Visual Aids Research Articles

Practices Used to Diagnose Hearing Impaired Students with Learning Difficulties in Mathematics

This study aimed to examine how teachers perceive the diagnostic practices used to identify mathematical learning difficulties among hearing-impaired students. This study adopted a quantitative research design, sampling 300 teachers using simple random sampling. We collected data using a self-developed questionnaire and analyzed the data using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS. The study highlights the importance of visual aids, non-verbal assessment, and teamwork between the audiologist and educator to identify hearing-impaired students. Teachers believe that we need to design more versatile tools in addition to norm-referenced tests. This underscores the shortcomings in the diagnostic tools. There was a lack of specialized diagnostic equipment for both hearing and learning disabilities, as reported during the observation. It also highlights the need for continuous practice improvement and excellent collaboration among all stakeholders. These findings contribute to the broader literature on inclusive education and underscore the necessity for innovation in diagnostic tools to support students with hearing impairments better. In this area, emerging technologies should be the focus of further research to improve diagnosis.

Process evaluation of the initial implementation of the Moments that Matter parenting program in Kenya.

The Moments that Matter® parenting program aims to promote nurturing care and healthy early childhood development (ECD) through monthly home visits and monthly community group meetings that are delivered by ECD promoters and coordinated with faith leaders in rural Western Kenya. We designed a process evaluation in August 2023 during the first quarter of program implementation. We conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with caregivers, ECD promoters, faith leaders, and program staff to capture their program experiences, assess program quality, and explore the implementation barriers and facilitators during this early stage of program roll-out. Although ECD promoters delivered the program with fidelity, the roles and responsibilities of faith leaders were relatively weaker and inconsistent. Key facilitators of quality implementation included visual aids of key messages and supportive supervision. Barriers included a lack of clarity about faith leaders' roles and relatively long group session duration. We highlight several key recommendations for improving fidelity, quality, and eventual program effects with respect to enhancingnurturing care and early child development. Overall, our study showcases how a process evaluation conducted during the early phase of program implementation can reveal practical insights that can be used to inform program adaptations and quality improvement.

Abstract P402: The Impact of Preeclampsia Education in Rural Communities

Preeclampsia (PE) and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. There are 4,000 PE cases/year in IA. Rural counties are at a significantly higher risk of pregnancy-related mortality. A lack of PE education regarding signs and symptoms may contribute to this risk. PE complications and mortality may be preventable with early implementation of patient education on preeclampsia during pregnancy. Our objective was to determine if implementing a magnet as an intervention increases patients' knowledge of the signs and symptoms of PE. A magnet that includes common signs and symptoms of PE was designed to serve as an educational visual aid for patients. Pregnant patients ≥18 years old from two hospitals in Northwest IA were recruited. A pre-survey was given at a prenatal appointment prior to receiving the magnet. The post-magnet survey was administered during admission for delivery. The control group did not receive the magnet. Pre- and post-surveys asked about preeclampsia and current understanding, if they received a magnet, if it was referenced, number of healthcare visits, questions during visits about PE, and if they were diagnosed with PE. Between 8/23-5/24, 62 pre- and 83 post-magnet surveys were collected. Statistical analyses were performed using a 95% confidence interval with p<0.05 considered significant. Ages ranged from 18-42 years old, with majority Caucasian patients (69% in pre-survey and 58% in post-survey). Levels of highest education obtained ranged from 4 th grade to doctoral degree, with the majority completing high school as the highest level of education (29%).The magnet group rated their level of understanding of PE as good to excellent which was higher than both pre-intervention and control groups. Both control and magnet groups identified more symptoms and complications of PE on the post-survey compared to the pre-survey. Both control and magnet groups were noted to have increased discussions about preeclampsia with their physician. Lastly, both groups had increased knowledge on what to do if they developed symptoms on the post-survey compared to pre-survey responses. Of the magnet group, 71% thought receiving a magnet was helpful to increase awareness of PE. Implementation of a magnet increased patient literacy regarding the signs, symptoms, and complications of PE, discussions with physicians, and knowledge of what to do if patients develop symptoms of PE.

Integration of the Functional Hazard Assessment Within a Model-Based Systems Engineering Framework

A major challenge in developing novel aircraft concepts is demonstrating the safety of increasingly complex and multifunctional aircraft systems. Aircraft manufacturers are adopting model-based systems engineering approaches to develop these new aircraft. The safety assessment process follows suit with model-based safety assessment. However, system and safety engineers still transfer information that is mainly document-based during the system architecting process. This paper aims to improve this process. First, a framework for developing system architecture specification models is introduced using the Architecture Analysis and Design Integrated Approach (ARCADIA)/Capella methodology and tool, illustrated with an aircraft landing gear braking system. Secondly, the paper proposes enhancements to the system specification model to enable functional hazard assessment and to capture the results within the system architecture specification model, i.e., using color-coding of system functions according to the severity of their associated failures as a visual aid to the system architect. In addition, the proposed features in the system specification model can help the safety engineer analyze failure relationships better. In summary, the proposed method improves consistency between the system architect and the safety expert in making safety-informed architecting decisions early in the development process, improving its effectiveness.

Exploring Quadrilaterals: An Interactive Task for 7th Grade Students Using GeoGebra Classroom

Using a Dynamic Geometry System (DGS) students can engage in a dynamic learning process that allows them to experiment, create strategies, make conjectures, argue, and deduce mathematical properties. A DGS enables the introduction of proofs, by providing visual aids. The proof of the conjectures made emerges as the next step towards formalising and understanding the contents covered and the introduction of automated deduction systems at schools can be an added value. The implementation of automated deduction systems in schools faces several challenges, such as curriculum-issues, teacher knowledge and the discrepancy between automated theorem provers and traditional practices of proving in schools. Synthetic provers based on a set of inference rules and forward chaining reasoning may provide a possible help to these challenges. With the aim of introducing formal proofs and inspiring students towards this goal, a geometric conjecture was chosen for 7th grade students to engage with, based on a rule set discussed in a previous work, “A rule based theorem prover: an introduction to proofs in secondary schools”. The study also aimed to showcase the application of a Geometry Automated Theorem Prover within the classroom setting. A sequence of tasks was created for students to complete using GeoGebra Classroom. In the first phase, they were asked to identify quadrilaterals, construct a parallelogram, and measure sides and angles until they formulated a conjecture, which was strengthened by the dynamic possibility of changing the constructed parallelogram. In the second phase, the students were provided with four rules and were asked to justify their results using these rules. By the end of these justifications, the students had a complete proof of the initial conjecture. A short video of the proof made using JGEx (Java Geometry Expert) was also shown to the students.

Resources on lymphedema surgery: How effective are they for patients?

Online patient education materials (PEMs) on lymphedema surgery were assessed for quality, readability, and content. A total of 37 PEMs were identified, primarily authored by academic/medical organizations. Readability scores indicated materials were difficult to read, with an average Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level of 10.4. PEM Assessment Tools showed acceptable understandability (72.3%) but poor actionability (28.5%). PEMs often lacked information on surgical risks, postoperative care, and long-term follow-up. Simplifying language and adding visual aids could improve PEM effectiveness.

Impact of dispensing optical, nonoptical, and electronic devices on the visual function of students attending the schools for the blind

Background: Many students attending schools for the blind have some vision that can be made use of to improve their vision function. Aims: Our study aimed to assess the impact of optical, nonoptical, and electronic devices on vision function of visually impaired students. Setting and Design: This prospective interventional study was conucted in schools for the blind in western Maharashtra, India. Methods: Students attending schools for the blind were evaluated with history-taking, visual acuity tests, ocular examinations, fundoscopy, and low vision workup in 2022–2023. The LV Prasad Functional Vision Questionnaire assessed impact on vision function, before and after 3-month adaptation period. Results: Five hundred and thirty-five students aged 5–25 years with visual acuity <6/60 in the better eye from eight schools were evaluated. Among them, 172 (31.77%) received low vision aids, with 144 (84.70%) using nonoptical devices such as NoIR filters, Caps, Typo scopes, and White canes. Optical devices such as telescopes and magnifiers in 35 and electronic devices like portable video magnifier in 11 students. Forty-six received all three types. There was a significant enhancement (P < 0.001) in tasks related to distance, near vision, mobility, and outdoor lighting conditions for students using nonoptical devices alone or combined with optical aids and video magnifiers. Among the 119 (70%) students using nonoptical devices, 80 (67.22%) exclusively used them, while 42 (32.77%) combined them with other aids, showing even more substantial improvement. Conclusion: Optical, nonoptical and electronic, when used together improved vision function of visually impaired students.

Challenges and Needs in Implementing Sexual Education for Deaf Students: A Case Study from Indonesia

The primary aim of sex education is to provide accurate information on handling risky sexual behavior. For deaf students, who may struggle with complex concepts, effective sex education is crucial to safeguard them against sexual assault and risky sexual behavior. This study examined the implementation of sex education in special schools for the deaf in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, focusing on the challenges faced by educators in delivering this sensitive content. Utilizing a case study and qualitative methodologies, this research gathered insights from school principals and teachers who took part in group discussions. Findings reveal that deaf students face significant challenges with sexual conduct, both individually and in their interactions with others. Despite incorporating sex education into science, religion, and self-development classes, teachers encounter difficulties in addressing sensitive topics and preventing age-inappropriate behaviors. Educators require specialized educational materials to address key topics such as body awareness, physical changes, reproductive health, relationships, pregnancy, and sensitive content. Such materials must be designed with clear visual aids and simple language to effectively meet the learning needs of deaf students. There is a pressing need for resources that facilitate understanding while preventing the imitation of inappropriate behaviors. To enhance sex education for deaf students, it is essential to develop and implement tailored educational resources that use visual aids and straightforward language. By addressing the unique needs of these students, educators can more effectively convey critical information, thereby reducing the risk of inappropriate behavior.

Effectiveness of preventive intervention programmes aiming to improve oral health in children who have undergone caries-related dental extractions: a rapid review.

To determine the effectiveness of preventive interventions in children who have undergone caries-related dental extractions. Rapid review across five databases (CENTRAL, Ovid Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus). Quality was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 tool. Five studies were included, all randomised controlled trials involving pre-and/or post-extractions activity. Three studies involved oral health education (computer game, motivational interviewing, visual aids), one delivered clinical prevention (fissure sealants), and one an enhanced prevention programme combining additional health education and a clinical intervention (fluoride varnish). Retention was mixed (55%-80% in the intervention groups). Of the three studies measuring caries, all reported less caries development in the test group. However, only a study involving a dental nurse-delivered structured conversation, informed by motivational interviewing, showed an improvement in oral health. Two studies reporting on plaque and gingival bleeding had conflicting results. A study reporting on subsequent dental attendance did not demonstrate a clear improvement. Few published studies have explored prevention-based interventions in high caries-risk children requiring dental extractions. Whilst evidence of clinical benefit of preventive interventions in this population is limited, the potential use of contemporary behaviour change techniques appears promising. There is an urgent need for more high-quality longer-term trials using contemporary methodologies.

Embracing Opportunities and Navigating Challenges: Teaching Pronunciation in the EFL Context of Nepal

English is a vital medium for international communication and academic progress in Nepal, making the mastery of pronunciation crucial for students aiming to thrive in a globalized world. This study explores the intricate landscape of pronunciation instruction in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) settings, examining various perspectives, challenges and effective teaching methods. Factors influencing pronunciation acquisition include learners’ native language, exposure to the target language, motivation and instructional strategies. Pronunciation instruction covers phonemes, intonation, stress, rhythm and connected speech, all essential for effective spoken communication. Challenges in teaching pronunciation involve neglect, first language interference and reception issues, highlighting the need for innovative teaching strategies. Effective methods include minimal pairs, modeling and imitation, audio recordings, phonetic symbols, pronunciation drills, visual aids, error correction, contextualization and integration with other language skills. This study emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to pronunciation instruction, raising awareness of its role in language education, and promoting continuous professional development for educators. Future research should explore innovative pronunciation teaching methods, considering new trends in language education and pedagogical advancements. By prioritizing pronunciation instruction and using evidence-based practices, educators can help learners achieve greater fluency, accuracy and confidence in spoken communication within diverse linguistic and cultural contexts.

TEACHER'S EXPERIENCE IN TEACHING ENGLISH TOWARDS DEAF STUDENTS

This study examines the experiences and strategies of a teacher specialized in English instruction for deaf students at special need school in Medan North Sumatera Indonesia. Since 2017 the teacher has navigated significant challenges, including communication barriers and emotional strain, by integrating sign language (SIBI and Bisindo) into daily interactions and instructional methods. Initial self-learning of sign language, followed by formal training from the North Sumatera Language Center, highlights the critical role of effective communication in enhancing educational outcomes for deaf students. The teacher’s adaptive strategies include simplifying lesson content, employing visual aids, and incorporating sign language into English instruction. Innovative methods such as “English day” in morning assemblies underscore the teacher’s commitment to engaging students despite their disabilities. However, obstacles persist, including limited vocabulary, the complexities of teaching a foreign language to students struggling with their narrative language, and systematic issues like lack of resources and societal skepticism. Emotional management and building trust with students are central to the teacher’s approach, demonstrating a holistic commitment to their emotional and academic development. The teacher’s resilience and empathy, supported by the school’s flexible approach, have fostered positive student engagement and progress.

Investigating new solutions for a general form of q$$ \mathfrak{q} $$‐deformed equation: An analytical and numerical study

SummaryThis paper contributes to the study of a new model called the ‐deformed equation or the ‐deformed tanh‐Gordon model. To understand physical systems with violated symmetries. We utilize the ‐expansion approach to solve the ‐deformed equation for specific parameter values. This method generates solutions that provide valuable insights into the system's dynamics and behavior. To verify the accuracy of our solutions, we also apply the finite difference technique to obtain numerical solutions to the ‐deformed equation. This dual approach ensures the reliability of our results. We present our findings using tables and graphics to enhance clarity and facilitate comparison between the analytical and numerical solutions. These visual aids help readers better understand the similarities and differences between the two approaches. The ‐deformation is significant as it models physical systems with nonstandard symmetry features, like extensivity, offering a more accurate representation of real‐world phenomena. The growing significance of this equation across various disciplines highlights its potential in advancing our understanding of complex physical systems. This paper contributes valuable knowledge about the ‐deformed equation, demonstrating its potential for accurately modeling physical systems with violated symmetries. Through both analytical and numerical techniques, we offer comprehensive solutions and validate their accuracy, with graphical representations enhancing the clarity and understanding of our results. This exploration of ‐deformation advances modeling techniques, providing a more precise depiction of real‐world processes with nonstandard symmetry features.

Qualitative evaluation of a package of implementation strategies codesigned to support the introduction of multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) for pregnant women in Bamako, Mali.

Mali national policy recommends that women take iron and folic acid supplements (IFA) from the time of the first antenatal care (ANC) visit, throughout pregnancyand during the first 3 months after delivery. In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated their ANC guidelines to recommend the United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP) formulation of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) in the context of rigorous research, including implementation research. In Bamako, Mali, a codesign process was used to tailor antenatal care MMS packaging and counselling materials aimed at optimizing delivery and uptake of and adherence to MMS. This paper presents the codesign process along with the results of a post-intervention qualitative assessment to evaluate the behaviour change intervention. At the conclusion of the intervention, we conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 24 women who had received the intervention and six pharmacy managers from the six health centres participating in the study. We conducted two focus groups with midwives who had delivered the intervention and two group discussions with family members of women who had received the intervention. Respondent perspectives reveal an easy experience transitioning from previously used IFA. Women and providers concur that the intervention counselling materials and visual aids were instrumental in influencing the perceived benefit and uptake of MMS. Family members play an influential role in pregnant women's decision-making regarding MMS uptake. MMSand the associated implementation strategies developed through the codesign process were found to be a highly acceptable intervention.

An LLM-Based Visualization and Analysis Aid for a Secondary Use Clinical Data Platform.

This work introduces a novel approach to facilitate clinical research on secondary clinical data by integrating an LLM-based chatbot within a specialized platform called data hotel. The platform is designed to empower clinical researchers within our institution by enabling the generation of research hypotheses from secondary use patient data sources. Our focus in this work is on the deployment and functionality of the LLM-based chatbot within the data hotel ecosystem. The aim is to aid medical experts in visualizing and analyzing data sourced from the platform but also to enable the seamless storage of the generated code, enhancing the efficiency and reproducibility of the research process. This integration represents a significant advancement in leveraging LLM capabilities to enhance the utility and accessibility of clinical research platforms.

Remarkable things: Visual evidence and excess at Charcot’s Salpêtrière

ABSTRACT Dr. Jean-Martin Charcot (1825–1893) pioneered the use of visual aids in his lectures at the Hôpital de la Salpêtrière. He deployed photographs, casts, diagrams, graphs, drawings, lantern slides, and even patients to help the audience understand his innovative diagnoses, but that same visual imagery also informed his own conceptualizations of pathology. Charcot, whom Sigmund Freud famously called a “visuel,” made drawings of his patients and their autopsied organs while also encouraging the art-making of his many collaborators and protégés at the Salpêtrière in the last quarter of the nineteenth century. Their “scientific artworks” epitomize the entanglement of art and medical science at the hospital. This article examines the role of visual media in diagnosing pathology under Charcot’s aegis, bringing to light images and objects that catalogue the case of Ambroise Bourdy. Here was a perfect example of the male hysteric, according to Charcot: a “robust” blacksmith and father who developed a hysterical contracture after a workplace injury. In 1882, Charcot’s Salpêtrière colleagues—including Dr. Henri Parinaud, Dr. Paul Richer, Louis Loreau, and Albert Londe—tested Bourdy’s eyes, made drawings and a cast of his contracted left hand, and photographed him in various poses. The surfeit of visual imagery of Bourdy purports to illustrate traumatic hysteria—however, it more effectively, if unintentionally, reveals a delight in art-making at the Salpêtrière.

The Effect of Creative Writing Activities on the Story Writing Skill In University Curriculum

This study explores the effectiveness of structured guidance and visual stimuli in enhancing college students' creative writing skills. Following a phased approach grounded in scholarly recommendations, students were guided through narrative text structure, free topic writing, and visual prompt utilization. The introduction of structured narrative elements facilitated comprehension and provided a framework for students to build upon. Additionally, brainstorming sessions and group discussions helped students overcome initial uncertainties and generate ideas. Visual prompts proved invaluable in stimulating creativity and providing a scaffold for story development. By applying Tredinnick's (2006) guidance, students produced well-structured narratives with engaging plots and character development. Overall, this study underscores the importance of incorporating structured guidance and visual aids in creative writing instruction to foster students' confidence and proficiency in narrative composition.

Diferensiasi Public Speaking Online di Era Digitalisasi Pasca Pandemi Covid -19

The digitalization era post-Covid-19 pandemic has brought significant changes in various aspects of life, including Public Speaking techniques. This study aims to explore the differences in Public Speaking techniques before and after the pandemic and how adaptation to digital platforms affects communication effectiveness. Before the pandemic, Public Speaking was often conducted face-to-face, focusing on body language, eye contact, and voice intonation to capture the audience's attention. However, the pandemic forced many Public Speaking activities to shift to digital platforms. This shift requires speakers to master technology, understand the dynamics of virtual interaction, and adapt their presentation techniques to remain interactive. This study uses qualitative methods by collecting data through in-depth interviews with Public Speaking practitioners and related literature analysis. The findings show that successful speakers in this digital era are those who can effectively utilize technology, use attractive visual aids, and develop adaptive communication skills. Additionally, factors such as time management, maintaining audience engagement through interactive features, and understanding digital communication ethics are key to success. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of continuous training and adaptation for public speakers to remain relevant and effective in the digitalization era. Furthermore, there is a need for developing curricula and training programs that support the mastery of new techniques in Public Speaking. Thus, this change not only presents challenges but also opportunities to enhance the overall quality of public communication

Pemanfaatan Card Game untuk Meningkatkan Minat Belajar Bahasa Inggris Siswa-Siswi Kelas 8 di SMP Negeri 2 Kaliwungu

Fulfilling the English learning needs of junior high school students by using qualified teaching aids is not easy for English teachers in rural Indonesia. To overcome this obstacle, SMP Negeri 2 Kaliwungu Boyolali collaborated with a team of four students and one lecturer of PBI UKSW in the program "Visual Learning Aids for English Teaching in SMP Negeri 2 Kaliwungu." This community service program aims to help English teachers of SMP Negeri 2 Kaliwungu create effective and fun English learning by providing card game learning aids based on the needs analysis of the English teachers and students, especially Grade 8. This community service program generally consisted of four steps: preparation, interviewing, making teaching media, and evaluation, which included presenting the teaching media to the school and a game simulation with some students. The program evaluation results showed that the students could understand the story by arranging the sentences on the card game correctly, and the teacher was also satisfied with the alternative learning media because the attractive visuals on the cards could motivate students.

Geospatial interpolation and hydro-geochemical characterization of alluvial aquifers in the Thal Desert, Punjab, Pakistan.

This study seeks to assess the hydrogeochemical characteristics of groundwater in the southern part of Thal Desert of Pakistan. The primary focus lies in identifying potential sources of contamination and evaluating their impact on groundwater and the ecosystem. Groundwater samples were collected from diverse sources including shallow hand pumps, tubewells, and dug wells, with depths ranging from 11 to 28 m. A comprehensive analysis was performed to scrutinize the physical, chemical, and microbial attributes of the samples. Utilizing visual aids like the Piper, Durov, and Gibbs diagrams, as well as Pearson correlation, scatter plots, Schoeller diagrams, and pie charts, the study evaluated the groundwater quality and its suitability for consumption. Results indicate that mineral infiltration from rainfall, domestic waste, and industrial effluents significantly affects groundwater quality, leading to widespread salinity. Weathering processes and ion exchange were identified as key factors contributing to elevate levels of bicarbonates, sodium, magnesium, and chloride ions. Employing the Water Quality Index (WQI) on 40 groundwater samples, findings reveal that 52.5% of samples demonstrated poor to not suitable quality, with 27.5% categorized as poor, 2.5% as very poor, and 22.5% not suitable consumption. Conversely, 47.5% of samples showcased good to excellent quality, with 25% rated as good and 22.5% as excellent. These findings provide valuable insights for hydrogeologists to develop appropriate strategies for water treatment and address any concerns related to groundwater quality.

An efficient and cost-effective methods framework for performing biomechanical analysis on cadaveric skeletal muscle

IntroductionThe structure and arrangement of skeletal muscle fibers is the primary determinant of muscle function. While analysis of morphologic parameters to elucidate muscle structure-function relationships dates to the 17th century, considerable variability in methodology and technique to quantify these relationships exists within the literature. Additionally, applications to assess the impact of non-typical musculoskeletal morphologies on structure-function relationships are limited. This study aims to assemble and present a practical, step-by-step framework of combined methods and techniques for efficiently analyzing biomechanical impacts of cadaveric skeletal muscles. MethodsExisting skeletal muscle biomechanical formulas and experimentally determined parameters for typical fast-acting skeletal muscle were identified in the literature. The methods framework was assembled as a stepwise protocol that includes mathematical formulas, referenced accepted values, optional steps, section breaks, suggested techniques, important notes and footnotes, and materials needed for collecting necessary measurements. Proof of concept was achieved with primary histological data and imaging, along with references to examples where the methods have been successfully applied. ResultsThe assembled framework presents an ordered process for measuring skeletal muscle parameters, calculating the maximal isometric force of a skeletal muscle, and applying that data to understand musculoskeletal mechanics. Histology data, imaging, and a summary of studies that have successfully applied the framework methods provide visual aids and validation for the methods. ConclusionsThis study presents an efficient and convenient framework of combined methods and techniques for investigators to evaluate the biomechanical impact of skeletal muscles. The practical use of this framework should optimize project efficiency and spending, increase study rigor, and minimize procedural variation across different studies. This report may serve as a foundational resource for researchers studying cadaveric muscle biomechanics, and its use especially adds translational clinical value to case analyses of non-typical musculoskeletal morphologies.