Education Training Research Articles

Application of 3D Motion Graphic Design Technology of Object Simulation Human Body in Sports Teaching

In the current era, the rapid development of computer technology has brought unprecedented opportunities for innovation in physical education teaching. The introduction of computer technology not only improves the efficiency of physical education teaching but also provides more accurate and scientific means for sports training. In response to this trend, this paper proposes an innovative human body model design method and explores in detail the key implementation techniques of computer simulation of 3D motion maps, aiming to further optimize and improve the quality of physical education teaching. The design of human body models plays a crucial role in physical education teaching and training, as it can help students and teachers better understand the mechanisms and principles of human movement. By introducing computer technology, this paper can construct a more precise, dynamic, and realistic human body model that conforms to the actual motion situation. This model can simulate various movement states of the human body, providing students with an intuitive and vivid learning experience. In the classroom, teachers can use projection or virtual reality devices to display 3D motion models, allowing students to intuitively see the details and changes of motion movements, deepening their understanding of the essentials of the movements. Teachers can demonstrate different movements in real time by operating models, and explain the technical points and precautions of each movement. Students can observe the motion trajectory and posture changes of the model from multiple perspectives to improve learning efficiency. The system generates personalized feedback reports based on students’ movement data, pointing out the problems and improvement directions that students have during the exercise process. Teachers can provide more accurate guidance to students based on these feedbacks, helping them correct incorrect movements and improve their skill levels.

Digital teaching competence of higher education professors: self-perception study in an Ecuadorian university

Background Teaching professionalization aimed at the digital transformation of educational scenarios and training processes for students in contemporary higher education requires the mastery of digital competence by the teaching staff. The objectives of the study were to analyze the self-perceived level of digital teaching competence (DTC) of the faculty of the Technical University of Manabí (UTM), Ecuador, and to establish the relationship between age, sex, and academic profile variables with digital teaching competence. Methods A quantitative methodological approach was adopted to develop a descriptive-correlational field study with a non-experimental design. The participants were 277 professors, selected through non-probabilistic and voluntary sampling, who completed the DigCompEdu Check-In questionnaire sent by e-mail. Results The data revealed that the “integrator” and “expert” categories achieved high levels in all competencies. In particular, 48.74% of the participants were placed in the integrator category in the competence of facilitating skills, while 46.21% positioned themselves as integrators in the competence of evaluation and feedback. Additionally, a significant difference was found in the pedagogy variable in the interaction. Conclusions It is concluded that the competences self-perceived by the professors are within the intermediate categories such as integrator and expert. Likewise, the age, sex, and academic profile variables differ in the digital pedagogy level, which produces an inconsistent relationship, with the exception of the variable evaluates and provides feedback, where it was significant.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding hygiene among meat handlers in Vijayapura city, North Karnataka

Background: Food-borne diseases are a significant health concern globally, particularly in meat-related cases, due to unhygienic handling and inadequate sanitation. Challenges such as inadequate food safety regulations, weak regulatory frameworks and insufficient awareness among food handlers contribute in exacerbating the issue. The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hygiene among slaughterhouse workers in Vijayapura, north Karnataka. Objective was to evaluate the sociodemographic characteristics of meat handlers and their correlation with knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to meat hygiene in in Vijayapura, north Karnataka. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Vijayapura city from July to September 2023, involving meat handlers from various shops. 79 participants were selected from 200 shops using a lottery method, anticipating a 71% knowledge level of meat hygiene. Informed consent was taken, and data collection was done using a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire. Results: Among the 79 participants, 86.1% were male and 13.9% female, with 64.5% having over five years of experience. Most (96.2%) had good knowledge of meat hygiene, while 3.8% had poor knowledge. Significant associations were found between gender (p=0.00), religion (p=0.00), educational status (p=0.013), and meat hygiene practices. Conclusions: The study reveals satisfactory knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding meat hygiene among meat handlers in Vijayapura. It is highly advisable to emphasize public health education, develop policies, and implement consistent training programs for meat handlers focused on safe meat handling practices, as well as maintaining high standards of personal and general hygiene.

Study on the Dilemma of Rural Women’s Access to Education in China and its Legal Protection

This paper explores the multidimensional challenges faced by rural women in China in accessing education, revealing the root causes of the intersection between urban-rural educational inequality and gender discrimination. While legal and policy reforms have led to some improvements—particularly in the realm of compulsory education, where enrollment rates for rural girls have increased—significant barriers remain, especially in higher education and vocational training. These challenges are rooted in various structural issues, including disparities in educational resources, cultural capital deficiencies, and the persistence of traditional gender roles, all of which disproportionately affect rural women. The paper offers an in-depth analysis of these factors, highlighting the inadequacies of current legal frameworks and the practical difficulties in their implementation. It proposes strategies to improve the situation, such as enhancing legal enforcement, increasing state investment in rural education, addressing societal and cultural biases through gender equality education, and expanding vocational and lifelong learning opportunities tailored to rural women’s needs. The findings suggest that only through a comprehensive approach—integrating legal, policy, and cultural initiatives—can rural women’s educational rights be effectively protected, leading to more equitable educational outcomes, reduced gender disparities, and fostering overall social progress in China.

It all made sense: ASL-first approach in classroom practice.

This qualitative study delves into the innovative Bilingual Grammar Curriculum. The curriculum aims to enhance bilingualism and linguistic skills among deaf students by integrating American Sign Language instruction and written language grammatical structures. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with 12 experienced educators of the deaf who have implemented the curriculum in their teaching practices. Employing a thematic analysis approach, the researcher sought to uncover the educators' perceptions, experiences, and insights regarding the curriculum's effectiveness and its impact on bilingual language acquisition for deaf learners. Findings revealed a diverse range or perspectives, highlighting both the advantages and challenges of the curriculum's implementation. Themes emerged encompassing the curriculum's alignment with linguistic theories, its adaptability to diverse learning needs, the role of educator training, and the incorporation of cultural nuances within bilingual instruction. The study contributes valuable insights to the field of deaf education, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of bilingual grammar pedagogy and providing recommendations for curriculum refinement and educator professional development. Ultimately, this research underscores the significance of innovative approaches in enhancing the linguistic abilities and educational experiences of deaf and hard-of-hearing students within a bilingual framework.

Analysis of Islamic Religious Education in Responding to the Challenges of Globalization

Globalization brings significant changes in various aspects of life, including education. In schools, Islamic Religious Education faces substantial challenges in the face of current globalization, which often affects local cultural values and identity. This journal aims to analyze how Islamic Religious Education can adapt and respond to the challenges of globalization in schools. This research uses a qualitative approach with literature study methods and in-depth interviews with educators and educational practitioners. The results of the analysis show that P.A.I. in schools needs to integrate global values while maintaining the basic principles of Islamic teachings. The proposed strategy includes adjusting the curriculum to include international issues with an Islamic perspective, training educators to face global challenges, and developing relevant learning media. It is hoped that these findings can guide the development of educational policies and practices that are more responsive to the challenges of globalization while still maintaining the integrity of Islamic values.

Improve the Capacity of Regular Pedagogical Professional Training for Students of Preschool Education According to the Competency-Based Approach at Vinh University

Pedagogical training is the process of forming and training core pedagogical competencies for students, contributing to the formation of qualities and abilities for future teachers. Consistently enhancing the pedagogical skills of preschool education students can foster their professional capacity and equip them for successful careers. This approach also provides lecturers with more teaching experience and opportunities for professional growth. The connection and cooperation between the school and other units can lead to significant improvements in the quality of our educational programs.

A socially interactive communication skills training for competent health educators

Abstract Background Every contact with expectant and new parents can be a “teachable moment” for promoting the health of mother-baby-family; yet, healthcare providers may not effectively perform their educational role. Previous studies have described various setting-specific challenges. Procedural knowledge, resulting in lack of confidence and avoidance, is a universal theme, challenging current communications skills training. Given the evolving role of midwives under the new Cyprus National Healthcare System, there is need for innovative practices. Objectives “Baby Buddy Communicators” designed, implemented and piloted tested a socially interactive digital environment on the Edubreak platform, where practicing (N = 8) and in-training (N = 7) Midwives completed an 8-week iterative hybrid communication skills course along with service-users. Results Four situational-based scenarios were co-created with ‘holders of the experience’ tapping on key priorities (elective caesarean, breastfeeding challenges, baby in NICU, postnatal depression). Participants produced video artefacts of role-play consultations and engaged in peer-to-peer and service-user feedback via the in-built video annotations and blog writing tools. Deductive content analysis of the rich material using the 18-item Health Professionals Communications Skills (HPCS) scale identified recurrent patterns tapping on both informational aspects (e.g. incomplete information gathering, overload without assessing comprehension) as well as social skills (e.g. agenda setting, early reassurance, assertiveness). Conclusions This cross-sectoral transfer of social video from sports training to healthcare is a “proof of concept”. Inverted (i.e. making current practices visible) and experiential learning (e.g. feedforward) with cross-sectoral (service-user involvement) and cross-module dimensions (i.e. communication skills and evidence-based practice) provided the basis for evaluation and a source of shared learning and reflection. Key messages • Several areas of improvement in communication skills of maternal healthcare providers were identified while peer-to-peer and service-user feedback was a source of reflection. • The use of digital technology and social video allowed immersive role-playing, observation and constructive feedback loops providing a new paradigm in health communication skills training.

Novice clinician educator professional identity formation through a longitudinal mentorship: a qualitative study

BackgroundThe professional identity of doctors is evolving with physicians now required to be ‘scholars’, facilitating the education of students and healthcare teammates as educators. Mentoring is widely practiced and is postulated to facilitate professional identity formation (PIF) through socialization.Preliminary literature review suggested few studies looking into how formal mentoring programmes affect PIF of novice clinician educators, particularly an Asian context. I hope to understand the perceived professional identity of such educators, and what changes in professional identity are observed after longitudinal mentorship, using the social cognitive career theory (SCCT) as an underpinning framework.MethodsA qualitative study explored perspectives of mentees with less than two years teaching experience and participating in a formal mentoring programme. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the beginning and end of the programme. Thematic analysis and coding of these taped and transcribed interviews was performed and triangulated with an elite interview. Mind maps were constructed to appreciate the inter-relatedness of themes and evaluated using the SCCT framework. Methodology was anchored to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.ResultsSeven mentees were recruited. All were Chinese except for two Indians. All had less than six months experience with educational activities. None had formal training in medical education. Median duration postgraduate was six years. One was from a surgical discipline, others were from a range of medical disciplines. Themes identified included background influences, learning experiences and outcome expectations which affected self-efficacy, leading to mentees attaining goals and performing actions which effected their professional identity development, which was in-turn affected by contextual influences. Most perceived themselves as clinicians rather than medical educators. Concepts underpinning PIF included socialisation (role modelling and mentorship, communities of practice, sense of belonging), experiential learning, the hidden curriculum and reflective practice.ConclusionsNovice clinician educators mostly have a hierarchical identity. Role modelling and mentorship, active participation in communities of practice, promotion of a sense-of-belonging, experiential learning combined with reflective practice are important components for socialisation, synergistically facilitating PIF in novice clinician educators. Overcoming contextual barriers, being cognisant of cultural practices and addressing concerns in the hidden curriculum can assist educators in development of their professional identity.

Pedagogical content knowledge in physical education preservice teachers in view of researching on lesson studies

PurposeResearching on lesson studies in initial training of physical education (PE) teachers in Portugal, our group is especially interested in the potential of this methodology for developing the pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) of future PE teachers. The purpose of the present text is to synthesize the knowledge relating to this subject.Design/methodology/approachExploratory searches in four multiple search databases were carried out, resulting in 51 records. Information about authors, year of publication, purposes, methodology and results was collected and analyzed.FindingsResults highlight the diversity of purposes. The interview is recurrent in the qualitative studies, while the questionnaire is used in all the large quantitative studies. Regarding the findings, it appears the centrality of PCK, its development potential and its measurability, the consistency of the concept and its evolutionary dynamics, as well as the constructive criticism of initial teacher training models and practices.Originality/valueTo emphasize the relationship between lesson studies and the development of PCK in initial teacher training of PE teachers.

The Role of 3D Printing Technology Education and Practice Courses in Talent Training and Employment Guidance in Vocational Colleges

3D printing technology, that is, additive manufacturing technology, is a multi-disciplinary technology, involving mechanical engineering, materials science, architecture, product design and other disciplines. Vocational colleges as an important position to train high-skill talents, its educational goal is not only to teach students theoretical knowledge, but also pay more attention to training students’ practical ability and professional quality. In this context, incorporating 3D printing technology into the curriculum system of vocational colleges can not only improve students’ technical skills but also lay a solid foundation for their employment and career development. This paper will discuss the important role of 3D printing technology education and practical courses in the talent training and employment guidance of vocational colleges, with special emphasis on the positive role of the integration of industry and education and school-enterprise cooperation in promoting the employment of vocational college students, as well as the influence of enterprises on the empowerment of schools.

Strengthening public health professionals in policymaking in the Eastern WHO European region

Abstract Background The collaborative research between EUPHA and WHO aimed to explore factors impacting public health professionals’ (PHP) involvement in health policy processes in the Eastern WHO European Region, addressing barriers, enablers, and capacity-building needs. Methods Utilizing a mixed methodology, the study employed document analysis, scoping review, and interviews to triangulate data, with the document analysis focusing on 4 published Essential Public Health Operations Self-Assessment Reports, the scoping review analysing 15 key articles, and 5 semi-structured interviews providing additional insight from key country stakeholders. Results Core findings revealed significant barriers impeding PHPs' participation in policy processes. Among others, these included limited intersectoral collaboration, shortage of skilled public health (PH) personnel, financial resource constraints and inadequate governance structures. Conversely, several enablers were identified, such as a positive trend in increased intersectoral collaboration and innovative governance structures during Covid-19, the development of more trained PHPs and the utilization of International Health Organisations. The two main capacity building needs reported were the importance of modernizing PH education and promoting intersectoral collaboration. Conclusions This study offers a preliminary overview of how PHPs' involvement in health policy processes in these countries can be enhanced: More intersectoral collaboration, updated PH education curricula and trainings, and governance re-design building on positive trends seen during the pandemic. Following actions are recommended: Creation of an international platform for cross-sectoral PH communication & exchange, direct support for universities and PH researchers, development of comprehensive PH trainings, assistance in forming or strengthening national public health associations and identification & sharing of effective local governance practices. Key messages • This research identifies barriers to PHPs’ participation in Eastern WHO European Region's health policy processes, while highlighting enablers like increased collaboration during Covid-19 to build on. • Recommendations to harness the enablers include clear actions such as creating an international public health platform for interaction and exchange or build-up of national public health associations.

Clinical Profile of Snakebite: A Cross-sectional Study In A Upazila (Subdistrict) Health Complex, Bangladesh

Background:Snakebite remains a significant public health concern in many regions of Bangladesh, particularly in southern Chattogram. The Non communicable Disease Control (NCDC) program under DGHS has put tremendous efforts and motivation toward the healthcare provider at Upazilla level to treat cases of snakebite successfully. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of snakebite cases, focusing on the epidemiological patterns, clinical profiles and management observed at Lohagara Upazilla Health Complex. Method: Through a cross-sectional study, analysis of the records of past two years of admitted patients was done which elucidates the demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, and management outcomes of snakebite envenoming in the southern Chattogram community. Result: A total of 202 cases of snakebite were treated successfully, among which 63.9% were male (n=129) and 36.1% were female (n=73). The mean age was approximately 32 years (±17.40) and most were in the age group of 11-20 years (52, 25.74%). 26 (13%) cases developed local envenoming by green-pit viper bite, whereas 6 (2.9%) developed systemic envenoming with neurotoxicity alone and only 1 (0.5%) had features of both neurotoxicity and local swelling. The majority of cases had a short hospital stay, with 171 (84.7%) cases discharged after one day. Maximum patients (55.5%) reached the hospital within one hour of bite. In 53.46% of cases, the species of snakes could not be identified. Conclusion: These findings indicate the need for targeted public health interventions focusing on education and first-aid training, as well as improved pre-hospital care practices to better address snakebite incidents. J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2024; 42: 305-311

Knowledge and practice of healthcare providers and associated factors of essential newborn care in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundPreventing neonatal mortality and morbidity in developing countries such as Ethiopia requires improved practices and knowledge among healthcare providers. Several studies have been conducted in Ethiopia, but the overall level has not been estimated based on essential newborn care practices, knowledge of health care providers, and associated factors. Therefore, the objective of this review is to assess the overall practice and knowledge of essential newborn care and associated factors among healthcare providers in Ethiopia.Methods and materialsOnly articles published in English were included in this review. Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and CINAHL, Scopus, Ethiopian University Repository Online, and the Cochrane Library are the main databases. The review included cross-sectional studies written in English that met the inclusion requirements. Using a random-effects model, the overall practice and knowledge level was estimated. Additionally, funnel plots and Eggers’ test were used to assess publication bias. STATA version 14 was used to perform all statistical analysis.ResultsThis review included 15 studies involving 3,210 health care providers in Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, overall health care providers had a good practice and knowledge level of essential newborn care of 57.38% [95% CI (49.56; 65.20); I2 = 95.3%, P < 0.001] and 54.06% [95% CI (45.07; 63.05); I2 = 95.5%, P < 0.001], respectively. Knowledge, training status, and material availability of healthcare professional were significantly associated with their practice of essential newborn care, while educational qualification and training status were significantly associated with the knowledge of healthcare providers of essential newborn care.ConclusionsOverall, 57% and 54% of healthcare providers had good ENC practices and knowledge. So, the Ethiopian government and other stakeholders should take immediate measures to improve essential neonatal care practice and knowledge among healthcare providers, and improve identified factors.

Unveiling pharmacogenomics: insights from Portuguese pharmacists on quaternary prevention

Abstract Background Public health genomics recognises the potential of genomic knowledge for enhancing population health. Adverse drug reactions (ADR) and lack of efficacy have significant clinical and economic burdens, which can be mitigated by pharmacogenomics (PGx) testing. Pharmacists can play a vital role in facilitating the implementation of PGx into routine clinical care. This will promote quaternary prevention, to protect individuals from medical intervention that can cause more harm than good. Objectives To assess attitudes, opinions, expectations, practices, and concerns of Portuguese pharmacists regarding PGx implementation. Methods An observational cross-sectional web-based survey was developed based on literature review, adapted to the national context, and validated in a focus group. The target population were adults residing in Portugal with a degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences or equivalent, with convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics were performed. Results From 303 participants, 98% believe that PGx is an important area of pharmaceutical sciences and 97% indicate that PGx should be included in continuing education. Almost all (99%) anticipate that PGx implementation will prevent the administration of ineffective drugs and inappropriate doses, 98% expect PGx will reduce ADR. Major concerns are related with direct-to-consumer sale of PGx tests via internet (78%) and unauthorized access to test results (91%). Currently, 25% are familiar with reliable sources of information on PGx, but only 11% feel qualified to recommend PGx testing, and 10% have analysed PGx reports. Conclusions There are positive opinions and expectations regarding the potential benefits of PGx tests. However, there are regulatory concerns and lack of readiness for immediate application. Pharmacists express interest in learning more about PGx, highlighting the need for continuous education and training to integrate it effectively into routine pharmaceutical practice. Key messages • Pharmacists recognize the benefits of PGx implementation for quaternary prevention. • Regulatory concerns and readiness gaps in PGx emphasise a need for training and life-long education of pharmacists.

Documenting the availability and accessibility of reproductive health services for youth in Albania

Abstract Youth in Albania are initiating sexual activity at an earlier age. However, use of all forms of contraception has declined in the last decade and uptake now stands at 4%. The self-reported prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and STI symptoms has risen dramatically, as has reliance on abortion as a predominant method of family planning. In 2020-2022, we conducted a multi-method qualitative study in Albania to document the availability and accessibility of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and examine challenges that youth face when seeking SRH care. This study comprised a document review, a curriculum review, a community-based survey with 273 youth, semi-structured interviews with 15 youth, semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants, and a service mapping exercise in Tirana. Lack of adequate infrastructure and bureaucratic hurdles make it difficult for youth to navigate and access SRH services in Albania. A third of survey participants (n = 90, 33%) expressed discomfort inquiring about SRH matters, while nearly two-thirds rarely or never sought SRH services from a doctor or clinic. Furthermore, Albania’s school-based sexuality education curriculum lacks in topics, content, and responsiveness, resulting in inconsistent learning experiences and limited knowledge of SRH. Sexuality education is primarily focused on the anatomy and physiology of reproduction, leading to significant knowledge gaps in other aspects of SRH. Only half of survey participants (n = 150, 55%) had received any education on birth control, contraception, or family planning; and only few had knowledge about gender identity (n = 103, 38%), or consent (n = 77; 28%). Widespread lack of awareness and fear of judgment contribute to the underutilization of SRH services among youth in Albania. Improving knowledge and awareness, alongside investing in infrastructure and capacities, are essential to enhancing accessibility and quality of SRH services for Albanian youth. Key messages • Lack of knowledge and awareness prevent youth from accessing SRH services. • Establishing youth-friendly services and training health providers and educators are crucial to delivering confidential and non-judgmental youth-friendly SRH care.

9.B. Scientific session: Promoting health in the digital age: a room to improve health literacy and digital health literacy?

Abstract The workshop aims to explore innovative approaches to promoting health literacy and digital health literacy and their impact on individual and community health outcomes at different stages of life. This initiative is driven by the recognition that digital platforms and tools offer unprecedented opportunities to improve population health through health education and behavior change. The workshop will feature a dynamic and interactive format starting from plenary sessions in which speakers will provide insights into digital health promotion best practices and their outcomes, offering diverse perspectives. The added value of organizing this workshop lies in its comprehensive approach to integrating digital tools into health prevention strategies, particularly for addressing childhood smoking. By examining innovative digital interventions, the workshop provides a platform for sharing insights and strategies that leverage technology to promote healthier lifestyles among youth. This is increasingly pertinent as digital platforms become central in the daily interactions of young people. The coherence between the presentations revolves around the theme of enhancing digital health literacy as a preventive measure against health issues. The first presentation sets the stage by exploring digital tools that educate and engage young people about the dangers of smoking. The subsequent session builds on this by assessing the current state of digital health education and literacy, emphasizing the need for curriculum integration and better training for educators to support these initiatives effectively. Finally, the meta-analysis presentation ties everything together by evaluating the effectiveness of these digital interventions across various demographics, offering evidence-based recommendations for tailoring health literacy programs to diverse needs. Together, these presentations form a cohesive narrative on the critical role of digital literacy in health prevention, illustrating a clear pathway from educational content to educational infrastructure, and culminating in broad-based intervention strategies that can be adapted to different settings and populations. This coherence enhances the workshop’s impact, providing attendees with a well-rounded understanding of how digital tools can be harnessed to foster long-term health improvements from an early age. Live Q&A sessions will encourage dialogue between speakers and attendees, enhancing the learning experience. By combining expert knowledge with interactive discussions, the workshop aims to share insights needed to implement effective digital health promotion strategies. Key messages • The role of health literacy and digital health literacy in improving health outcomes demands that the efficacy of the most effective strategies be evaluated. • Digital tools offer opportunities for innovative health promotion approaches and tools.

Effectiveness of the educational training program for Japanese chief residents: A one‐year pilot study

AbstractBackgroundMulti‐institutional faculty development programs for chief residents were lacking in Japan. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the program for enhancing the knowledge and behaviors of chief residents at the national level.MethodsSix participants completed self‐assessment questionnaires at three points: before, immediately after, and 6 months post‐program. Knowledge and behavior changes were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test.ResultsSignificant improvements in knowledge were observed and maintained at 6 months. However, behavioral changes were limited, with significant improvements only in counseling skills.ConclusionThe program effectively increased knowledge but faced challenges in translating it into sustained behavioral change.

The Impact of Student Attitude on Information, Communication, Creation Skills and Student Engagement

The Malaysian education system is guided by the Malaysia Education Blueprint, which drives the overall quality and effectiveness of education in the country. This study provides insights and assists in forming informed guidelines for the Ministry of Education regarding the impact of skill factors. The relationship between the direct effects of these three primary skills and attitudes is supported by Self-Efficacy Theory (SET). The indirect relationship, where attitude mediates the effects of these skills on student engagement, is supported by Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). A questionnaire was distributed to local university students currently in their fourth semester and analyzed using the Structural Equation Model using Partial Least Square (PLS). The structural model results direct relationship between attitude and student engagement and between information skills and attitude. In addition, the mediation analysis shows that the relationship between information skills and student engagement, mediated by student attitude, was significant. Based on these results, it is recommended that the Ministry of Education focus on providing supportive resources, such as learning environments and training for educators, in the upcoming Malaysia Education Blueprint for 2026 to 2036. Additionally, offering Digital Literacy Programs to equip students with information skills can positively influence student attitudes and thereby increase the level of student engagement, which is crucial for improving the academic performance and achievement of Malaysia’s educational system. Future research should include a cross-cultural comparison to reconsider educational theories for Asian countries, as many theories are currently based on Western educational settings and contexts.

Improving Teacher Training Through Emotion Recognition and Data Fusion

ABSTRACTThe quality of education hinges on the proficiency and training of educators. Due to the importance of teacher training, the innovative platform Teacher Moments creates simulated classroom scenarios. In this scenario‐based learning, confusion is an important indicator to detect users who struggle with the simulations. Through Teacher Moments, we gathered 7975 audio recording responses from participants who self‐labelled their recordings according to whether they sounded confused. Our dataset stands out for its size, for not including actor‐generated audio, and for measuring confusion, a neglected emotion in artificial intelligence (AI). Our experiments tested unimodal approaches and feature‐level, model‐level and decision‐level fusion. Feature‐level fusion demonstrated superior performance to unimodal methods, achieving a balanced accuracy of 0.6607 on the test set. This outcome highlights the necessity for further investigation in the overlooked area of confusion detection, particularly employing realistic datasets like the one used in this study and exploring new methods. Beyond teacher training, the insights of this research also extend to other directions, such as other professionals making critical decisions, user interface design or adaptive learning systems.