Teaching Methods Research Articles

Sustainability of knotworking as a teacher professional development strategy

Teachers are faced with emerging and often complex constraints that can impact their ability to be pedagogically responsive to learners' different needs. These constraints or challenges were compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, I extend scholarship in the field of teacher professional development by exploring the potential of implementing a nuanced form of collaborative intervention strategy called knotworking. There is a growing literature, some of which is discussed in this paper, on the utilisation of cultural historical activity theory-based constructs, which include Engeström's (2000a, 2001) knotworking heuristic, to manage the complex, value-based problems that teachers and school leaders are confronted with daily. This paper is a follow-up study that reported on a year-long knotworking intervention at a primary school in Johannesburg. The findings from the initial project (Andrews, 2024) showed that teachers were able to identify complex problems constraining their teaching and, through collaboration, generate new knowledge and teaching methods and deepen their understanding of how to be pedagogically responsive to the different learning needs of their children. In this follow-up paper, the participants in the initial knotworking intervention were interviewed to explore whether the new knowledge or practices they identified and implemented in the classroom had been sustained a year later. Findings from the qualitative data generated from the semi-structured interviews with the teachers show that much of the new knowledge, which included teaching practices, classroom management plans, or learner interventions that emanated from the knotworking interventions were still in use a year later and, in some instances, were integrated into internal operational policies.

The Effect of Remedial Program Practices on the Academic Performance of Slow Learners in Mathematics Subject in Public Lower-Day Secondary School in Rwanda: A Case of Kirehe District

This study investigates the effects of remedial program practices on the academic performance of slow learners in mathematics in public lower-day secondary schools in Kirehe District, Rwanda. The research aimed to assess the effectiveness of these remedial practices in enhancing mathematical problem-solving abilities among slow learners, comparing academic performance before and after participation, and identifying factors that influence the success or failure of these interventions. The study emphasizes the importance of remedial programs in bridging the achievement gap in mathematics and promoting academic equality in Rwanda. A descriptive survey design with a mixed-methods approach was employed, targeting a population of 87,208 individuals, including students, teachers, and headteachers from 64 public secondary schools in Kirehe District. Participants were selected through random and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected via questionnaires and interview guides, capturing both quantitative improvements in academic performance and qualitative feedback on the effectiveness of remedial strategies from educators and students. Instrument validity was confirmed using the Content Validity Index (CVI), and reliability was verified with Cronbach's Alpha values of 0.60 and 0.7, respectively. Statistical analyses using SPSS and Microsoft Excel revealed significant outcomes. The study found that 83.32% of respondents either strongly agreed or agreed that remedial teaching methods enhance the mathematical problem-solving skills of slow learners, with a mean score of 4.33 (SD = 1.10). A strong positive correlation of 0.701 (p = 0.002) was observed between remedial teaching methods and mathematics test scores, underscoring their substantial impact. Additionally, the frequency of remedial sessions was positively correlated with sustained academic improvement (r = 0.454, p = 0.002), while active student participation was identified as a critical factor for success (r = 0.623, p = 0.043). These findings support existing literature on the necessity of structured remedial programs that address the unique needs of slow learners. Effective teaching methods, sufficient session frequency, optimal teacher-student ratios, and active student engagement emerged as key components for improving mathematical problem-solving skills and academic performance. The study recommends the implementation of structured, needs-based remedial programs with increased session frequency to support continuous learning and retention among slow learners.

The promise and peril of Coding & Robotics education in South Africa: A scoping review of teacher preparation and generative artificial intelligence's potential for delivering equity

Integrating the Coding & Robotics (C&R) subject in South African schools signifies the nation's commitment to Fourth Industrial Revolution preparedness. However, challenges like inadequate teacher preparation and limited technological infrastructure must be addressed to ensure equity. Although Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) may not address the infrastructural deficiencies directly, in this scoping review we examine its potential to complement existing resources and support teachers in delivering C&R instruction. Following Arksey and O'Malley's framework, we conducted a systematic literature search in numerous databases, followed by a screening procedure: 10 of the 61 eligible papers satisfied the inclusion criteria. Our findings reveal that GenAI can optimise C&R teacher development through personalised learning, content generation, feedback on teaching methods, and fostering collaboration with other teachers. Despite its potential, issues including equity, ethical concerns, technological fluency gaps, and overreliance on GenAI tools, must be navigated to enhance equitable C&R instruction and prepare learners for the digital era.

Factors Contributing to English Fluency Paucities among Secondary Level Students: Perspective Dinajpur Education Board, Bangladesh

This study examines the factors contributing to English fluency paucity among secondary-level students in the Dinajpur Education Board, Bangladesh. Despite the prominence of English as a global language, students in this region face significant challenges in achieving fluency. The research identified key factors such as inadequate teaching methods, lack of exposure to English outside the classroom, limited access to English learning materials, socio-economic barriers, and insufficient emphasis on speaking and listening skills in the curriculum. Data was collected through surveys, interviews, and classroom observations, involving both students and teachers. The findings suggest that while students possess a basic understanding of English grammar and vocabulary, their ability to use the language in conversational settings remains limited. Furthermore, socio-cultural attitudes towards English and insufficient teacher training also play a role in hindering fluency development. The study recommends improvements in curriculum design, teacher professional development, and the promotion of interactive English language learning environments. Addressing these challenges could significantly enhance students’ fluency and better prepare them for academic and professional opportunities.

THE CULTURE OF ARABIC LANGUAGE LEARNING IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF BERNARD SPOLSKY'S LANGUAGE POLICY

<p><em>This article examines the culture of Arabic language learning through the perspective of Bernard Spolsky's language policy. Spolsky defines language policy as language practice, language belief, and language management. In the context of Arabic language learning, language policy includes the implementation of appropriate curricula, effective teaching methods, and sustainable management of education. </em><em>This research uses qualitative studies. Data collection techniques are carried out through observation, interviews and documentation. To perform data analysis, researchers use analytical theory according to Miles and Hiberman by condensing data, presenting data and drawing conclusions. At the data validity checking stage, researchers used triangulation methods and peer discussions.The study's findings are as follows: First, the ministry of religion's policy teaching materials are implemented using the minister of religious affairs' decree number 183 of 2019, and the administration of both madrasas construct learning plans, selecting appropriate learning media and methods. In madrasah Aliyah Negeri 2 Malang, the concept is similar. In developing learning activities, there involves planning for learning. Second, in both madrasas, the actuality of studying Arabic is based on the 2013 curriculum. And the ministry of religion's policy in the field to be more innovative and intensive on learning Arabic, as well as the idea of dimadrasah Aliyah negeri 2 Malang for arabic language learning to be done in a network or from home.</em><em></em></p>

A neurosurgical nursing training system based on 3D printing models: practice and exploration of precision medicine.

In recent years, the concept of precision medicine has gradually permeated the field of nursing, presenting new challenges for neurosurgical nursing staff. Traditional teaching methods often struggle to adequately convey complex anatomical knowledge and nursing skills, thereby affecting the learning outcomes and clinical decision-making abilities of nurses. As an innovative educational tool, three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has demonstrated significant potential in medical education in recent years. Therefore, this project aims to explore the advantages and feasibility of using 3D printed models as a novel teaching tool in neurosurgical nursing. The study involved 80 nursing personnel who participated in the neurosurgical rotation training at Shaoxing People's Hospital from 2022 to 2023. The control group (40 individuals) used only traditional teaching tools such as textbooks, multimedia courseware, and laboratory equipment for theoretical and practical training based on the curriculum. The experimental group (40 individuals) incorporated a 3D printing model database as an innovative teaching tool on the basis of traditional teaching methods, and used patient-specific 3D printed models for precise nursing training. After the training, both groups were assessed for theoretical and practical abilities, professional values, job satisfaction, and the prognosis of intracranial aneurysm patients they cared for. The experimental group demonstrated superior scores in theoretical and practical abilities, professional values, and job satisfaction compared to the control group. During the training period, patients with intracranial aneurysms receiving precision nursing care from the experimental group showed better quality of life and neurological functional outcomes compared to the control group. The nursing training system based on 3D printing models can enhance the learning efficiency and nursing work satisfaction of nursing personnel. It may have a positive impact on the professional values of nursing personnel, thereby laying a solid foundation for providing high-quality, precise nursing services in the field of neurosurgery in the future.

Implementing online discussion boards to enhance professional skills and news reading habits in accounting students

ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of a teaching and learning activity using news articles on fostering professional skills (including critical thinking, collaboration, and openness to learning). In this activity, an Asynchronous Online Discussion Board (AODB) was used as a medium to facilitate learning. Implemented in two postgraduate accounting courses over two academic years, the AODB activity required students to engage with relevant business news, make a meaningful contribution, and interact with their peers. A mixed-method approach, involving a survey of 231 students and 22 semi-structured interviews, was used to assess the effectiveness of the activity. The results show that the activity significantly enhanced engagement, critical thinking, and collaborative learning, with critical thinking emerging as the predominant skill developed. Additionally, students demonstrated an increased frequency of reading business news, reflecting the integration of lifelong learning habits. This research contributes to the literature by offering a practical and scalable approach for accounting educators globally to develop both technical and non-technical skills, addressing the growing demands of the profession in a digitalised, global business environment. The study also emphasises the importance of innovative teaching methods that can be adapted to diverse educational contexts.

Peer-led versus instructor-led structured debriefing in high-fidelity simulation: a mixed-methods study on teaching effectiveness.

Debriefing is the essential element of simulation teaching. Peer-led structured debriefing simulations could be a suitable approach because of the peers' similarity in age and experience to the students. The purpose of this study was to compare the teaching effectiveness of peer-led debriefing versus instructor-led debriefing in high-fidelity simulation scenarios. The study used a mixed-method approach, integrating quasi-experimental and qualitative components. A total of 88 third-year nursing students were randomly distributed into the instructor-led or peer-led group, with equal sample sizes in both cohorts. The study compared knowledge acquisition, simulation performance, student satisfaction and self-confidence in learning, and debriefing experience between the two groups. In addition, interviews were conducted with students in the peer-led group after the course. The scores of students' simulation performance scale were higher in the peer-led group than in the instructor-led group, and both groups made significant gains in knowledge. The peer-led group and instructor-led group demonstrated similar performance in terms of knowledge, simulated performance, reporting experience, student satisfaction, and learning confidence. The semi-structured interview results indicated that students in the peer-led group expressed approval of peer facilitators. Our study demonstrated that students in the peer-led group showed better performance in the simulation, and both groups demonstrated improved knowledge. Thus, with the premise of peers receiving training, the peer-led simulation teaching method can be regarded as a supplementary strategy for simulation teaching to enrich the form of simulation teaching and improve the effectiveness of simulation teaching.

درجة امتلاك طالبات المرحلة المتوسطة في مدينة أبها لمهارات الحساب الذهني من وجهة نظر المعلمات

The research aimed to determine the degree to which middle school students in the city of Abha possessed mental arithmetic skills from the teachers’ point of view. The research used a social survey approach, and the sample consisted of (94) female teachers. The research concluded that the degree to which middle school students possessed mental arithmetic skills was low with an average arithmetic ( 1.50) from the point of view of teachers in the city of Abha, where the arithmetic averages of the research sample’s responses ranged between (1.91 – 1.11), The research recommended the necessity of holding training courses to develop the skills of mathematics teachers to train female students to use mental arithmetic skills, the necessity of diversity among mathematics teachers in using modern teaching methods to teach mathematical concepts, and the necessity of preparing programs and applications to enhance mental arithmetic skills among middle school female students.

Motivation and Proficiency in EFL: A case study using Duolingo

This study examines the impact of Duolingo’s gamified features on motivation and proficiency in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) among secondary school students. Using a quasiexperimental design, 52 students aged 14 16 were divided into an experimental group using Duolingo and a control group receiving traditional instruction. Both groups took pre- and posttests in vocabulary, grammar, speaking, and writing, while the experimental group also completed surveys on motivation. Results showed that Duolingo significantly boosted motivation and vocabulary acquisition, with the experimental group improving 12% in overall proficiency compared to 6% in the control group. However, Duolingo’s effectiveness in enhancing speaking and writing skills was limited, suggesting it is best used as a supplementary tool. The study recommends integrating Duolingo with interactive teaching methods to develop well-rounded proficiency and suggests future enhancements like voice recognition to support speaking skills.

Implementing Transparency in Learning and Teaching in Higher Ed in Speech Science Coursework: A Tutorial

Purpose: Transparent Instruction in Learning and Teaching in Higher Ed (TILT Higher Ed) is an evidence-based teaching method that can be used in Speech Science teaching to facilitate success of all learners. In addition, TILT Higher Ed has been found to provide an inclusive learning environment and promote belonging in the classroom context. Conclusions: The goal of this tutorial is to provide background information, a rationale, and a guide for implementation of the core principles of TILT Higher Ed into Speech Science coursework, which includes Transparent Assessment Design and Transparent Teaching Methods. A case will also be made for an overall shift of increased use of inclusive teaching methods within undergraduate communication sciences and disorders courses.

Students' Tendencies to Attend Distance Education Courses and Their Academic Achievement

ABSTRACTThis study examines the academic achievement and attendance duration status of formal education students taking distance education courses using structural equation modelling (SEM). A total of 842 video recordings of online courses attended by 304 students on the MS Teams video conference platform were analysed. It was revealed that 29% of the attendance period was explained by course duration, lateness duration and course type, while 41% of grade point average (GPA) could be explained by course duration, lateness duration, course type and duration of course. The most significant impact on class attendance was lateness to class. Data showed that gender had a moderator effect on the effect of course type on GPA. Results also indicated that the method of teaching has a moderator role in the effect of attendance time on GPA and that the effect of attendance time on GPA is higher in asynchronous classes.

Effects of Video Micro Teaching Plan to Improve Archery Technique in University Students

Background and Aims: Video microteaching not only improves student learning outcomes but also optimizes the teaching process for instructors. By making effective use of video resources, teachers can dedicate more class time to individual tutoring, helping students who need more attention to overcome learning challenges. Therefore, the objectives of this research were: (1) to study the effect of a video microteaching program on the improvement of archery skills at Jilin University, and (2) to compare the effect of video a microteaching plan on improving archery technique at Jilin University. Materials and Methods: 60 students who participated in the archery course were selected from the 300 first-year students at Jilin University to complete the questionnaire survey, and 30 students were randomly selected from the 60 students to conduct the experimental research. They were divided into 15 students in the experimental group and 15 in the control group. They participated in the 8-week video teaching experiment and tested once every two weeks to compare the effect of different teaching methods. The research methods included a questionnaire survey, a focus group interview, and an experimental intervention. Mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, and dependent t-test were used to analyze the data. Results: Video instruction significantly improved students' academic performance in archery courses. After 8 weeks of intervention, the experimental group using the video teaching plan had significantly improved performance than the control group using the traditional teaching method. Conclusion: The dependent t-test results showed that video teaching helps students to better understand and replicate archery movements, reduce learning errors, and improve motor memory and skill acquisition through vivid movement demonstrations and detailed technical explanations.

Pedagogic Excellence in Massified Higher Education: Strategies for Inclusive Business Teaching in Thai Universities

Background and Aim: The rapid expansion of higher education, known as massification, has greatly increased student diversity in Thai universities, particularly in business schools. This increase presents new challenges for educators striving to maintain pedagogic excellence while addressing diverse student needs. The study aims to explore effective strategies for inclusive teaching that can enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes in massified business education contexts in Thai universities. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify key inclusive pedagogical practices suitable for diverse business classrooms. The effectiveness of these strategies was analyzed based on their ability to promote inclusivity and student engagement in higher education. Results: The review identified several effective strategies, including active learning, context-mediated pedagogy, and adaptive teaching methods. These approaches were found to enhance student participation and learning outcomes in diverse classrooms. Achieving pedagogic excellence in massified higher education requires adopting inclusive teaching methods that cater to the diverse needs of students. By implementing these strategies, Thai universities can improve the quality of business education and ensure that students are well-prepared to succeed in a globalized world. Conclusion: Pedagogical excellence in massified higher education requires the adoption of inclusive teaching practices that cater to the diverse needs of students. Implementing these strategies can improve the quality of education in Thai universities and support student success in a globalized world.

Emotional Intelligence of Chinese Teachers and its Impact on Classroom Dynamics and Student Engagement

This research investigates the correlation between teachers' emotional intelligence and classroom dynamics, as well as the level of involvement shown by students in a university environment through a descriptive correlational methodology. Using Daniel Goleman's framework, the assessment focused on many aspects of emotional intelligence, including self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. The study also assessed the dynamics inside the classroom, including how it was managed, the instructional tactics used, the overall atmosphere, the level of differentiation, and the effectiveness of communication. Additionally, it examined the level of student involvement, including the meaningfulness of activities, the students' sense of competence, the support for their autonomy, the extent of collaborative learning, and their orientation towards mastery. Validated self-designed questionnaires were used to gather data from 30 instructors and 900 students. The findings reveal that instructors assessed their emotional intelligence as moderate, with empathy being the greatest and social skills being the lowest. Students evaluated classroom dynamics as somewhat successful in managing, creating an atmosphere, adapting to individual needs, and effectively using teaching methods and communicating. The engagement levels were moderate for meaningful activities and mastery orientation but low for competence, autonomy support, and collaborative learning. Correlation analysis indicated that there were no significant connections between teachers' overall emotional intelligence and students' assessments of classroom dynamics or participation. This implies that emotional intelligence does not directly impact these elements.

Cultural Competence in Chinese Language Education: Discussing the Importance of Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language

Background and Aim: Cultural competence plays a significant role in successful language education. Studies have shown that culturally sensitive pedagogy enables teachers to connect language to an accurate cultural context, preventing misappropriate language use. This study examined the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in teaching Chinese as a foreign language. Materials and Methods: Data was collected using observation, interviews, and systematic reviews of academic journals. The classroom observation was selected because it provides first-hand data about how educators teach the Chinese language. The researchers also observed the impact of cultural awareness on teaching methods and outcomes. Interviews were conducted using open-ended questionnaires to obtain the benefits of cultural awareness and sensitivity in teaching the Chinese language. The systematic review helped in extracting data from the previous studies. The inductive and deductive thematic analyses were conducted based on the guidance from Byram’s intercultural competence framework. Results: The findings showed that cultural awareness and sensitivity are important in teaching the Chinese language because they improve critical cultural awareness, linguistic competency, and the ability of language educators to translate and communicate effectively. The various elements of linguistic competency that teachers demonstrate include comprehension, connotation, convention, and conditioning. Conclusion: Cultural awareness and sensitivity also help language educators empower learners and enhance their capacity to become better intercultural communicators. The paper suggests that Chinese language teachers should make regular visits to China to enhance their cultural awareness. Educators should also try various strategies, including double translation, comparison, and situational settings to integrate cultural awareness into their teachings.

Development of Research Skills in Students of Pedagogical Science in the Communicative Method of Teaching

Research abilities of students of pedagogical university are an integral quality of personality, which is expressed in the recognition of the value of such activity, in the possession of the methodology of investigative work, in the formation and development of the ability to investigative work, in solving investigative problems and their use in further professional activity. The article provides evidence of the importance of the development of communication and research skills as a guarantee of successful training of student teachers. The authors provide key skills of scientific-research and communicative approach of teaching.

Using Ethno-Pedagogy to Prepare Students for Civic Education in the Society 5.0 Era

This paper is the outcome of a review of the literature on ethno-pedagogy and education in the context of Society 5.0, gathered from various online reports, digital books, and journal articles. Society 5.0 can leverage technology in education to offer more individualized and interactive learning experiences. Examples include online learning and the application of augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) to the classroom. Education must be adequately prepared in this day and age to assist people in gaining the abilities and knowledge required to meet obstacles in the future. In order to prepare education for the Society 5.0 era, this article aims to investigate the ethno-pedagogy method in greater detail. We refer to this method of teaching based on culture as ethno-pedagogy. The technique is highly pertinent to educating students for the increasingly varied and complicated Society 5.0 era. Using this method enables educators to create a curriculum that honors the cultural values of their students. Technology has the potential to be a helpful tool in the implementation of ethno-pedagogy. Keywords: educational management; ethno-pedagogical approach; Society 5.0 era

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF PROBLEM BASED LEARNING MODEL IN SCIENCE LEARNING

Problem Based Learning (PBL) is a learning approach that is often used in education in recent years. The purpose of this article is to find out how junior high school students perceive PBL model in science class and the benefits of PBL model in science learning. To find data related to junior high school students' perceptions of problem-based learning models in science classes, the researcher conducted a systematic review of several relevant sources with a period from 2014 to 2023, following the principles of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Based on the research results, it is known that the problem solving ability of students who learn using the PBL model is better than students who learn with conventional models. The results of this study prove PBL as an effective learning method for science compared to conventional teaching methods. PBL method is perceived to improve students' knowledge and communication skills. Based on several research results that have been conducted, it can be concluded that the PBL model has a positive impact on learning.

A Questionnaire-based Research and Analysis Report on the Demand and Status of Language Services in the Energy and Power Industry in Hebei Province

This report analyzes the demand for language service professionals in Hebei’s energy and power industry from three key perspectives: enterprise requirements, translation education, and student employment planning. The 45 valid questionnaires cover four key aspects related to enterprises including the business scope, international business activity, language service team building and employment requirements. Despite the energy and power industry in Hebei Province have made significant strides in international collaboration, there is a gap between professional training and industry requirements. Enterprises demand language service personnel to maintain proficiency in terminology, have industry knowledge, master technical competence, and own international communication skills that most translation students lack. It can be seen that there are issues with the alignment between educational content and the actual need of enterprises. In addition, the results from teachers’ survey identified challenges in terms of aspects of teaching methods, curriculum setting, and the cooperation with enterprises. The report thus recommends to enhance the professional skills and industry knowledge of energy and power language services of translation students through various measures, including establishing professional knowledge bases and terminology bases of energy and power, designing relevant courses and practical projects, and strengthening school-enterprise cooperation. By performing these practices, it could better adapt to the future energy and power industry market demand. Furthermore, this report emphasizes that the education system needs to better adapt to the development of the industry, especially in the cultivation of interdisciplinary language service capabilities, and strengthen cooperation with energy and power companies to jointly develop language service talent training programs that meet the specific needs of the industry.