Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Research Articles

Evaluating Student Acceptance of Interactive Infographics Module for Arabic Grammar Learning Using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)

Arabic grammar learning textbooks are often associated with lengthy and unfocused information. Text-only content contributes to students’ disinterest in learning and in-depth comprehension of a subject. Infographics have emerged as a substitute for traditional textbooks, offering a more engaging and straightforward way to deliver knowledge through basic technological applications. An interactive infographic module based on a website has been developed and practiced for students as an alternative to the problem. This study aims to identify the level of student acceptance of the interactive infographic modules based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and identify attitudes toward usage, readiness and behavioral intention for usage. A total of 72 students of Bachelor in Arabic Studiesat Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Malaysia were involved as survey respondents. To gather information, a set of questionnaires was distributed and an infographic website module was developed. The quantitative study’s data was descriptively analyzed using SPSS to assess how students accepted technology in terms of their attitude towards usage, readiness and behavioral intention for the module, and perceptions of its practicality and simplicity of use. The findings indicate that students who use technology have a high level of acceptability for the technology module and are prepared to continue learning Arabic grammar through the designed module because they see its advantages. The high ratings for these items indicate that the module improved their understanding of the material. The students’ interaction with the module was clear and easy to understand. They believe that a website-based interactive infographic module is an effective tool for learning Arabic grammar. This module is designed to supplement classroom textbook instruction. This study is considered a contribution to the use of technology in learning courses with extensive syllabuses that require conveniently available and better-understood supplementary materials.

Examining the Resilience of University Students: A Comparative Mental Health Study.

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the resilience levels and mental health outcomes among university students, specifically those in the science and non-science fields. Mental well-being varies widely among individuals, particularly among university students.Thus, the aim of this study was to examine and compare the level of depression, anxiety, and stress betweenundergraduate students of the Faculty of Bio-Resources and Food Industry (FBIM) and Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSG) from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu, Malaysia, as well as to identify the correlations between resilience and their mental health status. This study was conducted among FBIM and FSSG students of UniSZA starting from March 18, 2024, to May 31, 2024. A total of 329 students were assessed for this purpose. All participants answered questionnaires that were prepared based on the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and the Connor and Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) through a Google Form (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA). Results: The Pearson's chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test were used to analyze the data in this study. This study showed that the students from FBIM had poorer mental health than those from the FSSG (p<0.001). The results revealed statistically significant differences between the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress between students of the two faculties. Moreover, the research correlated the level of depression, anxiety, and stress with the resilience level to examine how individuals cope with psychological challenges. This outcome might be connected to students' resilience to overcome mental health issues. This research could potentially assist students in identifying their mental health status, as some may not be aware of their underlying brain conditions.

Safe food handling knowledge and practices of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin cafeteria food handlers

Food safety has become a huge concern among health authorities in Malaysia due to the serious impact of foods being mishandled during preparation, processing, or storage, especially in food service environments. Therefore, this study was conducted to study knowledge and practices of safe food handling among Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) cafeteria food handlers. In this study, the questionnaires were modified from the previous study and distributed to fifty-five respondents who were selected using a convenience sampling method. The result was analysed and computed by using IBM SPSS version 21.0. This study found the average mean scores for all twenty items of knowledge towards safe food handling among food handlers involved in this study was 17.89±2.96. This indicates the majority of 87.3% (n = 48) respondents had ‘good’ knowledge while 7.3% (n = 4) respondents had ‘fair’ knowledge and another 5.5% (n = 3) had ‘poor’ knowledge score towards safe food handling. Besides, the majority of respondents had ‘good’ practices while none of the respondents had ‘poor’ and ‘fair’ score levels towards practices of safe food handling. The average mean score of practices toward safe food handling among food handlers involved in this study was 25.16±1.32. The results showed a positive correlation between the safe food handling knowledge and practices of UniSZA cafeteria’s food handler (p-value = 0.013). In conclusion, according to the score levels of safe food handling knowledge among food handlers of UniSZA cafeteria, the result revealed that the majority of the food handlers had a good level of knowledge and practices towards safe food handling. Good knowledge and the right practice among food handlers in their working premises would help to ensure that more harm to food can be avoided.

Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab oleh Pelajar Bukan Muslim Menerusi Penggunaan Transliterasi Arab-Rumi/ Learning Arabic by Non-Muslim Students Through the Use of Arabic-Roman Transliteration

The situation of non-Muslim students who learn Arabic language calls for the need to present specific teaching and learning methods that can help them in mastering the Arabic language. Thus, this paper will discuss several scenarios related to learning Arabic by non-Muslim students at the university level. The use of Arabic-Roman Transliteration in the learning process is emphasized in this paper as a method for Arabic for Specific Purposes (AFSP). This paper contains a study in the form of a qualitative study using a questionnaire technique with an open question format as a data collection instrument. The research data was obtained from a group of non-Muslim students studying Arabic course at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). The findings of the study show that non-Muslim’s perception towards teaching and learning Arabic language is very positive if the learning process can be implemented effectively. The use of Arabic-Rumi Transliteration is seen as one of the innovative teaching approaches that can inculcate learning motivation to non-Muslim students in learning Arabic language.

Blended Teaching Method Using Self-Made Video and Dropbox Platform

Students nowadays, particularly Generation Z and Alpha, tend to lose interest and drop out of class when they are only exposed to lectures and PowerPoint presentations. This traditional technique has limits concerning restricted time due to the syllabus. The lecturers must compete to complete it and cannot repeat if students do not attend class to prevent disrupting the learning schedule. Given the extent to which technology was employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing blended learning to solve the issue would be a prudent choice. Thus, the main objective of this project is to apply blended learning, wherein the lecturer records and uploads instructional videos on the online platform, Dropbox after in-person classes. The self-made teaching videos link will be shared with the students via WhatsApp after the face-to-face learning session ends. 108 Diploma and Degree students who enrolled in Business Mathematics course from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu, Malaysia were involved with this teaching method. Through the use of this blended learning strategy, over fifty per cent of the students were able to retain and improve their final exam grades. The students were expressed their satisfaction on this contemporary learning approach by giving high rating for the evaluation teaching course. This project proved that self-made videos as teaching materials and Dropbox as a sharing medium are one of the most effective choices for making learning more comprehensive and accessible. The shortcomings of traditional learning can be addressed by combining in-person instruction with instructional videos. This teaching method should be applied to other courses to ensure its efficacy across a broader range.

Radiation Safety Awareness Among Nursing Students in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA): A Survey Study

Excessive exposure to unnecessary radiation may cause long-term effects to human being. Thus, nursing students should be knowledgeable about radiation protection and safety before starting their clinical placement at the hospital to minimize the risk of radiation. This research aims to identify the awareness level among nursing students in UniSZA toward radiation safety. An online questionnaire was distributed to all nursing students in UniSZA. The questionnaire survey consisted of a section for socio-demographic information and two sections for 5-point Likert scale questions, which were radiation knowledge and radiation protection practice. A total of 108 nursing students consented and participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used for elaborating respondent’s demographic characteristics. Independent t-test was used to use to evaluate the influence of clinical training duration towards radiation safety awareness. All analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0. The results showed that nursing students have a high level of radiation knowledge with a mean score 3.67±0.68 and a high level of radiation protection practice with mean score 3.98±0.73. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the mean score of knowledge and practice among respondents with a clinical training duration of more than 8 weeks were 47.29±8.09 and 33.23±5.56, respectively. It was a higher mean score of the knowledge and practice towards radiation safety in respondents with a longer clinical training duration as compared with respondents with shorter clinical training duration with p&lt;0.005. The awareness of radiation safety among nursing students is crucial for assuring the health and safety of both patients and healthcare professionals. Through education and training, nursing students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively handle and minimise the risks associated with radiation exposure in healthcare settings.

Self-Perceived Competency Assessment among Dietetics Students in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA)

This study aimed to assess the self-perceived competency among dietetics students in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). The self-perceived competency of the students was evaluated using the Nutrition Competence (NUTCOMP) questionnaire, a validated tool designed to measure the self-perceived competence of healthcare professionals, including dietitians, in providing nutrition care to patients with chronic diseases. A total of 54 dietetics students from UniSZA participated in the study, all enrolled in Year 4 Semester 2 during their clinical training. They completed the NUTCOMP questionnaire, which consists of various domains and items related to nutrition care practice, including communication skills, critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and professionalism. The results showed that the students perceived themselves to have a high level of competency, with a mean score of 140.1 and a standard deviation of 26.83. Specifically, the students reported high levels of confidence in their ability to interact with clients and stakeholders, interpret nutritional information into lay language, and apply critical thinking skills to research and evaluate nutrition practices. The findings indicate that the students felt well-prepared to enter the field of dietetics upon graduation, reflecting a positive perception of their competence in nutrition care. However, it is essential to acknowledge that self-perceived competency may not always align with actual performance, and objective assessments are needed to validate these self-perceptions. In conclusion, the findings of this study contribute valuable insights into the self-perceived competency of dietetics students in UniSZA. The results suggest that the students have confidence in their knowledge and skills related to nutrition care, indicating a positive outlook on their future roles as dietitians. Further research could explore the relationship between self-perceived competency and actual performance in dietetics practice, as well as investigate the factors influencing the development of competency among dietetics students. Understanding and enhancing competency among future dietitians are crucial for improving the quality of nutrition care and ultimately promoting better health outcomes for patients.

Knowledge and Attitude about Radiation Hazards on Pregnant Women Among Non-Healthcare Students in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA)

Lack of awareness on radiation exposure during pregnancy in Malaysia can lead to a higher possibility of rejection from pregnant women to undergo an examination using ionizing radiation. This study aims to assess the general knowledge and attitude regarding radiation hazards on pregnant women among students at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). A cross-sectional study was conducted among non-healthcare students in UniSZA. A questionnaire was distributed online using Google Form to assess knowledge and attitude of radiation hazards on pregnant women. Descriptive statistics and Independent T-test were used to determine the knowledge and attitude of the respondents. A total of 120 students have participated in this study. Equal sample sizes are obtained with 60 male students and 60 female students. The total mean knowledge and attitude score for all students is 1.31 and 4.13 respectively. The mean knowledge of female students (M=24.27) (P &lt; .05) was higher compared to male students (M=20.20) (P &lt; .05). Mean attitude of female students (M=17.40) (P &lt; .05) was higher compared to male students (M=15.65) (P &lt; .05). Female students have higher knowledge and attitude towards radiation hazards on pregnancy compared to male students. Lack of knowledge and attitude on radiation hazards on pregnancy can give serious effects in the future. Continuous awareness campaigns on the benefits and risks of radiation must be held through various platforms to educate people regarding the radiation hazards on pregnant women.

Differences in Daily Food Intake and Body Mass Index between Stressed and Unstressed University Students

Stress adversely affects health through direct biological and indirect behavioural changes, including in young adults. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the variation between body mass index (BMI), and daily food, energy and nutrient intakes among Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin students according to their stress levels. A total of 221 eligible students aged 18–29 years were recruited. Data were collected using a validated self-administered Malay-language questionnaire as follows: sociodemographic, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 questionnaire, and semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. Weight and height were also measured using standard procedures. Data were analysed using independent samples t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Overall, 39% of the students experienced stress; 26% and 18% were overweight and obese, respectively. The average daily energy intake (TEI) for male and female students was 2,992±1,063 kcal and 2,352±1,002 kcal, respectively. Approximately 63% and 88% of the students met their recommended daily intake of carbohydrates and protein, respectively. The majority of respondents did not achieve 25–30% of TEI for fat (70%) and had excess sugar (77%) and sodium (66%). The top 10 foods consumed daily were rice (97%), chicken (68%), table sugar (57%), green leafy vegetables (44%), candy/chocolate (30%), hen eggs (29%), tea (19%), marine fish (18%), apple (16%), and condensed milk (13%). There were significantly higher years of degree education (2.2±1.1 years vs. 1.7±1.0 years, p=0.003) and BMI (24.3±6.3 kg/m² vs. 22.6±4.7 kg/m², p=0.021) among stressed students compared to their peers. Stressed students consumed more pizza (Z=2.16; p=0.031), sausage/hotdog/frankfurter (Z=2.35; p=0.019), chicken/meat balls (Z=2.10; p=0.035), cake (Z=2.95; p=0.003), peanut butter (Z=2.37; p=0.018), and bean sprouts (Z=2.31; p=0.021) than their peers. However, a comparison among stressed and unstressed students revealed no significant differences in energy, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, and sugar intake. This study shows that stressed students had a higher tendency to consume energy-dense food (i.e. fast foods, peanut butter and cakes) compared with unstressed students. A more detailed study is warranted to determine the personal dietary behaviours of stress eaters.

The Usage of My Ahadith Al-Ahkam Mobile Application in Teaching and Learning for Syd21402 Ahadith Al-Ahkam Course At The Faculty of Contemporary Islamic Studies, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

The Usage of My Ahadith Al-Ahkam Mobile Application in Teaching and Learning for Syd21402 Ahadith Al-Ahkam Course At The Faculty of Contemporary Islamic Studies, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

STRUCTURE-BASED DESIGN OF NOVEL PYRIMIDINE CARBONITRILES ANALOGS TARGETING THE CYSTEINE PROTEASE FALCIPAIN 2 OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM (pfFP2) AT THE TROPHOZOÏTE STAGE WITH FAVORABLE ADME SPECIFICITIES

Aim and Objective: Structure-based drug design (SBDD) of new antimalarials at the moment of resistance of the most causative agent, Plasmodium falciparum to the more valuable artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) is even more urgent. Carbonitriles pyrimidine derivatives (CNP) has emerged as potential inhibitors of the cysteine protease falcipain 2 of Plasmodium falciparum (pfFP2), so here we report virtual pharmacophore based screening of the CNP chemical subspace yielding novel CNP analogs with predicted high inhibitory potency against pfFP2. Methods: A quantitative structure activity relationships (QSAR) complexation model has been developed from a series of fifteen carbonitriles pyrimidine derivatives to establish a linear correlation between the calculated Gibbs free energies (GFE: ΔΔGcom) of pfFP2-CNP complex formation and the experimental half-maximal enzymatic inhibition concentration ( ).The predictive power of the QSAR model was then validated with the generation of a 3D-QSAR-PH4 pharmacophore (PH4) model as CNP chemical subspace (exemplified as a virtual combinatorial library of more than 83.300 CNP analogs) explorer for novel predicted more potent CNP analogs. Finally the best PH4 hits were evaluated with the initial QSAR model for predicted potency ( ) and pharmacokinetic profile. Results: The QSAR model linear correlation equation: p = -0.1025 x ∆∆Gcom + 7.2867, R2=0.94, the subsequent PH4 model linear correlation between experiment and PH4-estimated IC50: p = 0.9366 x p + 0.2849, R2=0.91 documents the high predictive power of this approach. Finally the screening of the virtual library of CNP analogs yielded 52 orally bioavailable candidates the best reaching a predicted potency ( ) of 14 pM and displaying favorable pharmacokinetic profile. Conclusion: The combined use of one descriptor complexation QSAR model and 3D-QSAR Pharmacophore model performs well in identifying novel CNP analogs against pfFP2 and the handful of top predicted analogs are worth undergoing synthesis and biological evaluation. Peer Review History: Received: 12 August 2023; Revised: 17 September; Accepted: 27 October, Available online: 15 November 2023 Academic Editor: Prof. Dr. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, gorkemdulger@yandex.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 7.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 9.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye Prof. Cyprian Ogbonna ONYEJI, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, conyeji@oauife.edu.ng Dr. U. S. Mahadeva Rao, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu Malaysia, raousm@gmail.com Dr. Hayriye Eda Şatana Kara, Gazi University, Turkey, eda@gazi.edu.tr

Assessing the nutritional composition of sweet corn (zea mays l. var. saccharata) stover and kernel corn (zea mays l. var. indentata) stover for ruminant feed

Corn stover, which includes stalks, leaves, and husks left in the field after harvest, holds promise as a feed source for ruminant livestock due to its nutritional value. However, a lack of research on its nutritional composition has led to wasteful practices like open burning and disposal. Therefore, this study aims to determine and compare the nutritional value of corn stover between sweet and kernel corn. The samples of corn stover were collected at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Farm. All samples were subjected to the cleaning, chopping, drying, and grinding processes before undergoing nutritional analysis using proximate analysis. The proximate analysis was measured based on the percentage of crude protein, ash, crude fibre, moisture, and fat. The results indicate that sweet corn stover exhibits the highest nutritional value (p&lt; 0.05) in terms of ash, crude protein, and fat, with percentages of 5.44%, 19.04%, and 3.86%, respectively, particularly in its leaves. Additionally, the stalks of sweet corn stover contain the highest percentages of moisture (4.89%) and crude fiber (27.05%). This study found that sweet corn stover is more suitable for ruminant feed because it contains the highest levels of essential nutrients like crude protein, fat, and ash.

Students’ acceptance of flipped learning through Google application

Since the COVID-19 pandemic plagued the globe, there has been an increased reliance on technology for teaching and learning. Technology has become essential for the continuity of the teaching and learning process at various levels of study. In this technology-based teaching and learning, various approaches can be used to help students master learning content. One approach that is often used is flipped learning, which requires students to explore learning content before the class begins. The objective of this research is to identify students’ acceptance of flipped learning in second language acquisition classes based on Google applications. This is a descriptive study, and a questionnaire was distributed to students to determine their level of acceptance. The questionnaire focused on content design aspects, flipped learning, and Google applications. Additionally, students were asked to provide their reflections after participating in this type of learning. This research involved 85 students in the final year of the bachelor of Arabic studies program at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin in Malaysia. The collected data from the questionnaire was then analyzed to determine the mean value for each item to determine the level of student acceptance. While reflective writing is studied by identifying themes related to student acceptance. The study’s findings indicate that students had a high level of acceptance for learning Arabic with flipped learning via Google application. The students’ reflections were also positive, with themes emerging around increased knowledge, improved technology handling skills, the formation of more creative and critical thinking skills, and the positive impact of group activities. Flipped learning has great potential for implementation because students are more prepared to follow the class. Google application is an excellent choice because it is user-friendly and easily accessible.

Knowledge of Medical Students Towards the Re-emergence of Human Monkeypox Virus.

Declaration of human monkeypox(HMPX) virus as Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised concerns among the public andlack of knowledge is a prominentchallenge in curbing this outbreak. Therefore, assessment ofknowledge level on this outbreak among the medical students is also necessary due to the fact that they are the future healthcare practitioners who will be directly involved in the disease management as well as a major source of knowledge dissemination to the public. The main objective of this study is to assess the knowledge level of medical students at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) regarding the emergence of HMPX. Additionally, the study aims to investigate potential associations between socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge levels, while also identifying factors that predict a high level of knowledge in this context.. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among UniSZA undergraduatemedical students from Year 1 to Year 5. A validated questionnaire comprising six socio-demographic variables and 27 knowledge items was shared online. Descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests and multivariate logistic regression were performed using SPSS software. A total of 138 medical students out of 300 participated in this study. Overall, the average knowledge score was 73.95% ±4.43, which indicates that the medical students have moderate knowledge level. Nearly half of them had good knowledge level (n= 68; 49.3%), 43 of them had moderate knowledge level (31.2%), and 27 of them had poor knowledge level (19.6%). There was a significant association between knowledge level and two factors: receiving information on HMPX during their education and seniority (P-value < 0.01 and P-value < 0.05, respectively). Besides, received information on HMPX during their education was a significant predicting factor of good knowledge level (P-value = 0.002). The knowledge level among the medical students was relatively inadequate.

Modelling business intelligence technologies framework for analyzing academic performance from learning management systems (LMS)

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;Learning analytics (LA) has been utilized to measure, collect, analyze, and report data regarding learners and their contexts, with the aim of understanding and optimizing the learning process. However, most universities having difficulties in identifying students’ academic performance and weaknesses in each subject throughout every semester. &lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; Therefore, to address this issue effectively, the integration of result in learning management systems (LMS) with business intelligence (BI) has been proposed. In this case study, power BI tools are used in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) LMS platform known as knowledge and eLearning integrated platform (KeLIP) to analyze student performance. The three-layer business intelligence framework is applied, data source layer, data analytics layer and presentation layer. &lt;strong&gt;Results&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;strong&gt;:&lt;/strong&gt; The successful implementation of the integrated LA system with business intelligence tools yielded valuable insights into students’ academic performance, facilitating informed decision-making within the academic environment. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; In conclusion, this system will assist lecturers in guiding learners’ academic progress and provide them with da-ta-driven insights into their students’ performance each semester, enabling learners to enhance their academic achievements as well as their involvement in co-curricular activities. Furthermore, the integration of LA will contribute to optimizing the learning system, teaching methods, and educational management in this new era of education.&lt;/p&gt;

Preliminary Results of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Community Bone Health Screening in Manir, Kuala Terengganu using Bone Densitometry Calcaneal Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) in Conjunction with Clinical Risk Factors.

Preliminary Results of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Community Bone Health Screening in Manir, Kuala Terengganu using Bone Densitometry Calcaneal Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) in Conjunction with Clinical Risk Factors.

Analysis of The Need for Developing A Module on Writing Skills in Arabic Essays from The Perspective of Models and Teaching Methods of The Module

The purpose of this study was to explore the opinions of Arabic language instructors at the Public University of Malaysia (UAM) regarding the various aspects of teaching the module on essay writing skills. The collected data was used to support the development of the M-KMKBA module for Arabic language essay writing skills. This qualitative study involved 12 participants who were instructors of Arabic language from four different universities: Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). Data was collected using a set of interview protocols and analyzed thematically. The interview transcripts were analyzed based on themes and categories to obtain the findings for the need’s analysis and the development of the M-KMKBA module. The general findings of the study revealed that all instructors agreed on the importance of using a variety of teaching methods and approaches for the module, including communicative, direct, interactive, eclectic, and translation methods.

Factors That Influence The Practice of Green Technology among Undergraduate Students At Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

Factors That Influence The Practice of Green Technology among Undergraduate Students At Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

Digital Storytelling-Based Tasks on Speaking Classroom; Seen from ESL Learners’ Lenses

Over the course of a decade, digital storytelling (DST) has earned a growing amount of attention as a strong instructional resource that has grabbed the interest of scholars. Digital storytelling (DST) has emerged as a promising pedagogical approach that could help moderate the usefulness of media in the classroom. Myriad studies have demonstrated the positive effects of digital storytelling (DST) on the students’ language skills; however, these studies rarely include ESL students and their realistic depictions of everyday basis. To address the void, this quantitative study aimed to survey ESL students' point of view of DST-based task on speaking classroom. Relying on Anwar's (2016) TBLT approach instruction, the current study involving thirty-four students studying at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Malaysia. The statistical evidence indicated ESL students perceive the implementation of digital storytelling-based tasks improves their motivation while allowing them to develop ideas and collaborate among groupmates. Implications and recommendations for future studies are discussed.&#x0D;

VICINITY CONDITION OF ONLINE EXAMINATION: DOES IT AFFECT THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCES OF PRE-UNIVERSITY STUDENTS?

Physical attendance of students in a hall for examinations is no longer being practiced during the global pandemic of Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). Most universities, including Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) have adapted to online exams. This paper presents an analysis of online final examination performances of 251 students from the Science and Medicine Foundation Centre, UniSZA who completed foundation for 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 sessions. The objective of this research is to compare the final scores of Semester 2 for the students from both sessions to see if there is a significant difference between the two, based on subjects of Mathematics II, Physics II, Chemistry II, Biology II and Information Technology II. Students were taking online exams at home and university’s accommodation for the students from the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 session intakes, respectively. The statistical analysis was performed by comparing two means to attain standard deviation via the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The P-value for each test is calculated to lead to rejection of null hypothesis, which is less than 0.05. The results revealed that the p-value for all subjects is less than 0.001, implying that the probability value for all subjects is less than the significance level at 0.05, which is 1.6449. As a result, the null hypothesis is rejected for all five subjects, supporting the research hypothesis. It was concluded that the performances of the students from the 2019/2020 session obtained a higher score than the performances of the students from the 2020/2021 session.