School Students Research Articles

Autism disproportionality in racially and ethnically minoritized and girl students in schools.

Special education services are important for helping autistic students succeed, but many racially and ethnically minoritized and girl students face difficulties in getting support because they are not identified appropriately in schools. This study looks at the identification of autism in racially and ethnically minoritized and girl students across schools in the United States during the 2019-2020 school year. We found that girls are less likely to be identified compared to boys, which means they might not get the help they need. The gap between racially and ethnically minoritized students and White students in autism identification has improved slightly, but Latinx students still face challenges. We also found that where students live (their locale) affects their chances of being identified, especially for girls and Latinx students. These findings show that there are disparities in school autism identification, and understanding them can help policymakers, educators, and communities make changes to ensure all autistic students get the support they need.

Voluntary Work for Children in the Republic of Croatia

In today's uncertain world events, it is necessary to promote volunteering from early education. Therefore, it is important and necessary to introduce such extracurricular activities from the first grade of primary school. In the Republic of Croatia, there are various humanitarian organizations that gladly accept any kind of help. Therefore, we need to find teachers who will use their influence to motivate children for humanitarian action and make them aware of the importance of empathy and helping others on a daily basis. This study shows the activities of first-graders to fourth-graders of primary school in the Republic of Croatia. The school curricula in 21 Croatian counties were randomly analysed, and the results are represented in this study. The results show that teachers who organize volunteer activities for their students have a greater level of agreement with the statements that a positive attitude of teachers about volunteering encourages volunteer activities in school. It also helps to enrich the school prevention program by establishing a volunteer club within the school, where volunteering should be encouraged in the classroom class. Volunteering should be encouraged at the school's Student Council, and volunteering should be planned in the school curriculum for participants who do not organize volunteer activities for their students. It can be concluded that teachers have positive attitudes about volunteering within the school. However, participants show significant differences in attitudes regarding gender and personal experience of volunteering.

Factors that promote student well-being in schools: a scoping review of Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand literature

AbstractWell-being has been touted for many years as a critical factor in achieving positive outcomes for students in schools across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and globally. Despite extensive reporting of student well-being concerns, further research is needed to fully understand this complex construct. This paper presents a scoping review aimed at developing a comprehensive understanding of student well-being by examining key factors highlighted in the literature. Using the PRISMA-ScR approach, a search was conducted using Google Scholar to identify studies published between 2010 and 2023 that focus on student well-being in Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand school contexts. Additional relevant grey literature, including policy documents, contributed to this review. A total of 46 studies met the eligibility criteria for more detailed analysis. The review identified three primary themes influencing student well-being: the role of student voice, the impact of the physical environment (which we call perivallon), and the nature of student relationships with teachers, peers, and themselves. These factors were found to be interrelated, with relationships serving as both an independent influence and a mediating factor affecting the other dimensions. The literature review leads to a multi-dimensional complexity model of well-being. This model suggests potential mechanisms by which a small change to an external factor can have far reaching, and potentially unexpected, impacts on student well-being. The implications and limitations of such a model are discussed, and avenues for future research are suggested.

Diversity, inclusion, and equity in Qatar’s K-12 schools: exploring strategic approaches for recruitment, development, and retention

This critical review study aimed to thoroughly evaluate methods for fostering principles of diversity, inclusion, and equity in the hiring, training, and retention processes of educators in Qatar’s schools. It incorporated the analysis of existing policies and practices, and the identification of gaps to propose evidence-based methods that likely enhance the three principles among educators. It also sought to provide additional knowledge and potential solutions that may significantly improve them. Further, I studied effective methods for enlisting educators from varied backgrounds, considering cultural, linguistic, and other relevant considerations, to satisfy the urgent demand for diversity among educators. Examining the importance of professional development programs in this context was crucial in encouraging inclusion and equity. Many institutional, cultural, and systemic impediments to progress have been revealed. The findings underline the significance of having a diverse educational workforce to foster inclusive and equitable educational experiences for students in schools in Qatar. They also emphasize the necessity for ongoing collaboration among stakeholders to achieve this goal. In response, legislative amendments, specialized recruitment strategies, professional development initiatives, and support systems are proposed to effectively address these challenges. Therefore, this research contributes to the scholarly discourse on diversity, inclusivity, and equity in education.

Knowledge, Attitudes, Eating Practices, and Iron (Fe) Consumption among Adolescent Girls (Aged 10-18 Years) in Central Java, Indonesia

Background The Iron (Fe) supplementation program was initiated in 2016 by the Indonesian government. The program included administering iron tablets once a week to female students in schools, although it was not effectively implemented. Objective This study aimed to examine knowledge, attitudes, and eating practices as well as iron intake among adolescent girls (Aged 10-18 Years) in Central Java, Indonesia. Methods and Materials A cross-sectional study was conducted with 484 respondents. The data obtained were analyzed using univariate as the descriptive method, bivariate with Chi-square, and multivariate through logistic regression. Results This study found that knowledge and positive attitudes toward iron tablet consumption were prevalent among respondents, but actual adherence was low, with only 14.7% adhering to the recommended intake. Although adolescent girls showed better eating practices, adherence to consumption did not differ significantly across age groups. A healthy lifestyle significantly improved iron tablet consumption (OR = 14.684) and eating practices (OR = 30.298). The source of information played a crucial role, with health providers being more effective in promoting behaviors (OR = 2.615 for iron tablet consumption and OR = 1.713 for healthy eating practices) compared to non-health attendants (OR = 0.332 for poor eating practices). These results suggested that targeted interventions focusing on lifestyle and information sources could enhance health behaviors in this population. Conclusion A significant influence of knowledge related to anemia, the benefits of iron tablets, healthy eating patterns, and sources of information was observed on the adherence to iron tablet consumption. However, this study recommended that to improve adolescent adherence to iron tablet consumption and eating practices, comprehensive knowledge related to anemia should be provided through various sources, particularly from health professionals.

FOSTERING ESL STUDENTS’ MOTIVATION IN WRITING THROUGH THE INTEGRATION OF ICT: A FOCUS ON TEACHERS AND STUDENTS

This study investigated the motivation in English writing by using the ICT in secondary school. The objectives of this study are to examine the impact of using ICT on ESL students’ motivation to engage in writing skills, and to explore how teachers incorporate ICT into ESL writing instruction to enhance motivation among students. This study used qualitative approach as the main approach by implemented semi-structured interview and open-ended questionnaire as the instruments. The total eight respondents including two secondary school English teachers age 31 and 46 years old meanwhile 6 secondary school students age 13 to 16 years old were participated in this research. The result reveal that ICT significantly enhances student motivation and engagement, making the learning more enjoyable and less monotonous, helping students clarify doubts and develop ideas more quickly especially in writing lesson. Implications of the study are where it enhanced student engagement and motivation, and improve learning and understanding in English writing lesson. Future research for this study is recommended due to the fact that majority of secondary schools in Malaysia such as rural area might need a better ICT implementation especially in English writing lesson. Addressing these issues could involve exploring how to improve ICT infrastructure, provide targeted professional development for teachers, and develop strategies to incorporate technology into curricula more effectively.

Abstract Su406: Acceptability and Effectiveness of a Novel, Video-Based CPR and AED Education Program in Canadian Schools

Background: Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation are critical for favorable outcomes after sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Scientific evidence supports CPR and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training in school-age children. Few studies have used gamified, video-based training to teach students. This national project aimed to assess the acceptability and effectiveness of a brief, video-based educational program (CardiacCrash™), developed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation to teach students hands-only CPR and AED use within a classroom setting. Methods/Results: This study reports preliminary data from two Canadian provinces (Ontario, Alberta). The acceptability and effectiveness of training was measured using a pre/post survey evaluating students’ self-confidence in recognizing SCA, calling for help, and providing bystander CPR, including the use of an AED. CPR performance was measured by using Little Anne QCPR manikins that collected data on CPR effectiveness throughout the training session. Results are stratified by student cohort (elementary—grades 4-8, and secondary—grades 9-12). A total of 1273 students from 6 Ontario and 7 Alberta schools were trained between October 2023 to April 2024. The average age for elementary students (n=729; 47.3% male) was 11.2 ± 1.3 years, and 39.9% had previous CPR training. The average age for secondary students (n=544; 54.4% male) was 15.5 ± 1.1, and 42.6% had previous CPR training. Both groups thought the training was easy (86%), fun (81%), the correct duration (59%) and would recommend it to their friends (85%). All outcome variables improved post-training for both elementary and secondary students, including the self-confidence to recognize and assist in cases of SCA (p=0.008 for both cohorts), (Figure 1). Secondary students were significantly better at providing effective compressions vs. elementary for most CPR measures (Table 2). Conclusion: Preliminary data suggest that CardiacCrash™, a video-based educational program, is acceptable to school-age students and effective at teaching them to perform CPR and use an AED. While both elementary and secondary students achieved acceptable CPR performance, secondary students performed higher quality CPR.

Project -Based Steam Learning Based on Sound of Green: Empowering Students Creative Thinking

This research aims to investigate the ability of teachers in designing sound of green-based PjBL STEAM learning to empower creative thinking skills and to determine the differences in creative thinking abilities in junior high school students. This study emphasizes the assessment of the effectiveness of project-based STEAM learning based on sound of green in empowering students' creative thinking in natural resource processing, involving 162 students in schools in music tourism attraction villages in Ambon city. The study reports that the respondents' results and creativity levels, including fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration among students, were excellent. Overall research results indicate that the majority of students are at a good level after being taught with the sound of green-based PjBL STEAM model. The increase in students' creativity with guidance and direction from teachers, especially in the technical, art, and mathematics stages in STEAM, is evident. Initially, many students lacked fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration dimensions in detail, resulting in an inability to generate more ideas and provide answers. Consequently, their originality decreased, and they lacked ideas to further elaborate on the given answers. However, findings from several meetings show a significant improvement among students. This is because implementing project-oriented learning models that empower the environment around students enhances every domain of creativity in science subjects. Additionally, the researcher suggests conducting further research on students' creative thinking processes based on the unique advantages of each school's geographical location. Teachers are expected to better understand students' cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities, improving students' creative thinking skills in every dimension of creativity according to the geographical conditions of the learners' environment. Keywords: sound of green STEAM, project learning, creative thinking

Impact of basic artificial intelligence (AI) course on understanding concepts, literacy, and empowerment in the field of AI among students

AbstractWith the development of information technologies and information processing methods, it is important to provide high‐quality education in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). The study aims to investigate the impact of an educational course on AI on the comprehension of concepts, literacy, and empowerment in the field of AI among students of higher educational institutions. The experiment involved 125 students from Hohai University in China. As a result of taking the training course, students were able to improve their understanding of concepts (increasing their average score from 6.33 to 9.69), literacy (from 2.94 to 3.99), and empowerment (from 3.90 to 4.04) in AI. The resulting data statistically confirmed the effectiveness of the developed course for improving confidence in the field of AI. The training module can be applied to improve confidence in the field of AI for students in various careers, as information competence is important these days and increases the success of graduates in employment. When it comes to further research, the encouraging results of this study suggest opportunities for promoting this training program among a diverse group of participants. To confirm the effectiveness of the developed course, it can be conducted among students in schools and other educational institutions, reducing it to even more basic if necessary.

Awareness Regarding Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Among School Students in Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

Adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) is a priority program in Nepal, yet significant knowledge gaps persist among adolescents. This study aimed to assess the awareness of ASRH among school adolescents and identify factors that influence their knowledge. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bageshowari Higher Secondary School in Bhaktapur Municipality, Nepal, involving 330 students aged 14-18 years. Participants were selected using a probability simple random sampling method. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire that covered pubertal changes, sexually transmitted infections, family planning, and abortion. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for data analysis. The results revealed that 54.8% of adolescents demonstrated adequate ASRH awareness. Age was a significant factor, with older adolescents (≥16 years) showing higher awareness (46.6%) compared to younger adolescents (8.1%). Gender differences also existed, with females demonstrating higher awareness (35.1%) than males (19.6%). Ethnicity influenced awareness, with advantaged Janajatis showing higher awareness (31.1%). Grade-wise analysis indicated that awareness increased with higher grades, peaking at grade twelve (19.4%). Domain-specific analysis revealed the highest awareness for sexually transmitted infections (83.9%) and the lowest for abortion (35.2%). The study concluded that while ASRH awareness was moderate, there are significant gaps, especially concerning abortion. The findings suggest the need for targeted interventions, particularly for younger adolescents and male students, and recommend incorporating ASRH topics into school curricula along with specialized awareness programs focusing on underperforming areas.

Physical Facility Availability and Students’ Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Trans Nzoia East Sub-County, Kenya

Education is essential for individual growth and national progress, but its success largely depends on the institutions that sustain it. Identifying how these institutional factors contribute to or hinder academic success is vital for overcoming challenges in the education sector and promoting academic achievement. This study seeks to examine how physical facility availability influences academic performance of learners in public secondary schools in Trans Nzoia East Sub-county, Kenya. The study set out to ascertain the following effects: the influence of science laboratories and computer laboratories in the academic performance of students in public secondary schools in Kenya's Trans Nzoia East Sub-County; assess the influence of library resources on the academic performance of students in public secondary schools in Kenya's Trans Nzoia East Sub-County; to evaluate the effects of dormitories on the academic performance of students in public secondary schools in Kenya's Trans Nzoia East Sub-County; and the impact of sanitation facilities and open fields on the academic performance of students in public secondary schools in Kenya's Trans Nzoia East Sub-County. Based on the principle of the Education Production Function, the study was conducted utilized a mixed-methods, descriptive approach. The research targeted a population of 4574 persons consisting of 73 principals, 1,280 serving instructors and 3221 senior students in government secondary institutions. Participants were selected using random sampling to appoint the sample of principals, teachers and students. A sample of 354 individuals were identified using the Krejcie & Morgan table (1970) of choosing the appropriate number of sample. The sample consisted of 6 principals, 99 serving teachers and 249 form four students. To collect data, the study used interviews, questionnaires, document analysis and observation. The instruments were piloted in three public secondary schools in Trans Nzoia West region. Validity testing was done by the researcher being assisted by professionals who expertise in various aspects of validy. In reliability, test-retest method was administered and determined by the Cronbach alpha coefficient of a 0.7 threshold. . The analysis of quantitative data employed descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, with the aid of SPSS version 26 while qualitative data were categorized into themes corresponding to the study’s key objectives. The key findings indicated a statistically significant association between physical facilities and the academic performance of students. A Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated a significant positive relationship(0.968)between the availability of physical facilities and students’ academic performance indicating that students in schools with better facilities achieved higher scores academically. These results confirm that the presence of adequate physical facilities support better learning condition and hence improve students outcomes. It is recommended that educational policymakers invest in enhancing physical facilities to improve academic outcomes for students in public secondary schools.

The Use of Constructivist Learning Theory in Ki Hadjar Dewantara System Through Tut Wuri Handayani in Merdeka Curriculum

This study presents an overview of Ki Hajar Dewantara's constructivism learning theory as interpreted through the system that gave rise to Tut Wuri Handayani. The system places students as the center of the learning process, while the role of the teacher is that of a guide who provides flexibility for children to develop their potential, creativity, talents, and interests according to their nature. Students are not entirely free to seek information and knowledge. Still, guidance from teachers and parents dramatically aids in identifying the nature and form of knowledge children require based on their developmental stage. This aligns with the constructivism learning theory, which suggests that teachers serve as facilitators, motivators, and communicators for their students. This study employs a qualitative approach, analyzing data from literature through an interpretive process to comprehend and provide context for the gathered qualitative data. This study will reveal how Ki Hajar Dewantara's constructivism learning theory compares to other systems. What is the relevance of Ki Hajar Dewantara's constructivism learning theory in the Merdeka Curriculum? The study's results lead to the following conclusions: First, the constructivism learning theory in Ki Hajar Dewantara's system emphasizes the importance of students' Independence in their thinking, the role of teachers as agents of change, the role of teachers as motivators, facilitators, and communicators for students, and the importance of Tut Wuri Handayani. Second, Tut Wuri Handayani illustrates Ki Hajar Dewantara's views on the Merdeka Curriculum through the roles of teachers and students in schools.

“It feels like a parallel universe.” Worldbuilding through climate action

ABSTRACT This study set out to explore the everyday experiences of people engaged in climate action. We focus not on one specific self-defined and bounded social movement, but on individuals engaging in different forms of climate action from protest and direct action to art and social media activism. Data were drawn from focus groups and interviews with 26 UK-based climate actors to explore motivations, experiences, emotions, conflicts and successes. Participants included scientists, artists, civil servants, community organisers, media, school students and teachers. Different ways of doing and experiencing climate action were found. Drawing on literature from science fiction and game studies, we argue that these different approaches to climate action can be conceptualised as worldbuilding. Climate action as worldbuilding consists of three key features: intentionality, separation and creating new norms. We conclude that worldbuilding is an inclusive conceptualisation as it makes space for different approaches to climate action, and allows for tensions within and between climate action movements to be viewed as a resource for learning, imagining and bringing into being preferred futures together. The study demonstrates how social movement research in the context of game design can contribute to the theorisation of activism through the production of a cultural artefact.

Utilization of Computer Techonolgy-Based Video (School Tube) as Learning Media

The utilization of technology in digital era has been beneficial for all aspects of human live including education. Technology is also used as the problem solvers and solutions for educational problems faced by teachers and students in schools. Based on that situation, this research proposed to analyze and discover the impact of School Tube utilization as the learning media at Madrasah Aliyyah Negeri (MAN) 1 in Lhoksemwe. This qualitative research used a descriptive approach and employed two data collection techinques that are interview and observation. The respondents of this research were teachers and school administrators at MAN 1 in Lhokseumawe. This research found that the utilization of SchoolTube at MAN 1 Lhokseumawe has positive impact to help students in learning their subjects. It directs students to learn independently that promotes autonomous and asynchronous learning model. Besides that, Shool Tube also helps teacher in providing materials for students to learn when the teachers need to attend their administrative duties outside the classroom. On the contrary, some teachers were still found not proficient in using this media. Moreover, as a free learning media, School Tube still has limitation access, so the students could not use it outside the school compound. Thus, it is suggested to the school authorities to train and enhance teachers’ ability through workshop in using School Tube and other audiovisual application as learning media.

REVIEW OF THE BOOK "A MODEL FOR DIAGNOSIS AND PREVENTION OF AGGRESSIVENESS IN THE BEHAVIOR OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGE STUDENTS

The review presents the monograph of Chief. Associate Professor Simona Nikolova, PhD "Model for diagnosis and prevention of aggressiveness in the behavior of primary school students", which is distinguished by relevance, given the dynamic and often extreme situation in the educational environment. The topic focuses on the need to prevent aggressiveness in the behavior of children of primary school age, as a form of overcoming negative manifestations in their behavior. The proposed model methodologically offers an idea for the work of the school psychologist with students of primary school age with the aim of developing cognitive and emotional skills for communicating with peers, developing empathic abilities and opportunities to evaluate others' behavior. The proposed program offers, in terms of content, the immediate work of the psychologist with the children in a real school environment.

Features of labour education of students in modern social and educational environments

Introduction. The article presents the results of investigating the problem of labor education in the context of current changes in the social and educational environments. The purpose of the article is to identify the features of labor education in modern social and educational spheres from the standpoint of continuity of the tasks of its implementation at various levels of education and consistency with the tasks of general education. Materials and Methods. The theoretical research methods include sources analysis and analysis of educational programs for different levels of education. Empirical research methods used in the study include exploration of teaching experience and a questionnaire. The survey involved: 8,850 preschool teachers from 53 regions of the Russian Federation; 317,166 parents (legal representatives) of preschool-age children from 87 regions of the country; 4,913 deputy directors of comprehensive schools, representing 61 regions; 190,080 parents of school-age students, representing 88 regions. Results. The conducted research revealed: insufficient formalization of theoretical provisions; disunity of existing individual practices of labor education, their insufficient continuity at different levels of education and consistency with the tasks of general education; low activity of parents in the implementation of tasks of labor education as the child develops, vagueness of parents’ ideas about the significance and content of labor education at different levels of education. Methodological bases and conditions for the implementation of labor education in modern social and educational environments are formulated. Conclusions. The identified features of labor education at the present stage reflect the insufficient development of theoretical and methodological foundations for organizing labor education of students and actualize the need for further study of the problem, as well as the development of a model of labor education taking into account continuity at various levels of education and consistency with the priority tasks of general, secondary vocational education and model (federal) educational programs.

Urgensi Pendidikan Pancasila dalam Membentuk Karakter Generasi Bangsa

Indonesia as part of a pluralistic country consists of people with different cultural, ethnic, religious, or linguistic backgrounds. On the one hand, these differences are a Grace from Allah SWT that needs to be cared for and maintained. On the other hand, diversity has the potential to cause conflicts between ethnicities, groups, and beliefs. So far, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has promoted Religious Moderation as a pioneer in moderating the understanding and attitudes of extremes that occur. This article discusses the role of Pancasila Education in shaping the nation's character with a descriptive qualitative research method. The type of research is Pustaka. The results of the study concluded that character education cultivation can be done in three ways, first through inclusion in the Educational Curriculum. Pancasila values must be introduced to students in schools, so it is necessary to include Pancasila values in the curriculum that is enforced. Second, strengthen Pancasila-based character education. Acquaint children with nationalist characters, such as mutual cooperation, visiting sick friends, collaborating in completing projects with friends, and helping each other in succeeding activities outside the home. And third, to ensure a healthy environment for the nation's generation. An environment that instills Pancasila values, serves children from less positive backgrounds.

Students’ perceptions of teachers and teaching as determinants of primary school completion in Ethiopia

Purpose This study analysed students’ perceptions of teachers’ behaviours, teachers’ management practices and the use of inputs by teachers and whether these are associated with primary school progression and completion.Design/methodology/approach School-level fixed effect analysis is conducted using cross-sectional data collected from 4,000 randomly selected primary school-aged students and their schools.Findings Our findings reveal that students’ perceptions of teachers’ behaviours are associated with the probability of grade progression during primary school, and whether students complete primary school. Particularly important are positive behaviours, like students perceiving their teachers to be engaged and being praised by their teachers while in primary schools. It increased the likelihood of school progression by at least 15%. The use of inputs such as worksheets/written handouts and reading stories/books in the language of instruction were also found to have a statistically significant positive effect on students’ primary school performance. These are important results which hold after accounting for school management, household and child-level factors and regional differences.Originality/value Our findings provide a deeper understanding of the teaching practices which pupils perceive as beneficial to retention. While we are unable to conclude that learning is taking place, our contention is that greater time in school could increase the opportunity to learn. In this respect, beyond its policy relevance in improving educational outcomes, the paper contributes to the limited literature on the student–teacher classroom relationships particularly when looking from the perspective of students’ perception of their teachers’ teaching behaviours in developing countries.

Patterns, Barriers, and Preferences of Treating Migraine Within the School Setting: A Survey Study of Students

Background/Objectives: Migraine affects 10% of adolescents and children. Typical school protocols in the USA require pharmacological medications to be administered by school nurses, often resulting in treatment delays or omissions when migraine attacks occur during school hours. The Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN) wearable is an FDA-cleared smartphone-controlled device delivering acute and preventive treatment of migraine attacks in patients aged 8 and above, allowing safe, effective, discreet, and independent usage. Methods: This retrospective study (NCT06180577) evaluates treatment patterns, barriers, and preferences among school-age students. REN users < 18 years old were invited to complete an online survey. Participants signed an assent form, and their parents/legal guardians signed an informed consent form. Results: 332 patients aged 7–17 (15.5 ± 2.1) participated (80.4% female). After being prescribed the REN wearable, the percentage of students who treated their headaches at school increased from 78.3% to 89.8%. Most participants (65.4%) treated with either REN standalone (38.0%) or in combination with medications (27.4%). Common barriers to treatment included the need to leave class for the nurse’s office (64.2%), concerns about standing out (42.2%), and one barrier unique to REN–permission needed to use a smartphone in class (22.9%). The most common reasons given for preferring REN treatment at school are the ability to avoid going to the nurse’s office (42.5%) and to treat discreetly (39.2%). Conclusions: This study underscores the challenges of managing migraine at school while suggesting the importance of the REN wearable as a discreet and independently used first-line treatment for children and adolescents.

The impact of a metacognition-based course on school students’ metacognitive skills and biology comprehension

The fast-paced and intricate nature of the current society, coupled with the ongoing changes in educational requirements, calls for the cultivation of higher-order thinking skills. To that end, adopting metacognitive strategies could be instrumental. This paper aimed to evaluate the effects of a 10-week-long metacognition-based biology course on school students’ metacognition and biology comprehension. Employing a mixed-methods quasi-experimental design, the study involved 120 eighth-graders from two public schools. One group was exposed to metacognitive questioning, while the other one continued with regular classroom activities. The results showed that participants who received metacognition-guided instruction achieved higher scores on the biology test and reported improved metacognition as compared to those who followed the standard curriculum. These outcomes were consistent across genders and regardless of whether a student reported a deep or surface learning approach. Qualitative analysis extracted themes of collaboration and understanding among the students. They appreciated the specificity of tasks, which deepened their comprehension, and valued collaborative learning facilitated by metacognitive prompts. These prompts not only enhanced their understanding but also contributed to fostering a positive classroom environment. This research underscores the effectiveness of metacognitive support in enhancing biology education. It advocates for the integration of metacognitive strategies into classroom practices, emphasizing the positive impact they can have on students’ learning experiences and outcomes.