Programming Skills Research Articles

Using artificial intelligence tools for automating the assessment of future computer science teachers' work

This paper examines the problem of automated testing of modified programming tasks for future computer science teachers. It is recommended that GitHub Copilot be used to generate tests based on the code. This approach makes it possible to solve the following tasks: reducing the time and effort required for manual checking of programming tasks completed by students; promoting better assimilation of the material of the relevant disciplines by students; promoting the development and improvement of students' skills in algorithmisation and programming; compliance by students with academic integrity; effective use of GitHub Copilot to generate baseline tests to test modified programming assignments completed by students; ensuring the flexibility and scalability of the approach to the development of various training courses in programming; development of students' software product testing skills. In the process of research, we found the following disadvantages of using the GitHub Copilot system for generating basic tests: GitHub Copilot does not always generate perfect code or tests; for complex tasks, GitHub Copilot may require additional correction of the generated code. Therefore, it is important to check and refine the generated tests carefully, if necessary. Therefore, at the moment, we recommend using GitHub Copilot as a template generator for writing tests. The proposed approach is a promising solution for facilitating the verification of modified programming tasks and increasing the effectiveness of the education process of future informatics teachers. The conducted research opens up new prospects for effective improvement of the verification of modified tasks performed by students and the generation of tests for verification. In particular, the integration of the proposed system based on GitHub Copilot with learning management systems (LMS) and automated task verification systems. Another area of research could be exploring the possibilities of using other tools for generating tests instead of GitHub Copilot or combining them in order to obtain better results.

Curriculum Design based on Outcome-Based Education Concept: A Case Study of the C Programming Course

This study, grounded in the principles of Outcome-Based Education (OBE), presents the design and implementation of a practical course syllabus for the C Programming Language within an industry-university collaboration framework. The syllabus development emphasizes the core tenets of "student-centered learning, outcome orientation, and continuous improvement." By aligning curriculum design with market demands, adopting effective teaching methodologies, and establishing a robust evaluation system, the syllabus addresses students' practical needs and professional aspirations, ensuring the comprehensive achievement of course objectives. The study incorporates process evaluation via the PTA platform and summative evaluation through system development projects, employing Rubric scoring criteria to holistically assess students' programming knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The findings reveal that the syllabus design and pedagogical approach significantly enhance students' competencies in programming, providing valuable insights and a reference model for talent cultivation in software engineering education.

A qualitative systematic review of umbilical cord care practices in Nigeria

BackgroundUmbilical cord care is an important aspect of newborn health, and different practices exist around the world, often influenced by cultural, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors. The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize current literature on umbilical cord care practices in Nigeria, with an emphasis on the impact of cultural beliefs, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors.MethodsA comprehensive search for literature was performed across PubMED, MEDLINE and Google scholar for studies published between 2010 and 2023. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines was followed for the execution of this study. Eligibility criteria included only English studies investigating umbilical cord care practices in Nigeria, with outcomes connected to cultural, healthcare, or socioeconomic factors. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist was used to critically appraise the quality and rigor of selected studies. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies (qualitative and quantitative), qualitative narrative synthesis was used to synthesize the studies in a textual format for comprehensive understanding.ResultsA total of 11 included studies were found out of 1532 studies. The findings reveal a range of cord care practices, emphasizing the use of various methods such as methylated spirit, hot compresses, and indigenous substances. Cultural beliefs, a lack of healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic circumstances all have a big impact on cord care decisions. Disparities in knowledge and adherence to evidence-based procedures are noticeable, particularly in the use of chlorhexidine gel. Infections continue to be a problem, highlighting the significance of appropriate therapies.ConclusionThis systematic review offers a comprehensive perspective of Nigerian umbilical cord care practices, emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive educational interventions, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and targeted legislative measures. Despite its limitations, the study is an important resource for guiding future research, policy creation, and interventions to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes in Nigeria.

Syntalos: a software for precise synchronization of simultaneous multi-modal data acquisition and closed-loop interventions

Complex experimental protocols often require multi-modal data acquisition with precisely aligned timing, as well as state- and behavior-dependent interventions. Tailored solutions are mostly restricted to individual experimental setups and lack flexibility and interoperability. We present an open-source, Linux-based integrated software solution, called ‘Syntalos’, for simultaneous acquisition and synchronization of data from an arbitrary number of sources, including multi-channel electrophysiological recordings and different live imaging devices, as well as closed-loop, real-time interventions with different actuators. Precisely matching timestamps for all inputs are ensured by continuous statistical analysis and correction of individual devices’ timestamps. New data sources can be integrated with minimal programming skills. Data is stored in a comprehensively structured format to facilitate pooling or sharing data between different laboratories. Syntalos enables precisely synchronized multi-modal recordings as well as closed-loop interventions for multiple experimental approaches. Preliminary neuroscientific experiments on mice with different research questions show the successful performance and easy-to-learn structure of the software suite.

Whatever happened to F International?

F International was a pioneering company set up by Dame Stephanie “Steve” Shirley in the 1960s specifically to provide flexible, free-lance opportunities for highly skilled women who needed to juggle childcare and other domestic or caring responsibilities with a desire to continue using and developing their programming and other computer-related skills and expertise. From the 1980s onwards it was lauded by many, with coverage in the media and in top management journals. Yet by the early years of this century, it had all but disappeared, having lost its distinctive features along the way. Was this an unavoidable outcome of its growth and strategy of mergers and acquisitions? Were opportunities lost or did key decisions unwittingly lead to this result? Or was there an inevitability to such a project?

Knowledge, Attitudes, Motivations, Expectations, and Systemic Factors Regarding Antimicrobial Use Amongst Community Members Seeking Care at the Primary Healthcare Level: A Scoping Review

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, motivations, and expectations of community members regarding antimicrobial use is essential for effective stewardship interventions. This scoping review aimed to identify key themes relating to the critical areas regarding antimicrobial use among community members in primary healthcare (PHC), with a particular focus on LMICs. Methods: OVID Medline, PubMed, and CINAHL databases were searched using Boolean operators and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms relevant to antimicrobial use and community behaviors. The Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Study Design (PICOS) framework guided study selection, which focused on community members seeking care in PHC in LMICs. Data management and extraction were facilitated using the Covidence platform, with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative checklist applied for qualitative studies. A narrative synthesis identified and grouped key themes and sub-themes. Results: The search identified 497 sources, of which 59 met the inclusion criteria, with 75% of the studies conducted in outpatient primary care settings. Four key themes were identified: (1) the ’patient’ theme, highlighting beliefs, knowledge, and expectations, which was the most prominent (40.5%); (2) the ’provider’ theme, emphasizing challenges related to clinical decision-making, knowledge gaps, and adherence to guidelines; (3) the ’healthcare systems’ theme, highlighting resource limitations, lack of infrastructure, and policy constraints; and (4) the ‘intervention/uptake’ theme, emphasizing strategies to improve future antibiotic use and enhance access to and quality of healthcare. Conclusions: Stewardship programs in PHC settings in LMICs should be designed to be context-specific, community-engaged, and accessible to individuals with varying levels of understanding, involving the use of information and health literacy to effectively reduce AMR.

Perbandingan Algoritma Decision Tree, ID3, dan Random Forest dalam Klasifikasi Faktor-Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Karier Mahasiswa Ilmu Komputer

This study aims to compare the performance of three classification algorithms, namely Decision Tree, ID3, and Random Forest, in identifying factors that influence the careers of computer Science students. These algorithms are applied to a dataset that includes various student attributes, such as GPA, programming skills, and completed projects. The results show that Random Forest provides more accurate and stable prediction results than Decision Tree and ID3, especially in reducing the risk of overfitting. Students with high skills in Python and SQL and who focus on software development tend to choose a career in Software Engineering. While those involved in AI/ML-based projects tend to choose Data Science. The conclusions of this study provide valuable insights for educational institutions to design more effective career development strategies for students.

Penerapan Simple Additive Weighting dalam Merekomendasikan Karyawan untuk Pekerjaan Pengembangan Perangkat Lunak

The rapid growth of the software industry has directly increased the demand for reliable and skilled programming employees (programmers). The success of this industry heavily relies on the technical expertise of the development team, particularly in mastering programming languages and the latest technologies. Therefore, an efficient and effective system is essential for selecting the right programmer based on project requirements. This selection process can optimize resource allocation and enhance the chances of project success. This research proposes the development of an employee recommendation system based on the Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) method. The case study is applied at CV Garuda Infinity Kreasindo, a software development company located in Bandung. This system is designed to assist project managers in identifying the programmer who best fits the project's technical needs. By utilizing four criteria—specifically, the employee's programming role, the programming languages they have mastered, and their experience with databases and frameworks—decisions can be made objectively regarding the employees needed for a specific project at CV Garuda Infinity Kreasindo.

Design and Research on Evaluation System of Computer Pro-gramming Code Quality

With the ongoing development of software engineering and programming education, the demand for evaluating programming code quality is increasing. High-quality code not only en-hances software maintainability and performance but also helps developers and learners optimize their coding skills. This paper focuses on the design and implementation of an evaluation system for computer programming code quality, proposing a multi-dimensional evaluation method that includes readability, complexity, efficiency, and security. The system combines static analysis with machine learning to automate code analysis and optimization recommendations, providing users with objective feedback on code quality. Additionally, this paper explores application cases of the system in programming education and software development, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving code quality and enhancing users' programming skills. Finally, the research contribu-tions are summarized, and directions for future improvements are proposed to further enhance the system’s intelligence and applicability.

Fostering Soft Skills in Active Labor Market Programs

Fostering Soft Skills in Active Labor Market Programs

Patient-reported outcomes, provider-reported outcomes, and physiologic parameters after gender-affirming hormone treatment in Canada: a systematic review.

Canada has experienced a ten-fold increase in referrals for gender-affirming care. Clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of a comprehensive and systematic approach to outcome measurement for gender-affirming hormonal care. However, research is lacking on the investigation of outcomes of Canadian gender-affirming hormonal treatments. In total, five databases were searched, as follows: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL on December 26, 2023. To meet inclusion criteria, each study needed to be an original article including patients identifying as transgender or gender diverse (TGD) who were receiving gender-affirming hormonal care in Canada. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tools were used to assess the methodological quality of the study. Descriptive frequencies were calculated for demographic information and a narrative synthesis was conducted to summarize outcomes organized for different treatments. A total of 3315 articles were identified, with 34 articles being included, representing 3990 patients. Physiologic parameters were reported in 62% of the studies and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in 50%, although only 32% utilized standardized patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). In studies reporting quantitative results, testosterone treatments showed 80% effectiveness in achieving desired physical changes, while several studies demonstrated that estrogen and antiandrogen treatments improved mental health in 85% of patients. The narrative synthesis of the results reveals positive outcomes and limited adverse effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy; however, it also underscores the need for standardized, consistent outcome measurement tools, particularly PROMs. The present systematic review highlights the need for standardized outcome reporting in gender-affirming hormone therapy, underscoring the need for measurement of the patient's perspective through PROMs. Resolving these issues can improve evidence-based practices and support high-quality, patient-centered gender-affirming hormone care.

The Impact of the Digital Economy on the Educational Landscape

The digital economy is a big change that comes from innovative technologies, especially the Internet, artificial intelligence, and large amounts of data. This shift has improved learning by making it easier for people to get and get educational supplies. Online platforms like Massive Open Online Courses ( MOOCs ) and learning management systems ( LMS ) provide more people with access to good educational materials. This helps break down the barriers caused by area and money that have made it difficult for some people to get training in the past. The digital divide creates major problems because not everyone has the same access to technology and excellent online. This may make previously existing inequalities worse, especially for disadvantaged communities. Moreover, more people need to be good at using modern technology because kids have to learn how to utilize online websites. Making sure everyone gets virtual learning resources is very important for using the digital economy to help improve education for all. By tackling the problems of uneven access to technology and including online skills in school programs, people involved can create a more loving training program that helps everyone get back and promotes fairness in the economy.

Using AI Chatbots in Visual Programming: Effect on Programming Self-Efficacy of Upper Primary School Learners

Programming Self-Efficacy (PSE) is crucial for enhancing learners’ skills, cognitive abilities, and career interests. Despite its significance, existing research often overlooks strategies to boost PSE among upper primary school learners. This study evaluates the impact of an innovative e-learning tool, AI Chatbots, on students’ PSE. Conducted in a primary school in northern mainland China, the experiment integrated AI Chatbots as an intervention within a visual programming curriculum. It involved 98 fifth-grade students divided into experimental and control groups, both instructed by the same teacher. Interviews were conducted with 6 selected participants from the experimental group after completing all intervention procedures. Findings suggest that, compared to traditional teacher-led instruction, AI Chatbots significantly enhance students’ PSE in programming skill, while boost in PSE in programming knowledge remains non-significant. The study also investigates the mechanisms through which AI Chatbots provide students with easily accessible, personalized learning support for self-directed learning and reduce emotional barriers when they seek help.

Development of transversal skills in higher education programs in conjunction with online learning: relationship between learning strategies, project-based pedagogical practices, e-learning platforms, and academic performance

Development of transversal skills in higher education programs in conjunction with online learning: relationship between learning strategies, project-based pedagogical practices, e-learning platforms, and academic performance

Consumer perspectives of the group itself in group-delivered programs for people with chronic pain: A systematic review and meta-synthesis.

Group-delivered programs for chronic pain are evidence-based and frequently used. The contribution of group factors to outcomes is unclear and there are no integrated findings on consumer perceptions of the group itself in programs for people with chronic pain. The aim of this systematic review was to search and synthesise qualitative data specifically related to the group itself in studies investigating group-delivered programs for people with chronic pain (PROSPERO, CRD42023382447). MEDLINE, EMBASE, EmCare, PsycINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL databases were searched, and qualitative studies that explored the experiences of consumers who had attended any style of group-delivered program for people with chronic pain were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist and meta-synthesis was guided by a thematic synthesis approach. Ninety-three studies were included, with 1806 participants. Programs were predominantly multi-component, with diverse interventions and facilitators. Three analytical themes were generated: (1) Peer interaction: a program component in and of itself; (2) Comparison: frequently used and mostly helpful; and (3) Beyond the program: when the group itself contributes to change. Findings highlighted that most consumers valued the group itself, finding interaction, and comparing themselves with peers useful. Future research related to group factors in programs for people with chronic pain should include consumer participation and co-design. PERSPECTIVE: This review demonstrates that many consumers valued peer interaction and used comparison-based cognitive processing within group-delivered programs for chronic pain. Dialogue-based interactions with similar others promoted cognitive, affect, and behaviour changes. Group factors may have been underestimated and outcomes could be influenced if peer interactions within programs were optimised.

Evaluating Delta-8-THC–Induced Psychosis: A Systematic Review

Objectives This study reviews literature on the psychiatric effects of delta-8-THC, particularly psychosis and severe mental health outcomes, to highlight the need for further research and regulation. Background Marijuana, the most widely used illicit drug in the United States, sees increasing use due to legalization. Although moderate use is generally safe, adverse effects can occur, especially in those with preexisting conditions. Delta-9-THC is known for its psychoactive effects and potential to induce psychosis. Delta-8-THC, another cannabinoid, is gaining popularity and has been linked to severe adverse events but remains under-researched. Methods A comprehensive search of PubMed and Web of Science followed PRISMA guidelines to identify studies and case reports on delta-8-THC and psychosis. Articles on delta-9-THC or other cannabinoids were excluded. Relevant studies were screened, and duplicates removed. The included studies were evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist for Case Reports. Results The search identified 201 studies, with 12 meeting the inclusion criteria for full-text analysis. Six case reports, involving 9 patients, were reviewed. Most patients were male and in their 20s, with varied psychiatric histories, including no prior psychiatric history, schizophrenia, posttraumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Reported symptoms included psychosis, mood lability, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Treatments varied, with different clinical outcomes. Conclusions Delta-8-THC poses significant psychiatric risks despite being less intoxicating than delta-9-THC. The lack of Food and Drug Administration regulation and the availability of delta-8-THC products heighten these risks. More rigorous studies are needed to understand delta-8-THC's impact on mental health and inform regulatory actions.

Intensive Care Registered Nurses knowledge, attitudes and perspectives of caring for patients with mental health conditions: A scoping review.

Registered nurses (RNs) working in intensive care settings report challenges in supporting the physical as well as perceived additional psychological care of patients with mental health disorders (MHD). To undertake a scoping review of RNs' knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives of caring for patients with MHD in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Arksey and O'Malley's 2005 scoping review methodology was used, and the quality of reporting was upheld with PRISMA-Scoping Review guidelines. A comprehensive literature search of peer-reviewed, published studies in English from 2013 to 2013 was conducted in six databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Joanna Briggs Institute, Scopus, Cochrane, and PsycINFO databases). All included studies were evaluated using Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) to assess the rigor of each study. Seven studies were included, three qualitative and four quantitative studies. Most represented the Oceania region (n=4). Thematic analysis identified four primary themes (i) developing knowledge and skills, (ii) variable empathy for patients, (iii) perceived safety concerns for patients and staff, and (iv) the need for clinical support. RNs' knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives influence the care of patients with MHD in adult intensive care. Ensuring staff are equipped technically with knowledge and skills along with clinical resources is fundamental to promoting the physical and psychological well-being of patients with MHD in the intensive care setting.

Developing Research-Oriented Health Professionals: Understanding Students' Perceptions and Needs for Extracurricular Research Opportunities.

Undergraduate training in research principles is often mandated by healthcare profession regulators in Ireland to prepare graduates for higher specialist training. Students can be offered the opportunity to participate in extracurricular research activities, in addition to those embedded in the curricula. This cross-sectional study aims to explore student attitudes towards research and to understand their motivations for engaging in research-related activities and any barriers that might prevent them from doing so. Students participating in the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Research Summer School (RSS) 2023 completed a questionnaire at the start of the program to assess research experience as well as attitudes and motivations towards research. Of the 120 participants in the summer research school, only 50 participated in the questionnaire. Of these 50, 42 were medical students. Twenty-nine students were undertaking a supervised research project, while 21 were enrolled in a 4-week taught research skills program. Five students had completed a previous undergraduate or postgraduate degree, and 29 had previously participated in research-related activities. The reasons for participating in the RSS program were to gain experience and skills, followed by having an interest in biomedical research. Twenty-nine students said their motivation was to participate in a more exploratory learning process beyond the syllabus. Thirty students felt the main factor preventing them from gaining research experience was the lack of research opportunities available to them. Undergraduate health professions students recognize the importance of engaging in research-related activities. Gaining research experiences to enhance knowledge and build professional relations is important, but the lack of opportunities is perceived to be a barrier preventing engagement. Given the value undergraduate students place on research experiences, institutions specializing in health professions education should create customized programs to eliminate obstacles and offer undergraduate opportunities that encourage the development of research-focused healthcare professionals.

Towards Dataset-scale and Feature-oriented Evaluation of Text Summarization in Large Language Model Prompts.

Recent advancements in Large Language Models (LLMs) and Prompt Engineering have made chatbot customization more accessible, significantly reducing barriers to tasks that previously required programming skills. However, prompt evaluation, especially at the dataset scale, remains complex due to the need to assess prompts across thousands of test instances within a dataset. Our study, based on a comprehensive literature review and pilot study, summarized five critical challenges in prompt evaluation. In response, we introduce a feature-oriented workflow for systematic prompt evaluation. In the context of text summarization, our workflow advocates evaluation with summary characteristics (feature metrics) such as complexity, formality, or naturalness, instead of using traditional quality metrics like ROUGE. This design choice enables a more user-friendly evaluation of prompts, as it guides users in sorting through the ambiguity inherent in natural language. To support this workflow, we introduce Awesum, a visual analytics system that facilitates identifying optimal prompt refinements for text summarization through interactive visualizations, featuring a novel Prompt Comparator design that employs a BubbleSet-inspired design enhanced by dimensionality reduction techniques. We evaluate the effectiveness and general applicability of the system with practitioners from various domains and found that (1) our design helps overcome the learning curve for non-technical people to conduct a systematic evaluation of summarization prompts, and (2) our feature-oriented workflow has the potential to generalize to other NLG and image-generation tasks. For future works, we advocate moving towards feature-oriented evaluation of LLM prompts and discuss unsolved challenges in terms of human-agent interaction.

Neurodivergence among healthcare professionals and implications for midwifery: A literature review

Background: Societal awareness of neurodivergence is increasing and diagnostic pathways are becoming more accurate; more people are therefore pursuing assessments, often later in life. Health professionals, including midwives, may also be traversing this journey of self-discovery. Overseas estimates suggest that neurominorities may account for as much as 20% of the general population; this is a significant minority group. The healthcare professions require empathy and social skills, and neurodivergent (ND) people may be seen as unsuitable due to deficits in diagnostic, cognitive and communication skills. Research bias in favour of white males, alongside pervasive stereotypes, has contributed to the underdiagnosis of ND women and gender-diverse people. As a predominately female workforce, including ND colleagues will inevitably become more relevant to the midwifery workforce in the future. Aim: This integrative literature review asks: what is known about the workplace experiences of ND healthcare professionals? The intention is to reflect on the possible ramifications for midwives in Aotearoa New Zealand, and to establish a rationale for future research. Method: Google Scholar, PubMed, CINAHL and ProQuest databases were searched using combinations of key terms. Following the Critical Appraisals Skills Programme (CASP) evaluation, only ethics-approved, peer-reviewed papers in English were included. Findings: Nine studies investigating the workplace experiences of ND healthcare professionals were evaluated. The findings coalesced around two main concepts: (1) The internal experience, with sub-topics Diagnosis and disclosure, Strengths associated with neurodivergence, Sensory processing and Executive functioning; and (2) Navigating a neurotypical world, with sub-topics Social dynamics, Self-management strategies and Workplace accommodations. Conclusion: Ableist barriers to equitable employment experiences were pervasive throughout healthcare workplace settings. All nine studies highlighted workplace challenges for ND healthcare professionals, relating to social, sensory and executive function differences. The absence of literature specific to the unique contextual experiences of ND midwives in Aotearoa New Zealand signifies the scope for future research.