In addition, the undergraduate curriculum does not provide for a separate learning course for the formation of such skills. The purpose of the study is to theoretically and practically substantiate the effectiveness of the application of a professionally oriented distance learning course in a foreign language to the formation of research skills in university students of non-linguistic degree courses. Materials and methods. The study involved second-year students (N = 34) pursuing a degree in “Pedagogical education” (main subjects “History, Social science subjects (Social science, Geography)”, “History, Social science”) at Bunin Yelets State University. For statistical data processing before and after the experiment, methods of mathematical statistics and Mann–Whitney U test, in particular, were used. Research results. It was revealed that the proposed authors’ course is effective for the formation of research skills in students of non-linguistic degree courses at a university. The data obtained at the control stage of the experiment after training indicate that the level of formation of research skills in students in the experimental group is much higher than in the control group (U = 70; p < 0,01). Conclusion. The data on the methods for the formation of research skills in university students are systematized and summarized; the formation of research skills in undergraduate students of non-linguistic degree courses while implementing the authors’ specialized distance learning course in a foreign language is experimentally verified; the effectiveness of this course for the formation of students’ research skills while working with foreign language material was proved. Keywords: distance learning course, professional orientation, research skills, foreign language, nonlinguistic degree course

THE EFFECTS OF WORKSHOP INTERVENTION ON RESEARCH WRITING SKILLS

This study examined the effectiveness of a workshop intervention in improving research writing skills of undergraduate students. A quasi-experimental design was used with forty-seven volunteer participants. Pre- and post-intervention surveys were conducted to measure perceived research writing skills. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for evaluation. Results indicated a significant improvement in average research writing skills after the workshop. The study found a positive correlation between workshop effectiveness and students' research writing skills, as well as a positive relationship between research writing skills and confidence. However, no significant relationship was observed between the workshop intervention and confidence. These findings highlight the efficacy of workshop interventions in enhancing research writing skills among undergraduates. Universities and colleges should consider offering targeted training sessions and workshops for specific skills to boost academic performance. These results can guide evidence-based practices for improving research writing skills in undergraduate students.

Design, implementation and evaluation of end-of-course skills of undergraduate students in environmental health engineering using Objective Structured in field Examination (OSFE): An action research study

Design, implementation and evaluation of end-of-course skills of undergraduate students in environmental health engineering using Objective Structured in field Examination (OSFE): An action research study

Advancing professional skills in undergraduate students: Faculty-student mentorship

Advancing professional skills in undergraduate students: Faculty-student mentorship

Utilization of Materials "Academic Arapça" for Listening Skills in Arabic Language Education

Istimâ' Ibtidâ'i course in the Arabic Language Education Department at the State University of Malang refers to the Al-‘Arabiyyah baina Yadaik material only in the form of learning audio. The aims of this study were to: 1) use the material “Academic Arapça” to improve listening skills of undergraduate students in Arabic Language Education Department, and 2) improve listening skills in undergraduate students of Arabic language after using the material “Academic Arapça”. The method research is a classroom action research with quantitative data processing. The results from this research can be concluded that the learning outcomes of students in listening learning obtained an average pretest score of 71 .57 and a post-test of 94.47. Furthermore, the result from the N-Gain is in the high category with a percentage of 81, 18%, which show an increase in results in the use of “Academic Arapça” for the special learning process of the Arabic language department.

Promoting Information Literacy and Visual Literacy Skills in Undergraduate Students Using Infographics

ABSTRACTBecause research and communication proficiency is ubiquitous in the academic and professional world, teaching students the necessary information literacy (IL) and visual literacy (VL) skills has become increasingly important. Integrating IL and VL pedagogy into substantive coursework can enhance students’ comprehension of the material and teach them to make a meaningful contribution to public awareness and understanding of political science. Yet, faculty often find it challenging to include instruction in these skills with necessary coverage of substantive course material. This article discusses the use of an infographic assignment in an introductory American government course as a tool to teach literacy skills and to reinforce substantive course concepts. Encouraging students to distill academic research into an infographic requires them to understand the process of information creation, the role of visuals in communication, and how scholarship acts as a conversation—all key components of literacy in higher education.

Problems in Physician-Patient Communication: What do our Students See and Hear? A Qualitative Study with a Pragmatic Approach

Background: Efficient communication with patients is an indispensable necessity for physicians of the 21 century. Over the past decades, much work has been done nationally and internationally to instill this essential skill in undergraduate students and medical graduates are now formally trained to become better communicators. However, deficiencies persist and medical students of today still observe various issues when they observe physician- patient communication interactions in their training. Objective: To understand perceptions of undergraduate medical students about the difficulties in Physician-Patient communication (PPC) & take suggestions on how to overcome them. Methods: A qualitative study design was employed, with data collection through three focus group discussions with medical students studying in Wah medical college, Pakistan in October 2019. Thematic data analysis was done using Atlas-ti 8
 software. A pragmatic approach was used to understand student perceptions about difficulties in PPC. Conclusion: The various issues regarding the problems in physician patient communication portray a realistic picture of our current communication practices. Various factors have been identified in this study and, the most practical solution to these problems lies in the effective teaching of behavioral sciences.

Study of employees soft skill with reference to colleges in hyderabad

Verbal and written communication skills are needed and is of primary importance in any workplace as they set the tone for how people perceive you. It has a vital role in building relationship with your team mates. These skills boost one’s performance as you get clear expectations from your seniors so that you can deliver excellent work output. Employers look for these skills in employees as workers are more productive when they communicate well with their team members. This study focuses on the writing and speaking skills of undergraduate students of the colleges mainly in Hyderabad, Telangana and also in other parts of the country. The method of data collection is questionnaire and discussions. It was found that the course syllabus is not sufficient enough for improvement of soft skills in presentation. This research study confirms that the curriculum does not provide any further scope for improving the writing skills of learners, instead it assesses memory retention and reproductive abilities. There is a huge gap between expectation and achievement levels of efficacy.

The Effect of Teaching Metacognitive Reading Strategies on the Critical Thinking Skills of Undergraduate Students

Metacognitive strategies have been investigated as facilitating tools for students’ reading comprehension. No studies have investigated the effect of systematic teaching of metacognitive reading strategies on students’ critical thinking skills. The present quasi-experimental study examined the effect of explicit metacognitive strategy instruction and critical thinking skills of ESL international freshman university students. Data were collected from two homogeneous 25-member groups of experimental and control learners randomly assigned to these groups. The experimental group and control group underwent 14 sessions of training. The results related to critical thinking tests revealed the mean scores of students in the metacognitive group were significantly higher than the mean score of the students in the conventional reading group (F= 1.3,82.3) = 215.973. p 0.001). Another interesting finding is that teaching metacognitive reading strategies significantly improved students’ induction (14.72) and credibility (14.30) skills. The findings provide insights for integrating metacognitive reading strategies and critical thinking skills in higher education contexts.

Investigating the 21st-Century Skills of Undergraduate Students: Physics Success, Attitude, and Perception

Investigating the 21st-Century Skills of Undergraduate Students: Physics Success, Attitude, and Perception

Effectiveness of virtual simulation and jaw model for undergraduate periodontal teaching

BackgroundThe current study explored the effect of virtual simulation and jaw model on development of preclinical periodontal skills in undergraduate students. The study also sought to explore effectiveness of VR in periodontal preclinical training and determine adequate performance mode in basic periodontal education to improve future preclinical training strategies.MethodsSixty volunteer sophomores and juniors from the stomatology department in Lanzhou university were enrolled to the current study. Participants were randomly assigned into four groups (each group, n = 15) including the traditional jaw model group (Group J) which was the control group, virtual reality group (Group V), virtual-jaw group (Group V-J), and jaw-virtual group (Group J-V). Participants received training on uniform basic periodontal knowledge before completing the first theoretical assessment. Participants further underwent a total 8 h of operation training and completed a second theoretical assessment. Performance of participants was evaluated using the supragingival scaling processes, and clinical operation scores were graded by a blinded professional using an established standard scoring system.ResultsThe findings showed no significant difference in the first theoretical outcomes between the four groups (P > 0.05). The scores of the second theoretical assessment were significantly improved for the V-J and J-V groups (60.00 ± 4.47, 58.33 ± 4.35) compared with the scores of the first theoretical exam (49.67 ± 4.81, 48.00 ± 4.93, P < 0.05). The operation process scores of students in Group V-J and J-V (72.00 ± 5.92; 70.00 ± 3.05) were significantly higher compared with the scores in the other two groups (V: 61.67 ± 7.85; J: 60.67 ± 2.58). The scaling process performance of students in Group V-J and J-V (53.00 ± 3.05; 63.40 ± 4.39) was improved compared with that of students in the other two groups (V: 41.90 ± 5.23; J: 47.40 ± 4.31).ConclusionThe findings show that combination of virtual reality and jaw model during periodontal preclinical training increases students’ grades and improves acquiring of professional skills. Findings from the current study indicate that the jaw model should be applied prior to virtual reality to ensure high efficacy.

Perceptions of Successful Veterinary School Applicants: Assessment Data to Improve Student Success

Admission to colleges of veterinary medicine has become increasingly more competitive through the years. The increased number of applicants require students and the programs they are attending to help students distinguish themselves in the applicant pool. Many students understand the importance of the science related coursework early on in their undergraduate career. The soft skills along with mentoring have been shown to be important for applicant success. Time management skills can be some of the most vital skills for undergraduate students to practice before matriculation to veterinary school. In addition, group skills and conflict resolution are perceived as important among veterinary alumni and students. Mentoring is critical throughout the education process. The personal aspects and professional guidance given by professors make for the most successful advising of undergraduate pre-veterinary students. Results indicated that students could benefit from communication skills being included throughout the curriculum, especially in context of veterinary science courses.