Computer-assisted Language Learning Research Articles

Association of triglyceride glucose–body mass index and left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with IgA nephropathy: a retrospective study

IntroductionIgA nephropathy (IgAN) is one of the most prevalent forms of glomerulonephritis worldwide, particularly affecting 40–50% of the East Asian population. Cardiovascular mortality represents a leading cause of death in patients with IgAN. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) serves as a predictor of heart failure and cardiovascular mortality. Previous studies have indicated that Triglyceride glucose–body mass index (TyG–BMI), a surrogate marker for insulin resistance surrogates, correlated with the development of LVH. However, there is a lack of information available regarding the association between TyG–BMI and LVH in patients with IgAN. This study aims to explore the relationship between TyG–BMI and LVH in this population.MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted in the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University recruiting inpatients with renal biopsy-confirmed IgAN who were over the age of 18 years. Left ventricular dimensions were assessed through echocardiography. Linear regression and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using R language software and SPSS to investigate the association between TyG–BMI levels and LVH risk. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsA total of 327 patients with IgAN were enrolled in this study. Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was positively correlated with TyG–BMI index (corr. coefficient: 0.453, p < 0.001) and inversely correlated with eGFR (corr. coefficient: -0.392, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, gender, smoking, alcohol use, hemoglobin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, Scr, and urine output, advanced age and higher levels of hemoglobin and Scr were independently associated with increased TyG–BMI (p < 0.05). The odds ratios of the highest quartile of TyG–BMI compared with the lowest quartile were 8.39 (95%CI 1.66–42.39; p = 0.010).ConclusionsOur findings indicated that the TyG–BMI level was positively correlated with LVMI. A high TyG–BMI level was independently associated with an increased risk of LVH in patients with IgAN. TyG–BMII demonstrated predictive ability for LVH in IgAN patients.

And Who’s the Boss Now? On Teacher Roles in a Contemporary Digital Classroom

Reflection on the problem of teacher roles in a language classroom is intertwined with the consideration of the position of the learner and the shape of the learning environment. As has been evidenced by the history of language teaching methodologies, greater power and autonomy of one results in increased dependency of the others. The changes that digital learning settings brought to language classrooms, starting with Computer-Assisted Language Learning, through Web-based and distance learning, mobile-assisted language learning to now-current AI-assisted language learning, often strengthen the position of the learning setting and technology at the expense of the teacher. The purpose of the paper is to make an overview of the roles played by the teacher in those different digital settings, focusing to the greatest extent on teacher’s interaction with Artificial Intelligence as the current instructional setting for foreign language teaching.

Exploring Drought Resistance Genes from the Roots of the Wheat Cultivar Yunhan1818.

The root is an important organ by which plants directly sense variation in soil moisture. The discovery of drought stress-responsive genes in roots is very important for the improvement of drought tolerance in wheat varieties via molecular approaches. In this study, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on the roots of drought-tolerant wheat cultivar YH1818 seedlings at 0, 2, and 7 days after treatment (DAT). Based on a weighted gene correlation network analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 14 coexpression modules were identified, of which five modules comprising 3107 DEGs were related to 2 or 7 DAT under drought stress conditions. A total of 223,357 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of these DEGs were retrieved from public databases. Using the R language package and GAPIT program, association analysis was performed between the 223,357 SNPs and the drought tolerance coefficient (DTC) values of six drought resistance-related traits in 114 wheat germplasms. The results revealed that 18 high-confidence SNPs of 10 DEGs, including TaPK, TaRFP, TaMCO, TaPOD, TaC3H-ZF, TaGRP, TaDHODH, TaPPDK, TaLectin, and TaARF7-A, were associated with drought tolerance. The RT-qPCR results confirmed that these genes were significantly upregulated by drought stress at 7 DAT. Among them, TaARF7-A contained three DTC-related SNPs, which presented two haplotypes in the tested wheat germplasms. YH1818 belongs to the Hap1 allele, which is involved in increased drought tolerance. This study revealed key modules and candidate genes for understanding the drought-stress response mechanism in wheat roots.

The Value of Digital Games in Language Learning – What the Research Tells Us and Pathways Forward

Research on the application of video games in foreign language education is relatively new and remains a peripheral issue: the authors of the most recent research review point to the fact that among hundreds of papers discussing computer-assisted language learning (CALL) published in international journals in the last fifteen years, only 26 studies focus on the use of digital games in foreign language learning. There are, however, many arguments which seem to support the idea that video games are a promising field of research. The findings of numerous studies clearly suggest that digital games have considerable educational potential. In the present article, I will provide a literature review on digital games in language learning and teaching and try to discuss potential advantages that video games can offer in the didactic context.

Research progress of breast cancer surgery during 2010–2024: a bibliometric analysis

PurposeThis study seeks to systematically analyze the research literature pertaining to breast cancer surgery from 2010 to 2024, as indexed in the PubMed database, employing bibliometric methodologies.MethodsEmploying the “bibliometrix” package in the R programming language, alongside VOSviewer and CiteSpace software, this research conducted a comprehensive visual analysis of 1,195 publications. The analysis encompassed publication trends, collaborative networks, journal evaluation, author and institutional assessments, country-specific analyses, keyword exploration, and the identification of research hotspots.ResultsThe study observed a rising trend in the number of publications related to breast cancer surgery. However, there was a concomitant decline in citation rates, potentially indicating either a saturation of the research field or a diminution in research quality. The United States, China, and Japan are the leading contributors to research output, with the United States showing the most extensive international collaboration. The University of California, University of Toronto, and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center were the top institutions for the number of published papers. Through a comprehensive analysis of keywords, we have identified “breast cancer” “pain” “anxiety” “lymphedema” “mastectomy” and “surgery” as central research themes within this domain, the corresponding clusters were subjected to analysis.ConclusionThis study provides a comprehensive review of breast cancer surgery research, emphasizing major research areas and proposing future research directions. This study provides a significant resource for researchers and clinicians in the field.

Research on Computer-Assisted Task-Based Instruction in College English Writing Teaching

In the digital era, the application of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in the field of foreign language teaching has been explored by many researchers. In addition, Task-based instruction (TBI) is also a widely accepted method in language teaching, which requires language learners to complete a series of meaningful tasks to improve their language abilities. In this research, I will combine the CALL and TBI teaching method, drawing on the advantages of both methods, aiming to enhance students' writing skills and studying interest by introducing technological means. This paper also explores the effectiveness of the application of a combination of CALL and TBI in improving college English writing teaching.

Genetic Diversity Analysis and Core Collection Construction of Ancient Sophora japonica L. Using SSR Markers.

Sophora japonica is an important native tree species in northern China, with high ornamental, medicinal, and ecological value. In order to elucidate the genetic resources of ancient S. japonica, 16 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to evaluate its genetic diversity and population structure and build a core collection of 416 germplasms from the Shandong, Shanxi, and Hebei provinces. A total of 160 alleles were detected, the mean major allele frequency (MAF)was 0.39, and the mean effective number of alleles (Ne) was 4.08. Shannon's information index (I), the observed heterozygosity (Ho), the expected heterozygosity (He), and the polymorphism information content (PIC) were 1.58, 0.64, 0.74, and 0.70, respectively, indicating relatively high genetic diversity in ancient S. japonica germplasms. Low genetic differentiation coefficient (Fst = 0.04) and frequent gene flow (Nm = 9.74) were found in the tested S. japonica populations, and an analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that the genetic variation mainly came from within individuals (84%). A genetic structure and cluster analysis indicated that 416 ancient S. japonica germplasms could be divided into five subgroups, and there were obvious genetic exchanges among different subgroups. A core collection consisting of 104 (25% of the original collection) germplasms was constructed using the R language package Genetic Subsetter version 0.8 based on the stepwise regression method. The retention rates of the number of alleles (Na), Ne, I, He, and PIC were 87.50%, 106.24%, 103.02%, 102.50%, and 102.74%, respectively. The t-test analysis suggested that there were no significant differences between the core collection and the original collection. The principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) showed that the core collection was uniformly distributed within the initial collection and was able to fully represent the genetic diversity of the original collection. These results provide a scientific basis for the conservation and utilization of ancient S. japonica germplasms.

Lack of WDFY4 leads to impaired immune response and poor cancer prognosis.

WDFY4 plays an essential role in the immune system by regulating B-cell growth and development and participating in antigen processing during cross-presentation. WDFY4 is closely related to asthma and systemic lupus erythematosus; however, its role in cancer remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to use bioinformatics to determine whether abnormal expression of WDFY4 is a risk factor for cancer and to preliminarily analyze the ways in which WDFY4 affects cancer through experiments. R language packages and bioinformatic database were used to mine the potential carcinogenic effect of WDFY4 and analyze the differential WDFY4 expression in cancer, gene mutations, different tumor prognoses, immune cell infiltration, tumor microenvironment, and DNA methylation correlation. H1975 and A549 cell lines were infected with lentiviruses to overexpress WDFY4, and the effect of WDFY4 on the activity, proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle of lung cancer cells was analyzed. WDFY4 was differentially expressed in human tumors in unpaired and paired samples. The differential expression of WDFY4 in unpaired and paired or protein samples from the Clinical Proteome Tumor Analysis Consortium of eight cancers was consistent. WDFY4 methylation was downregulated in 17 cancer types and caused prognostic differences in different directions in some cancers. WDFY4 overexpression significantly inhibited the activity and proliferation of lung cancer cell lines, promoted apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest. Differential WDFY4 expression in cancers leads to differences in the prognosis of various cancers. WDFY4 can be an independent prognostic factor for glioma, KIRC, and LUSC.

Clinical significance of Cyclin D1 by complete quantification detection in mantle cell lymphoma: positive indicator in prognosis

ObjectivesThe positive expression of Cyclin D1 in immunohistochemical (IHC) staining serves as the cornerstone for diagnosing mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). However, existing literature does not conclusively establish whether the expression ratio and staining intensity significantly influence diagnostic outcomes or patient prognosis. In this retrospective study, the correlation between comprehensive Cyclin D1 quantification and the prognosis of MCL patients was studied.MethodsThe Cyclin D1 protein level was assessed in 120 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples from MCL patients using the quantitative dot blot (QDB) analysis technique. R language software was employed for statistical analysis to determine the optimal threshold with statistical significance. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier method was utilized to evaluate the relationship between the absolute level of Cyclin D1 protein and overall survival (OS) of patients. Furthermore, the Chi-square test was applied to analyze the causes of single and multiple fractures, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Finally, the Log-rank test was used to compare two survival curves, where a significance level of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsAt the optimized cutoff of 0.46 nmol/g, univariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between Cyclin D1 protein level and patient survival (OS). Specifically, in the subgroup with complete quantification of Cyclin D1 higher than the cutoff, the 5-year OS was 18%, whereas in the subgroup with complete quantification of Cyclin D1 lower than the cutoff, the 5-year OS was 4.8% (Log-rank test, P = 0.017). This indicates that patients with Cyclin D1 levels above the cutoff had significantly better overall survival compared to those below the cutoff. Additionally, in the Pearson distribution test, Ki-67 emerged as an independent prognostic factor for the complete quantification of Cyclin D1. Notably, Cyclin D1 complete quantification results remained unaffected by factors such as gender, age, LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) level, Ann Arbor stage(AAS), Ki-67, IPI(International prognostic index), MIPI(Mantle International prognostic index), and MIPI-c (MIPI Combined with Ki-67 Proliferation Index Chi-square test, p > 0.05).ConclusionsComprehensive Cyclin D1 quantification, especially above a threshold, significantly correlates with better overall survival in MCL. This highlights its prognostic importance in MCL management. Full quantification of CyclinD1 aids MCL prognosis, while QDB technology for biomarker quantification supports precise clinical prognostic stratification.

Examining the Impact of Online Help-Seeking Strategies on Promoting EFL learners’ Self-Regulated and Collaborative Learning Skills, Language Learning Outcomes, and Perceptions in CALL Environments

This research examines the impact of online help-seeking strategies—both adaptive and peer-based—on promoting self-regulated and collaborative learning skills, as well as language learning outcomes, among Chinese EFL learners in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) environments. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study triangulates various data strands from 92 randomly selected EFL learners to explore how these strategies influence their learning outcomes. Through methodological triangulation and the execution of one-way ANOVA, the research demonstrates the superior effectiveness of combining adaptive and peer help-seeking strategies, compared to their isolated use, in enhancing self-regulated and collaborative learning skills and language learning outcomes. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between learners’ interactive engagement with help-seeking strategies and their overall CALL outcomes, indicating that such strategies support the development of both collaborative and self-regulated learning skills. This study provides theoretical and practical insights into CALL, offering evidence-based guidance for researchers and practitioners on the nuanced impact of integrating dynamic and flexible help-seeking strategies to enhance EFL learners’ skills and outcomes.

RCS-CSLT: a language feature-driven readability classification system for international Chinese education

The provision of reading materials that are tailored to the proficiency levels of second language (L2) learners is crucial for fostering the development of their language skills. However, there is a limited availability of reliable, and contextually relevant Chinese text readability classifiers that meet the latest demands of Chinese as a Second Language (CSL) learners. Consequently, accurately assessing the readability of uncategorized texts presents significant challenges for both students and educators. This study introduces the development of a Readability Classification System for CSL text (RCS-CSLT), which aims to grade the readability of CSL texts. The RCS-CSLT utilizes a CSL-specific BERT architecture, incorporates Chinese Proficiency Grading Standards (CPGS) for International Chinese Language Education issued by the Ministry of Education of China, and integrates Chinese language features, including lexical richness, syntactic complexity, and syntactic patterns. To evaluate its performance, a CSL text dataset was used and compared with a baseline BERT model. The results demonstrate that the RCS-CSLT model achieves excellent performance in predicting the readability levels of CSL texts, achieving an average accuracy of 89.8%, and consistently outperforms the baseline model in terms of classification performance at each level. An analysis of a wider range of Chinese text reveals that RCS-CSLT attains an accuracy exceeding 90.3% when compared to human experts’ evaluations in readability assessments. These results affirm the proficiency of RCS-CSLT in appraising the readability of Chinese texts, showcasing its efficacy within the realm of international Chinese language instruction and study. This technological advancement offers benefits to both learners and educators. For learners, RCS-CSLT functions as a grading indicator and auxiliary tool for selecting appropriate reading materials, while for educators, it provides insights into text readability levels and aids in designing instructional plans, particularly in computer-assisted language learning.

Investigating young consumers’ acceptance of hemp fiber textiles and apparel: an analysis of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling

Purpose Concerns over environmental degradation, alongside the global legalization of hemp cultivation, have prompted applications of hemp-derived textile products. However, research examining consumers’ acceptance of such products is lacking. It is critical to understand how young consumers adopt these products as they prioritize sustainability and lead the future purchasing power. Thus, this study aims to investigate young consumers’ perceptions, attitudes, and purchase intentions regarding hemp fiber textiles and clothing based on the Theory of Consumption Value and the Spiral of Silence Theory. Design/methodology/approach A US-based research company was hired to recruit survey participants, yielding 314 valid data. Data analysis, including Exploratory Factor Analysis and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, was conducted using the R programming language and RStudio software. Findings Purchase intentions of hemp-based clothing and textiles among young consumers are influenced by attitude, perceived social value and future trend perception. Perceived social value also impacts attitude and future trend perception. High environmental involvement correlates with positive attitudes. Consumers’ subjective knowledge of hemp and objective knowledge regarding hemp fiber impact their perceptions of future trends in such products. Originality/value This research represents a seminal consumer study focusing on the resurgence of industrial hemp fiber textiles and clothing. This study empirically validates the significant role of social factors in young consumer acceptance of such products at both personal and societal levels. This study expands current knowledge and provides actionable insights for practitioners.

Technological Interface Components That Support Accelerated Learning in the Acquisition of Foreign Language Vocabulary

There is a need to find innovative learning methods that enable accelerated learning of a foreign language. This study examined the effect of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) in acquiring a foreign language, which combines cognitive and emotional stimuli in the background. The study explored two factors related to the acquisition of a foreign language: the duration and scope of the learning process and the depth of internalization of the newly acquired language. Another objective was to assess the learning method in two learning environments, 2D and VR, to determine if the learning environment affects the learning results and leads to better vocabulary retention. One hundred native French speakers, with an average age of 47.5, participated in the study and had no prior knowledge of the newly acquired language. We randomly divided the participants into two groups (2D and VR). They studied 550 words in a new language for five days: 30 min each evening and 15 min in the morning. The post-learning test pointed out that both groups improved their vocabulary scores significantly. Approximately one month after the learning experience, we administered a knowledge retention test to 32 participants and found that the level of knowledge had been retained. Finally, background variables (e.g., gender, age, and previous knowledge of the newly acquired language) did not affect the learning results. The findings indicate that CALL, which integrates background cognitive and emotional stimuli in both learning environments, significantly accelerates learning pace, broadens the scope of newly acquired words, and ensures retention. The level of improvement observed in our study is notably higher than that reported in the literature for studies that had previously evaluated CALL and in-class language acquisition.

Global burden of low back pain and its attributable risk factors from 1990 to 2021: a comprehensive analysis from the global burden of disease study 2021.

This study aimed to examine the evolving trends in the global burden of low back pain (LBP) from 1990 to 2021 and predicted disease burden until 2035. LBP-related data were obtained from the Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx) query tool. All estimates and their 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) were generated using DisMod-MR 2.1, a Bayesian meta-regression tool in Global Burden of Disease, Injury, and Risk Factor Study (GBD) 2021. Data processing and visualization were conducted using The R Programming Language software version 4.3.2 and Joinpoint 4.7. In 2021, approximately 628.8 million people worldwide were affected by LBP, with approximately 266.9 million new incident cases and age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of 3176.6 per 100,000. Compared with 1990, although the ASIR and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years rate (ASDALYsR) decreased, absolute numbers increased significantly. Projections for 2035 reveal a continued decline in ASIR and ASDALYsR for LBP. The LBP burden varied by the sociodemographic index quintile and GBD region, with the highest ASIR and ASDALYsR observed in Central Europe and the greatest decrease in East Asia. Globally, women bear a higher burden of LBP than men, with middle-aged populations experiencing the heaviest burden. Occupational ergonomic factors, high body mass index, and smoking remain the primary risk factors for LBP, with occupational ergonomic factors contributing the most to the overall burden. Despite a projected decline in incidence, the global burden of LBP persists, exhibiting significant regional and gender disparities. To mitigate its future burden, precise and effective prevention and control strategies targeting high-risk factors are imperative.

Entrenching CALL for English Language Multicultural Pedagogy in Nigerian Secondary Schools: Issues, Prospects and Perceptions of Critical Stakeholders in Osun State, Nigeria

This paper examines the possibility of adoption of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) in Nigerian secondary schools especially those in Osun State, Nigeria in the light of recent developments necessitating greater familiarity with the computer by the students for their external examinations. The paper argues that secondary school students are more positioned now than ever to harness the benefits of CALL in developing necessary competences to excel in their English language exams and generally develop adequate proficiency in the language for their growth in the Nigerian nation and beyond. Data for the study comprise responses to questionnaires designed for secondary school students, English language teachers and Ministry of Education senior officials in Osun State Nigeria. The sample comprised 120 teachers across the three senatorial districts in Osun State, 36 teachers and 15 Ministry of Education officials. Data analysis revealed that there is great awareness of CALL among all the categories of subjects. In addition, the subjects emphasise the potential agency of CALL for enhancing the delivery of English language topics and the professional development of teachers, even though about 30 percent of the teachers sampled doubted its feasibility. The study therefore concludes that given the positive disposition of students to the introduction of CALL for English language teaching and being primary actors in the education process, there is need for immediate full-fledged adoption for English language teaching in Nigerian secondary schools.

Advancing language learning: The impact and challenges of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL)

Abstract. Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) represents a transformative approach in modern education, integrating technology to enhance language acquisition effectively. This comprehensive review examines the various dimensions of CALL, focusing on its deployment through interactive software, online courses, mobile applications, and the accompanying challenges. Quantitative analyses reveal significant improvements in learner engagement and cognitive load management due to multimedia and interactive content. Moreover, the adaptability of CALL to cater to individual learning needs through personalized and adaptive learning systems demonstrates a superior proficiency acquisition rate. Despite these advancements, CALL implementation faces substantial barriers including technological limitations, the need for extensive teacher training, and concerns regarding data privacy and security. This article assesses the statistical impact of these elements on language learning outcomes and suggests strategies for overcoming the associated challenges. Through mixed-methods research and longitudinal studies, the effectiveness of CALL platforms is substantiated, highlighting their pivotal role in reshaping language education across diverse demographic and geographic spectrums.

Systematic review of Buzhong Yiqi method in alleviating cancer-related fatigue: a meta-analysis and exploratory network pharmacology approach.

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a prevalent and distressing symptom experienced by many cancer patients, necessitating effective treatments. This study utilizes meta-analysis and network pharmacology to comprehensively assess the efficacy of the Buzhong Yiqi prescription in alleviating cancer-related fatigue and to preliminarily explore the mechanism of its core drugs. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in cancer patients. The inclusion criteria encompassed a diagnosis of cancer-related fatigue, without limitation on cancer type, the experimental group receiving Buzhong Yiqi prescription, the control group receiving conventional treatment, patients awaiting treatment, and articles published in either English or Chinese. We conducted a search through 29 February 2024, across PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials (CENTRAL), China Biomedical Literature Service (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WANFANG Database, and Weipu Database (VIP). Journal articles that met the inclusion criteria were selected for inclusion. Two independent investigators evaluated the quality of the included studies. A meta-analysis was performed utilizing the Stata 12.0 software package, where estimates of cancer-related fatigue were aggregated through the application of a random-effects model. We employed the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool to evaluate potential biases in RCTs. The primary outcome measures utilized to assess the efficacy and safety of CRF treatment comprised the Revised Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS-R) and the Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30). The secondary outcomes encompassed the KPS score, the effective rate, the TCM syndrome score, and an evaluation of adverse reactions. The Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) was utilized to identify the active ingredients and targets of BZD. Additionally, the Drug bank, Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), DiaGeNET, and GeneCards databases were utilized to retrieve relevant targets for CRC. The Venn diagram was employed to identify overlapping targets. Cytoscape software was utilized to construct a network of "herb-ingredient-target" and identify core targets. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed using R language software. In comparison to the control group, patients with CRF who received BZYQ prescription exhibited marked improvements in KPS score, QLQ-C30 quality of life score, and effective rate. Conversely, PFS, TCM syndrome score, and adverse reaction assessments significantly decreased. The primary active ingredients in its core drugs may exert a positive therapeutic effect on CRF by targeting molecules such as AKT1, IL6, IL1B, PTGS2, CASP3, ESR1, and BCL2, as well as through signaling pathways including TNF, IL17, TLR, NF-κB, and C-type lectin receptor. BZYQ demonstrates significant efficacy in treating CRF with minimal adverse reactions. It can serve as a fundamental treatment for CRF in clinical practice, and the medication can be tailored to individual patients for personalized therapy. The potential pharmacological mechanism of BZYQ in treating CRF, as predicted by network pharmacology, offers a molecular foundation for clinical CRF treatment. https://inplasy.com, identifier INPLASY202430025.

Gender Differences: The Impact of Gender Grouping on Egyptian STEM Undergraduates’ Online Group Work

This paper reports a study that compares teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) through face-to-face (FTF) and CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) methods, comparing them with the interdisciplinary perspectives of sociology, social psychology, and educational technology. Based on the sociocultural theory, the influence of gender grouping on the academic performance of 141 English as a foreign language (EFL) Egyptian undergraduates enrolled in a technical writing course in the Faculty of Engineering was examined in a CALL context. Students’ academic performance was measured by overall grades on group work assignments and submitted peer evaluation forms. Sixty-six students were assigned to a FTF control group, and 75 students were included in the experimental online group. Findings suggested that the performance of the online group was superior to that of the FTF control group. There were highly significant differences in the online group between males and females in their academic performance with females being more successful. In addition, all female-only groups attained higher grades than mixed and male-only groups. These findings emphasize the importance of teaching EFL learners’ teamwork skills to complete their tasks successfully (Holmes, 2000).

A pathway from surface to deep online language learning approach: The crucial role of online self-regulation.

Students' approaches to online technologies (SAOLT) have garnered significant support among scholars from a variety of fields, particularly in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education (STEM). The humanistic field needs to explore learners' approaches to target learning contexts, especially in the fields of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) and psycholinguistics. To fill this gap, the researchers explored 686 Iranian high school EFL learners' approaches to online language learning (OLL) with regard to their pedagogical, technical, and peer support, as well as the mediation role of online self-regulation. The partial least squares modeling approach's (PLS-SEM) reflective analysis validated the factorial structure of the conceptual study framework in online language learning and secondary education. The formative model found that instructional and peer support positively impacted language learners' deep and surface approaches to online language learning, thereby maximizing and minimizing their online presence and meaningful language learning. Furthermore, the mediation analysis revealed the significant moderating influence of learners' online self-regulation, which shifted the correlations from relating both learners' perceived support to their surface and deep learning approaches to only relating to the deep learning approach. Consequently, this study has pedagogical implications as it introduces a new conceptual framework to the CALL and psycholinguistic domains, specifically incorporating a new psychological factor related to language learners' complex dynamic systems, known as Language Learners' Approaches to Online Language Learning (OLLA). To do so, the researchers suggested that instructors should design more practical activities for theoretical subjects such as English language learning in online learning and shift online teaching from teacher-centered to peer-centered so as to foster their learners' deep learning approach to online language learning.

Investigating the mediating role of Foreign Language Peace of mind and learning burnout in the relationship between Informal Digital Learning of English and willingness to communicate

Concurrent with the advancements of computer-assisted language learning (CALL), L2 researchers have started to pay more attention to the notion of informal digital learning of English (IDLE). A series of studies have already indicated its crucial role in linguistic achievements. However, the mediating role of positive and negative psychological states in the relationship between IDLE and willingness to communicate (WTC) has received scant research attention. Therefore, the present study explored whether foreign language peace of mind (FLPoM) and foreign language learning burnout (FLLB) mediated the relationship between IDLE and WTC among EFL learners. The participants were 316 Iranian EFL learners who completed four questionnaires. The results of structural equation modeling indicated that (a) IDLE did not have a direct impact on EFL learners’ WTC, (b) FLPoM fully mediated the relationship between IDLE and WTC, and (c) the relationship between IDLE and FLLB was fully mediated by FLPoM. This study suggests that L2 learners’ positive psychological state of FLPoM can direct their IDLE practices toward higher levels of willingness to interact in L2 and lower levels of negative syndrome of burnout. The findings of this study imply the significance of language learners’ psychological states in their digital language learning in out-of-class learning environments.