Student Participation Research Articles

What do adults know about public education?

Adults’ beliefs and knowledge about the state of the U.S. education system drive decisions about policy, funding, program adoption, student participation in programs, and the selection of decision makers to elected positions. Amie Rapaport and Anna Rosefsky Saavedra share national survey data showing that U.S. adults have little knowledge about what is being taught in schools, express neutrality about belief systems undergirding education policy, and report experiences misaligned with hard-data trends on student academic progress in recent years. With adults reporting they learn about issues crucial to our education system mainly from “personal experience,” better information has the potential to improve U.S. education.

Championing student participation in co-designing digital education resources: A student experience

The aim of this contemporary piece is to discuss the student experience of co-design and the process involved in the co-creation of developing digital educational resources. A discussion of the need for digital educational resources in the era of pre-registration nursing students being digital natives is explored and the potential benefits or barriers for nursing education and practice are outlined. The need for co-design as a methodology in nurse education which is inclusive of the student-led role is discussed and a personal account of student experience will be detailed. By focusing on the student voice this article aims to provide a first-hand experience of working alongside academic and educational research teams, whilst also promoting student participation within co-design projects further than simply tokenistic involvement, highlighting the comprehensive benefits associated for all. The importance of support, knowledge sharing, and effective communication will be detailed to allow other students to gain insight and empower them to participate in a co-designed project should it arise in their university education.

Utilizing the eXtreme Gradient Boosting Algorithm for Artificial Intelligence-supported Learning Analytics Application

Recent technological advancements, including internet-based distance education and artificial intelligence-supported learning analytics, have significantly impacted the field of education. These advancements not only enhance the efficiency of education but also broaden access to learning while mitigating barriers to implementation. AI-supported learning analytics emerges as a pivotal tool for interpreting data gleaned from educational processes and stakeholders, thereby enhancing educational processes and outcomes. This tool streamlines the measurement, analysis, and evaluation of learning processes, encompassing a wide array of factors and parameters. Moreover, it contributes to the development of personalized and adaptive learning environments. In this study, a predictive model utilizing the XGBoost algorithm has been developed to analyze students' academic achievements. The model forecasts final exam grades based on various student characteristics, including age, participation rate, and exam scores. Evaluating the performance of the AI model involves metrics such as Mean Squared Error, Mean Absolute Error, and R² score. In findings indicate a strong prediction performance, with an R² score of 0.819. As a result of underscore the potential of AI-supported learning analytics as an effective tool for predicting and enhancing student academic performance.

The Role and Challenges of Three-Stroke Script in Modern Calligraphy Education

Chinese calligraphy education (CCE), with world-renowned artistic and cultural values, is essential to Chinese culture. The “Three Strokes Script (TSS)” is an integral part of CCE, which not only improves the CCE’s efficiency and standardization but also meets the needs of modern life and promotes the wide dissemination and innovative development of CCE. There are more studies on TSS, but comprehensive review articles are still lacking. Therefore, there is a need to analyze the state of development and trends in TSS and use these insights to improve the quality of teaching and enhance students' comprehensive literacy. This study synthesizes a large amount of relevant literature from China and abroad. Comparative analysis demonstrates the educational value of TSS. It reveals the current state of implementation of TSS and identifies the challenges faced in the current practice of TSS. The results show that TSS significantly improves calligraphic skills, aesthetic literacy, cultural inheritance, and identity. Meanwhile, digital technology has brought new opportunities for TSS, immensely stimulating students' interest and participation in learning. Some challenges in TSS still need to be further explored and solved. The teaching quality can be effectively improved by innovating the education model, strengthening the teacher construction, and utilizing modern technology. Through systematic analysis, this paper provides new research ideas and directions for future TSS and modern calligraphy education.

Using Assistive Technology to Differentiate and Accommodate Students with Special Needs Facing Learning Difficulties in Mathematics

This paper will discuss how assistive technology forms the basis of differentiation and support for students with special needs when conquering specific math learning difficulties. The Department of Special Education utilized a quantitative research design to collect data from 240 teachers through a structured, self-developed questionnaire. The use of simple random sampling maximized representative samples and minimized biases. We established the effects of AT in terms of differentiated instruction, increased student engagement, and an inclusive learning environment. Teachers estimated complex mathematical concepts using AT tools, such as virtual manipulatives and educational apps, as easier to understand and improve student confidence and participation levels. Overall, the findings indicate a need for continuous teacher training and resource allocation to effectively integrate these into a holistic classroom experience. The conclusion is that integrating assistive technology into education is a gateway to ensuring that every special need student receives quality learning in mathematics, thus equalizing access to education. Recommendations call for investment in professional development of the teachers, adequate resources for AT tools, and inculcation of AT provision in curriculum design. Further research should investigate the long-term effects of AT on students' achievement in other subjects.

Analyzing Strategies for Enhancing Classroom Interaction and Knowledge Application Through Application-Oriented Pre-Class Preparation Materials

This study explores the impact of application-oriented pre-class preparation materials on enhancing classroom interaction and fostering the practical application of knowledge. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and classroom observations in two undergraduate courses: sociology and mechanical engineering. The findings reveal that materials such as case studies, problem-based learning (PBL) scenarios, and simulations significantly increase student engagement, participation, and critical thinking. Additionally, the use of these materials shifts the role of instructors from content deliverers to facilitators of learning, promoting a more collaborative and inclusive classroom environment. However, the study also identifies challenges, including task complexity and the need for adequate support and scaffolding to ensure accessibility for all students. These insights provide actionable recommendations for educators and suggest directions for future research to further optimize the use of application-oriented materials in diverse educational contexts.

The Tale of Designing a Clinical-Cases Manual for Rotations and Mixed Methods Analysis of Students' Participatory Experience in Co-Creation.

The post-pandemic era ignited the concepts of virtual learning, enhancing a strong need for a specific clinical case manual of commonly encountered scenarios in internal medicine. In this article, we describe the process for creating a clinical cases manual which can be followed for any other clinical science. Further, we report the participatory experience of students in the co-creation of manual. The hand-written notes of the teacher during the rotation of internal medicine were improvised, and created into a digital version. The editorial team which included mainly student volunteers participated in digitization and reviewing the content, diagrams and flowcharts. We describe the process of designing the clinical-cases manual for rotations in internal medicine, which includes handwritten notes, review of the notes, formation of editorial team, digitization of text and artwork, editing and book release. It can be replicated for any other clinical sciences in rotations. In addition, the online survey with both quantitative and qualitative type of questions was used to assess the students' participatory experiences in co-creating manual. The clinical-cases manual for rotations in internal medicine was released and received well. The online survey responses revealed that the participating students benefited in terms of professional and personal development. There was an inter-item statistical difference implying that all the participants were agreeing or strongly agreeing to survey questions. All participants agreed on the usefulness of the manual. The main themes identified through qualitative analysis were technical skills acquisition, lifelong learning and teaching, self-assessment, discipline, time management, teamwork and communication skills. The creation of a clinical case manual for rotation, specific to the local needs can be done through a systematic process, that can be enriched by involving students. Encouraging the participation of students in co-creation is an important academic exercise that contributes to professional and personal development.

Efektivitas Model Pictorial Riddle Berbantuan Aplikasi Qreatif terhadap Pemahaman Konsep Dan Aktivitas Belajar Siswa Kelas III SDN Wonosari 01

Problems in learning IPAS in primary schools often arise, especially in the use of monotonous teaching methods and media that do not support active participation of students so that they can cause misconceptions in students. These problems need to be overcome by using the right learning model and media. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of Pictorial Riddle learning model with Qreatif application on students' concept understanding and learning activities. The type of research used is quantitative with a Quasi Experimental design of the Non-equivalent Control Group Design type. The study population was 51 third grade students of SDN Wonosari 01. The sample was obtained through saturated sampling technique. The experimental class used Pictorial Riddle model and Qreatif media, while the control class used conventional model and Canva PPT. Data were collected through test and non-test techniques. Data analysis techniques included normality test, homogeneity test, hypothesis test (t-test), and N-gain test. The t-test results showed a significant difference in concept understanding between the experimental and control classes with a 2-tailed sig value of less than 0.05 (0.001 < 0.05) and a t-count value of 7.340 > t-table 2.009. The number of students who completed the KKM in the experimental class was greater than the control class (88%> 46%) this indicates a difference in understanding the concepts of the control and experimental classes. The mean N-Gain value of the experimental class is higher than the control class (65.60% > 42.05%). Analysis of student activeness scores showed that the experimental class was higher than the control class (observation: 84% > 66%; questionnaire: 81% > 66%). In conclusion, the Pictorial Riddle learning model with Qreatif application is effective in improving students' concept understanding and learning activities.

Penerapan Media Powtoon dalam Pembelajaran Teks Negosiasi Peserta Didik Kelas X-4 SMA N 5 Semarang

Learning media is a component that supports effectiveness in the learning process in Indonesian language subjects. In applying media in learning, teachers are advised to apply media that can make students interested in learning and raise their motivation in learning. As technology develops in the current digital era, there are more and more technology-based learning media. Powtoon media is a technology-based learning media that can attract students to learn and raise their motivation. This is because the media is an animated video that combines audio and visuals which can provide a special attraction in learning negotiation texts for class X-4 students. This research examines the application of Powtoon media in learning negotiation texts for class X-4 students at SMA N 5 Semarang. The main problem is the low interest of students in learning about negotiation text material which is delivered only through the lecture method without interactive learning media. Therefore, researchers apply new innovations in the learning process in the form of applying Powtoon media in learning negotiation texts with the aim of increasing activity so that students are more enthusiastic and active in learning, in addition to making students understand more about the structure of negotiation texts Powtoon media. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection through tests and non-tests. The research results show that the application of Powtoon is effective in increasing student participation, this is shown by the test results of students with the highest score of 95 and the lowest score of 85, and non-test results in the form of interviews and observations show that students are active and enthusiastic in learning.

TAMU TRACER: Targeted Mobile Measurements to Isolate the Impacts of Aerosols and Meteorology on Deep Convection

Abstract Difficulty in using observations to isolate the impacts of aerosols from meteorology on deep convection often stems from the inability to resolve the spatiotemporal variations in the environment serving as the storm’s inflow region. During the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Tracking Aerosol Convection interactions Experiment (TRACER) in June–September 2022, a Texas A&M University (TAMU) team conducted a mobile field campaign to characterize the meteorological and aerosol variability in air masses that serve as inflow to convection across the ubiquitous mesoscale boundaries associated with the sea and bay breezes in the Houston, Texas, region. These boundaries propagate inland over the fixed DOE Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) sites. However, convection occurs on either or both the continental or maritime sides or along the boundary. The maritime and continental air masses serving as convection inflow may be quite distinct, with different meteorological and aerosol characteristics that fixed-site measurements cannot simultaneously sample. Thus, a primary objective of TAMU TRACER was to provide mobile measurements similar to those at the fixed sites, but in the opposite air mass across these moving mesoscale boundaries. TAMU TRACER collected radiosonde, lidar, aerosol, cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), and ice nucleating particle (INP) measurements on 29 enhanced operations days covering a variety of maritime, continental, outflow, and prefrontal air masses. This paper summarizes the TAMU TRACER deployment and measurement strategy, instruments, and available datasets and provides sample cases highlighting differences between these mobile measurements and those made at the ARM sites. We also highlight the exceptional TAMU TRACER undergraduate student participation in high-impact learning activities through forecasting and field deployment opportunities.

Virtual clinical simulation as a paedagogical strategy in healthcare learning: Evidence and Gap Map protocol

IntroductionVirtual clinical simulation involves creating and applying scenarios using technology like computers or virtual reality. This method provides a secure experiential learning environment, encouraging active student participation and stimulating clinical,...

Participation of Students in all Areas of Governance in Higher Education Institutions in the Light of the Literature – A Systematic Review

This paper presents a comprehensive methodology for conducting a systematic literature review on student participation in higher education institutions (HEIs), focusing on decision-making, student engagement, and extracurricular activities. Following PRISMA guidelines, the review uses evaluation criteria techniques to ensure the quality and transparency of information critical to the design of the paper. A search strategy utilising key terms across EBSCO and Web of Science databases identified 41 relevant articles. Each article underwent thorough analysis, addressing research inquiries about student participation in educational institutions. The review combines findings from diverse perspectives while highlighting students’ importance in decision-making and the relevance of student voices in this process. In addition, it highlights the importance of student engagement and the impact of extracurricular activities on academic success. Through such discussions, the paper emphasises the need for integrated frameworks focused on understanding student participation across higher education institutions, suggesting recommendations for optimising student involvement or participation in decision-making processes, fostering student engagement in teaching and learning, and enhancing participation in extracurricular activities. Overall, the paper highlights the multi-dynamic nature of student participation in the modern structure of higher education institutions and advocates for a holistic approach that empowers and motivates students to participate in all areas of the education system, which will go a long way in shaping their educational experiences.

The relationship between morningness-eveningness and naturalness bias

ABSTRACT The naturalness bias in which people perceive natural items to be safer, healthier, and better than synthetic alternatives has been found to be associated with numerous individual difference variables (e.g. connectedness to nature and religiosity). However, no research has examined the role of morningness-eveningness in influencing preferences for naturalness. Here, we propose that evening individuals may exhibit a weaker preference for naturalness compared to morning individuals due to their greater exposure to artificial lighting, technology, and stimuli. To systematically test our theoretical perspective, we conducted three complementary and high-powered studies. In an online survey (Study 1), student participants with a stronger evening orientation displayed a diminished preference for natural drugs compared to those with a morning orientation. Using a sample of community adults, Study 2 replicated the findings of Study 1 in a real-world, behavioral context. Study 3 examined the relationship between morningness-eveningness and preference for naturalness within the domain of beverages. The results revealed that individuals with an evening-orientation had decreased odds of selecting natural water without minerals. Taken together, the findings suggest that an individual’s diurnal preference toward eveningness may have implications for their bias toward and perception of naturalness across various domains.

Influence of Remedial Classes on Students' Learning Outcomes in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda, a Case of Kamonyi District, Rwanda

Main purpose of this paper was based on assessment of the influence of remedial classes on students learning outcomes in public secondary schools in Rwanda, a case of Kamonyi District, Rwanda. This research was supported with system theory and Constructivism learning theory. The researcher used descriptive research design and the participants was students, headteachers and teachers. All respondents was 223 from the population of 504.The participants was chosen by using different methods where researcher used simple random sampling for teachers and students while purposive sampling for headteachers. Researchers used questionnaires and interviews to gather student feedback, revealing positive perceptions of these classes. Students also found the materials used in remedial sessions helpful, with 90.6% agreeing that they supported their learning. However, 39.4% felt that motivation could be improved, and some students remained neutral about the effectiveness of the materials. The Pearson Correlation coefficient of 0.928indicates a very strong positive correlation between participation in remedial classes and students' learning outcomes. This high value suggests that as students engage more in remedial classes, their academic performance significantly improves. . The R value of 0.928 indicates a very strong correlation, while the R Square value of 0.861 reveals that 86.1% of the variance in students' learning outcomes can be attributed to their participation in remedial classes. This highlights the significant predictive power of the model, showing that the majority of the academic improvements among students can be explained by their engagement in remedial classes. remedial programs. The government of Rwanda should increase funding and resources allocated to remedial education in public secondary schools and provide additional financial support, schools will be better equipped to create sustainable and effective remedial programs. The Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) should prioritize the integration of remedial programs into the national curriculum framework. Headteachers should also monitor the progress of students in remedial classes and work closely with teachers to identify areas for improvement.

Development and Usability Testing of a Virtual Reality Game for Learning Computational Thinking

Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative technology that immerses users within its environment, holding significant potential across various sectors, including education. Developing a VR-based application in the form of a game for educational purposes necessitates a usability evaluation. This study aims to develop and evaluate the usability of a VR game, CT Saber, designed explicitly for learning computational thinking (CT). The name CT Saber is inspired by the popular VR game Beat Saber, with 'CT' denoting computational thinking to emphasize the educational focus of the game. The research employed a Design and Development Research (DDR) approach, encompassing four stages: analysis & definition, design, development, and evaluation. To assess the usability of CT Saber, pilot testing was carried out involving 36 participants (24 male, 12 female) of computer science students aged between 19-22 years. The USE Questionnaire framework was used to evaluate usability, consisting of four variables: usefulness, ease of use, ease of learning, and satisfaction. The evaluation revealed that CT Saber is categorized as 'acceptable' from dichotomous and conventional academic grading perspectives. Similarly, a multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that the independent variables (usefulness, ease of use, and ease of learning) together significantly (p < 0.01) influence the dependent variable (satisfaction). However, only usefulness significantly influences satisfaction. Responses to open-ended questions in the questionnaire also indicated predominantly positive feedback from most participants. Consequently, it can be concluded that the CT Saber VR game developed in this study successfully meets the established criteria for usability.

Increasing Interest in English Teaching through “Picture Cards” in Class X IPS MA Al-Djufri Pamekasan

This study aims to increase students’ interest in learning English by using picture card media through Classroom Action Research (PTK) method. The subjects of the study were students of class X IPS MA Al-Djufri Pamekasan who experienced low interest in learning English. This research was conducted in two cycles, where each cycle consisted of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection stages. Data collected through observation and questionnaires were analyzed to determine the development of students’ interest in learning. The results showed that the use of picture cards could significantly increase students’ interest in learning. In cycle I, the level of students’ interest in learning was recorded at 60%, which indicated a lack of active involvement and motivation in learning English. After the implementation of picture cards in cycle II, students’ interest in learning increased to 83%. This increase can be seen from the increased participation of students in teaching and learning activities, enthusiasm in discussions, and better ability to understand the material. The application of picture cards proved to be effective in attracting students’ attention and facilitating the understanding of English materials, especially vocabulary and sentence structure. This study is in line with visual learning theory which states that the use of visual media can improve students’ memory and engagement. Thus, the use of picture cards as learning media is recommended for English teachers to improve students’ interest and learning outcomes. Further research is expected to explore the use of other media in foreign language learning.

Implementation of Lesson Study in Improving Creative Thinking and Student Learning Outcomes in Social Sciences Subjects

There is a Japanese teacher professional development model that effectively improves the quality of learning, namely Lesson Study. This research aims to analyze the impact of implementing lesson study on improving creative thinking and student learning outcomes in Social Sciences (IPS) subjects at MTsN Batu City. The research method used is classroom action research (PTK) with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The research subjects were students of class VIII MTsN Batu City. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and learning outcomes tests. The research results show that lesson study significantly improves students' creative thinking abilities and learning outcomes. Qualitative Findings: Observations revealed increased student participation in group discussions and submission of new ideas. Teachers report that collaboration in lesson planning allows them to design more interactive and engaging strategies. Interviews with students showed increased confidence and engagement in exploring social studies concepts. Quantitative Findings: Test results show significant improvements in students' academic achievement. The student's average score on the initial test of 75 increased to 85 on the final test, with the t-test showing that this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). This demonstrates that lesson study has increased students' understanding and mastery of social studies material.

Hormonal contraceptive use, not menstrual cycle phase, is associated with reduced interest in competition

Despite numerous studies attempting to understand the influence of fertility and hormonal contraceptives on competitive outcomes, the association between these variables remain a contentious issue. Using a longitudinal, online diary study with over 5600 daily observations (N = 302 community and undergraduate student participants), we explored the effects of fertility probability and hormonal contraceptive use on a range of self-report competitive outcomes. Specifically, we sought to replicate existing findings by examining whether self-reported competitive motivation increases mid-cycle and how hormonal contraceptive use affects these patterns. We also sought to extend this literature by collecting a range of self-report measures of competitive behavior across the menstrual cycle. Using an evolutionary and data-driven framework, we combined six behaviors females use to compete for mates and status: gossip, social comparison, negative evaluations of others, appearance enhancement, giving advice and taking sexy self-portraits. Contrary to our predictions, fertility probability was not associated with fluctuations in self-reported competitive motivation or behavior. However, replicating existing literature, hormonal contraceptive users reported a general lack of interest in competition compared to non-users. This latter finding raises important questions about the long-term implications of hormonal contraceptive use and suggests a need for further research to investigate the psychosocial effects of hormonal contraceptives. Finally, as a near direct replication of an existing longitudinal study, the current research offers a unique contribution by considering the role of context in hormone mediated research. We question the idea that a failure to replicate reflects the quality of the theory or the research, but instead suggest that context should be considered when developing psychological theory.

Intangible heritage restoration of damaged tomb murals through augmented reality technology: A case study of Zhao Yigong Tomb murals in Tang Dynasty of China

Tomb murals are a precious amalgamation of tangible and intangible heritage, encapsulating profound historical significance and aesthetic value. While tangible heritage often gains more attention than intangible heritage in cultural protection, it is still imperative to acknowledge that intangible heritage complements and substantiates the historical, cultural and artistic context. Tomb murals contain intangible heritage elements such as religious practices, customs and artistic techniques. Tomb murals from the Tang Dynasty of China showcase the cultural richness of both tangible and intangible heritage. Nevertheless, there are many challenges to the protection of Tang Dynasty tomb murals. In light of these challenges, the current study aims to protect the intangible heritage embodied in Tang Dynasty tomb murals through augmented reality technology. A Tang Dynasty tomb, the Zhao Yigong Tomb, has been selected as the research object. Seven murals from this tomb were restored using a process involving two-dimensional and three-dimensional modelling combined with augmented reality (AR) technology. Throughout the restoration process, the current study explores the impact of religious customs associated with the Zhao Yigong Tomb on mural contents and artistic techniques. The scenes depicted in these seven murals were integrated into an on-cloud AR platform to establish an effective process for protecting intangible heritage in tomb murals and stimulate further research, design and development. This study identifies the target audience as researchers, educators and college students interested in history, art and culture. To evaluate the current study, researchers and educators with relevant working backgrounds and college student participants with different backgrounds and interests were invited to test the AR application in the field, followed by one-to-one interviews for a usability assessment. The usability assessment shows that the AR application is widely accepted. In addition to adding information interactively, it helps the audience to improve their understanding of Tang Dynasty art and culture.

Strategi Efektif dalam Manajemen Kelas untuk Meningkatkan Keterlibatan Siswa

Increasing student participation is one of the main goals in education.Effective classroom management plays a key role in achieving this goal. This overview describes some effective classroom management strategies to increase student participation. Create a positive and informative learning environment. This can be achieved by building positive relationships with students, setting clear rules and expectations, and positively reinforcing desired behaviors. Implement active learning that is student-centered.This can be done by using various learning methods, such as collaborative learning, project-based learning and problem-based learning. Provide effective feedback and evaluation. Effective feedback and assessment help students understand their progress and learn from their mistakes. Parent and community involvement. Parents and the community can play an important role in supporting student learning.