Undergraduate University Research Articles

A Qualitative Exploration of Factors Affecting Academic Achievement of University Students

The purpose of this study was to identify the prospected factors affecting undergraduate university students' academic achievement. This study adopts a qualitative approach to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of university students regarding the factors that impact their academic achievement. The study's general population includes all of Punjab's universities and education departments. Purposive sampling was used to select the desired participants for the interview, and 10 participants were chosen. A semi-structured interview was used to gather qualitative data. Participants' interview responses were transcribed for qualitative data analysis, and thematic analysis was performed. Seven main themes (e.g., family, environment) and all sub-themes were categorized into positive (e.g., Supportive family, self-drive) and negative factors (e.g., Performance anxiety, holistic environment at home). The findings have implications for educators, policymakers, and students. The results may serve as a guide for students and education institutions seeking to raise university students' academic achievement.

Challenges in Implementation of Integrated Curriculum-Insights from Faculty’s Perspectives

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the barriers regarding implementing integrated undergraduate curriculum perceived by medical faculty.Methodology: From October - November 2023, a qualitative exploratory study was carried out at undergraduate medical college that successfully implemented integrated curriculum. We recorded and transcribed a total of twelve semi-structured interviews. Faculty perspectives of the issues preventing a smooth transition to an integrated curriculum were investigated both before and after it was implemented, using a thematic content analysis approach.Results: Faculty who had seen the programme firsthand determined that four initial barriers were genuine: faculty reluctance, a lack of rewards, inadequate resources, and a lack of preparation. Following the event, four more barriers were found, including a lack of administration, a disregard for the concerns of the faculty, a communication breakdown, and challenges in determining suitable assessment.Conclusions: Curriculum integration at undergraduate medical institutions may fail for a number of reasons if they are overlooked. The regulatory agency should establish relevant and adequate policies to guarantee the control over the obstacles.

A Study on Ways to Improve the Ideological and Political Teaching Ability of Teachers of Engineering Economics -- A Case Study of Local Undergraduate Colleges

A Study on Ways to Improve the Ideological and Political Teaching Ability of Teachers of Engineering Economics -- A Case Study of Local Undergraduate Colleges

Cross-sectional study examining the association between diet quality and the prevalence of anxiety and depression in UK undergraduate students.

The prevalence of mental health issues among UK undergraduate students is growing, and poor diet quality appears to be a risk factor for poor mental health although with limited research in this area. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the cross-sectional associations between diet quality and common mental disorders (CMD) such as depression and anxiety in UK undergraduate students. A cross-sectional survey consisting of demographic information and validated questionnaires (the Short-Form Food Frequency Questionnaire [SFFFQ] and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]) was conducted to measure diet quality and anxiety and depression in young adults in 44 UK-based universities. Multiple regression analysis adjusting for confounding factors was used to assess the associations between them. Undergraduate university students (n = 202, 67% female) with a mean age of 20.9 ± 3.6 years and a mean body mass index (n = 170) of 22.6 ± 3.2 kg/m2 took part in the study. Prevalence of anxiety was high, with 40% of the sample having an anxiety score in the severe range (≥12 points) while the prevalence of depression was lower, with 6% of the population having a depression score in the severe range (≥12 points). Diet quality was significantly higher for females than males (p = 0.034) and was poor for 38% of the sample, being more common in males compared to females, although not significantly so (43% and 36%, respectively). Diet quality was inversely associated with anxiety (β = -0.427; p = 0.029) and was more likely to be associated with anxiety in females than males (β = 0.743; p = 0.043). No significant relationship between diet quality and depression was found. Better self-reported health, father's qualification and smoking status were also associated with less anxiety and depression. This research supports other research suggesting that UK universities should explore whether the implementation of dietary interventions and improving the food environment would be a cost-effective option to reduce the high prevalence of anxiety among students.

Parental, Peers and Teachers’ Factors as Correlates of Career Choice among Adekunle Ajasin University Undergraduates, Ondo State, Nigeria

Parental, Peers and Teachers’ Factors as Correlates of Career Choice among Adekunle Ajasin University Undergraduates, Ondo State, Nigeria

"Good Morning, My Dear Dr." Openings and Closings in University Students’ Academic Emails

The current study investigates the openings and closings in the emails of Jordanian undergraduate students to their professors. It is significant as it provides invaluable insights into different aspects of student-professor interpersonal communication. This study seeks to fill a gap in the literature by examining how Jordanian university undergraduates open and close their first-contact emails to their professors. This study uses both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The sample of this study consisted of 200 authentic Arabic email messages drawn from a professor’s mail inbox. The data were analyzed based on Salazar-Campillo & Codina-Espurz’s typology of opening and closing. The findings reveal that the emails included all the opening and closing moves reported by previous research, however, with clear variation. The findings also show that openings and closings are used as politeness strategies to create a positive tone for student-professor academic interactions. Moreover, the study concludes that the emails resorted to more informal opening and closing formulas. The emails in this study do not conform to the norms and etiquette of student-professor email interaction. Furthermore, this study reports the use of emojis in almost all moves of the opening and closing sequences. Based on the findings, future studies are recommended.

Sustainability and sustainable development values in creative practices among design undergraduates of Russia and Malaysia

Purpose The aim of this study is to gauge the consideration toward sustainability and sustainable development in the creative process or activities in design practices among the design undergraduates of University A, Russia, and University B, Malaysia. The beliefs, attitudes and intentions toward all the dimensions of sustainability – environmental, social and economic – were assessed and compared between both institutions. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire was administrated to 127 design undergraduates from University A, Russia, and 135 design undergraduates from University B, Malaysia, to assess their beliefs, attitudes and intentions toward sustainability and sustainability development in their creative practices. Findings The outputs of this investigation suggested that the courses related to education for sustainable development that preached in design programs at University A, Russia, have developed appropriate beliefs, attitudes and intentions toward sustainability and sustainable development in creative process or activities among the learners on environmental and social sustainability issues. The subject on sustainable development offered in design programs at University B, Malaysia, has mold positive beliefs, attitudes and intentions on the environmental sustainability issues in creative practices among the design undergraduates. The outcomes of this study shed some light on the effectiveness of the courses related to education for sustainable development of both institutions in building the appropriate mindset in the creative process during design activities. Originality/value This study on the consideration of sustainability and sustainable development in creative practices is novel and the outputs of this study can carve the path for an effective education for sustainable development courses in the design programs, specifically in the context of building the appropriate beliefs, attitudes and intentions toward sustainability and sustainable development in creative practices among the future designers.

Impact of E-Marketing on Book Purchase Tendencies: An Empirical Study on University Undergraduate Students

Purpose: This study investigates the effects of e-marketing on customer behaviour in book purchases regarding e-mail marketing, social media marketing, and mobile marketing. It also examines the factors influencing the book-purchasing decision and how each e-marketing channel affects customer behaviour. These findings will be essential context for book industry marketers and stakeholders.Methodology: This quantitative analysis was drawn from survey data in which 205 university undergraduate students from 3 public universities were participated. It is designed to determine the customer's level of acceptance of this or that e-marketing strategy. Regression analysis has been employed to test the relationship between e-marketing strategies and book-buying behaviour, and cross-tabulation has been used to detect demographic patterns.Findings: Unlike social media and mobile marketing, e-mail marketing does not affect consumers' intent to purchase books. Regression analysis shows the significance of concentrated marketing campaigns in influencing consumer behaviour.Practical Implication: The study's insights might help those in the book sector improve their online advertising campaigns. Opportunities in the digital book market are increasing, and publishers and merchants may exploit them by targeting specific customer categories with tailored content.Originality: This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the different e-marketing strategies that affect people's decisions to buy books and the demographic factors that play a crucial role in creating these effects.

Understanding Muslim consumers’ purchase intentions toward counterfeit sporting goods

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to investigate the determinants of purchase intentions for utilitarian and hedonic counterfeit sporting goods among Muslim’ consumers. The moderating effect of income and status consumption was also examined.Design/methodology/approachQuestionnaires were distributed among male undergraduate university students who were consumers of sports goods. A total of 360 valid and usable questionnaires were collected and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics.FindingsThe results showed that perceived risk, personal gratification, religiosity, information susceptibility and normative susceptibility all have a positive and significant effect on negative attitudes toward counterfeit sports goods. The effect of a negative attitude toward counterfeit goods was also negative and significant for the intention to purchase utilitarian and hedonistic goods. Income was not a moderator in the relationship between negative attitudes and the intention to purchase utilitarian and hedonic goods. However, the moderating effect of status consumption on the intention to purchase both utilitarian and hedonic goods was significant.Research limitations/implicationsThe use of a male-only student sample potentially limits the generalization of the findings, but not the underlying relationships between the variables. Efforts to discourage or prevent the purchase of counterfeit sporting goods should highlight the risk and reduced personal gratification associated with purchasing counterfeit products, while also appealing to a person’s faith-based ethics.Originality/valueThis study produces a novel model explaining the purchase intentions for utilitarian and hedonic counterfeit sporting goods. This model can inform the development of anti-counterfeiting strategies in Muslim countries.

A Cross-Sectional Study on Prevalence and Association Between Sociodemographic Factors, Body Mass Index and the Development of Eating Disorders among Undergraduates of University of Cyberjaya

Eating disorders are severe conditions marked by disrupted eating habits, thoughts, and emotions, with primary types being Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-eating disorder. The prevalence of these disorders is rising globally and pose significant threats to both mental and physical health. This study aims to determine the prevalence of developing eating disorders among undergraduates of University of Cyberjaya and to determine the associations between sociodemographic factors, gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), and the development of eating disorders. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was done among undergraduates of University of Cyberjaya across seven faculties of study who fulfil the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Stratified random sampling followed by convenience sampling was used in this research. Data collection was done by distributing online questionnaires. Out of 250 respondents, 76% of the participants were female, 65.6% were Malays and 57.6% were aged 21 to 25 years old. This study showed that 54% of the participants are at risk of developing an eating disorder. This study also proved that there is significant association between BMI (p = 0.05) and ethnicity (p = 0.01) with the development of eating disorders. However, no significant associations were found for gender (p = 0.91), age (p = 0.98), residency (p = 0.62), faculty of study (p = 0.90), and monthly allowance (p = 0.83). These results indicate the critical need for targeted interventions focusing on BMI and ethnic backgrounds to address and mitigate the risk of eating disorders among undergraduate students from University of Cyberjaya.

College Students' Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Startups A Study on Motivations, Challenges, and Educational Implications in Kanniyakumari District, Tamil Nadu

Startups play a crucial role in fostering innovation and economic growth globally. Understanding college students' perceptions and attitudes towards startups is essential for shaping effective entrepreneurship education programs and policies. This paper explores the perceptions and attitudes of college students towards startups, examining their motivations, perceived challenges, and the implications for entrepreneurship education. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather insights from a diverse sample of undergraduate college students across various disciplines and educational backgrounds in Kanniyakumari District.

An Examination of the Use of Oral Communication Strategies by Second-Year University Undergraduate Students in Intensive Speaking Class

For many university-level EFL students, speaking in a second language can be quite a challenge. It often involves grappling with the complexities of the L2 language. To help tackle these hurdles and boost students' speaking confidence, Oral Communication Strategies can be quite beneficial. In this research, we used a mixed-method approach, which included surveys via questionnaires and in-depth interviews. We received responses from 110 completed questionnaires and gained further data by interviewing 10 students. The findings revealed that students tend to rely on Oral Communication Strategies when they face difficulties in communicating in a second language. They often resort to such strategies, such as using gestures, facial expressions, miming, or sound imitation, especially when they struggle to explain a vocabulary item. These results are anticipated to be a valuable resource for educators and practitioners, assisting them in tailoring the curriculum and providing a more enriching learning experience for students learning a second language. The study's findings can help language learners and educators in higher education by using oral communication strategies to create effective learning environments for improved communication.

Development of an elective course on dietary supplements for undergraduate college students

Development of an elective course on dietary supplements for undergraduate college students

Language and communication implication of artificial intelligence on selected Nigerian university undergraduates

Language and communication implication of artificial intelligence on selected Nigerian university undergraduates

Assessment of Factors that Affect Students’ Business Writing Skills

Writing is a language skill that used for effective communication. The research set out to identify the most common reasons why students struggle with business writing and to provide them with strategies to become better writers overall. Nazareth Art and Science College undergraduates have been the focus of this study, which has employed qualitative and quantitative methodologies to probe the difficulties they face. A total of 106 students from Nazareth College of Art and Science took part in the study. Questionnaire was employed for data collection. The researchers analyzed the survey data using descriptive statistics. The results of this research show that learners had a lot of trouble with their business writing. Business writing can be challenging for students for a variety of reasons, including traditional teaching approach, insufficient practice, lack of motivation and lack of sufficient vocabularies. The study suggests that students' writing could be enhanced with enough practice, the right methods of teaching writing, smaller class sizes, frequent feedback on errors, and encouraging students to shift their perspective on the importance of writing.

Japanese cultural adaptation and validation of the Social Emotional Health Survey-Higher Education

ABSTRACT Objectives Educators in both Western and non-Western contexts are increasingly acknowledging the necessity of screening for students’ psychological dispositions to identify and effectively support at-risk students. The Social-Emotional Health Survey-Higher Education (SEHS-HE) has the potential to offer a practical yet comprehensive measure of positive psychological dispositions among Japanese higher education students. Methods The present study validated the SEHS – HE with a sample of 434 Japanese undergraduate university students aged 19–25 (Male = 184; Female = 247; gender not identified = 3). Results The confirmatory factor analyses supported the internal validity, concurrent validity, and internal and external reliability of the SEHS-HE with a second-order model. Higher covitality scores were associated with higher subjective wellbeing and lower psychological distress, which provided evidence of concurrent validity. These findings support further research into using the SEHS – HE as a universal wellness screener in Japanese higher education students to identify the social-emotional strengths of all students. It can also help identify students vulnerable to developing mental health disorders and needing extra social-emotional support services. Conclusions Further study is required to confirm the findings and establish how to use the SEHS – HE most effectively with Japanese higher education students in a culturally sensitive manner.

Experimental Study of the Absorption Coefficient of Acoustic Insulators for Undergraduate University Students

Objective: This study investigates the techniques for measuring the acoustic absorption coefficient that use an impedance tube, to evaluate their use by students of scientific-technical degrees. Theoretical Framework: This topic presents the concept of absorption coefficient and how it is obtained using impedance tubes. Method: The absorption coefficient of an acoustic insulator is measured as a function of frequency, thickness and density, with an experimental system that uses the transfer function method in an impedance tube. Results and Discussion: The results reveal that the absorption coefficient varies with frequency, being lower at low frequencies. An increase in thickness and/or density produces better acoustic absorption performance. The results are compared with others obtained with an experimental system that uses the standing wave method in an impedance tube. The agreement between the two methods is quite good. Research Implications: The advantages and disadvantages of the two methods are discussed, and their use by students of scientific-technical degrees is assessed. It is recommended to use the transfer function method when students work more autonomously, for example, in final degree projects. Originality/Value: This work offers teachers information related to the experimental study of the acoustic absorption coefficient, which allows them to choose the most appropriate method for each student based on their ability to work autonomously and their knowledge.

Enhancing Respiratory Function and Cardiovascular Endurance through Intensive Yogic Intervention: A Comprehensive Study

Background. Optimal respiratory function and cardiovascular endurance are integral to overall health and athletic performance. Yogic interventions have emerged as potential strategies to enhance physiological and physical parameters. These metrics not only unlock the human body’s potential but also play a vital role in increasing sports performance. Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured yogic regimen in improving respiratory function and cardiovascular endurance in young male adults, shedding light on yoga’s role as a complementary approach to physical fitness enhancement. Materials and methods. Forty (N=40) male undergraduate university students (aged 18 to 25 years) were randomly assigned to the experimental (n=20) and control group (n=20). The experimental investigation centered on vital capacity (VC), both positive and negative breath holding times (PBHT and NBHT), peak flow rate (PFR), and cardiovascular endurance (CVE). Using an analytical research approach, a randomized pre-test-post-test-controlled group design was implemented. The experimental group engaged in daily yoga sessions supervised by certified instructors, incorporating various asanas, pranayama techniques, and meditation, while the control group maintained their regular lifestyle. Pre- and post-intervention assessments of respiratory parameters and cardiovascular endurance were conducted using standardized tests. Statistical analyses, including Levene’s test for normality, and paired t-tests for intra-group comparisons, were performed using SPSS software (IBM, version 25, Chicago). The experiment lasted for six weeks, with a significance level set at α = 0.05. Results. The paired t-test analyses demonstrated significant improvements in VC t(19) = 4.96, and p <0.000; PBHT t(19) = 6.34, and p <0.000; NBHT t(19) = 4.18, and p <0.001; PFR t(19) = 7.02, and p <0.000; as well as CVE t(19) = 3.96, and p <0.001, within the experimental group. Conversely, no significant changes were observed in the control group. Conclusions. The findings underscore the effectiveness of a six-week yogic intervention in enhancing respiratory function and cardiovascular endurance among young male adults. Integrating yoga into exercise routines may yield substantial benefits for physical fitness improvement.

The College Student Adaptive and Maladaptive Academic Behaviors Scale: Development, Reliability, and Validity

The purpose of this study was to validate a new measure of undergraduate college students’ responses to perceived academic difficulties, the College Student Adaptative and Maladaptive Academic Behaviors Scale (CSAMABS). Participants were undergraduate college students assessed at two timepoints ( N = 598). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and associated modifications to items resulted in three subscales indicative of avoidance behaviors, active engagement, and academic support seeking, each with strong internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Avoidance behaviors were positively associated with both procrastination and cognitive behavioral avoidance. Students scoring lower on avoidance and higher on active engagement had higher cumulative grade point averages (GPAs) both at the end of the semester in which data were collected and at the end of the following semester. Support seeking was unassociated with GPA at either timepoint. The CSAMABS is a reliable and valid measure of responses to perceived academic difficulties specific to the postsecondary context.

Assessing the relationship between anxiety and the adoption of Artificial Intelligence tools among mathematics preservice teachers

Many revelations have been made about the revolution that artificial intelligence (AI) has brought to the education sector, including the opening of opportunities for personalised instruction, boosting the quality of content developed by teachers while preparing for lessons, and improving the quality of classroom evaluations. Despite the many benefits of AI adoption, there have been concerns and apprehensions about its use in the educational sector. A survey was conducted to investigate the relationship between AI anxiety and the adoption of artificial intelligence tools among mathematics preservice teachers who are university undergraduates studying mathematics education in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The study sample consisted of 129 mathematics preservice teachers selected through purposive sampling. The AI anxiety scale and AI adoption scale were used for data collection after being tested for reliability. The data collected through the scales were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study revealed that the mathematics preservice teachers had a high level of AI anxiety and adopted AI at a moderate level. The study further showed that there is a significant weak relationship between mathematics preservice teachers' AI-Anxiety and AI adoption. Also, there is no significant gender difference in mathematics preservice teachers' AI anxiety and AI adoption. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that teacher education programs include AI and digital literacy in the curriculum to prepare students for the seamless integration of AI. Additionally, targeted interventions should be implemented to reduce the anxiety exhibited by preservice teachers.