Lifelong Learning Skills Research Articles

Informing factors and outcomes of self-assessment practices in medical education: a systematic review

Background Self-assessment (SA) is increasingly recognized not only as an assessment method but also as a vital learning activity that enables learners to identify their strengths and limitations, fostering a crucial skill for lifelong learning. Despite its acknowledged significance, there remains a gap in understanding SA for and as learning, rather than merely of learning. This review, therefore, explores two primary questions: (1) What factors inform the implementation of medical students’ SA practices? (2) How does SA practices contribute to various educational outcomes? Methods A systematic review was conducted across five databases, employing a combination of keywords pertinent to SA and medical education. Our selection criteria deliberately excluded articles that solely focused on the accuracy of SA or used SA exclusively as a measure for other outcome variables. As a result, 39 studies met our inclusion criteria and were analyzed for this review. Qualitative narrative synthesis was used to summarize the informing factors. Furthermore, Kirkpatrick’s model was employed to categorize and summarize the effects of SA activities across various educational outcome levels, including reactions, learning, and behavioral changes. Results Our review reveals that key factors influencing students’ SA includes feedback from various stakeholders, peer assessment, the format of SA, and both learner and teacher training. Among the 39 studies examined, the majority demonstrated positive effects of SA on aspects such as attitudes and skills. However, a minority found no significant associations, with these outcomes frequently linked to contextual variables and how SA was implemented. Conclusions Our review does not focus on SA accuracy or its role as an assessment method; instead it delves into the role of SA as an integral learning practice. We explored its influencing factors and its impact across various outcomes. The findings indicate that for SA to effectively enhance student learning outcomes, it must be implemented with ample support, clear guidelines, and within contexts that encourage feedback and reflection.

Exploring the Perception of the Impact of Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) in the Generative AI Era in Engineering Education

Objective: This study explores students' perceptions of using Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) in the era of generative artificial intelligence as a learning resource in higher education. The specific objectives are: 1) to determine the current tools that students incorporate into their PLEs and 2) to identify students' perceptions of the use of PLEs for lifelong learning. Theoretical Framework: UNESCO and other institutions recognize lifelong learning as an essential competency for personal and professional development. Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) are considered effective tools for promoting self-directed learning, allowing students to manage their learning processes, especially with the advent of generative artificial intelligence technologies. Method: A qualitative study was conducted with 207 first-semester engineering students from a public university in Peru. Participants were introduced to a training program to develop their PLEs using various digital tools, including generative AI tools such as ChatGPT DALL-E. The instrument used to evaluate students' perceptions was the MUSIC model (Jones, 2009), which focuses on empowerment and usefulness. Results: The results indicate that more than 80% of the students positively perceive PLEs, considering them valuable and empowering tools for achieving their learning objectives. Integrating generative AI tools into PLEs is notable, as it provides a dynamic and personalized learning experience. Most students found PLEs helpful for their future and relevant for promoting lifelong learning skills. Research Implications: The research suggests that PLEs, especially when integrated with generative AI tools, positively impact self-directed learning and promote collaborative and social learning. These findings can inform the development of educational programs and policies that encourage using PLEs as a student-centered learning strategy. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the understanding of the role of PLEs in the context of higher education and generative artificial intelligence. It is one of the first studies to examine students' perceptions of using PLEs with generative AI tools, highlighting their potential to enhance learning autonomy and personalization.

Breaking the cycle of poor critical reading comprehension: A strategy-based intervention

Critical reading comprehension is a crucial skill for lifelong learning, but many learners struggle with effectively extracting meaning from texts. This study aimed to address this issue by investigating how a strategy-based instruction intervention could impact learners’ critical reading comprehension competence. The study employed a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental pre- and post-test control group design. The participants were 155 Grade 9 English first additional language (FAL) learners from two high schools in Gauteng, South Africa. The intervention programme was based on Bloom’s taxonomy categories for learning, teaching and assessing, modified into six strategies: (1) knowledge (pre-reading), (2) comprehension (extracting meaning), (3) application (asking questions), (4) analysis (reflection), (5) evaluation (outlining key concepts and decision-making) and (6) synthesis (summarising). Using a two-way mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) paired sample t-tests, the study found that while both groups’ critical reading comprehension competence increased, the experimental group that received the strategy-based instruction intervention performed significantly better in the post-test, showing a significant improvement compared to the control group. The findings demonstrated that providing clear explanations, instruction and support on reading strategies can enhance learners’ critical reading comprehension, highlighting the mutual reliance between teaching and learning. The teacher’s instructional approach in guiding learners to effectively use reading strategies is crucial for enhancing critical reading comprehension in the English FAL classroom. In conclusion, the results suggest that the intervention effectively enhanced critical reading comprehension competence, and if implemented by teachers, it could potentially help break the cycle of poor critical reading comprehension among English FAL learners.Contribution: The contribution of this study lies in its provision of empirically supported perspectives and insights into the effectiveness of strategy-based instruction interventions. It emphasises the necessity of employing explicit reading comprehension pedagogies and targeted interventions, along with explicit instructional strategies, to address the reading comprehension challenges encountered by English FAL learners in South Africa and beyond.

Assessment and learning outcomes for generative AI in higher education: A scoping review on current research status and trends

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) impacts higher education assessment and learning outcomes, which are closely related and intertwined. Literature suggests that educators and researchers have many varied concerns regarding student assessment in the higher education GenAI context, such as how to assess students’ learning and the new (refocused) learning outcomes that emerged in GenAI-facilitated learning environments. To provide evidence-based insights into and answers to these concerns, we conducted a scoping review by collating literature in relevant research areas. Following a five-stage scoping review framework, we collaboratively collected and coded 34 studies. The three assessment approaches identified in the review were traditional assessment, innovative and refocused assessment and GenAI-incorporated assessment. The new, refocused learning outcomes identified were career-driven competencies and lifelong learning skills. The review also revealed that most research designs were qualitatively oriented (e.g., with exploratory design, descriptive research, ethnographic research and phenomenological research). This study proposes a holistic diagram showing the current research status and trends. It suggests five future research directions: innovative assessment designs, collaborations among assessment approaches, new learning outcomes, relationships between assessment approaches and learning outcomes, and quantitative or mixed research studies. Implications for practice or policy: Traditional assessment methods in higher education do not operate effectively in the GenAI era. Innovative and refocused assessment and GenAI-incorporated assessment are promising strategies to assess student learning. Career-driven competencies and lifelong learning skills are new focused learning outcomes evolved from the use of GenAI. More quantitative and mixed research studies should be conducted to provide additional empirical evidence on the impact of GenAI on student assessment and learning outcomes.

Self-regulated learning in secondary school: Students’ self-feedback in a peer observation programme

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is crucial for fostering learner autonomy and lifelong learning skills. The article focuses on observation as a trigger of student self-feedback and self-reflection towards the development of SRL. A student peer observation programme, co-designed and piloted by teachers and researchers in two Portuguese public secondary schools is introduced, including its theoretical and methodological framework, observation scheme, and supporting observation guides. A qualitative study of self-reported effects by participating students was performed with the objectives of identifying strong aspects and possible improvements to the programme but also to gain a deeper understanding of how observation and self-feedback mediate between the performance and self-reflection phases of SRL. The results reveal an increased appreciation for feedback from various sources, and of the reflection it enables, with students emphasizing seeking help from teachers and peers. Implications for designing collaborative and student-centred learning environments with observational strategies to promote SRL are included.

How Important are Employability Skills to Business Students?

Research has indicated that educational institutions and the job market are facing many challenges, one being the required employability skills of graduates upon recruitment. This study aimed to explore how important employability skills are to business students. The research method used a sample of 123 questionnaires and 20 interviews of business students from one Saudi Arabian university. The main findings indicated that the participants considered all the mentioned employability skills highly to very highly important according to the students’ academic year and choice of future job but with no significant differences. However, Sophomore year students indicated a high positive significant difference in considering leadership as the most important skill over their junior and senior year counterparts. The findings further indicated the communication and leadership skills of high importance which contradicts the findings in the literature where life-long learning, tolerance, and language skills are considered of high importance. Additionally, the interview responses showed insufficient knowledge on the part of the students to develop their own skills to meet the market needs and maintain sustainable employment. Implications of the present study show that there is a need for urgent collaboration between educational institutions and job markets to identify, orient, and train students in needed employability skills. Future research on matching stakeholders’ employability skills is recommended.

“A lifelong journey:” a phenomenological exploration of faculty perceptions about coach training at an academic medical center

BackgroundCoaching in academic medicine may help learners develop lifelong learning skills. Studies typically evaluate the impact on coachees and program outcomes. Limited information is available about educating faculty to integrate the role of coaching. We explored a faculty coach training program at an academic medical center in the southern region of the United States.MethodsTwenty faculty members in the college of medicine completed the 34-h training program meeting alternate weeks from May to November 2021. We collected data from reflections during training, a post-training survey, and three post-training focus group discussions making this a qualitatively driven mixed methods research. We used a transcendental phenomenological approach for the qualitative analysis entailing deriving essential meaning of the participants’ training experiences and perceptions about coaching.ResultsWe identified 3 themes (1) perceptions, skills, and understanding of coaching, (2) perceived additional benefits from coach training, and (3) effective instructional practices to teach coaching. Under the first theme, participants expressed improved understanding about the process of coaching in academic medicine, noted the importance of listening to the whole person without judgment, questioning with curiosity, vulnerability, self-awareness, and reflection for building trust. Perceived additional benefits included personal development and illuminating discoveries. Sub-themes for effective instructional practices were learning community encompassing mindfulness, psychological safety, social cohesion, experiential and interactive learning, and suggestions. Faculty experienced internal transformation while learning coaching and felt they had the capacity to influence personal and professional development of learners and colleagues. The concepts reflection, awareness, growth, and relationship were threaded throughout the three themes.ConclusionsThe training evoked self-awareness and opportunities for personal growth. The newly trained coaches expressed the beginning of an internal transformation to embody being a coach and demonstrated willingness to influence personal and professional development of learners and colleagues. Effective instructional practices to teach coaching included mindfulness practice, psychological safety, social cohesion, and experiential and interactive learning. Based on these findings, it may be summarized that in the process of training to be a coach, the faculty not only recognized the benefits of coaching for learners but also realized individual personal benefits.

Organizational learning culture, professional competence and life-long learning skills: Basis for professional development opportunities framework

Organizational learning culture, professional competence and life-long learning skills: Basis for professional development opportunities framework

Assessment of Students’ Satisfaction with Sports and Recreational Services in Southwestern Nigeria Federal Universities

Objective: Feedback literacy is a fundamental skill in education that supports academic success, personal growth, and the development of lifelong learning skills. It improves the educational experience by encouraging a culture of improvement and effective communication. Feedback literacy enhances students' learning by leveraging their ability to evaluate feedback. This research analyzes articles on Feedback Literacy using Bibliometric Analysis to explore topic development and research potential. Method: descriptive research that Bibliometric Analysis processes. Results: 106 articles on feedback literacy from 2012 to 2022 were mined from Database Scopus, with the United Kingdom being the leading country contributing to this topic. The most active authors are Paul Sutton and David Carless. The latest trends in feedback literacy are associated with self-assessment, student engagement, socio-material aspects, and interprofessional education. Novelty: The novelty in exploring articles related to feedback literacy is the research associated with individual differences in learning, as each student always desires to be treated differently, especially when receiving feedback and giving feedback to another classmate.

The Road to Better Assessment: Unleashing the Potential of Feedback Literacy Through Bibliometric Analysis in Education

Objective: Feedback literacy is a fundamental skill in education that supports academic success, personal growth, and the development of lifelong learning skills. It improves the educational experience by encouraging a culture of improvement and effective communication. Feedback literacy enhances students' learning by leveraging their ability to evaluate feedback. This research analyzes articles on Feedback Literacy using Bibliometric Analysis to explore topic development and research potential. Method: descriptive research that Bibliometric Analysis processes. Results: 106 articles on feedback literacy from 2012 to 2022 were mined from Database Scopus, with the United Kingdom being the leading country contributing to this topic. The most active authors are Paul Sutton and David Carless. The latest trends in feedback literacy are associated with self-assessment, student engagement, socio-material aspects, and interprofessional education. Novelty: The novelty in exploring articles related to feedback literacy is the research associated with individual differences in learning, as each student always desires to be treated differently, especially when receiving feedback and giving feedback to other classmates

From Dependent to Self-Directed Learning in Medical Education: Can Online Modular Intervention Facilitate the Transition?

Background: Indian medical graduates are expected to be lifelong learners, and medical teachers need to find newer and more engaging ways to help them hone their lifelong learning skills. Online learning can be a stepping stone toward this goal. Methods: We conducted a pre-post design interventional study in which 22 phase two MBBS students rated their self-directedness in learning using the Self-Rating Scale of Self-directed Learning (SRSSDL) at two points in time—before and after completing a 10-week online basic psychopharmacology module. Participant feedback was obtained regarding various aspects of the online modular learning experience. Results: The participants’ mean SRSSDL scores before and after the intervention were 231.31 ± 26.64 and 227.31 ± 31.33. The difference is not significant. The students’ scores at both points in time placed them in the “high” range of level of self-directed learning, leaving less realistic scope for a large change in the given time frame. Participant feedback was encouraging, with 19 out of 22 reporting that the overall learning experience was a “positive” one. Conclusions: Second-year medical students’ self-reported self-directedness is high. Online modular learning may be a feasible addition to medical education, even though it may not increase self-directedness in the short term. A limited sample size can lead to type 2 errors.

METACOGNITION AS A CATALYST FOR IMPROVED LEARNING OUTCOMES IN OPEN & DISTANCE EDUCATION

Challenges in open and distance education are unique to the learner and generally result in a gap between what is desired and what is realized. This paper explores how metacognition works wonders in bridging this gap and leading to improved learning outcomes within Open and Distance Education (ODE) environments. Metacognitive strategies foster self-regulated learning and assist students in properly planning, monitoring, and assessing their learning processes. In line with this, this paper discusses how metacognition could make a difference in improving academic achievement, promoting independent learning, and building lifelong learning skills within ODE. We demonstrate, from in-depth research and analysis of best practices, how the integration of metacognitive approaches into practice could go a long way in closing the achievement gap and optimizing the educational experience for distance learners. The findings underscore the critical role of metacognition in letting students rise above intrinsic ODE difficulties toward superior learning outcomes.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0715/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Developing University Students’ Assessment Literacy - Theory and Practice

Assessment literacy skills are increasingly recognized as being important for student success in higher education. However, as a field of study, it is not well-researched except in the context of language assessment. This paper delves into critical theoretical underpinnings and practical strategies that can be used to develop assessment literacy among university students. Based on a constructivist view, this paper discusses how social interactions and cultural practices interplay to shape students’ conceptual understanding of assessment. It argues that effective assessment literacy embodies understanding the purposes of assessment, interpreting criteria, and using feedback to improve constantly. This means integrating the development of assessment literacy into curriculum design using experiential learning and developing self-regulated learning strategies. The goal is to provide a primer for university educators and instigate reflection and debate on how best to support students when engaging with diverse assessment practices to enhance their academic achievement and skills for lifelong learning.

The mediating role of positive psychological capital in the relationship between metacognition and self-directed learning ability: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundSelf-directed learning is a fundamental skill and requirement for lifelong learning. It enables nursing students to enhance their learning ability, academic achievement, clinical performance, and adaptability to clinical situations. Metacognition (i.e., the process of reflecting on one's own cognitive activities) helps internalize learning strategies, construct self-concept, and solve problems. Positive psychological capital is a positive psychological state that stimulates the pursuit of individual development; it helps nursing students to cope effectively with various problems. However, it remains unclear if metacognition impacts self-directed learning ability (SDLA) through positive psychological capital; if confirmed, this would provide basic data for the development of effective teaching and learning methods. ObjectivesTo examine the mediating effect of positive psychological capital in the relationship between metacognition and SDLA in nursing students. DesignA cross-sectional, descriptive survey study. ParticipantsThe participants were 172 nursing students from four nursing colleges. MethodsWe measured metacognition, positive psychological capital, and SDLA using an online questionnaire; data were collected from September 7 to 23, 2023. We used Pearson's correlation coefficient to analyze correlations. To test the mediating effect of positive psychological capital, we used three-step regression analysis, Sobel's test, and Hayes's Process Macro - Model 4. ResultsSDLA was correlated with metacognition (r = 0.689, p < .001) and positive psychological capital (r = 0.605, p < .001). Metacognition influenced positive psychological capital (B = 0.324, p < .001) and SDLA (B = 0.614, p < .001). Positive psychological capital mediated the relationship between metacognition and SDLA (B = 0.297, p < .001; z = 3.214, p = .001 [Sobel test]). ConclusionLearning strategies aiming to enhance nursing students' SDLA require successful metacognition to boost positive psychological capital. This study's empirical evidence on the potential benefits of linking metacognition with positive psychological capital has practical implications in relation to helping nursing students attain core academic goals.

Differentiated Instruction in Chemistry Education

Differentiated Instruction (DI) is a comprehensive approach that addresses a variety of students’ requirements and needs in a classroom environment, including their interests, readiness, and learning styles. The idea behind this approach is based on the belief that every classroom is unique. Thus, educators should review and modify their teaching practice from time to time. Hence, this study aims to identify the learning methods in differentiated instruction, their advantages, and challenges to implement in chemistry education using qualitative methods through semi-structured interviews. Seven secondary school teachers with 10 years of teaching experience in Chemistry were selected purposely for this study. To achieve the research objectives, thematic analysis is used, involving reading through the data and analyzing them according to the themes. The experts validate the updated questioning instrument prepared by the researchers to ensure the validity of the questionnaire. Findings reveal that most of them have specific experiences of using differentiated pedagogy to teach chemistry. Three of them described that students, who tend to master visual-spatial intelligence, can interpret and enhance their understanding of a chemistry concept through drawing, namely for the formation of ionic bonds and covalent bonds. For students, who master linguistic-verbal intelligence, teachers can use presentation activities to enhance their understanding of the chemistry concept. Hence, it can promote active learning, encourage students to ask questions, increase students' confidence level in performing classroom activities and other advantages. Conversely, the difficulty faced by the teachers in implementing DI is time constraint. Hence, differentiated instruction is a valuable and practical approach to addressing the diverse needs of students, promoting engagement, collaboration, and the development of essential skills for lifelong learning. Integrating DI principles can contribute significantly to creating enriching and effective learning environments as education evolves.

Performance Evaluation of the Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT-4) on the Family Medicine In-Training Examination.

In this study, we sought to comprehensively evaluate GPT-4 (Generative Pre-trained Transformer)'s performance on the 2022 American Board of Family Medicine's (ABFM) In-Training Examination (ITE), compared with its predecessor, GPT-3.5, and the national family residents' performance on the same examination. We utilized both quantitative and qualitative analyses. First, a quantitative analysis was employed to evaluate the model's performance metrics using zero-shot prompt (where only examination questions were provided without any additional information). After this, qualitative analysis was executed to understand the nature of the model's responses, the depth of its medical knowledge, and its ability to comprehend contextual or new information through chain-of-thoughts prompts (interactive conversation) with the model. This study demonstrated that GPT-4 made significant improvement in accuracy compared with GPT-3.5 over a 4-month interval between their respective release dates. The correct percentage with zero-shot prompt increased from 56% to 84%, which translates to a scaled score growth from 280 to 690, a 410-point increase. Most notably, further chain-of-thought investigation revealed GPT-4's ability to integrate new information and make self-correction when needed. In this study, GPT-4 has demonstrated notably high accuracy, as well as rapid reading and learning capabilities. These results are consistent with previous research indicating GPT-4's significant potential to assist in clinical decision making. Furthermore, the study highlights the essential role of physicians' critical thinking and lifelong learning skills, particularly evident through the analysis of GPT-4's incorrect responses. This emphasizes the indispensable human element in effectively implementing and using AI technologies in medical settings.

Advancing Self-Directed Learning in the Saudi EFL Higher Education: A Call to Further Action

This paper advocates the integration of self-directed learning (SDL) principles in Saudi EFL higher education. It emphasizes the vital role of SDL in promoting autonomy, intrinsic motivation, and crucial lifelong learning skills. It explores the potential impact of SDL within the unique framework of EFL education in Saudi Arabia, covering diverse aspects such as its integration with technology, relevance in higher education, and considerations of learner preparedness and pragmatic attitude. The aim is to empower Saudi EFL students to independently navigate their language acquisition journey. Through an extensive review of SDL literature, the paper highlights the significant advantages of integrating SDL into Saudi EFL curricula, positioning it as a transformative force that can equip students with the essential competencies required for academic success in a globally connected world. The paper concludes by thoroughly discussing the potential implications for educators and policymakers in Saudi EFL higher education, emphasizing the importance of fostering self-directed learning (SDL) as a fundamental strategy to promote academic independence and adequately prepare students for the evolving demands of a globalized society.

Digital Developmental Advising Systems for Engineering Students Based on Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology Student Outcome Evaluations

The purpose of this research is to examine the benefits and limitations of the implementation of novel digital academic advising systems based on the principles of authentic outcome-based education (OBE) using automated collection and reporting processes for Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) student outcomes data for effective developmental advising. We examine digital developmental advising models of undergraduate engineering programs in two universities that employ customized features of the web-based software EvalTools®, including an advising module based on assessment methodology incorporating the faculty course assessment report, performance indicators, and hybrid rubrics classified according to the affective, cognitive, and psychomotor domains of Bloom’s learning model. A case study approach over a six-year period is adopted for this research. The two case studies present results of samples of developmental advising activity employing sequential explanatory mixed methods models using a combination of quantitative and qualitative analyses of a) detailed students’ outcomes and performance indicator information and b) self-evaluation of their professional development and lifelong learning skills. The findings of this study show that digital advising systems employing the faculty course assessment report using performance indicators and hybrid rubrics can provide comprehensive and realistic outcome data to help both developmental advisors and students easily identify the specific cause of performance failures, implement practical recommendations for remedial actions, and track improvements. Inherent strong skills can also be identified in academically weak students by observing patterns or trends of relatively better-performing outcomes to reinforce their natural affinity for learning specialized competencies to help them pursue related and successful career paths.

A Learner-Centered Approach to Learning: Students from Diverse Professional Backgrounds

The review paper aims to focus on the learner-centered approach to education, which is characterized by student participation and a focus on tailoring instructional methodologies to accommodate each student's circumstances, interests, and goals. For this review research, secondary materials, which include projects, theories, and articles that have previously been published, were used. The study results from increased student engagement, improved learning outcomes, and the development of lifelong learning skills. Nevertheless, there are potential challenges that may arise, including the need for teacher instruction and assistance, the potential for inconsistent student involvement, and the imperative for meticulous planning and readiness. Technological improvements have facilitated students' access to a plethora of educational materials, enhanced their ability to collaborate, and provided them with the opportunity to receive tailored and customizable teachings. The research findings demonstrated that promoting collaboration among students from various professional backgrounds via team-based work is an additional method of incorporating interprofessional education. Simulations and other interactive instructional methods, together with student involvement in patient care and decision-making, may be beneficial in a clinical environment.

Large language models for sustainable assessment and feedback in higher education

Nowadays, there is growing attention on enhancing the quality of teaching, learning and assessment processes. As a recent EU Report underlines, the assessment and feedback area remains a problematic issue regarding educational professionals training and adopting new practices. In fact, traditional summative assessment practices are predominantly used in European countries, against the recommendations of the Bologna Process guidelines that promote the implementation of alternative assessment practices that seem crucial in order to engage and provide lifelong learning skills for students, also with the use of technology. Looking at the literature, a series of sustainability problems arise when these requests meet real-world teaching, particularly when academic instructors face the assessment of extensive classes. With the fast advancement in Large Language Models (LLMs) and their increasing availability, affordability and capability, part of the solution to these problems might be at hand. In fact, LLMs can process large amounts of text, summarise and give feedback about it following predetermined criteria. The insights of that analysis can be used both for giving feedback to the student and helping the instructor assess the text. With the proper pedagogical and technological framework, LLMs can disengage instructors from some of the time-related sustainability issues and so from the only choice of the multiple-choice test and similar. For this reason, as a first step, we are designing and validating a theoretical framework and a teaching model for fostering the use of LLMs in assessment practice, with the approaches that can be most beneficial.