Science Students Research Articles

Prevalence, Characteristics, and Treatment Pattern of Menstrual-Related Headache Among Undergraduate Health Sciences Students at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia

Prevalence, Characteristics, and Treatment Pattern of Menstrual-Related Headache Among Undergraduate Health Sciences Students at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia

Using practical programming tasks to enhance combinatorial understanding

AbstractProbability theory has extensive applications across various domains, such as statistics, computer science, and finance. In probability education, students are introduced to fundamental principles which may include mathematical topics such as combinatorics and symmetric sample spaces. Students pursuing degrees in computer science possess a robust foundation in programming, software engineering, and algorithmic thinking. Despite entering probability courses with a unique perspective and learning potential, these students encounter challenges in grasping combinatorial concepts. In this experiment, we challenged first‐year postsecondary computer science students to program a simulation of a practical combinatorics problem. Students commented on whether and how this task helped them internalize the basic concepts of combinatorics. We aim to show how utilizing programming tasks may empower students with a deeper grasp of combinatorics.

Determination of Factors that Affect Health-Related Quality of Life in Health Sciences Students

Determination of Factors that Affect Health-Related Quality of Life in Health Sciences Students

IJCM_37A: Perception and knowledge regarding poly-cystic ovarian syndrome among health science students in Mangalore

Background: The incidence of PCOS among females is increasing. Awareness among women about PCOS can help in early diagnosis and prevention by making lifestyle modifications. Lifestyle modifications not only help in prevention of disease but also in managing the symptoms and complications. Objectives: 1. To find out the perception regarding PCOS among students of different courses. 2. To assess the knowledge about PCOS among students Methodology: A cross-sectional study on Undergraduate medical, dental and allied health sciences students enrolled in KMC, Mangalore and MCODS, Mangalore Results: 12.6% of the students had a family history of PCOS. 85% of the students have heard about PCOS. Out of the people who have heard about PCOS 20% have been diagnosed with it. Out of the people who have heard about PCOS, most of the students knew that PCOS is associated with irregular periods, infertility, mood swings and hormonal disturbances. Conclusion: Awareness about PCOS is maximum among MBBS students followed by AHS and then BDS students.

IJCM_7A: Anxiety and Insomnia among the Medical students during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mangalore

Background: Interrupted classes which gradually shifted to online mode isolating students from their friends during the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health status of the medical students. Objective: To assess the mental health outcomes among the health science students in Mangalore and the factors associated with these outcomes. Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 295 health science students of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. The sample size was calculated based on a study from Morocco, where 62.3% of the medical students experienced anxiety-related symptoms. Anxiety was assessed using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale and Insomnia using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). The questionnaire was prepared in google forms and a link was generated which was disseminated to the students via social media platforms. Results: A higher proportion (n=179, 60.7%) of the participants in our study were females. In our study, 59% (n=173) of the participants had symptoms related to insomnia and 66% of the participants had anxiety-related symptoms. A higher proportion of participants who had anxiety-related symptoms were younger than 20 years of age, were females, belonged to MBBS course, and were not living with their family. However, none of the factors were found to be statistically significant. (P>0.05) Conclusion: The mental health status of the participants in our study was poor with the majority of the participants reporting symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

The mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between learning motivation and academic outcomes: Conditional indirect effect of gender

BACKGROUND: The role of emotional intelligence and learning motivation in shaping university students’ academic outcomes has received greater attention, especially during the modernization era. Thus, this study investigates the mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between learning motivation and academic outcomes while examining the gender-conditional indirect effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four randomly chosen cities in Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah, Hail, and Yanbu), where 400 health science students were conveniently selected using equal allocation (100 students/campus). A digital survey was used for data collection (April-May 2022) containing three sections: Personal Characteristics and Academic Outcomes, Modified Schutte Self-Report Inventory, and Academic Motivation Scale. RESULTS: Emotional intelligence positively correlated with learning motivation (r = 0.525, P < 0.001) and academic outcomes (r = 0.153, P < 0.001), where academic outcomes had a weak positive correlation with learning motivation (r = 0.115, P = 0.014). Mediation analysis confirmed that emotional intelligence fully mediates the relationship between learning motivation and academic outcomes with an insignificant direct effect of learning motivation on academic outcomes [(β =0.049, P = 0.573), 95% CI (-0.059, 0.144)]. The conditional indirect effect of gender significantly moderated 16.1% of the mediating effect of emotional intelligence [(β =0.161, P = 0.005), 95% CI (0.035, 0.273)]. The significant indirect effect was proved for the male gender only [(β = 0.157, P = 0.004), 95% CI (0.072, 0.240)]. No significant gender differences concerning emotional intelligence (P = 0.534) and academic outcomes (P = 0.466) were detected. However, male students had significantly higher learning motivation than female students (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Emotional intelligence completely mediates the relationship between learning motivation and outcomes with a stronger mediating effect for male students. Thus, policymakers must focus on improving the students’ emotional intelligence skills to boost their learning motivation and academic outcomes.

Examine the Digital Disparity among High School Students in Chosen Provincialized Higher Secondary Schools and Selected Private Junior Colleges Within the Lakhimpur District of Assam

This study investigates the existing digital divide among higher secondary students in selected provincialized higher secondary schools and private junior colleges in the Lakhimpur District of Assam. The research also proposes measures to address the identified digital disparities. Data were gathered through a survey method employing questionnaires. The findings reveal a significant digital divide among students, with private junior college students exhibiting greater internet usage compared to their provincialized school counterparts. Additionally, within various academic streams, Science students demonstrate higher awareness of internet usage than Arts students. Provincialized higher secondary school students cite the unavailability of internet facilities in their schools, homes, and localities as the primary reason for not using the internet. Lack of access, interest, training, and perceived lack of necessity are identified as other reasons for non-usage. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at closing the digital gap.

IJCM_167A: A cross sectional study on the preparedness and mitigation strategies for the second wave of COVID-19 among health science students in Mangalore

Background: The second wave of COVID-19 severely affected the healthcare workforce, including doctors, nurses, public servants, and medical students, even though the system was better prepared than the first wave. Objectives: To assess the preparedness and preventive measures of the health science students towards the second wave of COVID-19. Methodology: The study has been carried out in Kasturba Medical College (KMC) and Manipal College of Dental Sciences (MCODS), Mangalore, after getting approval from the institutional ethics committee (IEC) and concerned deans of institutions. The responses to the questionnaires have been taken in for analysis which constitutes three parts. The chi-square test was applied to compare the variables between medical and other health sciences students considering the significant P value less than 0.05. Results: The overall readiness regarding the surge in COVID-19 cases in India among our study participants was 99.3% which was highest among AHS students. Many of the students in the study showed passion and were prepared to assist health professionals at Health and Triage centres, with the highest distribution in AHS (97.2%), BDS (87%), and MBBS (85.8%). They believed that adequate protective gear and infection testing were needed for an effective return to the clinical setting. Conclusion: Ultimately, the health science student population in the study settings possesses sufficient resources and knowledge to combat the second wave of COVID-19. However, a certain shortcoming remains in the form of laxity toward preventive measures and social exclusion.

Navigating Virtual Learning Landscapes: Perspectives of Health Sciences Students in Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Introduction In December 2019, COVID-19 originated in Wuhan, China, triggering a global pandemic. However, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Education ensured the safe continuation of teaching and learning activities. Amid the pandemic, health sciences students were exposed to diverse learning opportunities. Methods This study seeks to explore their experiences with online teaching. Conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional study, it involved 397 health sciences students from three universities in the Makkah province who had encountered both traditional and virtual teaching methods. Results Most participants were female (71.1%), predominantly from Jeddah city (76.5%). The highest agreement scores were observed for student comprehension during online sessions (61.1%). A significant proportion (74.4%) found paying attention during online lectures easierthan traditional ones. Blackboard emerged as the preferred educational platform for online teaching. Notably, there were no significant variations in students' perceptions of online teaching based on location, gender, or specialisation. Approximately 54.7% of students preferred watching their instructors through a webcam during online lectures. Conclusion Medical educators can leverage these findings to develop standardised teaching protocols and enhance the effectiveness of online education systems. The study underscores the importance of instructors using webcams during online teaching sessions, as it allows students to visually connect with their instructors, potentially improving the learning experience.

IJCM_78A: Risk perception regarding Covid 19 and Hesitancy towards COVID 19 vaccine uptake among Health Science students in Mangalore

Background: Public perception regarding the disease and concerns regarding safety and reliability of the new COVID 19 vaccine is the determining factor for acceptance of the vaccine. Objectives: To assess the risk perception of the health science students towards COVID 19 and COVID 19 vaccination. Methodology: A total of 701 health science students from Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore and Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore were included in this cross-sectional study. Institutional Ethics Committee permission was obtained prior to the commencement of the study. Risk perception towards COVID 19 and COVID 19 vaccination was assessed using Health belief model questionnaire. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS for windows version 25.0, Armonk, New York, 25.0. Results: Among the total participants, a higher proportion (57.6%) of the participants had a strong belief that COVID 19 can cause serious infection and 75.1% had strong belief that COVID 19 vaccine could provide protection against infection. Majority, 62% of the participants had received the 1st dose of vaccine, however, 37.6% had hesitancy. Conclusion: A lower percentage of the study participants had hesitancy towards COVID 19 vaccine. Major reasons for hesitancy were fear of side effects, history of allergic reactions, concern about safety and efficacy of the vaccine.

과학⋅기술 특성화 대학 한국어 프로그램 현황과 학습자 특성 연구

Objectives This study explores a relatively under-researched aspect of Korean language programs tailored for international students in science and technology institutes. The objective is to contribute to a broader understanding of various types of Korean language programs within this unique academic environment.
 Methods We present an overview of the curriculum and analyze learner characteristics within the Korean language program at K University. Specifically, we conducted an analysis of a survey involving 145 students enrolled in Korean language classes at K University.
 Results International students at K University predominantly enroll in Korean language courses due to graduation requirements, with their motivation for learning Korean primarily stemming from integrated factors. At K-University, since more than 80% of classes are taught in English, the direct impact of students' proficiency in Korean on their academic performance is minimal. This circumstance has the potential to diminish their enthusiasm and inclination to learn Korean.
 Conclusions In conclusion, the Korean language program at K University should adapt to the diverse levels and needs of international students by offering courses in both Korean language and culture. We provide recommendations for enhancing the program, including diversifying the range of Korean courses, introducing cultural immersion initiatives, and adopting a flipped learning approach.

Analysis of English Students’ Listening Anxiety during Classroom Learning at Higher Secondary Level in Karachi

Anxiety plays a pivotal role in poor communication while language learning in general and listening Anxiety in specific is a major cause of poor listening comprehension. The study was designed with the purpose to assess the relation between listening anxiety and the performance of students in a listening comprehension classroom. The study used two investigation tools namely the listening comprehension test and the questionnaire based on various factors that could create or raise anxiety levels experienced by Science students at College Level. 100 Science College English students as subjects were selected for this study. The results show that there exist certain negative correlations both between English language Listening Anxiety and listening test scores. The factors that create anxiety the most are recognized as poor listening habits of students and lack of background knowledge. Based on findings, recommendations are also made.

Viés Alternativo Para a Compreensão do Mundo? Uma Análise da Percepção de Graduandos em Ciências Biológicas Sobre Pseudociência

Pseudoscience is able to deceive even the most skeptical individuals due to its tactic of mimicking the processes of science, from simulating a methodology and a scientific language, to inducing a rationality. Therefore, considering this trick of pseudoscience, this study aimed to analyze the perception of undergraduate students in Biological Sciences about the general characteristics of pseudoscience, since these students are in the process of training and may act to combat the anti-science front. To achieve our goal, we applied a questionnaire of agreement with a Likert-type scale, and its results were analyzed from the average ranking of the answers obtained. In total, 56 undergraduate and 32 bachelor students participated. The results of the research show that students do not differentiate scientific denialism from pseudoscience and remain in a field of neutrality, when dealing with the criterion of falsifiability to characterize the Sciences.

The promises of studying cultural archeoastronomy across the Pacific Basin as a new scholarly science education research agenda

Cultural archeoastronomy provides a unique intersection of scholarly study for science education scholars interested in the nexus of science, society, and culture. The study of archeoastronomy as a discipline combines astronomy, anthropology, archeology, celestial navigation, storytelling, navigational hula, and education. As such, it holds great potential as a naturally captivating hook for improving science education teaching efforts, particularly for place-based students who live in regions where sky stories have had tremendously strong influence on the local culture. This perspective calls for discipline-based astronomy education researchers to better understand the interplay between cultural astronomy and effective Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) teaching of diverse students as an important tool for culturally responsive pedagogical approaches.

Boosting Year 4 Science Education: A Dynamic Blend of Paper-Based and Computerized Board Games

This study examines using Paper-Based and Computerised Board Games with collaborative learning to enhance science learning involving 48 Year 4 participants from National-Type Chinese Primary Schools (24 Male and 24 Female). The study utilises a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative (pre-tests, post-tests, questionnaires) and qualitative (classroom observations, interviews) data to investigate the unique strengths of these pedagogical approaches. Paper-based Board Games with Collaborative Learning (CL) showed the most substantial impact on academic performance, motivation, and social interaction compared to Computerised Board Games with collaborative learning. The research suggests that paper-based board games might be a more effective tool for educators using CL to create engaging learning experiences in science for young students. Additionally, no significant difference between genders was observed in the learning scores. Further research with more extensive and diverse samples, longitudinal studies, and exploration in different contexts are recommended to broaden the understanding of these methods' effectiveness across various settings and learning goals.

Investigation of the Relationship Between Learning Styles and Creativity of Middle School Science and Art Centres Students

Investigation of the Relationship Between Learning Styles and Creativity of Middle School Science and Art Centres Students

Vietnamese Version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index: Reliability, Cut-Off Point, and Association With Depression Among Health Science Students

Background and Objective Sleep disturbances among medical students, including insufficient sleep duration and poor sleep quality, are prevalent issues with potential repercussions on mental health.Methods The study evaluated the Vietnamese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to assess sleep quality and investigated the correlation between the results of the PSQI and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) scales in health sciences students.Results We conducted this cross-sectional study at the School of Medicine, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, involving 906 medical, pharmaceutical, and dental students. Data were collected through a self-reporting questionnaire.Conclusions The Vietnamese version of the PSQI scale demonstrates acceptable reliability. Furthermore, positive correlations were observed between the total PSQI score and components of the BDI-II. A recommended cut-off point above 5 is proposed for identifying sleep disturbances among health sciences students using the Vietnamese PSQI. Conclusions The study affirms the reliability of the Vietnamese PSQI scale, suggesting its suitability for screening sleep disturbances among health sciences students in Vietnam. PSQI component scores significantly correlated with total BDI-II score.

Assessing health science students’ English language lacks: learners’ needs analysis

English language courses are provided in universities throughout the majority of the world where English is used as a second or first language to address students' English language needs in the target-situation use. However, at all Ethiopian Universities where English is taught as a foreign language, two English language skills courses, dubbed "communicative English language skills I" and "communicative English language skills II," are offered as standard courses in the first year. Large language gaps have been noted, particularly in health science academic and professional settings where English is largely expected. Hence, this study aimed to identify Health Science students’ English language gaps so that English language courses are designed accordingly. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. It was conducted via tests, observations, and interviews. The findings revealed that participant students had good proficiency in grammar and usage as well as reading skills. However, they had poor proficiency in listening skills, which in turn indicated that the students had difficulty understanding spoken English. The findings also indicated that these students demonstrated an inability to write an acceptable essay. The study further revealed that students' failure to describe a patient, the case, the complaints, and the drugs in medical terminology was partially due to a lack of English language skills. As a result, while developing English language course materials for health science students, course designers and practitioners should address these English language gaps existing in students’ academic studies and future professions.

Relationship between secondary school science teachers’ teaching experience and students’ performance in Minna, Niger state

The study was conducted to determine the relationship between Secondary School Science Teachers’ Teaching Experience and Students’ Performance in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. Secondary school Science teachers and students used for this study are Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics teachers and students. The study was guided by one research question and a corresponding hypothesis. Correlational research design was used for the study. A total of one hundred and twenty three (123) Science teachers and three hundred and eighty five (385) Science students made up the sample size of the study. Instrument used for data collection from Science teachers is a Likert type questionnaire designed by the researchers and titled “Questionnaire on Science Teachers’ Teaching Experience (QUSTTE)” The instrument was validated by experts and its reliability coefficient was also determined to be 0.72 using Cranach Alpha statistical tool. Data collected from Science teachers was correlated with SSIII Science students’ Mock examination result conducted by Niger State Ministry of Education (NSMOE) during 2022/2023 academic session to establish a relationship. Findings of the study revealed a positive relationship between Science teachers’ teaching experience and students’ performance. Based on this finding, it was recommended that Science teachers’ teaching experience should be one of the major criterions to be considered by the government during recruitment of Science teachers. In addition, Government should intermittently expose Science teachers to training and retraining programs through seminars, conferences and workshops so as to improve their mastery of their respective subject areas as well as their teaching experience.

Ricosre Model with Question Formulation Technique (QFT): Enhancing Students' Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) and Science Literacy

The 21st-century learning has undergone a paradigm shift in education from teacher-centered to student-centered. It recently emphasises students' critical and creative thinking abilities, effective communication, innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration. This study examined the Ricosre model's effectiveness with the Question Formulation Technique (QFT) in enhancing students' higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) and science literacy. It involved 296 fifth-grade students from three selected state elementary schools, chosen through cluster random sampling. Each group consisted of 148 students divided into control and experimental groups. Data were collected through multiple-choice and essay instruments and subsequently analysed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). The research variables were students' higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) and science literacy. The results indicated that the Ricosre model with QFT effectively improves students' higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) and science literacy, as it encouraged active participation during the learning process, trained students to develop questioning skills, find answers, analyse, share ideas, and draw conclusions. Thus, it can foster curiosity and metacognitive abilities among students.