International Journal of Academic Research in Progressive Education and Development
The IJ-ARPED (ISSN: 2226-6348) is a blind peer-reviewed interdisciplinary open-access journal published by the Leadership Academy of Social Sciences. The journal focuses on publishing significant original research across various fields of Education and Research. IJ-ARPED releases four issues annually, aiming to offer easy accessibility to insights on education and research, including case studies. The goal is to enhance and complement the scholarly world's knowledge base. Education plays a pivotal role in shaping character, morality, and societal values, influencing individuals' thoughts and physical abilities. The primary objective of IJ-ARPED is to establish a platform for scholars, academicians, professors, intellectuals, researchers, teachers, and students to share their valuable work and exchange creative knowledge. The journal serves as a means to transmit a wealth of knowledge, values, skills, and creative thoughts from one generation to the next. IJ-ARPED covers a broad spectrum of topics, including child development, curriculum, reading comprehension, philosophies of education, educational approaches, and more. The journal strives to encompass a vast array of subjects, providing a comprehensive resource for those interested in the diverse aspects of education and research. Child Development Curriculum Reading Comprehension Philosophies of Education Educational Approaches Formal Education, such as higher education, adult education, indigenous education, etc. Educational Theory Educational Development Psychology Education Sociology Education Teaching Education History Education Science Higher Education Issues Types of Paper Regular articles: These articles should have cautiously confirmed findings and the research methodologies used should be explained in sufficient detail in order to be easily verified by others. The length of a full paper should be the minimum required to describe and interpret the work clearly. Short Communications: in order to record the results of complete small investigations, detailing new models and innovative techniques, short communications should be used. Main sections styles may not conform to the full length papers. They are 2-4 printed pages in detail (about 6-12 manuscript pages). Reviews: Submissions of reviews are welcomed. Reviews should have brevity and clarity, covering 4-6 printed pages (about 12-18 manuscript pages).
Leadership Academy of Social Sciences (LASS)
Digital Teaching Strategy Focusing on 'Practical Learning and Application' through Problem-Based Learning
The rapid development of information technology has gradually penetrated people's work and life through digital methods. Traditional teaching and offline classroom can no longer meet the practical application of digital requirement in higher education disciplines. Therefore, digital teaching has become an important component of teaching. In order to improve digital teaching strategy, this study takes undergraduate accounting students as the research object. Through experiments, this study explores the impact of PBL based digital teaching strategy on the practical learning and application abilities of accounting students, and proposes a problem-based learning (PBL) model based on digital teaching strategy aimed at enhancing students' practical learning and application abilities. It was found that digital teaching strategy, through diverse teaching tools such as online learning platforms, virtual simulation software, and data analysis tools, can not only attract students' attention and provide rich learning resources, but also help them master and apply complex knowledge better by simulating real work environments, enhance their practical operational abilities. In order to leverage the advantages of the two teaching strategies, it is recommended to combine digital teaching with traditional teaching in terms of teaching strategies, develop more comprehensive teaching strategies, comprehensively support students' academic development and practical ability improvement, to meet diverse digital learning requirement.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Academic Research in Progressive Education and Development
The Need to Develop a Malay Language Year 5 Module with a Neoteric Approach
This study aims to identify the need to develop a Malay language module based on the neoteric approach. The research design used is a descriptive survey. A total of 100 teachers participated as respondents. The results of the study found that respondents showed a high level of agreement regarding the need for this module. This module is seen as important in efforts to renew Malay language teaching methods. It can also help align the curriculum with learning needs in the digital era. The use of a neoteric approach can enhance the effectiveness of teaching. It also has the potential to greatly benefit both students and teachers. This study is expected to have a positive impact on Malay language learning. The development of a more innovative and relevant module can improve the learning experience. Furthermore, this study can serve as a guide for the creation of modules that meet current needs. The findings are expected to have an impact on Malay language teaching and learning at the school level. In conclusion, this study provides an important foundation for the development of a more effective and responsive module.
The Use of Colourful Semantics in Improving Sentence Writing Skills among Level One Pupils
Developing strong sentence writing skills from an early age is crucial for effective communication and language mastery. However, many primary school pupils in Malaysia struggle with constructing grammatically correct and meaningful sentences in Malay. This paper examines the use of the colourful semantics approach as a strategy to enhance Malay language sentence writing skills among Level One pupils. Although previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach in English language instruction, its application in Malay language teaching remains largely unexplored. Drawing on scaffolding theory, cognitive load theory, and visual learning theory, this paper analyses how colourful semantics—which employs colour-coding, symbols, and visual representations—can address specific challenges in sentence construction among young learners. Additionally, the paper explores factors influencing sentence writing skills, such as limited vocabulary, grammar proficiency, attitudes, and understanding of stimulus materials. Strategies like the SKOP and SALAK techniques for constructing correct sentence structures are also examined. By integrating theoretical foundations with practical instructional strategies, this study offers valuable insights for educators seeking effective methods to develop pupils' sentence writing competencies from an early age, ultimately fostering stronger language skills and communication abilities essential for academic and personal success.
Factors Influencing Cybersecurity: A Focus Group Approach
Cybersecurity has become a critical concern for organizations and individuals alike, driven by the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats. This study explores the factors influencing cybersecurity through a focus group approach, engaging professionals from the banking sectors to gain insights into the challenges and best practices in maintaining robust cybersecurity measures. A focus group approach was employed to collect data from information technology experts and senior managers from risk and audit departments in Zimbabwean commercial banks. The findings highlight human factors and technological factors, offering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity. The results showed that human factors influencing cybersecurity were awareness, top management support, information sharing, cyber-response teams, research teams, enactment of cyber-laws, cyber governance framework and crafting of cybersecurity policy. The technical factors were application security, network security, database security, physical security, and internet security.
Research on the Authenticity Experience in the Digital Protection of Cultural Heritage taking the Scenic Spot of the City of Youli as an Example
From the perspective of digitization of cultural heritage, this paper puts forward ideas on how to digitize and protect cultural heritage in the cultural tourism industry and explores the path of combining metaverse with the Authenticity experience of cultural heritage. By studying the application prospect and policy support of metaverse in cultural heritage digitization, combined with the characteristics and needs of cultural heritage tourism originality, the paper aims to provide specific combination strategies and implementation paths for cultural heritage scenic spots to enhance further the attractiveness of the scenic spots and tourists' experience. The thesis case is based on the example of Youli City Scenic Spot in Tangyin County, Henan Province, and part of the experience is summarized through the production of the digital protection project of Youli City Scenic Spot, which provides reference and reference for the development of similar scenic spots in the field of metaverse.
Out-of-Field Teachers: Issues and Strategies for Teaching Students with Visual Impairment
An “out-of-field teacher” is defined as a teacher who is assigned to teach a subject that she has inadequate training or education in. This study explores the issues, challenges and strategies faced by “out-of-field teachers” in teaching students with visual impairment. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten respondents who were out-of-field teachers working in special education schools in Sabah. Their feedbacks were transcribed and analyzed using descriptive narrative. The findings indicate that these teachers faced various issues, including limited knowledge, skills, readiness, and teaching experiences on the subject that they were assigned to teach. They also reported challenges in the form of students with diverse categories and level of abilities, their lack of commitment and practice. Among the strategies that these teachers applied were getting assistance from other teachers or students who are more knowledgeable, self -training, attending courses and getting additional references materials through books and the internet. This study highlighted the issues of out-of-field teachers in Malaysian special education which must be solved by the Ministry of Education urgently. Several suggestions were put forward, including ensuring only well-trained teachers assigned to teach students with visual impairment and providing in-service training to these out-of-field teachers.
Revolutionising Learning: How Malaysian Student Teachers View ChatGPT
AI tools possess significant potential for enhancing educational experiences; however, they also carry the risk of disseminating misinformation. The successful integration of ChatGPT into educational practices largely depends on how effectively students can incorporate this technology into their learning processes. This study investigates the perceptions of students at Teacher Education Institutes in Malaysia regarding the use of ChatGPT in their learning. Students from one of the Teacher Education Institutes in Malaysia were invited to voluntarily participate in a survey. Out of 44 participants who provided feedback, 41 responses met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. A specialized questionnaire for this study, developed by Ngo (2023), was distributed using Google Forms. The findings indicate that the use of ChatGPT is highly rated by participants, with a mean score of 4.11 and a standard deviation of 0.51. The benefits of ChatGPT received the highest average score of 4.19, with a standard deviation of 0.62. However, students also reported facing some barriers, reflected by a mean score of 3.56 and a standard deviation of 0.64. Analysis of the average perception scores indicates that ChatGPT is well-received by students and is considered beneficial in education. Despite some challenges, such as issues with information accuracy and language use, students still perceive high value in using this tool. These findings align with existing literature that emphasizes the importance of ease of use, learning benefits, and information reliability in educational technology. This study also recommends future research to focus on teacher and student training, pedagogical integration, ethical and privacy considerations, the impact on student engagement and motivation, and addressing the digital divide.
Navigating the Digital Age: Adapting Education with Artificial Intelligence
Study design/ Methodology: In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and education has become paramount for organizations seeking to thrive amid the data revolution. This paper explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence into education, emphasizing its transformative potential. It delves into various facets of AI in education, including its benefits, challenges, ethical considerations, impact on teaching practices, utilization of AI-powered tools, and what are the Future Trends and Innovations for AI through real-world examples and educational insights. All of these points through a review of literature and articles from global databases. Findings: This paper underscores AI's significance in education and the role of AI in shaping the future of business in today's dynamic landscape, albeit contingent upon continuous evaluation, addressing the challenges and ethical dilemmas associated with its implementation. In conclusion, we emphasize the necessity of collaborative efforts among educators, technologists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to harness AI's full potential of AI in education and integrate it into the educational landscape.
Moderator Effects of Character Values on the Influence of Awareness and Attitude on Road Safety
Many discussions about road safety have been carried out, for example using a civil engineering approach. However, research on road safety is rarely discussed using a management approach, especially human behavior. This study aims to look at the moderating effect of character values ​​owned by the Indonesian nation on the influence of awareness and attitudes on road safety. The research method uses a combination approach. Distribution of questionnaires, observation and focus group discussions were used as data collection techniques. The population in this study is motorcyclists whose number is larger than other road users. A total of 409 samples were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Analysis using PLS-SEM show that, there is no direct influence from motorcyclist awareness on road safety. However, through the attitude of motorbike riders, there is a significant indirect effect of motorbike rider awareness on road safety; there is a positive influence of motorbike riders' attitudes on road safety; there is a positive influence of motorcyclist awareness on motorcyclist attitudes; there is no moderating effect of motorcyclist character values ​​on awareness and attitudes towards road safety. Apart from that, it was also concluded that character values ​​have a positive effect on road safety.
The Antecedents of Digital Payment Acceptance among Indonesian Farmers: Moderating Role of Education
This study investigates the role of social capital and the level of education in the acceptance of digital payment systems among farmers in Indonesia, utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and incorporating social capital theory. We surveyed 316 farmers with experience using digital payments, analyzing data through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS. The findings confirm that perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) significantly influence farmers' behavioural intentions to adopt digital payment systems, supporting the original TAM framework. Social capital, particularly social trust, positively affects PU and PEOU, while social interaction shows no significant impact on PU and PEOU. Contrary to expectations, education level did not moderate the relationships within the TAM model, suggesting that digital literacy and digital payment technology adoption can be effectively promoted across all educational levels within the context of Indonesian farmers.
Challenges in Implementing Project-Based Learning in Malaysian Vocational Colleges During Teaching Practicum
Project-Based Learning (PjBL) has become a pivotal pedagogical approach within Malaysian Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. However, implementing PjBL presents significant challenges, particularly for practicum teachers in vocational colleges. This study investigates these challenges, focusing on two primary areas: classroom control and resource availability. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 90 technical and vocational education undergraduate students who recently completed their teaching practicum. Results reveal moderate challenges in maintaining classroom control during PjBL activities, with a mean score of 2.42 on a 4-point Likert scale, while resource limitations, including insufficient materials and technology, were perceived as more severe (mean score: 2.88). A Spearman’s correlation analysis (r = 0.501, p < 0.01) indicates a significant relationship between classroom control and resource adequacy, suggesting that resource shortages exacerbate difficulties in managing PjBL classrooms. The findings emphasize the need for improved resource allocation and enhanced teacher training to address these interconnected challenges. By addressing these barriers, the effectiveness of PjBL can be significantly enhanced, contributing to better student outcomes and workforce readiness in Malaysian TVET programs.
Expert Validation of a Research Culture Assessment Tool for Secondary Schools
The development of a strong research culture in secondary schools is critical for enhancing teaching practices and encouraging student learning. However, there is a lack of reliable tools specifically designed to assess the level of research culture within these institutions. This study aims to develop and validate a research culture assessment tool customized for secondary schools in Malaysia. A survey questionnaire was created to measure core indicators of research culture and was evaluated by a panel of ten experts for content validity. The Content Validity Index (CVI) and Inter-Rater Agreement (IRA) were used to analyze the experts' ratings. Items with an I-CVI score of 0.80 or higher were retained, while items scoring lower were modified or removed. The findings showed robust content validity across most items, indicating that the tool accurately reflects the relevant dimensions of research culture in secondary schools. However, some items required revision based on expert feedback. Further statistical tests, such as construct validity and reliability analysis, are recommended to ensure the tool’s robustness across diverse educational settings. This validated tool is expected to play a crucial role in guiding future efforts to cultivate research culture in schools, contributing to the professional development of teachers and the improvement of student outcomes
Exploring the Level of TPACK Mastery and its Effect on Vocational High School Teachers’ Performance in Panyu District, China
The research focuses on examining the mastery of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) among vocational high school teachers in Panyu District, China, and its influence on their teaching effectiveness. TPACK is a conceptual framework that combines technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge, aiming to facilitate the effective integration of technology in education. To investigate this, the study utilized a structured survey questionnaire based on established TPACK measures, collecting data from 173 teachers. Quantitative analysis methods, including Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis, were employed to explore the relationships between various TPACK components and teacher performance. The findings revealed that Pedagogical Knowledge (PK), Content Knowledge (CK), Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), and Technological Content Knowledge (TCK) were significant predictors of teaching performance. These results emphasize the importance of a balanced integration of pedagogy, content, and technology in vocational education. They also underscore the necessity for ongoing professional development to bolster teachers' abilities to integrate technology into their teaching. While the study provides valuable insights, it has limitations, such as its focus on a single district and the use of self-reported data. The findings of this study offer crucial guidance for policymakers and educators on improving the quality of vocational education through targeted teacher development programs that emphasize the balanced development of pedagogical, content, and technological knowledge.
The Role of MALL-Based Dubbing in Developing Oral English Skills: A Pilot Study
This pilot study explores the impact of MALL-based dubbing on students’ oral English proficiency, as well as their preferences and attitudes towards this learning approach. The participants were 10 sophomore students from a university in southern China. Data collection included pre-test and post-test analytic scores focusing on complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF) through objective ratings, alongside descriptive data from two questionnaires. The findings revealed that engaging in MALL-based dubbing improved students’ oral English proficiency, particularly in terms of speech rate. Additionally, learners expressed preferences for dubbing tasks with characteristics such as durations of 30 seconds to 2 minutes, three tasks per week, and a standard pace. Most participants demonstrated a positive attitude toward this approach.
Validity and Reliability of the Chinese Version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale for Students in a Sample of Early Childhood Pre-Service Teachers
The purpose of this study was to test the validity and reliability of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale for Students (UWES-S) among Chinese early childhood pre-service teachers (ECPTs) and to corroborate the factor structure of both the UWES-17S and UWES-9S. The study examined the UWES-17S and UWES-9S through CFA, convergent validity, reliability, and inter-correlations with a sample of 515 ECPTs in China. The modified UWES-17S and UWES-9S models showed acceptable fit indices, with the 9-item, 3-factor model showing a slightly better fit than the 17-item version. Both models had good convergent validity, with the UWES-9S performing slightly better. In both versions, strong positive correlations were found across all dimensions. The UWES-17S showed slightly higher internal consistency across the total scale and its three factors. The study confirmed the 3-factor structure of UWES-17S and UWES-9S, confirming that they are reliable tools for assessing Chinese ECPTs’ learning engagement. The UWES-9S model is simpler and has a better fit, while the UWES-17S has an advantage in reliability.
Enhancing Teacher Competencies in Sex Education: A Systematic Review of Global Perspectives and Strategies
This systematic review explores global perspectives and strategies for enhancing teacher competencies in Sex Education, a critical aspect of effective sexual health education. Despite growing recognition of the importance of Sex Education in schools, teacher preparedness and competency remain inconsistent across regions. The review synthesizes findings from studies conducted worldwide, examining various teacher training programs, professional development initiatives, and the impact of cultural, social, and personal factors on teaching practices. Results indicate significant variation in competencies, with many teachers reporting moderate to low levels of confidence and knowledge, particularly in addressing sensitive topics such as LGBTQ+ issues, consent, and sexual rights. While professional development programs were found to improve teacher competencies, challenges such as cultural resistance, lack of resources, and insufficient in-service training persist. The review also highlights the role of teacher attitudes and beliefs, which can both facilitate and hinder effective sex education delivery. Based on these findings, the article suggests directions for future research, including the need for longitudinal studies, cross-cultural comparisons, and interdisciplinary approaches to teacher training. This review underscores the necessity of comprehensive and continuous professional development to enhance teacher effectiveness and improve the quality of sex education worldwide.
Music as a Teaching Tool in Teaching English: A Systematic Review
Music has long been used as a pedagogical tool to teach children. According to Amin & Soh (2020), music helps with learning, arouses emotions, and enhances cognition. This systematic review synthesizes ESL music education studies. This study used qualitative systematic review. Themes are identified using data from prior investigations. English articles from January 2014 to April 2024 were chosen to highlight recent literature. We mixed music, pedagogical tools, outcomes, and ESL education keywords and synonyms with Boolean operators. This review followed PRISMA, created by Page et al. (2021), to give detailed information for technique evaluation. Music enhances outcomes, research shows. In language learning, learning atmosphere, student engagement, motivation, and participation. Music improves learning atmosphere and reduces stress, making it excellent for teaching and learning, according to study. Enjoying music boosts learning. The study reveals that music motivates and engages students. ESL teachers should use music. To meet students' tastes, teachers should choose numerous genres and music. Stakeholders should train language teachers in music integration. This systematic review found music useful for ESL instruction. Music decreases anxiety and motivates students, increasing participation.
The Role of Digital Technology in Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking in Chinese Art Education
This study aims to investigate the factors that affect parents' choice of preschools in Malaysia, with a focus on kindergartens in Pulau Pinang. To achieve this, a quantitative research design was adopted. A questionnaire was uploaded on the Internet and distributed to the target population, consisting of parents who send their children to preschools. A total of 100 complete questionnaires were collected, processed, and analyzed statistically. The findings revealed that the main factors influencing parents' decisions to choose a preschool were curriculum factors, academic factors, school-parent relationships, and school facilities. Specifically, parents highly value the quality of the curriculum offered by the preschool, the positive academic environment, the strength of the relationship between the school and parents, and the quality of the school's facilities. These factors were consistently cited as critical in making their preschool selection. The analysis indicates that Malaysian parents place significant importance on various aspects of preschool education. High-quality curricula and robust academic programs are seen as essential for the early development of their children. Additionally, strong school-parent relationships are crucial to ensure that parents feel engaged and informed about their child's education and development. Modern and well-maintained facilities also play a vital role in providing a safe and conducive learning environment for young children. Based on these findings, several recommendations can be made for Malaysian preschools. To enhance the attractiveness of their brands, preschools should focus on improving the quality of their curriculum and ensuring high academic standards. Furthermore, fostering stronger and closer relationships with parents can lead to higher levels of parental satisfaction and involvement. Lastly, investing in modern and attractive facilities can significantly enhance the overall appeal of preschools. In conclusion, understanding the factors that influence parental preferences for preschool education is essential for educators and policymakers. By addressing these key areas, preschools in Malaysia, particularly in Pulau Pinang, can better meet the needs and expectations of parents, ultimately contributing to the overall improvement of early childhood education in the region.
Implementation of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) among Chinese-Medium Students at New Era University College
Research on Outcome-Based Education (OBE) has gained increasing importance as this approach focuses on clearly defined and measurable learning outcomes in higher education. OBE plays a crucial role in improving the quality of education by aligning the curriculum, teaching, and assessment with specific learning objectives. In the context of Chinese-medium students at New Era University College (NEUC), the implementation of OBE presents unique challenges, particularly in the delivery and understanding of this concept in a language other than English. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of OBE implementation among Chinese-medium students and to assess their awareness and acceptance of this approach. A quantitative descriptive methodology was used, with questionnaires distributed to 100 NEUC students to collect data on their perceptions of OBE in Chinese-taught classes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, and ANOVA identified differences based on demographic factors like gender, faculty, and year of study. The relationship between OBE awareness and satisfaction with Chinese as the medium of instruction was evaluated using Pearson correlation. The findings indicate that students have a high level of awareness of OBE, with an average score of 3.82 (SD = 0.354). However, satisfaction with the use of Chinese as a medium of instruction was moderate, with a score of 2.89 (SD = 0.109). The analysis also revealed a significant positive correlation between students' awareness of OBE and the effectiveness of using Chinese in teaching (r = 0.67, p < .01). This suggests that while students recognize the importance of OBE, there are still challenges in terms of acceptance of the medium of instruction. This study proposes that further research is needed to improve the delivery strategies of OBE in the context of Chinese-medium education and to examine the effectiveness of OBE in enhancing student achievement in other multilingual educational institutions.
Exploring the Influence of Long-Term Memory in Information Processing in Learning Process
The study aims to examine the impact of long-term memory on the information processing during the learning process among undergraduate students in Malaysia. The study investigates the relationship among long-term, sensory, short-term, and working memory by means of a quantitative survey conducted to 212 students representing various educational levels and fields. Research findings indicate that long-term memory plays a crucial role in recalling previous experiences and memorised material, which is necessary for successful learning. Enhanced understanding and retention are greatly facilitated by sensory memory, particularly by visual and tactile signals. Short-term memory facilitates rapid retention, crucial for everyday learning activities, whereas working memory provides assistance in sustaining focus and arranging tasks. Furthermore, the study reveals robust positive associations between long-term memory and sensory (r = 0.601), short-term (r = 0.621), and working memory (r = 0.669), therefore highlighting their interdependence in the process of learning. The findings indicate that the incorporation of multisensory approaches and the reinforcement of memory structures using customised teaching techniques can enhance student achievements. Further research should be considered to examine the effectiveness of multisensory learning interventions, the contribution of technology in improving memory, and the influence of cognitive load on memory mechanisms within educational contexts.
Impact of Teachers Training in the Enhancement of Teaching Pedagogy in Rural Territory Education Ecosystem Development
In rural education ecosystems, where educational resources may be limited and diverse learning needs abound, effective teaching pedagogy plays a pivotal role in fostering student engagement and learning outcomes. This qualitative research delves into the impact of teacher training initiatives on enhancing teaching pedagogy within rural educational settings. Utilizing in-depth interviews, this study engaged with educators immersed in rural teaching environments, probing their experiences, perspectives, and insights following participation in teacher training programs. Four key themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) Pedagogical Empowerment: Participants expressed a heightened sense of confidence and competence in employing diverse teaching methodologies and instructional strategies post-training, enabling them to cater to the varied learning needs of rural students. (2) Collaborative Learning Communities: Teacher training fostered collaborative networks among educators, facilitating the exchange of best practices and innovative approaches to pedagogy tailored to rural contexts. (3) Resource Optimization: Participants reported leveraging limited resources more effectively, creatively adapting teaching materials and techniques to optimize learning experiences in resource-constrained settings. (4) Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes: Enhanced pedagogical skills translated into heightened student engagement, evidenced by increased participation and academic performance, thus underscoring the transformative impact of teacher training on rural education. This research underscores the transformative potential of targeted teacher training initiatives in rural education ecosystems. By equipping educators with enhanced pedagogical competencies, fostering collaborative learning communities, and optimizing resource utilization, such initiatives hold promise in advancing educational equity and fostering holistic development within rural communities.
Enhancing Employer Branding through ESG Practices: A Study on Malaysian Micro Enterprises
Purpose - This conceptual paper aims to investigate the influence of environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices on employer branding of Malaysian micro enterprises. The authors posit that organization’s ESG practices have a positive influence on employer branding. Design/methodology/approach – This paper establishes a conceptual framework by thoroughly reviewing existing literature on ESG practices and employer branding. It builds upon existing research while adding unique insights to deepen the understanding of the subject. Findings - The proposed conceptual framework highlights the importance of ESG practices in enhancing employer branding of Malaysian micro enterprises. The framework emphasizes the role of environmental, social and governance practices in shaping employees’ perception of employer branding. Research limitations/implications - This paper offers a conceptual framework founded upon Social Identity Theory. As the framework is not empirically tested, further research is necessary to test, validate and refine the framework. Practical implications – Micro enterprises should undertake more ESG practices to enhance employer branding by recognizing the importance of ESG practices in shaping positive employee behaviours and contributing to organizational performance. Originality/value - This study presents a novel approach to examine the influence of individual ESG practices on employer branding. It enriches the current body of literature on micro enterprises which is scarcely studied as a target population in extant literature and provides fresh insights for academics and practitioners in the field of organizational behaviour and brand management.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Cross-Cultural Adaptation Research on International Students
This study utilizes bibliometric analysis to investigate research trends in cross-cultural adaption among foreign students, assessing 445 publications published from 1990 to 2024. Since 2006, the discipline has advanced swiftly, with China and the United States at the forefront in terms of publication output and international collaboration. Notable institutions comprise the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Ohio University System, with the International Journal of Intercultural Relations acknowledged as the first in the field. The primary study themes encompass intercultural competence, adaptation processes, and social support systems, with a contemporary focus on digital technologies and online learning in the post-pandemic setting. The research delineates three developmental phases in the domain, emphasizing a growing focus on predictive analytics using big data and artificial intelligence to improve adaption experiences. This thorough analysis offers significant insights into the changing dynamics of cross-cultural adaptation research, presenting a lucid overview of existing trends and prospective avenues for enhancing foreign students' experiences.
The Impact of Implementing the Learning through Play Method on Fostering Interest, Participation, and Achievement among Preschoolers in Early Mathematics: The Topic of Money Value
This concept paper discusses the impact of implementing the learning-through-play method on fostering interest, engagement and achievement among preschoolers for the topic of money value in Early Mathematics. Since 2010, the transformation of the preschool curriculum in Malaysia has resulted in the National Preschool Curriculum Standard (KSPK), which focuses on a child-centered curriculum. Developmentally Appropriate Practices (DAP) are an important aspect emphasized in the KSPK. Based on DAP, the child-centered teaching and learning process, such as learning through play, is one of the main focuses of the KSPK. Therefore, this concept paper aims to explore the efficacy of the learning-through-play method in fostering the interest, engagement and achievement of preschoolers in learning early mathematics for "Money Value". Previous studies indicate that most teachers have used the learning-through-play method in teaching various subjects. Their purpose in using the learning-through-play method is to attract pupils' interest in learning and improve achievement performance in different subjects. Some researchers use the learning-through-play method to enhance pupils' performance in early mathematics, especially on the topic of pre-numbers. However, previous studies also show that preschool teachers still use traditional teaching approaches and worksheets only nowadays. To address the issue of pupils losing interest in learning and lack of participation and engagement in the teaching and learning process, it is suggested that preschool teachers should intensify efforts and implement the learning-through-play method in teaching preschoolers.
The Impact of Total Physical Response Approach in Vocabulary Acquisition and Motivation among Rural Chinese Students
Compared with traditional teaching, the application of Total Physical Response (TPR) teaching method in elementary school English teaching can improve students' learning effect and enhance classroom participation and engagement. TPR method combines language and body movement, teaching in various forms, and teaching process is rich, so it has been attracted the attention of different English teachers in recent years. The TPR method also plays an important role in teaching and learning English as a Second Language (ESL). Therefore, this study aims to apply the TPR method to stimulate classroom interaction and participation in order to improve the vocabulary level of elementary school students. By implementing the TPR module, physical movements and gestures are integrated into vocabulary teaching to mobilize multiple senses and cognitive processes to facilitate vocabulary learning. This research used a quantitative research method, combining pre-test and post-test questionnaires. This research randomly selected two grade 4 classes for an experiment in which one class received the TPR teaching method, and another one was taught through conventional methods; it got positive results that students' performance in the TPR group was significantly superior to the control group in terms of vocabulary memorizing ability and motivational performance. The findings indicated that TPR creates a participative, stress-free learning environment, and the depth of active vocabulary is achieved while keeping the learning rate high. Therefore, TPR can be one of the best ways to address educational challenges at rural sites that are poorly endowed with resources since its cognitive and affective benefits have a positive impact.
The Readiness Level of Primary School Teachers Towards the Implementation of Classroom-Based Assessment (PBD)
This study aims to investigate the readiness level of primary school teachers in Malaysia towards the implementation of Classroom-Based Assessment (PBD). As PBD plays a critical role in the Malaysian education system, enabling continuous assessment of students' progress, the success of its implementation largely depends on teachers' knowledge, skills, and their perceptions of Malaysia’s PBD training courses. This study aims to evaluate the readiness level of primary school teachers in implementing PBD, focusing on their knowledge, skills, and perceptions towards PBD training courses. This survey study adopts a quantitative design, utilizing a questionnaire as the data collection instrument. Findings will help inform education policymakers on the necessary support and training programs needed to ensure effective PBD implementation. Furthermore, this study will offer practical recommendations for schools and teacher educators to enhance teachers' readiness, ultimately contributing to improved student outcomes and a more dynamic educational environment in Malaysia.
Challenges in Mastering Microeconomics among Malaysian University Students: A Preliminary Study
Currently, it is necessary for teaching and learning methods to be creative and complicated to produce competent graduates. Simply memorizing facts does not promote critical thinking skills in students, as it restricts their ability to process information. This is represented by the memorization method, which can result in students forgetting content when the memorization process is interrupted. One subject requiring attention in this regard is microeconomics. A preliminary investigation revealed the difficulties faced by students in understanding microeconomics. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the challenges faced by students taking a microeconomics course at a local university in Malaysia. The findings indicated that students struggled to master the course because of their lack of visualization skills. As a result, interpreting complex graphs and visualizing the data within them posed a significant challenge to these students.
Global Trends and Influences in Green Chemistry Education: A Comprehensive Review of Contributions (2014-2024)
Since the 1990s, chemists' interest in green chemistry has been increasing annually, accompanied by a growing number of research reports on green or clean chemistry in both academia and industry. There is an increasing realization that science and technology alone are insufficient to manage chemical waste and hazardous substances effectively, thereby protecting human health and the environment. Consequently, the development and promotion of green chemistry are imperative. Education plays a unique and crucial role in disseminating the principles of green chemistry. This study focuses on publications related to green chemistry education from 2014 to 2024. It employs a combination of systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis (BR) methodologies, following the 2020 PRISMA statement template. By screening 512 relevant publications from the Web of Science database, this paper identifies the most influential journals and authors in the field of green chemistry education and analyzes the countries that have made the most significant contributions to this research area. Furthermore, the paper provides a detailed review and analysis of key research keywords and significant subject areas. These findings offer valuable insights into understanding research trends in green chemistry education. By examining critical areas such as journals, authors, countries, and keywords, this study aims to provide an overview of current research trends and valuable insights for future research and practical applications. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the existing chemistry education system and enhance public awareness of sustainable development and environmental protection concepts.
Social Media and Ge15: A Network Approach in Analysing Participatory Propaganda on Twitter
The 15th General Election (GE15) in November 2022 resulted in Malaysia’s first hung parliament, where no political party or coalition secured a majority. Confusion and uncertainties rocked the nation for days before BN, PH, GPS, GRS, and others finally came together to form a post-election coalition government, with Anwar Ibrahim as Prime Minister. Meanwhile, on the social media front, a fierce battle unfolded, particularly on Twitter, as various groups sought to influence public opinion. So, in attempting to explore this further, this research adopted a participatory propaganda framework to analyse the Twitter networks and narratives during the GE15 campaign. Methodologically, this was done by using social network analysis (SNA) via NodeXL, by collecting data from Twitter containing relevant keywords and popular hashtags like #ge15. The findings revealed distinct political clusters within the network, where influential figures and ordinary users actively shaped narratives, engaging in awareness campaign, as well as political attacks. The study also validated widely held views about the political leanings of Twitter users, while also highlighting a strong mood for change and increased political participation. To a significant extent too, the online narrative reflected broader national sentiments, suggesting that these Twitter networks played a significant role in participating and influencing political sentiment during GE15.
Professional Development for Novice TVET Teachers: A Systematic Review
This article addresses the escalating demand for skilled Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) teachers by comprehensively investigating the professional development of novice educators in this field. The introduction underscores the pivotal role of novice TVET teachers in shaping the future of vocational education, emphasizing the imperative for their development in an ever-evolving educational landscape. The problem statement accentuates the challenges and gaps faced by these educators, underscoring the need for strategies to enhance their teaching skills in modern TVET settings. The study aims to assess accessible professional development opportunities for novice TVET teachers through a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines. Utilizing keywords like "professional development" and "novice TVET teachers," the review encompasses 32 primary sources from databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. The synthesis approach identifies three distinct themes: (1) Enhancing Professional Development, (2) Modern Context, and (3) Continuing Education. The analysis illuminates the intricate landscape of novice TVET teachers, revealing variations in self-efficacy and adaptability. Key components of professional development include skill enhancement, fostering professional identity, community support and mentorship. Professional development emerges as a critical factor in elevating the competencies and self-efficacy of individual including novice TVET teachers.
Examining Females Participation in Engineering as a Discipline: A Case Study of Uganda and Nigeria
Engineering is traditionally perceived as a discipline peculiar to the male folks and women are under-represented in all engineering fields. Could it be that women are less confident about their abilities? Or are men more qualified than women for engineering based on physical strength? Could it be based on societal values placed on the male child above the female child in most African societies? This research work seeks to address the above questions. It focuses on the factors hindering women from adopting engineering as a discipline in Uganda and Nigeria. Data were gathered from university convocation proceedings and questionnaires have been generated to harvest information from the larger populace which includes female students studying engineering, female engineering lecturers, and female engineers. The research work also recommends measures to foster/encourage the interest of female folks in engineering. To explain the trend of females’ degree of participation in engineering in Africa, data collected from respondents from both Nigeria and Uganda Universities and the graduation lists of universities in Nigeria were analyzed using SPSS and Python. The results show that socio-cultural beliefs and the lack of female engineer role models are key factors influencing the participation of females in engineering. Generally, the percentage of females who graduated and practiced engineering is low compared to their male counterparts. It was observed that female participation is more pronounced for computer and biomedical engineering, while for mechanical engineering is negligible. Thus, this present research indicates the most prevailing factors affecting the participation of females in engineering in Africa and provides recommendations for a possible measure that may strengthen the increase in the participation of females in engineering in Africa.
Enhancing Student Understanding and Engagement in Nutrition and Dietary Topics Through the Implementation of Gamified Integrated Learning Modules
This study explores the effectiveness of integrated learning modules in enhancing student understanding and engagement in nutrition and dietary topics. A quantitative approach was employed with purposive sampling to ensure data was derived from participants' existing knowledge. Data collection methods included interview questions, as well as pre- and post-tests conducted after the learning sessions. The participants consisted of 20 students from in Negeri Sembilan. Data analysis was carried out using statistical methods such as descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings revealed a significant increase in students' interest and understanding of the Nutrition and Dietary topic after being taught using a Gamified Integrated Learning Module (GILM), which combined multidisciplinary elements of Biology and Health Education. Students also demonstrated a more positive attitude, with greater engagement in class activities and enthusiasm for the teaching aids utilized. The study confirmed that collaborative and gamified, student-centered learning approaches effectively enhance interest and comprehension levels. Therefore, educators are encouraged to adopt teaching strategies tailored to individual learning styles and to creatively adapt methods that resonate with students. Continuous reflection on teaching practices is recommended to ensure consistent improvement, ultimately fostering better student interest and understanding in key subject areas.
Effectiveness of I-SLT in Determining Student Learning Time
Student Learning Time (SLT) aims to a balance under- and overloading students by focusing on the total time required to achieve learning objectives, beyond just classroom hours. i-SLT is a SLT calculator that utilizes the visual basic for application features in Microsoft Excel. The main advantage of i-SLT is the capability to include unlimited teaching and learning (T&L) components (for both conventional and online learning) for the SLT calculation. It is highly flexible, enabling users to easily add or delete components and set the course duration. Components can be defined in four units: hours, minutes, numbers, or pages. i-SLT calculates contact time, independent learning time, and total SLT for each component, and provides detailed breakdowns, including percentages of practical vs. theoretical learning, conventional vs. online learning, and synchronous vs. asynchronous learning. To facilitate the blended learning culture, the i-SLT can also display the indicator whether the course achieves the Supportive Blended Learning or the Substitute Blended Learning status. With a proper usage of i-SLT, users can confidently show the actual loading of each course by taking consideration of all the T&L elements and components.
The Relevance of Transformational Leadership Theory in Addressing Work Commitment Issues among Primary School Teachers and Learning Organization in Secondary Schools
Theory and models are very important for a study or article to determine the independent variable and the dependent variable that are consistent with the issue being studied. The selection and use of the correct and appropriate theory and model is also an important point for any study or article to maintain the parallelism of the article focusing on the research issue. In relation to that, this analysis includes a discussion of the theories and models used in the articles analyzed based on the independent variable that is transformational leadership and the dependent variable taken from various aspects of issues that occur in the field of education such as teacher satisfaction, teacher commitment, teacher efficiency, teacher attitude and so on. The purpose of the analysis discussion is to detail the suitability or parallelism of theories and models based on independent variables and dependent variables found in the article. Two articles have been selected to analyze the appropriateness or parallelism of the use of theories and models in their writing. This analysis is also carried out to find out whether the theories and models in these articles can contribute or otherwise to overcome the identified issues. Overall, the model and theory used for the independent variable which is transformational leadership to deal with issues related to work commitment among primary school teachers and secondary school learning organizations.
Females’ Resistance to the Patriarchal Cultures via Reclaiming Identity and Exploring Responsibility: A Review
This research aims to examine the correlation between patriarchy and gender through the lens of feminism and interpretivism through cultural and traditional approaches. Females have resisted initiatives promoting gender equality in the workplace and other organizations by adopting contextual characteristics. Although undesirable, resistance is unavoidable in endeavors to bring about progressive social change. Common manifestations of backlash and resistance towards gender equality encompass denial of the issue, abstention from taking action, appeasement, co-optation, repression, and disavowal of responsibility. Opposition to initiatives promoting gender equality is predominantly lodged by privileged individuals (men) instead of disadvantaged individuals (women). Resistance is an anticipated manifestation of the defence against institutionalized privilege; however, it is also influenced by pervasive discussions surrounding "sex roles" and "post-feminism," the approaches utilized to promote gender equality, and the environments in which these discussions occur. According to numerous studies, postcolonial feminism emphasizes the challenges faced by doubly marginalized women in colonized nations, particularly in developing countries, by combating gender-based violence and participating in political activities. Various Strategies, including self-empowerment, emotional empowerment, and defiance of societal expectations, can be employed by females to challenge patriarchal norms effectively. Women can challenge male dominance and take control of their destinations by prioritizing personal values over societal norms and implementing self-empowerment strategies. These methods collectively contribute to the dismantling of patriarchal structures in society and the advancement of gender equality. In order to prevent and mitigate resistance and retaliation, it is critical to comprehend their nature and dynamics.
Writing Irrationality: A Bergsonian Reading of Ursula K. Le Guin’s Selected Fictions
Science fiction with its speculative characteristics provides feminists an ideal literary space to imagine, suggest, and construct a more plural and heterogeneous social relationship, a world where irrationality is a delicate balance with rationality. Ursula K. Le Guin’s fictions consistently address the theme of balance, denouncing a world ensnared by hierarchical dualism that perpetuates domination and alienation. However, previous scholarly analyses often overlook the irrationality embedded in her works and rarely detect the influence of Bergson philosophy on Le Guin’s works. Therefore, this study examines Le Guin’s two masterpieces The Left Hand of Darkness and The Dispossessed, revealing that Le Guin embraced Bergson’s concepts of intuition and duration during a period of declining rationalism. Nevertheless, it’s essential to recognize that these fictions were not meant to elevate irrationality to an absolute, but rather to earnestly seek a harmonious equilibrium between these ostensibly conflicting forces. This revelation is significant for the world today, as it is time to question the linear way of development, and challenge the conception that rationality, represented by science and technology, is the only way to solve all problems. Sometimes the more we strive for rationality, the more we may find ourselves ensnared in irrational predicaments.
The Effectiveness of Dorayaki Module on Achievement, Interest and Mathematics Understanding
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Dorayaki Module on achievement, interest and mathematics understanding on fraction topic among Year Four pupils. The research design employed in this study is a mixed method. Two main phases in this study are Design and Development Research (DDR) and the qualitative approach. By the end of this study, Dorayaki Module has been developed. The results show that there is a significant difference in mean achievement scores in the post-test between the control (M=33.17, SD=10.969, N=60) and treatment group (M=50.33, SD=13.17, N=60), p<0.002. The interest of pupils towards Fraction topic is also high (M=4.1) after Dorayaki Module has been implemented. Besides, all the ten respondents achieved four out of eight layers of understanding after the intervention. In conclusion, the Dorayaki Module needs to be implemented among all pupils who are facing difficulty in problem solving for Fraction topic. This study brings implications to Ministry of Education Malaysia, teacher trainees, and Year Four mathematics teachers.
Programming Challenges Experience by Primary School Students: A Systematic Literature Review
The emergence of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 has changed many sectors including education field. In this age of digital, programming education is currently being integrated into primary school curriculum worldwide. The study adopted Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method. This SLR study identify the programming challenge faced by primary school students and find solutions to overcome these challenges. The selection of 20 articles needed is based on the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive analysis of 20 relevant articles was done through few databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, and ERIC. The articles that have been chosen for this SLR study were published between the year of 2019 to 2024. Findings indicate that key factors contributing to programming challenges among primary school students are categorized into cognitive, digital skills, metacognitive challenges, programming language and issues related to students’ readiness. Also, limited access to good infrastructural and resources will further hinder effective programming education. Ultimately, this SLR research hopefully can guide the teachers and policymakers on the challenges faced by the primary students so that they will enhance programming education to ensure students learn well and better prepared for future.
Parental Influences on Social Competence: An Investigation of Parenting Styles and Children's Social Behavior in Chengdu, Sichuan Province
This study investigates the relationship between parenting styles and children's social behavior within the cultural context of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. The research explores how different parenting styles—authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and uninvolved—impact the social development of children, particularly focusing on cooperation, empathy, and communication skills. Additionally, the study examines the mediating role of Chinese cultural factors, such as collectivism, filial piety, and educational expectations, in shaping these relationships. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, data were collected from parents and educators in Chengdu. The findings reveal that authoritative parenting is positively correlated with desirable social behaviors in children, while authoritarian and permissive styles show varied impacts depending on the cultural context. The study also highlights the significant influence of cultural values on the effectiveness of different parenting styles, demonstrating that these factors mediate the relationship between parenting practices and children's social outcomes. This research contributes to the academic literature by providing empirical evidence from a non-Western context, addressing a gap in existing studies that often overlook the cultural specificity of parenting. The study's outcomes offer practical insights for parents and educators, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to child-rearing. Policy recommendations are proposed to support families in fostering children's social competence, with implications for educational and social development initiatives in China.
Meaningful Perception of Natural Phenomenon Associated with Water in the Poems of Ibn Zaydun and Ahmad Shawqi: A Comparative Study
The present study explores the importance of water as a natural phenomenon in the poetry of two prominent Arab poets, Ibn Zaydun and Ahmad Shawqi. Water, a vital element in both ecological and cultural contexts, serves as a rich metaphor for life, love, and transience in Arabic literature. This research highlights the significance of understanding how natural elements influence literary expression and cultural identity, particularly in the context of Arabic poetry. This comparative study employs a qualitative methodology textual analysis to examine selected poems from both poets, focusing on a close reading of selected poems from both poets. This approach allowed us to examine the imagery, themes, and stylistic choices related to water, revealing both shared elements and distinct perspectives. These perspectives are shaped by the unique historical contexts of Ibn Zaydun and Ahmad Shawqi, highlighting the influence of external factors on their artistic expression. Our results reveal that Ibn Zaydun often uses water to evoke feelings of longing and nostalgia, tying it closely to personal experiences and emotions. Meanwhile, Ahmad Shawqi portrays water as a powerful symbol of national identity and renewal, emphasizing its role in collective consciousness. Shawqi used the Nile and river streams frequently in his description of water, and he used the sea somewhat less than Ibn Zaydun. This contrast not only illuminates their artistic voices but also reflects the evolving relationship between nature and culture in Arabic poetry. This study paves the way for further research, particularly regarding the representation of other natural elements in Arabic literature and their cultural significance. A deeper investigation into regional variations in how water is depicted could provide valuable insights into the interplay between ecology and poetic expression in the Arab world, opening up new avenues for exploration and scholarly engagement.
Management Risk Inside Implementation of Cas Activities of Mara Banting College Students
Risk management is crucial in all student activities to ensure student safety. CAS activities form part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma program at MARA Banting College. The goal of risk management in CAS activities is to control, prevent, and minimize the risk of accidents and losses. It also aims to assess the effectiveness of risk management practices in CAS activities. Concerns have been raised about potential risks if the risk management system for CAS activities at MARA Banting College is relaxed, potentially leading to accidents among students. Therefore, raising awareness about risk management is essential for lecturers, students, and management to enhance sensitivity and adherence to risk management protocols during CAS activities.
Play-Based Learning in Malaysian Early Childhood Education: A Study of Diploma Students' Perspectives and Challenges
Play is natural and essential to childhood (Tekyi-Arhin, 2023). This is important to children as play helps them to develop important skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and communication skills (Faiz Fauzi, 2022). Play-based learning is a teaching method that emphasizes play and promotes children's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development through activities that spark imagination and curiosity. Play is significant in early childhood education in Malaysia nowadays as it is essential to prepare young children's minds for lifetimes of learning. The implementation of play-based learning is gaining momentum in early childhood education in Malaysia, with its integration into the curriculum. This research employs a qualitative case study approach to delve into and observe the perspectives and challenges encountered by diploma students. Through purposive sampling, participants were selected from various early childhood education diploma programs from UOW Malaysia KDU College and UNITAR International University, ensuring a comprehensive representation of perspectives and experiences. By shedding light on the viewpoints of these future educators, this study will contribute to the ongoing discussion on early childhood education in Malaysia, paving the way for a more informed and effective approach to early learning. The findings revealed significant insights into three primary areas of concern. First, implementation challenges emerged, predominantly centered around resource constraints, time management difficulties, and varying levels of parental support. Second, the study identified gaps in educator preparedness, highlighting the need for enhanced training in play-based teaching methodologies and challenges in assessment practices. Third, institutional support varied considerably, with limited professional development opportunities and a need for clearer implementation guidelines. These findings collectively underscore the complex interplay of factors affecting successful play-based learning implementation in Malaysian early childhood settings. Building upon these findings, several directions for future research emerge as crucial for advancing understanding in this field.
Threshold Hypothesis and Executive Function: Insights from Saudi International School Bilinguals
The research examines the threshold hypothesis in Saudi Arabia, concentrating on the impact of bilingualism on executive function. This study looks at the differences in metalinguistic awareness, inhibitory control, attentional control, and working memory between male high school students who are balanced, dominant, or semi-broad bilingual. This study enhances the neglected field of bilingualism in Arabic-speaking areas, focusing specifically on cognitive function and multilingual proficiency. A quantitative, causal-comparative analysis was performed with male secondary school students in Saudi Arabia, classified as balanced, dominating, and semi-broad bilinguals. Participants undertook language competency evaluations utilizing the TOEFL for English and the GCSE for Arabic. We employed four cognitive tasks—grammatical judgment, Stroop test, semantic and phonemic fluency, and backward digit recall—to assess executive processes. The research employed statistical analyses to determine substantial disparities in cognitive function across the three bilingual cohorts. The results corroborate the threshold hypothesis, as balanced and dominant bilinguals surpassed semi-bilinguals in executive function tests. The absence of substantial differences between balanced and dominating bilinguals suggests that attaining a specific skill level in two languages may improve cognitive capabilities. These findings underscore the need for cultivating robust bilingual abilities to enhance cognitive performance and reinforce the threshold hypothesis in non-Western settings.
From Theory to Classroom: Examining Communicative Language Teaching Practices in Iraq
Although the Ministry of Education in the Kurdistan region of Iraq decided to adopt communicative language teaching (CLT) to improve the English language competencies of Iraqi students, implementing this approach poses significant challenges for Iraqi English language teachers. This study examines the obstacles these teachers face. This study aims to identify the main challenges that hinder the implementation of CLT and how these challenges impact classroom practices, mainly in teaching speaking skills. It also seeks to understand the contradictions between teachers’ theoretical understanding of CLT principles and their classroom practices of such principles. The first data collection phase was conducted through interviews with 10 English language teachers. Following that, classroom observations of 16 teachers were conducted to examine their classroom practices and activities. Finally, an online questionnaire of 38 items was distributed to the teachers to explore the issue. The findings reveal that even though English language teachers acknowledge the benefits of CLT, they face challenges such as limited recourses, insufficient training, contextual and societal expectations factors such as large classes, grammar-oriented examination system, and students' language proficiency that hinder its successful implementation. Additionally, there are inconsistencies between teachers’ theoretical understanding of CLT principles and their classroom practices. These inconsistencies emerge from different sources, including the suitability of CLT for the Iraqi context and teachers' lack of understanding of its principles. They are also due to a lack of practical training, student-related factors including motivation, and student assessment systems that heavily rely on assessing Grammar and vocabulary. The study finds that teaching speaking is neglected, and the teachers rarely incorporate communicative activities in their classrooms. As a result, Iraqi classrooms can be considered genuinely communicative. This study contributes to the existing teaching methodologies and offers practical recommendations for policymakers to enhance the effectiveness of CLT in Iraq.
Leadership and Organizational Skills of Vocational Collage Graduates
The purpose of this study is to determine leadership skills of vocational college graduates. In order to ensure that all vocational collage graduates become high-performance leaders by 2030. This study was conducted in two (2) phases, namely the need data collection phase and analysis phase. A total of 300 technical graduates of Vocational Colleges and 129 employers in the Malaysian industry were involved in this quantitative study. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The research results show that there is a gap between Leadership and organizational skills graduates and employers.
The Communication Strategy of Chahar Culture from the Perspective of Intercultural Communication Theory
This study focuses on how Chahar culture is spreading in today's multicultural development. Chahar culture is an important part of China's Inner Mongolian steppe culture. As an important branch of Mongolian culture, it has a unique language, customs, art and lifestyle, with a long history and deep cultural characteristics of ethnic minorities. Based on the theory of cross-cultural communication, this study adopts focus group discussion as a research method to understand the communication difficulties of Chahar culture. The results of the survey show that the Chahar culture has a low level of dissemination, many difficulties in inheritance and development, a low sense of identity, and the phenomenon of cultural misinformation. In response to the above problems this study argues that Chahar culture should be disseminated from the perspective of intercultural communication. The researchers suggest that the dissemination of Chahar culture should eliminate cultural conflicts and misinterpretations, shape the image of Chahar culture, and practice Chahar cultural ethics.
What Motivates UNITAR Students to Learn the English Language?
This study explores the factors motivating UNITAR International University students to learn English, focusing on intrinsic motivation, family background, and strategies to enhance learning. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and interviews, the research identifies key motivational drivers, including personal interest, career aspirations, and socio-familial influences. Findings reveal significant correlations between family background—such as parental education and language exposure—and students' motivation and proficiency. Additionally, intrinsic motivation is shown to significantly impact language learning engagement and outcomes. The study underscores the importance of tailored strategies, such as interactive teaching methods, goal-oriented learning, and the integration of technology, to boost students' enthusiasm and performance in English. While providing actionable insights for educators and policymakers, it highlights limitations, including the exclusive focus on UNITAR students and reliance on self-reported data. Recommendations for future research include broadening the participant pool, examining peer and institutional influences, and exploring technological impacts on motivation. The findings contribute to the development of targeted interventions to improve English language education in similar academic contexts.
The Cognitive Challenges in Argumentative Writing for EFL Learners: A Scoping Review
Argumentative writing is a problem-solving cognitive process, which is perceived as a challenging activity, especially for students learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Students are required to master argumentative writing in international English proficiency tests, and the importance of argumentation skills has been emphasized by most countries. Most previous studies mentioned the difficulties of learning English argumentative writing; however, few have systematically concluded and classified the cognitive challenges. The objective of this scoping review is to clarify the cognitive challenges and understand the classification of them in argumentative writing for EFL learners. The selection was conducted for downloadable full journal articles from 2019 to 2023, and the limited language is English using Arksey and O’Malley’s 5-stage framework, guided by meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework. Thirty-one articles were chosen for data extraction, and according to the analysis of 31 articles, the cognitive challenges in argumentative writing included the insufficient mastery of argument structure, the poor critical thinking in argumentative writing, and inadequate feedback from instructors or peers. With adequate understanding of cognitive challenges in argumentative writing, the future research is hoped to yield better pedagogy in the teaching of argumentative writing.
Interpreting China's Community Education Policies of the Past Decade in the Context of Community Education Principles
Objective: This paper examines the evolution and impact of community education policies in China from 2013 to 2023, analyzing them through the lens of core community education principles. The primary research question is: How have community education policies in China over the past decade aligned with and promoted the principles of community education? Methods: The study employs a qualitative analysis of key policy documents, including the Opinions on Promoting Learning Cities (2014), the Regulations on the Promotion of Community Education in Chengdu (2016), and the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Promotion of Family Education (2021), among others. The analysis focuses on identifying policy objectives, implementation strategies, and outcomes, with a particular emphasis on their alignment with community education principles such as lifelong learning, accessibility, community-centered approaches, and participatory engagement. Results: The analysis reveals that these policies are to meet the diverse learning needs of community residents, improve living standards, promote community governance, and support regional development. The policies underscore principles such as lifelong learning, accessibility, community-centered approaches, and participatory engagement. Key findings indicate that these policies aim to integrate various educational resources and promote social change, though challenges such as insufficient resources and uneven implementation persist. Conclusions: By aligning policy goals with community education principles, the research advocates for a more integrated approach that addresses the needs of all community members and fosters a sustainable and inclusive educational environment. The findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge on community education policy and provide recommendations for future policy development and implementation.
Parenting Styles, Gender Roles, and Academic Burnout among Chinese Students: A Cultural Perspective
Academic burnout among Chinese students is particularly severe due to a unique mix of cultural, educational, and family pressures. The strong emphasis placed on academic achievement and high family expectations intensifies this issue. While research on academic burnout is expanding, most studies have focused on Western contexts and often overlook cultural factors specific to China, such as the influence of parenting styles, societal expectations, and gender roles. This study introduces a conceptual framework that explores how Chinese cultural values impact students' burnout, with a particular focus on parenting styles and gender norms. It highlights how traditional values related to family honor and academic success shape parenting approaches, which, in turn, affect students' mental well-being. The research also investigates how societal expectations tied to gender roles contribute to differing levels of academic stress and burnout between boys and girls. By evaluating the effects of authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive parenting styles while considering gender as a moderating factor, this framework offers important insights into the dynamics of burnout within Chinese culture.
Digital Leadership Proposed Framework Concepts for Teachers
One of the key leadership philosophies that is receiving a lot of attention in schools today is digital leadership. However, very little attention has been paid to developing the framework for digital leadership. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop digital leadership proposed framework concepts based on a systematic review for teachers. A few studies on digital leadership in education were used for this study. Ten key variables were identified to measure the digital leadership of teachers. The most dominant variable in measuring digital leadership is excellence in professional practise, followed by visionary leadership, digital age learning culture and systemic improvement, then digital citizenship, followed by communication, the use of digital technology and public relations. The least dominant variables are learning space and environment, and student learning and engagement. These variables comprise the framework concepts for digital leadership. However, these variables have their own limitations. Firstly, the infrastructure such as the internet and electronic devices such as a tablet, computer or laptop. Secondly, the attitude of administrators and teachers towards this style of leadership is a major problem. Digital leadership will help to improve the educational environment in terms of the most effective teaching and learning methods compatible with the Covid-19 pandemic. In terms of contribution to the body of knowledge, this study provides new variables for researchers interested in measuring digital leadership in teachers. For the future, this study recommends conducting an in-depth study to identify sub-constructs for these ten variables. It is also recommended to investigate the extent of teachers' digital leadership skills as this may help stakeholders in planning the training needed by teachers.
Digital Technology Approach in Mathematics Education: A Systematic Review
Integrating of digital tools in teaching and learning mathematics has transformed traditional teaching methods. This research involved a systematic review of literature of studies involving the use of digital technology in mathematics education context, focusing on the types of digital tools for teaching mathematics and their effects. Specifically, the review was referring to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines that manage to identify recent articles on two databases (Scopus and ERIC) by following specific inclusion criteria. Based on the analysis, 13 articles published after 2022 have been identified and met the requirement of integrating digital tools in classroom including game-based applications. The findings of the content analysis suggest that students learning outcome, problem-solving skills, engagement and exploration can be improved with the help of digital tools. Overall, the above findings give a deeper comprehension of digital technology and its potential that can influence the process of teaching and learning in mathematics education.
Behavioral Intentions of Higher Education Students toward Using Gadgets for Mobile Learning
This study explores the factors influencing higher education students' behavioral intentions to adopt mobile learning (M-learning) at UNITAR International University, Malaysia. Using a cross-sectional approach with 364 respondents, the research examines the relationship between behavioral intention (BI) and four factors: Performance Expectancy (PE), Effort Expectancy (EE), Social Influence (SI), and Facilitating Conditions (FC), based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The results reveal significant positive relationships between all four factors and students' BI toward M-learning, suggesting that improving these factors can enhance M-learning adoption. The findings emphasize the need for educational institutions to provide user-friendly platforms, socio-cultural support, and technological resources like high-speed internet. The study contributes to the understanding of M-learning adoption, offering insights for educators, policymakers, and developers to foster a more conducive digital learning environment in higher education.
Post-Covid Impact on Supply Chain Risk Management: A Case Study of a Semiconductor Company
Purpose – This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the operations and supply chains of a semiconductor firm, as well as the risk management practices implemented by the company to address these challenges. Design/methodology/approach – A case study of a semiconductor company was used in this research. Data was gathered through interviews with key members of the organisation specifically those related with supply chain and risk management. Findings The company experienced major disruptions due to the health pandemic, which had a significant impact on workforce availability and product demand. As a result, there were production slowdowns and delays, material shortages, and increased costs. The company has implemented robust risk management measures to address these challenges. This includes diversifying its supplier base, enhancing supplier evaluation, and improving inventory management. The company implemented advanced technologies to enhance its supply chain risk management. The use of these technologies have greatly improved communication, efficiency, and adaptability, which has resulted in increased resilience in the face of current and future disruptions. Research limitations/implications – The research is based on a single organization, thus, limiting the generalizability of the findings. Originality/value – The study provides empirical data from a case study of a semiconductor company, offering a detailed examination of the company’s risk management strategies during the post-pandemic period. It also highlights the critical role of technology and digitization in mitigating supply chain risks and ensuring visibility amidst ongoing uncertainties.
Industrial Practices and Precise Control Technology of De-Nitration in Power Plant: Commercial Strategy Approach
In view of the problem that circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boilers of various models and different performances used by many manufacturers in China cannot meet the requirements of increasing environmental protection standards, this manuscript mainly studied the universal accurate control technology of low nitrogen combustion in CFB. By investigating the common Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) design characteristics of domestic manufacturers and models of fluidized beds, a simple learning artificial intelligence control technology model based on System control theory was established to control nitrogen emissions more accurately by using monitors, sensors and collectors.. Through the analysis of specific industrial operation data, it is verified that the design idea of customized transformation of low nitrogen emission CFB boiler proposed in this paper is feasible and effective.
International Students in China During COVID-19: A Bibliometric Analysis
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted higher education worldwide, reshaping the experiences of international students, particularly in China. This study addresses the pressing need to understand the multi-dimensional challenges faced by these students, such as mental health concerns, cultural adaptation struggles, and the rapid shift to online learning, all of which have intensified under pandemic conditions. Utilizing bibliometric analysis, this research examines 150 articles from the Web of Science database (2019–2024) using CiteSpace, aiming to reveal key trends and developmental trajectories in studies on international students in China amid COVID-19.Our analysis reveals 13 principal clusters, encompassing student mobility, online learning, cultural adaptation, and mental health, demonstrating an evolution in research focus from immediate pandemic responses to broader considerations of student experiences. Key findings indicate that studies have shifted over time to focus more on the socio-cultural and psychological aspects of adaptation, as well as the impact of digital learning environments on students' academic engagement and satisfaction. Additionally, certain clusters underscore the interdisciplinary nature of this research field, as journals across education, psychology, and intercultural studies exhibit strong connections.Future research should delve deeper into specific adaptation mechanisms and policy support frameworks to improve the experiences of international students. This study contributes essential insights for educational institutions and policymakers in formulating strategies that promote the well-being and success of international students, especially in crisis contexts.
Attitude of Preschool Teachers towards Special Educational Needs Students
Preschool education is basic education for all children, including special educational needs students (SED). Therefore, the attitude of preschool teachers is essential to assist SED in receiving quality education as early as 5-6 years old. The purpose of this study was to identify the level of preschool teachers' attitudes towards SED. A quantitative study was conducted via survey research design. The sample of this study consisted of 80 preschool teachers in Kota Tinggi district who were selected through a simple random sampling technique. This study also used a questionnaire instrument adapted from the Diversity Acceptance Checklist, and then distributed to respondents via Google Form. Data analysis was conducted utilizing the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) software, and translated into frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. The results of this study indicated that the level of preschool teachers’ attitude towards SED was moderately high. The outcome of this study can provide information about the importance of preschool teachers' attitude towards SED. In conclusion, preschool teachers should strive to further improve their attitude level to promote the development of SED at the preschool level.
Effectiveness of Health-Based Physical Fitness Training in High School Students
The involvement of students during the physical activity of the Physical Education subjects affects the level of physical fitness of students. This study aimed to test the effectiveness of health-based physical fitness exercises based on cardiovascular endurance through a 3-minute bench-up test with a metronome. 18 Kasawari students at the Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Convent Jalan Peel located in Kuala Lumpur were selected as samples. The Standard Physical Fitness Examination Form for High School Students (SEGAK) has been used as a measurement tool in collecting information guided by standard procedures harmonized by the Ministry of Education of Malaysia. (KPM). The data was analysed using SPSS Version 29. Through pre- and post-stage tests, the study findings showed descriptive data showing that the min of post-stand test was found to be higher than the min before the stand test. The study findings obtained were significant (t = -1.446, p<.001). Test-t results show a significant difference between the pre-test upstairs and post-test downstairs in looking at the effectiveness of health-based physical fitness exercises. Therefore, this study can have an impact on various parties such as ministries, departments, schools in addition to the emphasis being given to students to do fitness activities to improve stamina and sports performance and help reduce the problem of obesity among students who are increasing.
A Systematic Review of Online Chinese as a Second Language Learning: Advantages and Challenges
"Internet+Chinese language education" represents a forward-thinking approach for Chinese as a foreign language, aligned with key initiatives such as "The Belt and Road" and the "Internet+" national strategy (Nie, 2023). The integration of educational technology into Chinese language instruction for non-native speakers offers innovative pedagogical possibilities, promising significant improvements in student engagement and learning outcomes. However, research on online Chinese language learning remains in its early stages, with relatively few studies available in this area (Nguyen et al., 2014). Online tools and applications for teaching Chinese have gained traction over the last decade, marking a prominent trend in the field. This study provides an extensive and nuanced review of current research, analyzing materials from February 2014 to March 2024 to assess both the benefits and challenges of online Chinese language education. Results reveal that while online learning affords substantial flexibility and convenience for students and teachers, it still encounters challenges such as technological limitations and classroom interaction. Of the initial 227 papers reviewed, 25 met the criteria for inclusion and underwent comprehensive analysis.
Challenges in Implementing Critical Thinking Skills in Chemistry According to Malaysian Educators
Malaysia education system aspires to develop students with critical thinking by introducing higher order thinking skills within the curriculum, therefore educators are encouraged to integrate critical thinking activities such as inquiry-based learning and problem-based learning during lesson. However, implementing critical thinking can be challenging to educators. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to explore educators’ experiences when applying critical thinking during their lesson. This qualitative study was conducted with purposive sampling technique as a means of data collection. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with seven respondents (four teachers and three lecturers in Chemistry education) who have more than five years of experience in the academic field. The transcripts from the interviews were analyzed thematically to discover challenges in implementing critical thinking skills. The findings indicated that myriads of challenges experienced by the respondents’ observations in employing critical thinking skills during teaching and learning lessons including not enough knowledge about critical thinking skills and students’ relying on their teachers to think.
The Fuzzy Delphi Method: Validation of the Professional Competencies Elements in Career Readiness Instrument for Students with Disabilities
This study seeks to achieve expert consensus on the items created for professional competencies elements in the career readiness assessment tool for students with disabilities. The study utilized the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) using a seven-point Likert scale to collect reviews from 13 experts in diverse disciplines such as special education, batik making, textiles, food & beverage, laundry, and cleaning services. The research instrument comprises 12 item into for professional competencies elements. The data was analyzed utilizing Triangular Fuzzy Numbers and the Defuzzification Process. The results suggest that expert comments and consensus on the instrument's constructions are satisfactory. The study found that the expert consensus was above 75%, with a Threshold (d) value below 0.2 and an α–cut value above 0.5. All 12 items in the personal quality and ability elements for students with disabilities satisfied the Triangular Fuzzy Numbers criteria and were approved. Thus, this indicates that all items have obtained expert consensus and are essential for evaluating the professional preparation of students with exceptional needs. FDM can amalgamate expert perspectives to reach a consensus on item validation, ensuring the reliability and relevance of the built items.
Empowering Student with Drone: A DDR Approach to Expanding the Physics Body of Knowledge and Enhancing Stem Education
This study investigates the integration of drone technology into the Malaysian secondary school physics curriculum using a Design and Development Research (DDR) approach to enhance student engagement and proficiency in STEM subjects. Traditional teaching methods often fail to engage students with fundamental physics concepts, resulting in disinterest and difficulty in understanding. Drone technology offers a practical, interactive learning platform that aligns with STEM goals, fostering problem-solving skills, creativity and a deeper understanding of physics principles. The study's primary aim is to develop a comprehensive body of knowledge (BOK) for drone technology in physics that tailored to Malaysian secondary schools. This involves assessing teacher needs, identifying key physics concepts related to drone technology and evaluating the BOK's effectiveness and usability. The research is conducted in three phases: needs assessment, design and development and evaluation. The needs assessment phase involves semi-structured interviews with teachers to identify challenges and expectations regarding drone technology in physics education. The design and development phase uses the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) to prioritize key BOK components and the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) refines and validates the content through expert feedback. The evaluation phase surveys teachers and students to assess the BOK's usability, engagement and impact on teaching and learning. Essential physics concepts identified include aerodynamics, energy and power, kinematics and dynamics, electromagnetism and control systems. Integrating drones into physics education can enhance student engagement and comprehension by making abstract concepts more tangible and relatable. However, challenges such as resource constraints, teacher readiness and curriculum alignment must be addressed. The study concludes that drone technology can significantly transform physics education, promoting contextual and interdisciplinary learning and preparing students for future technological challenges by bridging theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving.
Quranic Studies for Children and Adults Under the Supervision of Yayasan Islam Terengganu: A Study Review
The educational activities under the Community Service Unit, Human Development Division, Terengganu Islamic Foundation are running with encouraging reception from the community. A study was conducted to analyze the achievements in teaching and learning, community acceptance and value changes, as well as the effectiveness of the community service implementation through five educational programs. The study was carried out using a mixed-method research approach, incorporating a survey and data analysis. For the purpose of this article, it serves as a review of the study. The general findings from the 292 survey respondents across 8 districts show that 45% of participants are in the Adult Quran Learning Class, while 31% are in the Children's Quran Learning Class, with the remainder spread across the other three programs. Interview results indicated that both the Adult and Children's Quran Learning Classes were highly satisfactory and well received. Meanwhile, the Adult Religious Learning Class has managed to sustain itself in active locations. In conclusion, the study suggests that there is potential to develop a more systematic and modular (syllabus-based) Quran learning model.
Madya Dr. Mohd A'Tarahim Bin Mohd Razali
The Walking Backward Intervention Experienced by Students with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Turkiye’s Earthquake
The study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of walking backwards as a method for treating psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder which may follow it . The research involved twelve students from different schools, focusing on the effects of the backward walking technique on mental imagery, sleep quality, and emotional health. The study used a qualitative methodology, with personal interviews with participants. Initially, participants had fearful mental images of earthquakes and compulsive repetition of these images. However, after using the technique, 50% reported more control over these images, and 91.66% felt that the frightening images had less effect on their mental state. The backward walking technique also improved sleep quality. Participants reported simpler sleep commencement, deep and prolonged sleep, and a significant increase in the quality of their sleep. Additionally, people who had trauma experienced negative emotions such as dread, poor social communication, melancholy, and rage. However, after using the technique, they reported increased satisfaction, interaction with others, happiness, and familiarity with their surroundings. The study is considered an original scientific contribution to the body of knowledge, as it demonstrates that trauma victims greatly benefit from the kinesthetic treatment of walking backward. This research highlights the importance of incorporating the backward walking technique in the treatment of psychological trauma.
The Effect of Canvas LMS on Motivation, Engagement, and Interaction in Al Ain Private Schools
The study investigates the effect of Canvas LMS on motivation, engagement, and interaction across a sample population of private school students in Al Ain City of Abu Dhabi. It examines how Canvas LMS enhances intrinsic and extrinsic motivation by creating personalized experiences online, while it is proposed to promote engagement along the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral lines of participation. This study is quantitative in nature. Questionnaires were issued to 333 Grade 8 students across ten private schools. The findings indicate that, Canvas LMS promote motivation, engagement and student-teacher interaction, student interaction with peers, and interaction with course content.". "Being user-friendly in nature, the interactive tools of the platform contribute to creating a more engaging learning environment for the students to allow an improvement in their academic performance.". By paying attention to these aspects, this research gives some scope to understand how Canvas LMS may turn out to be an appropriate tool within educational settings, especially when it comes to motivating and engaging online learning environments. Therefore, institutions should prioritize the strategic implementation of Canvas LMS, focusing on its motivational and interactive tools. Training programs and support initiatives should be created to enhance teacher and student proficiency in using the system.
Effectiveness of Primary and Secondary Music Teachers’ Pre-Service Educational Programmes: Early-Career Music Teachers’ Perspectives
The current study seeks to examine early-career music educators’ viewpoints on the efficacious of pre-service educational programmes. A quantitative methodology, namely questionnaires, was employed among 398 respondents at primary and secondary schools in Guizhou, China. This study also appraised other factors contributing to the perspectives on the requirements for pre-service knowledge and skill preparations. The results demonstrated that the pre-service music teacher education programme was deemed effective, although further improvements were necessitated for music performance knowledge and skills, especially choral rehearsals and piano improvisation accompaniments. Furthermore, the theoretical knowledge and skills in the music programme were considered less efficacious and required reconstruction. Summarily, an empirical foundation was developed for future revisions of the pre-service music educational programme and the effective resolution of existing issues to sufficiently train graduates for classroom instructions.
Shaping Career Paths: The Impact of Higher Education Students' Entrepreneurial Interest and Drive
In Malaysia, job market was rapidly evolving. Entrepreneurship has become an increasingly attractive career option, especially for students in higher education institutions (IPTs) in Malaysia. This study aims to explore the relationship between entrepreneurial interest and spirit that impact on the career choice among IPT students in Malaysia. The research involved a survey of 385 students using a quantitative approach in form of survey to explore the relationship between entrepreneurial interest and spirit, and how these factors influenced the students career decisions. Data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Based on the study findings, both of entrepreneurial interest and entrepreneurial spirit toward career choice is high and positive. The study highlighted the importance of fostering entrepreneurial education within university students to enhance the interest and spirit towards the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship as a career. The results offer valuable insights for educators and ventures organizations by aiming to enhance the entrepreneurial among graduates in Malaysia.
Study on the Applications of Virtual Simulation in the Field of Art
In recent years, virtual simulation technology has gained widespread attention in the field of art, particularly for its importance in breaking the physical limitations of traditional art creation, enriching the diversity of artistic expression, and enhancing audience interactivity. Through case studies and literature review, this paper explores the practical applications of virtual simulation technology in art creation, exhibition, and education. By analyzing successful projects such as the “Van Gogh Immersive Experience,” the study demonstrates how virtual simulation, supported by virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), provides artists with more interactive and immersive creative environments. It allows audiences to engage with artworks anytime and anywhere in virtual exhibitions, and enables real-time feedback and interaction through human-computer interaction (HCI) technologies. The study finds that virtual simulation technology not only significantly enhances the viewing experience of artworks but also provides innovative tools for art education. However, despite its vast potential, the technology still faces challenges in terms of adoption, cost control, and digital copyright protection. Future research should further explore the integration of virtual simulation with artificial intelligence, big data, and other technologies to achieve higher levels of personalization and interactivity. Additionally, attention should be given to the commercialization and copyright protection of virtual artworks to promote sustainable development in this field.
The Challenges of Online Learning among Autism Students During COVID-19 Pandemic: Teacher’s Perspectives
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted educational systems globally, necessitating a swift transition to online learning formats. This abrupt shift posed unique challenges for students with special needs, their families, and educators, particularly in addressing the diverse requirements of students with autism. This study aims to ensure that the needs of each category of students are prioritized by offering strategic guidance and support, with a specific focus on autism spectrum students. Through qualitative research methods, including narrative descriptive analysis, this study explores the perspectives of teachers on the challenges faced by autism students during online learning amidst the pandemic. Key areas examined include the impact of the learning environment, behaviours related to hyperactivity and inattentiveness, the role of parental involvement, and technical difficulties like network connectivity. The findings highlight critical issues and offer insights for improving support systems for autism students in virtual learning settings.
Art College Teachers’ Status and Experiences of STEAM Education at a University in China
STEAM education concept integrates the knowledge of a variety of disciplines, and gradually forms a new model of comprehensive and practical education. The introduction of STEAM education concept is a great help to the development of art education. The value of art in STEAM education has gradually been popularized and recognized, and some academic activities and observation activities have been favored by many researchers and front-line teachers. At the same time, art has shown a powerful function in promoting the cultivation of creativity, critical thinking and other abilities. A deep understanding of the role of the arts in the STEAM curriculum is essential to raise the awareness of the importance of art education in STEAM. So thus, it promotes the development of STEAM education. However, in the process of STEAM education implementation, art education has often been neglected, especially the experience of art teachers in STEAM development needs to be paid attention, to pave the way for the future development of STEAM education. This paper adopts narrative interviewing on two Chinese STEAM art teachers. It makes an in-depth understanding and research on the experience and current situation of art teachers at this stage. Meanwhile, it creates a certain significance for promoting the development of STEAM education in China.
The Impact of Psychological Capital, Knowledge Sharing, and Autonomous Motivation on College Students' Innovative Behavior
Despite decades of reform efforts and China's large population, there is still a gap in the talent market between supply and demand, which affects Chinese college students' training plans. Although higher education continues to reform, the market's criteria for selecting talents are more comprehensive and no longer academic-based. Despite a severe employment background, employment standards continue to improve, and innovative behavior has become one of the evaluation criteria. Currently, the majority of innovation and entrepreneurship courses that stimulate students' innovative behavior come from external sources, overlooking their intrinsic motivation. Psychological capital can provide positive psychological resources to students, such as resilience, thereby improving their awareness and promoting behavior. We must be aware of the impact of intrinsic motivation on students, and we must use psychological capital and knowledge sharing to strengthen intrinsic motivation, promote innovative behavior, and build an influence model. This essay will look at how psychological capital can be used to encourage students to be creative in Chinese schools. It will also explain how to change things by combining knowledge sharing and intrinsic motivation in a more complete way. Researchers will investigate how to use and expand psychological capital theory in the Chinese context to support college students' innovative behavior.
Improving Malaysian Undergraduates’ Emotional Intelligence Skills through Emotional Intelligence Training Program
The initial stage of university life can be difficult, particularly for first year university students. Lack of emotional control, emotional awareness, and emotional management can lead to many psychological and emotional disorders among this population. Even though earlier studies strongly recommend introducing emotional intelligence training programs (EITP) in educational settings, it has been found that only a small number of universities have offered emotional intelligence (EI) courses for undergraduates. Furthermore, only a limited number of studies have explored methods to enhance undergraduates' EI and establish an EITP in universities that possess a robust theoretical foundation. To reduce the gaps, the study used a quasi-experiment design with 60 experimental groups and 60 control groups drawn from both social or social science and pure science programs at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) presented significant differences in EI scores between treatment and control groups from social or social science fields and pure science fields. Additionally, the paired-samples t-test demonstrated that the EITP successfully enhanced the EI skills of treatment groups, while no significant effects were found in control groups. The finding serves as a foundation for implementing EITP in Malaysian public universities. For the recommendation, the study suggests further investigating the EI module to ensure the EITP can be generalized among this population.
Enhancing the Performance of Indonesian E-Business Start-Ups: The Influence of Innovation Capability and Dynamic Capability
Purpose: This study aims to highlight the influence of innovation capability on e-business success by investigating the presence of dynamic capabilities and the impact of government assistance and entrepreneurial orientation in firms. The objective of this research is to enhance the association between dynamic capabilities and the performance of e-business. Design/methodology/approach: Data was collected from 117 e-commerce startups operating in Indonesia for a duration of less than 5 years. The survey was conducted by disseminating questionnaires by email and Google Form digital channels, and subsequently analyzed using PLS 3.0. Findings: The study found that the effectiveness of the innovation process is a key factor in affecting the dynamic capacities and performance improvement of e-business start-ups. It was determined to be the most significant link between these relationships. Furthermore, government support plays a crucial role in strengthening the link between dynamic capability and the performance of e-businesses. Practical implications: E-business start-ups and the government should prioritize enhancing their ability to adapt and respond to changing circumstances by investing in training programs and structured initiatives. Additionally, they should aim to improve their capacity for innovation by collaborating with educational institutions and digital communities to develop a skilled workforce. These efforts will ultimately lead to improved performance. Originality/value: This research is expected to fill the gap in knowledge indicated in the literature review and provide a new discovery that improves and complements the research of RBV theory and dynamic capacities, specifically in relation to the performance of e-business start-ups in developing countries.
Instructional Leadership Practice among Principals of Chinese Primary Schools in Selangor
This study examines the instructional leadership practices of principals in high-performing Chinese primary schools in Selangor, Malaysia. Using a qualitative approach, data was gathered through interviews with four principals and a focus group of five teachers. The research explores how principals perceive and practice instructional leadership within the Malaysian context. Findings indicate that principals often struggle to balance instructional leadership with administrative duties imposed by higher authorities. While they acknowledge the importance of instructional leadership in improving teaching and learning, administrative tasks frequently shift their focus. A framework is introduced, represented as a pyramid with five dimensions, starting from managerial responsibilities at the base and culminating with creating a school mission at the top. The study emphasizes the challenge of balancing leadership and management and suggests future research on how principals can navigate these dual roles more effectively to improve school performance.
The Effectiveness of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Program in Weight Loss, Muscle Strength, and Reducing Injury Risks
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has gained significant attention for its potential benefits in improving fitness and health outcomes. This paper examines the effectiveness of HIIT programs specifically in three key areas: weight loss, muscle strength enhancement, and reduction of injury risks. The study explores existing literature and empirical evidence to assess how HIIT impacts weight management by enhancing metabolism and promoting fat loss through intense, intermittent exercises. Additionally, it investigates HIIT's role in enhancing muscle strength by stimulating muscle growth and improving endurance through short bursts of high-intensity exercises. Furthermore, the paper examines HIIT's potential in reducing injury risks by promoting proper movement patterns, enhancing joint stability, and improving overall body conditioning. It discusses various HIIT protocols and their effectiveness in achieving these outcomes across different demographics and fitness levels. Overall, this abstract highlights the comprehensive evaluation of HIIT's effectiveness in achieving weight loss, enhancing muscle strength, and reducing injury risks, providing insights into its potential as a time-efficient and beneficial exercise regimen for improving overall health and fitness.
Leveraging Waqf to Address Financing Constraints in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Research and Innovation
Waqf a perpetual charitable endowment under Sharia law, has been identified as a powerful financial instrument for supporting diverse socio-educational initiatives. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), a crucial component of the educational framework, plays a pivotal role in cultivating a competent workforce and adapting to the dynamic demands of the industry. Financing constraints, particularly in the realms of research and innovation, pose significant challenges for TVET institutions. These financial barriers impede not only technological progress and innovation but also the overall quality of education delivered. Within the Islamic economic model, waqf is proposed as a solution to overcome these financial hurdles in TVET's research and innovation sectors. This study consolidates information from various sources, including scholarly articles, reports, and statistical analyses, to explore waqf's pivotal role in driving the Islamic economy through TVET financing. The paper also discusses the pivotal role of TVET institutions in enhancing employability and driving economic growth. It examines the funding limitations and their impact on research and innovation in TVET institutions. Furthermore, the study investigates the management of waqf assets and ensures effective investments in TVET education. The conclusions highlight waqf's vital role as a strategic financial resource that can alleviate funding shortages in TVET research and innovation, thereby enhancing human capital development and advancing the Islamic economic framework towards greater sustainability and inclusivity.
Piano Teachers' Guidance Strategies: An Exploratory Investigation into Promoting Student Self-Direction
With the change of educational philosophy, piano learning is not only a process of cultivating artistic skills, but also requires students to have good self-direction. This study explored the role of piano teachers in developing students‘ self-direction skills with the aim of identifying key factors that influence students’ independent learning. A qualitative research method was used to collect data on teachers‘ efforts to enhance students’ self-directed competence through personalised feedback, emotional support and professional development training. The study selected 16 piano teachers aged 25 to 45 years old from a local piano training center with at least 2 years of teaching experience as research subjects. Findings showed that teachers‘ emotional support and professional training significantly improved students’ self-directed learning and musical expression. Based on the findings, this paper suggests new teaching strategies to improve the quality of instruction and enhance the student learning experience.
Unpacking Coaching Skill in School Leadership: A Structured Review
Coaching skills are essential for developing effective school leaders and enhancing their leadership capacities. This review explores how structured coaching contributes to leadership development and its impact on educational outcomes. This structured review examines coaching skills among school leaders, using a PRISMA approach to analyze existing literature. The review focuses on the importance of effective coaching for school leaders, especially in adapting to rapid changes in educational contexts. A systematic search of academic databases, including Scopus and Web of Science, with keywords such as "coaching skills," "school," "lead," and "leaders," identified a comprehensive selection of relevant studies. The analysis revealed that effective coaching skills have been crucial in enhancing leadership in recent years, offering essential support and guidance for school leaders navigating evolving challenges. The final finding data is (n=12) which review identified key themes such as the challenges of applying coaching skills, the need for adapting coaching methods, and the importance of ongoing development for coaches. Expert validation decided to divide into three themes which is (1) Development and Implementation of Leadership Coaching, (2) Impact of Coaching on Professional and Personal Development and (3) Research Approaches and Insights in Coaching Studies. The review highlights the crucial role of coaching in enhancing leadership capabilities, improving professional skills, and addressing the needs of both educators and students. It underscores the need for further research to refine coaching practices and maximize their impact on school leadership and student outcomes.
Science Students’ Misconceptions of Basic Concepts of Chemistry on Matter and Its Particulate Properties
This paper aims to explore and discuss students’ misconceptions in explaining and representing matter and its particulate nature. The study was conducted quantitatively where data were obtained and analyzed through a two-level diagnostic test. Students' misconceptions are assessed based on objective answers in the first level. Then, in the second level, misconceptions are assessed based on open-ended questions that require students to construct a written descriptions as well as particle diagrams. Sixty secondary school students (age fourteen) participated in this study. Wilcoxon sign rank test analysis revealed that the median of the null hypothesis compared to each item median in diagnostic test have a significant difference of the diagnostic test at the significant level of 0.05. Based on the results, it turns out that each students have misconceptions on 100% of the items. Those misconception about basic chemical concepts are comprising both at the macroscopic and microscopic levels. Such misconceptions make it difficult for students to determine the exact facts and build explanations including representing particles that are coherent with the scientific facts between the observed phenomena and the phenomenon of particles. As a result, students face challenges in order to build conceptual understanding on the topic about matter and its particulate nature. The results of the study also enable appropriate learning methods to be developed specifically to overcome the misconceptions of basic chemical concepts in middle school.
Understanding Cooperative Attitude, Behavior, and Perceived Learning Effectiveness of Cooperative Learning: A Value-Based Approach
This study explored the personal value orientations of local Chinese college students. It examined the effects of self-transcendence values on cooperative attitude, cooperative behavior, and the perceived learning effectiveness of CL among EFLs at the university level. The sample included 204 adolescents (183 females) with a mean age of 20.08 years (20.08±0.642). Utilizing structural equation modeling, our findings revealed that: (1) there is a prioritization of self-transcendence (ST) values over self-enhancement (SE) values among the participants; (2) ST values had a direct positive effect on cooperative attitudes and the perceived learning effectiveness of CL among the participants; (3) cooperative attitudes significantly mediated the relationship between ST values and cooperative behavior; (4) cooperative attitudes and cooperative behavior sequentially mediated the relationship between ST values and the perceived learning effectiveness of CL. We discuss enhancing ST values as a strategic approach to improve outcomes of Cooperative Learning (CL).
A Review of Mentoring Programs for New Faculty Members in Malaysian Higher Education Institutions
Mentoring programs facilitate the effective transition of new faculty members in higher education institutions (HEIs). Currently, there are limited literature review papers on new faculty member mentoring programs in Malaysian HEIs. Thus, there is a need for research that synthesizes existing knowledge and identifies areas for improvement in these new faculty member mentoring programs. Furthermore, the impact of informal mentoring relationships needs to be more explored. This study informs the development of effective and sustainable mentoring programs for new faculty members in Malaysia HEIs by analyzing current practices, identifying knowledge gaps, and highlighting effective strategies. The methodology used for this study is a narrative literature review, systematically collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing existing research on mentoring for new faculty members that has taken place in Malaysian HEIs. The literature indicated that well-structured mentoring programs could enhance new faculty members’ job satisfaction, teaching practices, and research productivity. However, the lack of consistency in program implementation and evaluation methods and the scarcity of longitudinal studies hinders conclusive assessments of their long-term effectiveness. The literature presents both consistent findings and notable variations. Effective mentoring programs rely on structured support and clear communication, yet cultural and institutional barriers can hinder well-designed programs. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess the long-term effects of mentoring programs and comparative studies of different mentoring types. Exploring cultural and contextual factors can help tailor programs to diverse academic environments. The findings provide insights for optimizing mentoring programs for policymakers and HEI administrators. Understanding the key components of successful mentoring and avoiding common pitfalls can lead to more effective support structures, enhancing faculty development, educational outcomes, faculty retention rates, and institutional culture.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Project-Based Learning Module (McodE) in Solar Still Projects
This study evaluates the effectiveness of the McodE pedagogical module, a project-based learning approach, in enhancing computational thinking (CT) skills among STEM secondary school teachers through the integration of the Magnetcode application. Employing a case study design, 21 teachers participated in a virtual workshop that introduced the module, focusing on developing solar still projects as a platform for integrating STEM concepts and CT skills. The workshop emphasized ubiquitous learning environments and provided hands-on training with supplementary resources to support classroom application. Teachers applied the module in their classrooms, culminating in student project showcases that fostered creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. Data were collected through post-test questionnaires and observations of project showcases, and findings highlighted the module's success in integrating CT skills within STEM education. Teachers rated highly on the module’s clarity, usability, and relevance to real-world issues like global warming and water scarcity. The Magnetcode application supported coding integration, though technical aspects received slightly lower ratings, indicating areas for improvement. Overall, the study concludes that the McodE pedagogical module effectively enhances CT skills while fostering engagement and creativity in STEM learning environments.
Impact of Linguistic Problems on Learning Arabic Speaking Skills among Non-Native Arabic-Speaking Students
This study investigates the impact of linguistic problems on the acquisition of speaking skills among non-native Arabic-speaking students at the International Islamic School in Gombak, Malaysia. It identifies key problems such as pronunciation difficulties, limited vocabulary, and grammar errors that hinder students' ability to communicate effectively in Arabic. A quantitative approach was used, employing descriptive analysis to explore these problems and their effects. Results indicate that students struggle particularly with linguistic problems such as pronunciation of specific Arabic sounds (e.g., 'ع' and 'غ') and understanding grammatical rules. The study emphasizes the importance of targeted training and supportive learning environments to address these problems. Recommendations include focused interventions on pronunciation, vocabulary-building activities, and the use of error analysis to guide teaching strategies, aimed at enhancing students' confidence and proficiency in speaking Arabic. Insights from this research can inform curriculum development and teaching methodologies, improving the learning outcomes for non-native speakers in similar educational contexts.
Understanding Accounting Learning in 3 Intelligences: Intellectual Intelligence (IQ), Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and Spiritual Intelligence (SQ)
The current education system still considers intellectual intelligence as the main component of academic assessment. Intellectual intelligence is not the only one that can be used as an index, there are supporting intelligences that influence it, namely emotional intelligence and spiritual intelligence. Accounting students do not only rely on intellectual intelligence in analyzing accounting cases but need the involvement of other intelligences to better understand. So this will be very helpful if later they are in the world of work, where their professionalism and abilities will be questioned. The purpose of this study is to determine and describe how intellectual intelligence (IQ), emotional intelligence (EQ) and spiritual intelligence (SQ) influence the level of understanding of accounting learning. The research sample was 73 students. This study uses a mix method that combines quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative results will be strengthened by qualitative analysis conducted by means of Focus Group Discussion. Data collection techniques by distributing questionnaires online via google forms. The results of the study indicate that intellectual intelligence (IQ) does not have a significant effect on the level of understanding of accounting learning, emotional intelligence (SQ) has a significant effect on the level of understanding of accounting learning, and spiritual intelligence (SQ) does not affect the level of understanding of accounting learning. This is reinforced by various student opinions, that students state that having good intellectual intelligence but not accompanied by high motivation results in understanding of accounting learning being less than optimal, this is also because students are not able to divide their time well. This is in line with the fact that students' willingness and perseverance in learning accounting will be more dominant in understanding accounting learning, while adequate spiritual intelligence does not guarantee that students can understand accounting learning. So of the three intelligences tested on accounting students, the emotional intelligence factor is the most determining factor in producing a good understanding of accounting learning, while intellectual and spiritual intelligence have no effect.
Synergizing the Integration of Coding and Programming Competencies through Quadruple Helix Model for Malaysian Vocational Education
Vocational college is one of the leading institutions in coding and programming competencies among students. However, the lack of discussions on the stakeholders roles not treated in much detail and cause the limited information for intervention. This paper attempts to explores the integration of coding and programming competencies in Malaysian vocational education through the Quadruple Helix Model, which synergizes the collective efforts of government, industry, and academia. The investigation centres on the pivotal role of computational thinking within vocational training programs, emphasizing how enhanced computational thinking skills can significantly improve students' ability to address assigned programming tasks effectively. The Quadruple Helix framework supports this by facilitating a dynamic interaction among stakeholders, fostering an environment where academic concepts meet practical industry demands. The analysis suggests that embedding advanced coding skills in vocational education is key to preparing students for the technological challenges of the future job market. The outcome of this study indicates a pressing need for vocational training programs to adapt more robust programming training, which aligns well with industry requirements and academic standards, thus ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to Malaysia's digital economy. This approach not only benefits the immediate educational context but also positions Malaysian vocational education as a critical player in the global digital landscape. Further work is required to be more focus on many types of stakeholder to coding and programming competencies research in education.
Transforming Education: A Diffusion Theory Approach to Online Learning among Indigenous Undergraduate Students in Malaysia
Background and Purpose: Indigenous people in Malaysia face educational access challenges, worsened by the COVID-19-driven shift to online learning due to limited ICT in remote areas. This research article aims to examine the factors influencing Indigenous undergraduate students' interest in taking online classes and gather their perceptions about online learning. Methodology: This study utilized cross-sectional research methodology to collect data from Indigenous undergraduate students enrolled at one of the governments-linked university in Malaysia, with the aim of capturing a momentary representation of their inclination towards online learning. Convenience sampling was used due to practical limitations. Using Diffusion Innovation Theory, five variables were examined toward the interest of taking online classes among the sample. The variables used were measured using a 5-point Likert scale. This study included the application of descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis to investigate the associations between variables. Findings: Contrary to established theories, no significant correlations were found between variables, contradicting prevalent beliefs about technology adoption. This may be due to cultural and contextual factors unique to the Indigenous community such as traditional learning techniques, communal values, and limited access to resources. The results indicate the need to employ culturally relevant educational approaches to encourage the adoption of online learning and conduct a detailed analysis of these elements in future research. Contributions: The study contributes to the discourse on technology adoption by highlighting the need for culturally sensitive educational initiatives to understand and enhance interest in online learning platforms among Indigenous communities in Malaysia.
The Problems of the Effectiveness of School-Enterprise Cooperation in Vocational Education in the Context of Industry-Education Integration and the Measures to Enhance it
The development of vocational education cannot be separated from the cooperation between schools and enterprises. Looking at the process of integration of production and education between schools and enterprises, there are differences between the two in terms of logic and position. Colleges and universities focus on project research with the premise of professional skills education and training, while enterprises emphasize the cultivation of talents to promote the efficient development of enterprises. School-enterprise cooperation has fallen into the strange circle of “different dreams in the same bed”, and in the long run, school-enterprise cooperation will become a mere formality, and even a crisis of interruption will occur. In order to build a good mode of industry-industry fusion and improve the coupling degree of cooperation between schools and enterprises, certain improvement measures should be taken in the process of industry-industry fusion to establish a sound operation mechanism, improve the cooperation platform between schools and enterprises, and create a good cooperation culture and ecology, so as to make the cooperation between schools and enterprises realize sustainable development.
Factors Influencing Employee Performance in Malaysian SMES: The Mediating of Job Satisfaction and the Moderating Impact of Transformational Leadership
The purpose of this study is to examine the factors influencing employee performance in Malaysian SMEs. According to the SME Performance Report 2021 from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, SME productivity is lower than that of non-SMEs across all economic sectors and industries. The Self-Determination Theory serves as the main conceptual framework for this study. A purposive sampling method was employed, and data were collected from 126 Malaysian SME employees at the executive or managerial level. The data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling technique. The results reveal that job autonomy and competency do not have a significant impact on job satisfaction. However, psychological ownership is the only variable that significantly influences job satisfaction. Furthermore, job satisfaction has a significant positive effect on employee performance. Transformational leadership is found to positively moderate the relationship between job satisfaction and employee performance. In terms of mediation, job satisfaction successfully mediates the relationship between psychological ownership and employee performance but fails to mediate the relationship between job autonomy and competency on employee performance. This research focuses on a limited number of variables, such as autonomy, competency, and psychological ownership, while neglecting other potentially influential factors like communication, human capital management, rewards, and perceived support. Future studies should consider expanding the research model to include additional factors that may influence employee performance and job satisfaction, such as incentive packages, communication strategies, and sector-specific considerations. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for SME owners and policymakers in their efforts to enhance employee productivity.
A Multiclass Ensemble Learning Approach for Predicting Customer Churn in Commercial Banks
In the era of burgeoning big data and the expansive reach of the Internet, commercial banks are confronted with the challenge of managing an extensive customer base while striving to meet their evolving needs. A nuanced and reliable understanding of consumer preferences is imperative for banks to ensure customer retention and to preemptively address potential churn. This research introduces a sophisticated approach to predict customer churn through the lens of multiclass categorization, leveraging the prowess of ensemble machine learning algorithms. By integrating the strengths of XGBoost, LightBoost, and CatBoost with a bagging ensemble method, our model offers a refined prediction of customer churn, distinguishing between various levels of churn risk. This multiclass ensemble learning framework not only enhances the predictive accuracy but also provides a more granular insight into customer behavior patterns. The efficacy of our model is assessed using the kappa statistic, a robust measure for evaluating the consistency of predictions across multiple categories. Our experimental results reveal that the kappa value of our multiclass ensemble model significantly surpasses that of single-algorithm approaches, indicating a superior predictive performance and reliability. The insights gleaned from our model can inform targeted marketing strategies and customer retention efforts, thereby mitigating the risk of customer churn. Through the application of this multiclass ensemble learning model, banks can achieve a more strategic and informed approach to maintaining customer loyalty and optimizing their service offerings.
An Overview of Historical Development and Emerging Challenges of Vocational Education: A China’s Higher Education Perspective
The development of higher vocational education is essential for providing a post-secondary form of education that combines theoretical and practical studies for individualized growth of students to meet industry specific demands for competence. Over the years, vocational education in China has made significant progress, and its importance in higher education has been widely recognized. Higher vocational education is integral to the overall framework of Chinese higher education. China has made substantial strides in this field, with a significant increase in the number of vocational colleges and universities. As a core component of the national education system, China's higher vocational education aims to cultivate skilled personnel necessary for social and economic development. The development and reform of vocational education in China is critical to meeting the needs of industrial development and advancing national economic goals. Overall, vocational education in China is evolving to meet changing economic conditions and social needs, with an increasing emphasis on practical skills and industry relevance. The first part of this paper describes the historical development of vocational education in China’s higher education. The second part of this paper presents an analysis of the current situation, challenges and opportunities that exist in higher vocational education in China. It also puts forward a series of counter-measures designed to address these issues.
Collaboration between Lecturers and Industry in Implementing Career Transition Programs for Students with Abilities
Students with abilities often face challenges in finding employment after graduation. The collaborative network between community college lecturers and the industry is crucial in providing exposure to successful transitions for these students. As implementers, lecturers are crucial in understanding the career transition process, guiding, and effectively implementing career transition programs. This understanding is crucial for their cooperation with the industry to gain insights and perspectives on the career transition process of students with abilities. While this collaboration can be challenging, lecturers must devise strategies to ensure the industry's expectations and requirements align with the career transition program. Overcoming the challenges related to the transition program is crucial for reaching a consensus between the two parties. The purpose of the study is to explore the implementation of lecturers in carrying out collaboration with industry for career transition programs. A qualitative method was used through a case study of six Northern Community College lecturers. The interview protocol instrument and results were analyzed using Atlas Ti to obtain themes. The two resulting themes are i) Collaboration with the industry and ii) Employer Attitudes. The findings show that Community College lecturers take the initiative by establishing collaboration with the industry, but problems arise during implementation. Therefore, Community College lecturers need to increase collaboration with the industry to deal with issues and challenges encountered during the successful transition program. The implications of this study can be significant for lecturers in organizing strategies and discussing the needs of the industry in accepting students with special needs to achieve the goals of the career transition program and ensure the marketability of students with special needs. This aligns with SDG 4, which is equal education for people with special needs.
Boosting Boundaries: How Feedback Methods Enhance Student Self-Efficacy in Long Jump?
The transition from traditional teaching methods to modern technology-based feedback systems in physical education (PE) represents a significant advancement in educational practices. This research investigates the comparative effectiveness of Self-Controlled Video Feedback (SC-VF), Externally Controlled Video Feedback (EC-VF), Peer Review Video Feedback (PR-VF), and Teacher-Guided Instruction (TG) in enhancing students' self-efficacy in long jump performance. Employing a Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) design to ensure scientific rigor and validity, the study involves 180 secondary school students, comprising 96 males and 84 females, with an average age of 14.0 years (SD = 0.82 months). None of the participants had prior experience in the long jump, and all were instructed by the same physical education teacher with eight years of experience. The eight-week training program focused on the long jump, with assessments conducted at the Post-Test 1, Post-Test 2 and during a follow-up retention test two weeks post-intervention. The Self-Efficacy Scale (Kok et al., 2020) was utilised for measurements, which were analysed using One-Way ANOVA. The results showed no significant difference in self-efficacy scores at the mid-test stage among the groups. However, in subsequent tests, the SC-VF and PR-VF groups demonstrated higher self-efficacy scores compared to the EC-VF and TG groups. Retention test scores further highlighted the benefits of self-controlled and peer-reviewed feedback in sustaining skill improvement and self-confidence. These findings suggest that incorporating these feedback methods into PE curriculums can strategically enhance the development of sports skills in adolescents. Future research should consider a qualitative approach to further evaluate self-efficacy.
Debating as an Academic Tool: Fostering Holistic and Critical Thinking in Higher Education
This paper explores the role of structured debating as an academic tool in higher education, arguing that it fosters holistic and critical thinking skills essential for academic and professional success. Through a review of literature, case studies, and empirical evidence, the paper demonstrates how integrating debating into curricula provides a dynamic approach to student development. Debating requires students to engage deeply with complex issues, often exploring multiple perspectives to construct and defend arguments. This process develops critical thinking by pushing students to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and separate emotion from objective reasoning. Arguing both for and against a proposition, regardless of personal beliefs, further cultivates intellectual humility, allowing students to appreciate opposing viewpoints. Moreover, debating enhances holistic thinking by encouraging students to draw from diverse disciplines, preparing them for real-world problem-solving where multifaceted solutions are often required. Communication skills, both oral and written, also improve, as students learn to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively under time constraints, mirroring professional environments. In contrast to passive, lecture-based learning, debating promotes active engagement. Students not only retain knowledge better but also develop lifelong learning skills, becoming adept at research, analysis, and synthesis. This interactive approach fosters independent thinking and a questioning mindset, preparing students to navigate complex global challenges. Ultimately, this paper argues that incorporating debating into higher education curricula can create a more engaging, student-centered environment that equips students with 21st-century skills. As institutions seek innovative methods to enhance learning, debating stands out as a valuable pedagogical strategy for fostering holistic and critical thinking in higher education.
The Role of Astronomy in Early Stem Education: A Case Study of Preschool Teacher Training Programs
Fostering cognitive development and promoting interest in scientific disciplines require integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) into early childhood education. But preschool instructors sometimes lack the skills and self-assurance needed to teach esoteric STEM subjects, especially astronomy. This study assesses the efficacy of a preschool teachers' astronomy training program using a quantitative research methodology. Measuring improvements in teachers' astronomical knowledge, self-assurance, readiness, and capacity to incorporate astronomy into the preschool curriculum was the goal. Fifteen preschool instructors took part in a two-day training program using a pre-test/post-test approach. Structured questionnaires were used to gather data both before and after the training. According to the pre-survey results, just 20% of participants felt secure enough to teach astronomy, whereas 30% believed they knew enough about the subject. Results from the post-survey indicated a noteworthy improvement in these domains, with 70% indicating increased confidence in their ability to teach and 40% reporting better understanding of astronomy. Furthermore, from 25% to 60%, instructors were better equipped to teach astronomy, and from 13% to 40%, they were better able to incorporate astronomy into the curriculum. The findings imply that focused training initiatives might greatly improve preschool instructors' aptitude for teaching STEM subjects, especially astronomy. In order to close the gaps in instructional abilities and topic understanding and ultimately promote more successful STEM education in early childhood settings, our findings reinforce the necessity of ongoing professional development.
Does Economic Promote Sustainable Development: Study in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand
Published Online: 30 November 2024 This study investigates the impact of various economic indicators on the sustainability index using robust regression analysis. The dataset comprises 73 observations, and the model evaluates the effects of four independent variables: democracy index (dem_index), inflation, GDP, and economic growth (ec_growth). The results reveal significant insights into the relationship between these indicators and the sustainability index. The regression model demonstrates a significant overall fit, with an F-statistic of 9.31 and a p-value of 0.0000, indicating that the model is statistically significant. The R-squared value of 0.3051 suggests that approximately 30.51% of the variance in the sustainability index can be explained by the independent variables included in the model. The root mean squared error (Root MSE) is 8.9467, reflecting the average error in the model's predictions. The analysis shows that the democracy index (dem_index) has a positive but statistically insignificant coefficient (0.2749245, p=0.951), implying no substantial impact on the sustainability index. In contrast, inflation exhibits a negative and statistically significant coefficient (-1.594545, p=0.000), indicating that higher inflation significantly reduces the sustainability index. GDP has a negative coefficient (-0.0046032, p=0.080), which is near statistical significance, suggesting a potential but weak negative influence on the sustainability index. Economic growth (ec_growth) has a positive but statistically insignificant coefficient (0.3109447, p=0.269), indicating no clear impact on the sustainability index. The constant term (_cons) is statistically significant (82.65478, p=0.003), reflecting the baseline value of the sustainability index when all predictors are zero. The study highlights the significant negative effect of inflation on the sustainability index, while other variables like democracy index, GDP, and economic growth show no significant impact. These findings underscore the importance of managing inflation to enhance sustainability outcomes. Further research is recommended to explore additional factors influencing sustainability and to refine the model's predictive accuracy.
Level of Quranic Tajwid Knowledge among Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Students
The Quran is a miracle and a source of guidance for every Muslim, and therefore, the knowledge of the Quran must be taken seriously, starting with the recitation according to Tajweed. This study examines the level of knowledge regarding Quranic Tajweed among students of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). The main issue highlighted is the students' weakness in reciting the Quran in a proper and tajweed-compliant manner, which can have a negative impact on their commitment to reciting it and affect individual moral development as well as social aspects. The objective of this study is to identify the level of Quranic Tajweed knowledge among UTM students. The methodology used in this study is quantitative, utilizing a questionnaire distributed to 122 fourth-year students from the School of Education at UTM. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. The results of the study indicate that the level of Tajweed knowledge among students is still low, with only 15.2% of respondents able to recite the Quran well. The main factors identified include a lack of interest, a shortage of teachers, weak foundational Tajweed knowledge before entering university, and a lack of Quranic classes and time allocation to learn it. Suggestions for further research include a deeper investigation into the factors affecting Quranic knowledge and more effective approaches to improve Tajweed mastery among students.
School Effectiveness Literature: Theories and Models
School effectiveness refers to the extent to which an institution achieves its established goals while addressing challenges that may impede its operations. In China, the assessment of school effectiveness frequently relies on a singular statistical metric, such as students' scores on a certain examination, as a benchmark for assessing institutional performance. It is also less likely to consider the influence of students' familial background, school enrollment outcomes, and variables such as teacher quality, financial resources, and geographic location on school effectiveness. A scientific evaluation method is essential for assessing school effectiveness. This paper elucidated the concepts of school effectiveness, the contribution of social system theory to its enhancement, and models of school effectiveness. This study's conclusions will offer insights and recommendations for the education department, administrators, leaders, and instructors, thereby enhancing the realisation of school effectiveness. And this paper helps leaders to recognise teachers' knowledge and skills and set common goals.
Flipped Classroom in ESL Context: A Systematic Review on Teachers Perception (2019 – 2023)
Education worldwide is experiencing a significant upheaval due to technological breakthroughs. It shifts societal needs, changing pedagogical philosophies and moving away from traditional classroom settings and standardised curricula. The flipped classroom method, or inverted classroom, has been the new education trend for several years. This study presents a comprehensive systematic review of the literature on the flipped classroom, particularly emphasising teachers’ perceptions regarding the flipped classroom implementation in English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms. This systematic literature review thoroughly examined 15 publications published between 2019 and 2023, including full-text articles from three databases: Scopus, WoS (Web of Science), and ERIC, to enhance the review’s quality. The main findings of previous research, categorised by both positive and negative perspectives, were presented in tables for better understanding. The findings indicate that most teachers had positive perceptions of the flipped classroom methodology despite the challenges associated with its implementation. Finally, this systematic review offers teachers recommendations for enhancing the success of the flipped classroom method in the language classroom.
Digital Module of Research Methodology Based on Problem-Based Learning: A Needs Analysis for Sustainability Development
Problem Based Learning (PBL) has become a popular concept in higher education because it is good at encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and self-directed learning. The concept of a learning society in which lifelong learning is woven into the fabric of everyday existence is becoming more acknowledged as essential to sustainable development. This paper presents a need analysis for developing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) modules in higher education, aimed at fostering a learning society for sustainable development. This study employs a needs analysis approach to gather information on the content and delivery aspects of PBL digital module to be developed. The target users of the needs analysis are postgraduate students, who are the primary beneficiaries of the proposed product. The study reveals that certain topics are particularly challenging for students, with master students finding Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks as difficult topic, while PhD students struggle with Quantitative/Qualitative Analysis and Thesis/Proposal Writing. There are issues in teaching aspects within higher education institutions that require updating. The results emphasize how important it is to incorporate PBL into higher education courses in order to solve the problems found and enhance student learning. The creation of digital PBL modules that integrate real-world issues and useful applications can greatly improve students' capacity for critical analysis, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Gender Measurement Invariance of the Learning Burnout Scale of Undergraduates (LBSU) among Chinese Undergraduates
This study aimed to examine the measurement invariance of the Learning Burnout Scale of Undergraduates (LBSU) across gender, addressing a significant gap in the literature despite the scale’s widespread use in research. A sample of 619 undergraduate students was assessed using the LBSU. Both single-group and multi-group confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) were conducted using AMOS 24.0 to evaluate the scale’s psychometric properties and gender-based measurement invariance. Findings demonstrated that the LBSU exhibits robust psychometric properties for assessing academic burnout severity among undergraduate students. Moreover, the scale demonstrated measurement invariance across genders, suggesting that observed differences between male and female participants likely reflect genuine gender disparities rather than measurement artefacts, which contributes to the methodological rigor of academic burnout research in the Chinese context. The complex pattern of gender differences observed, coupled with the moderate levels of burnout across the sample, addresses the urgency of tailored effective interventions.
Issues and Challenges of Technology Leadership in the Use of ICT Practices in Teachers' Teaching
Technology is one of the most important elements in 21st Century Learning (PAK21) and also in the field of educational management and administration. However, previous studies have shown that technological skills among school staff are still at a low level. This concept paper discusses the issue of technology usage in schools, focusing on ICT readiness among teachers, changes in teachers' roles, access to infrastructure and support, as well as ICT security issues. In addition, this paper elaborates on several challenges faced from the perspectives of school administrators, teachers, students, parents, and the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE). Furthermore, this concept paper discusses the roles of school leaders, teachers, and MOE in implementing ICT in 21st-century education. In conclusion, all parties in education need to be more aware of technological developments and be prepared to make changes, including fostering a culture of technology in schools.
Effects of an AI Chatbot Mobile Application on Foreign Language Anxiety among Chinese EFL Undergraduates
Foreign language anxiety (FLA) is a major challenge in language learning, often unrelieved by traditional classroom approaches, especially in exam-oriented settings like China. Speaking a foreign language is particularly anxiety-inducing due to the need for spontaneous verbal communication and exposure to immediate judgment. AI chatbots offer low-stress, supportive spaces for speaking practice, but limited research exists on their effects on FLA, particularly in China. This study addressed this gap through a quasi-experimental design with 30 participants, divided into an experimental group using the AI chatbot Doubao and a control group engaging in student-to-student chat. FLA was measured at pretest, midtest, and posttest. Results showed a significant reduction in anxiety for the experimental group by midtest, with this effect persisting at posttest. These findings demonstrate that AI chatbots can reduce FLA through consistent, personalized interactions, offering valuable insights for integrating AI into EFL education. Teachers can use chatbots to create low-stress speaking environments, curriculum developers and policymakers can integrate AI tools into programs, and future research can focus on optimizing AI features to address diverse learner needs.
Contributions of August Wilson's to Anti-Racism as an African American Playwright: A Literature Review
August Wilson became a prominent playwright in the 1980s. In the early 1980s, he achieved prominence in African American theater with his unique dramaturgical style. Nonetheless, he encountered discriminatory practices and the enduring impact of white supremacy ideology in the United States. Additionally, it is significant to mention that in 1959, he was the only African American student enrolled in Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, his presence at this mostly white educational institution exposed him to several sorts of intimidation and abuse from his Caucasian colleagues. Furthermore, he encountered accusations from his instructor about the conduct of plagiarizing a significant quantity of material specifically 20 pages, in his works about Napoleon. As a result of these allegations, he chose to depart from Gladstone High School in 1960. Subsequent to his expulsion from a racially biased educational institution, he autonomously pursued knowledge by using the resources at the Carnegie Library, where he developed a deep interest in books about the lives and history of African Americans. The maltreatment he suffered from those of Caucasian descent was profoundly cruel and characterized by acts of barbarity. Notwithstanding his humble beginnings, Wilson has attained significant success in dramaturgy.
Systematic Literature Review: Exploring the Role of Hope among Gifted Students in Malaysia
This systematic literature review synthesizes research on the role of hope in gifted students in Malaysia. By reviewing 25 studies published between 2016 and 2024, this review aims to highlight the impact of hope on academic achievement, psychological well-being, and social adjustment in this unique population. The studies show that hope is positively associated with higher academic motivation and success, better emotional resilience, and enhanced social relationships among gifted students. However, variations in definitions and measurements of hope, along with diverse study designs, underscore the need for more standardized research methodologies. The findings suggest that fostering hope can be beneficial in educational settings, offering implications for educators and policymakers in Malaysia. Future research should aim to standardize hope measurements, utilize longitudinal designs, and conduct randomized controlled trials to further explore the long-term impacts of hope on gifted students. The review provides a comprehensive overview of current evidence, highlighting the importance of hope in the development of gifted students and suggesting potential interventions to enhance hope within the educational framework. The implications for practice and recommendations for future research offer a roadmap for advancing our understanding of hope's role in the academic and personal lives of gifted students in Malaysia.
Learning Traditional Medicinal Plants with Medicinal Properties Website
Malaysia contains a tropical rainforest environment with a diverse range of medicinal Plants that ethnic groups have historically utilised. In Malaysia, several types of medicinal plants are utilised in traditional medicines by a variety of Indigenous peoples. Information Technology can be seen as having a pivotal role in preserving the traditional knowledge of the Malay Medicinal Plant in the forms of a website as such for learning and educational purposes. This project aims to develop a website that offers information related to traditional medicinal plants with medicinal properties for learning and educational purposes. The Waterfall model was adapted to the project method. This project used Visual Studio Code, PHP, and MySQL. Future development may include push notifications, a dashboard, and a profile page. The traditional Malay medicinal plant with medicinal properties website will benefit common users to learn about Malay medicinal plants.
Integrating Sustainable Education from the View of Consumer Perceptions and Acceptance of Reusing Treated Greywater for Clean Water Substitution
Water scarcity issues worldwide are becoming increasingly prevalent, attributed mainly to environmental challenges. To alleviate the burden on clean water resources, adopting treated greywater systems presents a viable alternative. Yet, implementing such systems within the Malaysian context remains in its infancy. A comprehensive survey was conducted to gauge consumer receptivity and understand the greywater recycling concept and its potential implications. This aim is to assess the feasibility of greywater use from the consumer's perspective and to ascertain its alignment with their needs. The survey sought to enlighten consumers on the sustainability of treated greywater to reduce reliance on increasingly scarce clean water supplies. Conducted online, the questionnaire comprised two sections and targeted residents of Seksyen 7, Shah Alam. The findings revealed varying understanding and acceptance of the greywater concept across educational backgrounds. Notably, individuals with a bachelor's degree and secondary school students exhibited a higher propensity (62% and 75%, respectively) to grasp the greywater concept compared to other demographic groups. Interestingly, the survey also uncovered a generational divide in the willingness to adopt greywater systems, with older participants showing a 12% reluctance rate, in contrast to a 7% reluctance rate among younger respondents. This resistance was primarily attributed to discomfort with the nature of greywater and prevailing cultural perceptions. Despite these concerns, most (79%) respondents acknowledged the potential of treated greywater to conserve clean water resources. This recognition translated into a widespread willingness to modify household plumbing to accommodate a greywater system, underscoring the participants' robust awareness and commitment to environmental conservation. This study highlights the critical role of consumer education and cultural adaptation in the broader adoption of greywater recycling technologies. By fostering a deeper understanding and addressing prevailing misconceptions, Malaysia can tap into the untapped potential of greywater systems to mitigate water scarcity challenges.
The Influence of Job Satisfaction and Job Engagement on Customer Orientation: The Moderating Role of Empowering Leadership – A Conceptual Paper
Purpose: This study aims to determine empowering leadership as the moderator in job satisfaction and job engagement factors on customer orientation of front-office employees in Hong Kong hotels. The Conservation of Resources (COR) theory is used to understand customer orientation of front-office employees to achieve a competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach: This study suggests a cross-sectional quantitative research method using random sampling from the front-office hotel employees’ population in Hong Kong. Findings: This finding may contribute to hotel and service industries by providing prominent customer orientation strategies that is aligned with job satisfaction and job engagement to improve business performance and growth in Hong Kong. Research limitations/implications: This research is based on the hotel sector of front-office employees in Hong Kong. As a result, it was unable to represent other countries that may have differences in cultures, and policies. Practical implications: This paper enhances our understanding of empowering leadership in various hospitality and tourism settings. Moreover, there are growing interest in comprehending how leaders can effectively empower their subordinates leading to the improvement of customer orientation in service industries. Originality/value: The conceptual framework serves as a point of reference and offers guidance to scholars and practitioners in Hong Kong's service sectors to optimize job satisfaction and job engagement to achieve higher performance in customer orientation of front-office employees.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Learning Applications on Oral English Ability: A Literature Review
Artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications have shown significant potential in improving English speaking skills and promoted changes in traditional English teaching models. With the advancement of technology, more and more learners are relying on smart applications to improve their speaking skills. These applications can not only provide personalized learning plans, but also correct pronunciation and intonation through real-time feedback, thereby effectively improving learners’ pronunciation accuracy. This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications on English speaking ability through a literature review. The purpose of this study is to understand the existing research and literature on the use of artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications in English speaking learning environments. This article first provides an overview of artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications. Then the relationship between artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications and learners' English speaking improvement is discussed from the theoretical basis. Finally, the impact of artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications on English speaking ability is studied through a literature review. The results of this literature review show that artificial intelligence-assisted learning applications have an overall positive impact on English speaking ability. But longitudinal studies are still needed to examine the long-term effects on learners' language proficiency.
Enhancing Mathematics Assessment for Students with High Support Needs through Multisensory Integration: A Literature Review
Students with high support needs encounter formidable obstacles in learning, especially in Mathematics, posing challenges for assessing their progress. Traditional assessment methods often prove inadequate due to the diverse physical and cognitive conditions of these students, necessitating more flexible approaches. This study explores multisensory integration—utilizing visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile elements—as a robust alternative for both formative and summative assessments. Multisensory techniques facilitate comprehensive learning experiences by engaging multiple sensory pathways, enhancing cognitive processing, and improving retention of complex mathematical concepts. Teachers benefit from these methods by gaining more accurate insights into student progress, accommodating diverse learning styles effectively. Extensive research supports multisensory approaches in special education, underscoring their capacity to bolster engagement and foster inclusive learning environments. Visual aids clarify abstract concepts, auditory cues reinforce learning through repetition, kinesthetic activities promote hands-on understanding, and tactile resources aid sensory processing. Tailoring these methods to individual needs ensures personalized learning experiences often absent in traditional frameworks. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to assess sustained impacts and focus on enhancing teacher training to optimize implementation. Integrating technology further expands the potential of multisensory learning, promising substantial advancements in educational efficacy. In conclusion, multisensory integration stands as a promising avenue for improving Mathematics education for students with high support needs abilities, offering educators tools to elevate learning outcomes and cultivate dynamic, inclusive classrooms.
The Effectiveness of Arts-Based Mathematics Interdisciplinary Curriculum in Enhancing Students’ Creative Problem Solving Skills among Secondary School from China
This study explores the effectiveness of an Arts-Based Mathematics Interdisciplinary Curriculum in enhancing creative problem-solving (CPS) skills among secondary school students in China. Traditional mathematics instruction in China tends to emphasize rote learning and test preparation, limiting opportunities for students to develop creativity and innovation. In response, the present research embeds arts in mathematics lessons in order to test the hypothesis that such an interdisciplinary approach to teaching enables students' creativity and enhances their CPS competence. It has a quasi-experimental design with a total of two classes selected to participate: one for the experimental group, which received the arts-based interdisciplinary curriculum, and one for the control group, which continued with traditional teaching. Both groups were tested using the PISA 2012 Creative Problem Solving assessment before and after the intervention. These results indicated that the experimental group indeed showed significant enhancement in their CPS, as manifested in the significantly higher post-test PISA scores for the former over the latter. The effect size (Cohen's d = 0.913) demonstrated that there was, in fact, a very serious effect of arts-based curriculum enhancement of creative thinking and problem-solving. The study, therefore, concludes that the inclusion of the arts in mathematics instruction allows the student to be educationally whole and also enhances adaptability, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving skills. This would have been a bonus for the interdisciplinary teaching method in preparing students for changes that occur around them in the world and would underscore creativity in education.
The Effectiveness of 6E Learning by Design™ Approach in Enhancing High School Physics Education on Students' STEM Literacy and Motivation towards STEM Fields
With the rapid advancement of the global economy and technology, the importance of STEM education has become increasingly prominent. However, many educational systems face challenges related to declining student interest and engagement in STEM fields. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of the 6E Learning byDeSIGN™ approach in enhancing students' STEM literacy and motivation in high school physics education, compared to traditional methods. A quasi-experimental design was employed with 100 high school students divided into an experimental group, taught using the 6E approach, and a control group, receiving traditional instruction. Pre- and post-tests assessed STEM literacy and motivation. Results indicated that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group, with notable increases from pre- to post-test within the experimental group. The findings provide empirical support for the integration of innovative instructional strategies in STEM education, offering practical implications for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers.
A Systematic Literature Review on the Use of Technology Tools Used in Game-Based Learning
This study aims to examine the function and impact of the use of technology tools in game-based learning through a systematic literature review from 2019 to 2023. The primary objective of this study is to identify the functions of technology tools used in game-based learning and to determine their impact on student achievement and learning effectiveness. The PRISMA methodology was employed to identify, screen, and select relevant articles from the Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. A total of 14 articles were selected for analysis based on specific criteria. The study results show that technology tools such as Scratch, Lego Mindstorms, Augmented Reality, Flash animation, video games, Virtual Reality (VR), and interactive quizzes like Kahoot and Quizizz play various roles in game-based learning. The main functions of these tools include content creation, simulation, interactive learning, and assessment. The study found that the use of these technology tools not only increased student motivation but also improved their academic performance, particularly in subjects like programming, science, and language. Game-based learning combined with technology has proven to offer a more enjoyable and interactive learning experience, while also helping to develop critical skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving. In conclusion, this study recommends that technology tools continue to be integrated into the learning process to harness the potential for more holistic and effective learning.
Status, Trends and Challenges of TVET Teacher ICT Competencies: Insights from Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis
This study reveals the current status, future trends and challenges of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) teacher information and communications technology (ICT) competencies driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the fourth industrial revolution technologies through bibliometric and thematic analyses of 67 papers since 1960. Despite progress, the field still lacks core productivity and international cooperation. The study shows that while educational interventions have improved TVET teachers’ ICT competencies, the effect is not always ideal due to multiple factors. Insufficient attention to TVET teachers needs to be guarded against in the post-pandemic era, and future research will require interdisciplinary collaboration to further improve the TVET teacher ICT competencies framework and continuous development system in order to cope with changing educational needs and technological advances.
The Relationship between Level of Creative Thinking and Visualization Skills among Students in the Technical and Vocational Education Program
The production of graduates in the technical field necessitates a high level of knowledge and technical proficiency to ensure they become highly competent professionals. Mastery of creative thinking and visualization skills is essential. These skills are crucial in contributing to the development of exceptional, creative, and innovative graduates. In addition, these skills are among the main components to be master by the student especially in the field of engineering. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the Creative Thinking Levels and Visualization Skills among students in the technical and vocational education program at University Technology Malaysia, Johor Bahru. The objective of the study is to identify the level of creative thinking, visualization skills and the relationship between creative thinking and visualization among students in the technical and vocational education program. This study using quantitative research approaches by using survey form as an instrument in data collection. The data was analysed using the computer software 'SPSS' and presented in the form of percentage, mean and standard deviation. The results of the study show that student with high creative thinking level and visualization skills able to make a decision and solve problems wisely by applying their knowledge, experience and thinking skills creatively. Therefore, the use of creativity and visualization skills in improving the individual learning experience is seen as a necessity in maintaining an increasingly competitive learning environment in the global market. In summary it is seen that learning based on creativity thinking and visualization skills can have an impact and produce active learning and further improve the quality of national education.
Stress Factors and their Impact on Teachers in Secondary Schools in Sarawak: A Study of Selected Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM)
This study investigates the causes and extent of stress among teachers in secondary schools, specifically in selected Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) in Sarawak. Using a quantitative approach, a structured survey was conducted to 114 teachers across MRSM schools. Key stressors included workload, administrative leadership, and working conditions. The findings revealed significant differences in stress levels based on demographic factors, including years of experience and age. Through statistical analyses, including multiple regression, ANOVA, and t-tests, workload and administrative leadership were found to be the most influential factors contributing to teachers’ stress. These results have implications for policy interventions aimed at improving teacher well-being and educational outcomes by reducing stressors. Recommendations for better stress management practices among teachers and administrative teams are discussed.
ohd Nazrul Haizam Bin Marzuki Radin Mahmud
The Influence of Motivation, Social Skills, and Empathy on the Employee Performance in the Education Industry
This study examines the relationships between empathy, social skills, motivation, and employee performance in the education sector. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected through surveys administered to educators in various educational institutions. The analysis revealed positive correlations of all independent variables, empathy, social skills, and motivation towards employee performance, indicating that these emotional and social factors significantly contribute to enhancing effectiveness among educators. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding these relationships for educational leaders and policymakers aiming to create a supportive and productive workplace environment. By prioritizing the development of empathy and social skills through targeted training programs, educational institutions can improve employee motivation and performance, ultimately benefiting student outcomes. Future research should explore longitudinal studies, intervention programs, and qualitative insights to investigate these dynamics within different educational contexts.
Application of the BOPPPS Model in College English Teaching: Promoting the Integration and Innovation of English Discipline Core Literacy and Strategies
This paper explores the application of the BOPPPS (Bridge, Objectives, Pre-assessment, Participatory Learning, Post-assessment, and Summary) teaching model in college English education, highlighting its potential in promoting core literacy in English. The BOPPPS model offers a structured, student-centered approach that integrates diverse teaching strategies to enhance English proficiency. This paper reviews recent literature on BOPPPS applications, identifies key benefits such as improving student engagement and comprehension, and proposes strategies for innovation. The findings suggest that adopting the BOPPPS model can foster a holistic development of English skills, promoting critical thinking, autonomy, and academic achievement.
Investigation of Chinese Undergraduate English-Major Students’ Use of Online Communication Strategies
With the advancement of Information and Communication Technology, online learning has been widely adopted in this post-pandemic era. This study aimed to explore the use of online communication strategies by Chinese undergraduate EFL learners and how they vary according to gender and language proficiency. A mixed-method design was applied. A Questionnaire on Online Communication Strategies was distributed to 262 Chinese undergraduate English major students. Three focus group interviews were conducted with 18 students. This paper only reports the quantitative findings. The quantitative findings revealed that the students were at an intermediate level in using online communication strategies. They reported using sociocultural strategies most frequently, followed by compensatory strategies, focus-on-form strategies, interactional strategies, paralinguistic strategies, and lastly reduction strategies. There were significant differences in Chinese undergraduate EFL learners’ use of online communication strategies in terms of gender and language proficiency. This study provides a reliable and valid instrument to measure online communication strategies. It also provides systematic and comprehensive online communication strategies conducive to effective communication online.
Students Dropout in Rural Schools in Sarawak: Causes and Proposed Solutions
The Ministry of Education Malaysia was established to reduce the education gap in Malaysia by providing education to all regardless of background. However, education issues, particularly student dropout, are becoming increasingly concerning at all levels of study. This paper aims to identify the issues and challenges influencing student dropout in rural schools in Lubok Antu, Sarawak. Based on the literature review, there are several issues and challenges affecting student dropout, including administration, infrastructure, and issues related to students. This paper also proposes strategies to address these issues based on findings from previous studies. Further research is recommended to provide a comprehensive conclusion with theoretical, policy, and practical implications for all stakeholders involved.
The Role of Agrotourism in Revitalizing Rural Economies: A Review of Global Trends and Local Applications
Agrotourism, the integration of tourism and agriculture, plays a critical role in revitalizing rural economies by promoting sustainable economic development, enhancing farm income, and fostering cultural exchange. This review explores the global potential of agrotourism in boosting rural economies by examining both trends and specific case studies. The key objectives of this review are to analyze how agrotourism complexes have contributed to rural development, identify the economic, social, and environmental benefits, and discuss the challenges that may hinder its full potential. Methodologically, the review is based on a thorough analysis of existing literature, case studies from both developed and developing nations, and key statistics related to agrotourism's economic impact. The review highlights global trends, including the rise of agrotourism in developed countries like the USA and Italy, where it has been successfully integrated into the rural economy, and developing nations such as India and China, where it is emerging as a tool for economic diversification. Locally, the paper explores how these global practices can be applied in specific regions, considering unique challenges and opportunities. The findings suggest that agrotourism not only supports rural economies through job creation and new revenue streams but also enhances community engagement and preserves cultural heritage. Ultimately, the review underscores the importance of supportive policies, infrastructure, and technology to unlock the full potential of agrotourism in rural economic revitalization.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Academic Research in Progressive Education and Development
Develoment of Cremt Model by Using Chinese Folk Songs
Nowadays, music education, especially primary school music education, has a profound impact on a person's intellectual development. Music plays an important position in the means of influencing young people's thoughts, and it is a powerful source of thought. Without music education, there can be no necessary intellectual development. This study develops a teaching model for using Chinese folk songs in primary schools, employing the Design and Development Research (DDR) approach by Richey and Klein (2007), modified by Saedah Siraj, Abdullah, and Rozkee (2020). It involves three phases: needs analysis, design and development, and evaluation. The first phase used a questionnaire survey questionnaire collected from 267 teachers. The second phase was a combination of NGT and ISM, and the result of the research was a model for teaching creative music in primary schools. The third phase used the Fuzzy Delphi Method with 15 primary school music educators, confirming the model's usability. Overall, this research provides educators with a guide to improving students' creativity through Chinese folk songs.
Effets of Screen Viewing Time on Children’s Early Development
In the context of the widespread popularity of smart devices, children around the world are generally exposed to screens for too long, and the age of exposure to electronic screens is also getting younger. Research across countries has shown that excessive screen time negatively affects children's cognitive, social, emotional and physical development, particularly affecting language development and attention in early childhood. Urban children in China spend significantly more time watching screens than rural children, and while urbanisation has contributed to the widespread use of smart devices, screen use and the probability of e-screen addiction among rural children are also gradually increasing. Prolonged screen exposure in children can lead to problems such as deterioration of social skills, reduced opportunities for sports, obesity and sleep disorders. Therefore, intervention strategies include adopting restrictive versus instructive regulation, setting daily screen time limits, and promoting parent-child interaction through shared viewing. At the same time, encouraging outdoor activities, reading and hands-on practice are encouraged to cultivate children's comprehensive development and reduce dependence on screens.
The Impact of Language Immersion on Developing Arabic Language Skills in Non-Native Learners: A Descriptive Study
This descriptive study aims to discover the impacts of language immersion on the learning process of Arabic as a second language. The effectiveness of the educational framework, Culture via Language (CvL), that seeks to foster fluency in Arabic by making students use as much target language as possible, is analysed. Research addresses the relationship of immersion level to listening, speaking, reading and writing abilities in the primary language. Classroom observation of non-native Arabic learners taking place in the language courses was also included as informal insights from questionnaires and interviews. The results of the studies revealed that immersion of foreign language comprehension as a whole grows, while the speaking and listening skills grow the most. This included, however, amongst several other concerns, adaptation to the linguistic and cultural environment and the learner's motivation. The research also discusses the benefits of immersion which helps improve the knowledge acquisition process and point out potential research directions to enhance the immersion process and, to address the problems, associated with it. The findings are important for educators and programme developers alike wishing to make Arabic language learning a matter of context.
Investigating the Effect of Islamic Banking on Poverty Reduction: Empirical Evidence From Mogadishu, Somalia
This study investigates to test and analyze the influence of Islamic banking on poverty reduction” The study mainly looked at the influence of Islamic Banking on poverty reduction and relationship between Islamic Banking and poverty reduction. The researcher used descriptive research design with quantitative methods with sample size of 45, Premier bank manager 17 and 34 Employees. Simple random sampling used to select the sample, and they included staff, operational, secretaries and departmental officers. Using simple random sampling respondents were chosen from the different departments selected and questionnaires distributed to the selected respondents from the four departments in the bank. Primary data used during collection of data. Data collected by use of questioner method and analyzed in form of tables. The Findings shows that Islamic banking influences poverty reduction and has moderate relationship which indicated by R-value (r=2.71) and p-value (p=1.00). The result identifies that role Murabaha is the major predictors of Islamic banking which influenced positively in poverty reduction. Islamic banking is more important for poverty reduction, researcher recommended giving them high effort, and Management of Premier is encouraged to promote that activity. Also, study indicated that there is moderate relationship between Islamic banking and poverty reduction, so management of the bank should develop and make strong that relationship by providing and facilitating Islamic banking products such Murabaha and Mudarabah. This research makes significant theoretical and practical implications to enrich the existing literature on Islamic banking and contribute to poverty reduction help existing policy makers and Islamic banking institutions to reduce poverty by introducing low-income people to Mubaraha.
Engagement of University Students in Online Arabic Learning During the Pandemic Era
The Covid-19 pandemic directly impacted the Malaysian education system. While internet technology can enhance learning, the synchronous and asynchronous context for second language learners still lacks of study. This study aims to measure the level of engagement of university students in learning Arabic during the Covid-19 pandemic, both in synchronous and asynchronous online learning sessions. This quantitative cross-sectional survey measured the engagement of 184 final-year Arabic students at eight public universities during the Covid-19 pandemic. After collecting the data, IBM SPSS software version 28.0 was used for descriptive data analysis, including mean and standard deviation calculations. The study's results indicate that the level of student engagement in Arabic during the Covid-19 pandemic was at a moderate level during synchronous learning sessions, followed by a low level during asynchronous learning. Overall, this study found that the Covid-19 pandemic did not have a significant impact on student engagement in learning Arabic. Nevertheless, authorities are advised to take the initiative to diversify learning activities to increase students' engagement in learning Arabic, both synchronously and asynchronously. This will indirectly contribute to higher achievements in Arabic and the production of excellent and authoritative Arabic language graduates.
Research on Executive Function Characteristics of Preschool Children in China
Executive function (EF) refers to a range of mental abilities that allow people to control their actions, thoughts, and feelings. Children's EF is crucial to their early academic success, especially in mathematics, when they are in preschool. Research on the connections between EF and mathematics learning in Chinese preschoolers is few, despite the centrality of EF to academic success. The goal of this study is to get a thorough understanding of the variables that affect Chinese preschoolers' executive function (EF). This study employs a quantitative methodology. The data is summarized by looking at the total and also the percentage using the frequency analysis. Descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis are further methods used to examine the components. Inhibition and flexibility were shown to have a significant link with mathematics learning. Still, working memory was found to have no significant relationship with problems in mathematics learning. The results suggest that interventions that specifically target the development of inhibition and flexibility might be helpful for children who struggle with mathematics learning.
Mastering the Long Jump: How Self-Controlled Video Feedback Transforms Student Performance in PE Classes
In the evolving landscape of physical education (PE), transitioning from traditional teaching methods to modern, technology-enhanced feedback strategies represents a significant advancement in educational practices. This study explores the comparative effectiveness of Self-Controlled Video Feedback (SC-VF), Externally Controlled Video Feedback (EC-VF), Peer Review Video Feedback (PR-VF), and Teacher-Guided Instruction (TG) on student long jump performance in PE. Employing a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), this research aims to maintain scientific rigor and validity. The sample includes 180 secondary school students (96 boys and 84 girls, mean age = 14.0 years, SD = 0.82 months) with no prior long jump experience, instructed by the same PE teacher over eight years. Over an eight-week training period focusing on the long jump, assessments were conducted at baseline (Pre-Test), mid-point (Mid-Test), end-point (Post-Test), and during a follow-up retention test two weeks post-intervention. Measurements utilized the long jump distance tests, analysed via One-Way ANOVA. Findings revealed no significant differences in long jump performance improvements among the four groups at initial assessments; however, the SC-VF group displayed a statistically significant boost in the retention test. The retention test scores further underscored the benefits of self-controlled and peer-reviewed feedback in sustaining skill improvement and self-confidence. These insights suggest that such feedback methodologies could be strategically integrated into PE curriculums to enhance adolescent sports skill development. Future research is recommended to evaluate long jump techniques using a rating scale.
Analysis Corelation of Technology on Instruction in Virtual Classrooms: A Case Study at the Tertiary Level
This study investigates the influence of technology on instructional practices in virtual classrooms at the university level using a quantitative approach. Survey questionnaires were administered to students, professors, and administrators to collect data on technology types, usage frequency, efficacy, challenges, and instructional delivery preferences. The application of descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS 23.0 allows for a much deeper understanding of technological accessibility and flexibility components whilst uncovering the implications of digital literacy and infrastructural constraints. Also, the observance of platforms' user-friendliness, trainers' skills, and learners' access to resources in the remote educational scenario is connected with the success of the learning activities. The current study responds to and contributes to the discussions of the digital education field, and it offers practical suggestions for the improvement of virtual learning environments targeting educators, the government, and technology creators.
Exploring Learning Theory Usage in Web-Based Learning: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Web-based learning has become a modern education driven by technological advances and the need for a flexible learning environment. This study explores the use of learning theory in web-based learning and provides valuable insights to optimize educational outcomes and increase student engagement. A systematic search of scholarly articles from Scopus and Google Scholar from 2020 to 2024 was conducted. This study focuses on peer-reviewed articles that apply cognitive load theory, cognitive multimedia learning theory, social cognitive theory, behavioral theory, constructivist theory and connectivism theory to online learning contexts. The results show key applications of social cognitive theory and constructivist learning theory, underscoring their important role in enhancing interactivity and personalized learning experiences in digital settings. Cognitive load theory and cognitive multimedia learning theory, although less prevalent, are important to optimize educational content to align with cognitive capacity. The study highlights that the integration of this theory can profoundly improve the design and functionality of online learning systems. Recommendations suggest that educational technologists incorporate these insights to develop adaptive, engaging, and effective web-based learning experiences that are responsive to the needs of diverse student populations.
University Education and Innovation Resistance: A Multigroup Analysis of Digital Payment Barriers among Indonesian Farmers
This study investigates the moderating role of university education in the relationship between risk, usage, value, tradition, and image barriers and farmers' resistance to digital payment systems in Indonesia. Data were collected from 316 farmers across different regions using a survey method, and the analysis was conducted through Multigroup Analysis (MGA) in Structural Equation Modeling (SEM-PLS). The results indicate that university education significantly moderates the relationship between risk barriers and resistance, with risk barriers exerting a stronger influence among highly educated farmers. However, university education did not moderate the relationships between other barriers and resistance. These findings suggest that while higher education increases risk awareness, other forms of resistance are consistent across educational levels. The study highlights the need for tailored strategies to address risk concerns among educated farmers and simplified approaches for less-educated ones, providing valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in promoting digital payment adoption.
Handicraft Heroes: Transferring the Knowledge Torch in Malaysian Crafts, Boh!
This study aims to examine how well traditional Malaysian handicrafts are preserved through knowledge transfer, focusing on five crafts. The study looks at both knowledge to identify strengths, challenges and potential improvements in current training methods. A mixed methods approach was used to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. Various key indicators were used for evaluation, including the Knowledge Retention Rate (KRR) Learning Efficiency (LE) Knowledge Depth Index (KDI), Innovation Index (II) and Sustainability Index (SI). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the quantitative assessment data to measure these metrics. Qualitative data was collected through interviews and observations to gain insights into the challenges faced by apprentices and master craftsmen. By combining both types of data analysis, a comprehensive understanding of how knowledge is passed down was achieved. The results showed that apprentices had a KRR of 80%, indicating that most of them effectively retained the skills and knowledge they were taught. The LE was found to be 105.26%, suggesting that apprentices acquired competence faster than expected. Overall, the findings highlighted a need for increased innovation in handicrafts. To uphold the varied legacy of Malaysia, addressing the obstacles identified and implementing tailored solutions are crucial in handicrafts. These discoveries provide insights for policymakers, educators and cultural organisations involved in safeguarding and championing traditional crafts. (215 words)
Need Satisfaction as the Mediator in the Relationship between Psychological Capital and Foreign Language Anxiety among Senior High School Students in Guizhou, China
This study explores the relationship between psychological capital (PsyCap) and foreign language anxiety in academic settings, with need satisfaction as the mediator in this relationship. Since the emergence of the concept of PsyCap, a wealth of research has focused on the workplace domain, demonstrating its positive impact on work outcomes. However, its effectiveness in language learning and the potential benefits it might offer in alleviating foreign language anxiety, especially in non-Western contexts, have yet to be thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the study aims to fill the academic gap regarding PsyCap, exploring the pathways and relationships between PsyCap and foreign language anxiety, and based on the Self-Determination Theory, selecting need satisfaction as a mediator to help explain this relationship. In this study, the relationship will be investigated using the explanatory sequential design method. A quantitative study will be conducted first to collect data on high school students’ psychological capital, foreign language anxiety, and need satisfaction levels. Then, a qualitative study will be undertaken to analyze the relationship in depth after verifying the hypothesis that there is a correlation between the three.
The Relationship between Mental Toughness and Sports Performance Perception among Secondary School Athletes: A Cross-sectional Analysis
Mental toughness has emerged as a crucial determinant of athletic success, yet its relationship with performance perception among developing athletes remains understudied. This investigation examines the relationship between mental toughness and sports performance perception among secondary school athletes (N = 300) in Malaysia's Sepang district. Utilizing a quantitative cross-sectional design, the study employed the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ) and Sports Performance Perception Scale (SPPS) to assess these constructs. Results revealed significantly low levels of mental toughness across all subscales (confidence: M = 3.16, SD = 0.48; toughness: M = 2.82, SD = 0.50; control: M = 2.91, SD = 0.61) and demonstrated a weak positive correlation between mental toughness and sports performance perception (r = 0.20, p < .05). These findings suggest a critical need for structured psychological interventions in school sports programs and contribute to our understanding of psychological factors influencing youth athletic development.
A Survey on Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills and Mathematical Core Literacy among Middle School Students in Sichuan, China
With the transformation of China's economic structure, there is a growing demand for high quality talents in the society. Cultivating students' Mathematical problem-solving skills and Mathematical core literacy has become an important mission of mathematics education. This study aimed to investigate Mathematical problem-solving skills and Mathematical core literacy among Middle school students in Sichuan Province. A cross-sectional survey research design was used to randomly select a sample of 57 students from a Eighth-grade class in Sichuan Province M High School. And it was measured by Mathematical problem-solving skills scale and Mathematical core literacy test. The study found that in Mathematical problem-solving skills, students ‘performance in the four dimensions of“Understand the Problem”，“Devise a Plan” and“Carry Out the Plan”，“Look Back and Reflect”were low; Regarding Mathematical core literacy, students demonstrated excellent performance in Arithmetic Ability, good performance in Geometric Intuition, Spatial Conception, Data Conception, and Creativity, moderate performance in Abstraction Ability and Reasoning Ability, while their performance in Modeling Conception and in Application Awareness were low. This study will provide concrete support for regional educational development and optimization of teaching strategies.
The Global Significance of China's Intangible Cultural Heritage Education Policy from an Interdisciplinary Perspective: Integrating Theory and Practice
This study explores the global significance of China's intangible cultural heritage (ICH) education policy in higher education, using the ICH Studies program at Nanjing Arts Institute as a case study. It employs a mixed-methods approach to analyze the curriculum's impact on students' cultural consciousness and their role in cultural heritage preservation. The research reveals that China's ICH education policy significantly shapes students'professional development and active participation in heritage conservation. It also suggests that such policies can serve as a model for global cultural exchange and heritage promotion. The study concludes with recommendations for integrating ICH education into international educational policies to foster cross-cultural understanding and heritage preservation.
Technology-Enhanced Teaching Strategies for Simple Past Tense: A Study with Year 3 Pupils
Technology has been considered an essential element in Malaysia's progression toward its future growth. In the Education Blueprint (2013–2025), the Ministry of Education places a strong emphasis on the necessity of incorporating technology-integrated teaching and learning into the national curriculum system. Meanwhile, because of technological developments, teachers will be able to fulfill the global demand for substituting traditional teaching methods with teaching and learning resources that integrate technology. Currently, in the field of English language teaching, technology-integrated learning always has the most effective results. Therefore, the aim of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of technology-integrated learning in the teaching of simple past tense to Year 3 pupils. The primary objectives of this research project are to compare the effectiveness of teaching the simple past tense to Year 3 pupils using technology-integrated learning versus traditional methods, to assess how well Year 3 pupils grasp the simple past tense after utilizing technology-integrated learning, and to explore how technology-integrated learning enhances Year 3 pupils' interest in learning the simple past tense. The results show that using technology-integrated learning to teach grammar to Year 3 pupils, particularly the simple past tense, is an exceptionally efficient and effective method.
Vibration Simulation and Analysis Teaching Tool (VSATT): An Interactive Learning Tool Based on MATLAB-Simulink GUI
Mastering the mechanical vibrations of a Mass-Spring-Damper system is essential, particularly in structural design where resonance can cause catastrophic failures. However, undergraduate students often face challenges in understanding these concepts, leading to reduced engagement in teaching and learning activities. To address this, the Vibration Simulation and Analysis Teaching Tool (VSATT) was developed as an innovative, interactive platform to enhance comprehension of Single Degree of Freedom forced and free vibrations. Leveraging MATLAB-Simulink and a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI), VSATT provides hands-on exploration of vibration principles through dynamic simulations and detailed response analysis. Validation results showed an error margin of less than 1%, while feedback from 112 users reported positive outcomes in accessibility, ease of learning, motivation, understanding, and overall effectiveness, with scores exceeding 87%. These findings highlight VSATT's role in advancing interactive learning tools in engineering education by offering a flexible and engaging platform for mastering complex vibration dynamics.
Accessory or Necessary? The Needs of Mobile Learning in Unleashing Student's Creativity in Art Classrooms
The robust advancement of mobile learning has demanded its integration into education system. As a subject that places it emphasis on creativity, innovation and critical thinking, Visual Art Education (VAE) has urged its students to utilize the full potential of mobile learning. However, previous studies have reported differently. Undoubtedly, there are many factors influencing their decision. Hence, the study aims to determine the current uptake and explore the determining factors influencing the VAE student's decision to integrate mobile learning into their learning process. The study employed a quantitative research design where data were collected through survey questionnaire from 214 VAE students in Gombak District, Selangor. Descriptive and path analysis of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were carried out in analyzing data of the study. The research finding indicates that students were at a moderate level of mobile learning integration, largely depending on accessibility, quantity and quality of mobile tools, applications and peripherals provided for them. Further, support from school administrators and peers were found as influential factor toward student's successful integration of mobile learning in art classrooms. It is envisaged that the findings from this study have major implications for the provision of support, which will ensure teachers' successful mobile learning integration. Further, this study will serve as a guide and reference for teachers, school administrators, teachers training institution and the government in establishing a standard of successful integration of mobile learning, especially in the subject area of VAE.
Assessing the Improvement of Molecular Techniques Practical Skills Post-COVID-19 Lockdown in Undergraduate Students
This research investigates the use of practical training as a strategy for improving the molecular techniques laboratory skills among second-year Diploma in Microbiology students at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. This is because during the lockdown, these students were forced to do most of their learning through the web which led to the sky issue. A face- to- face laboratory skills session offered to 30 participants on their competencies in molecular lab equipment usage, their grasp of the laboratory procedures and the application of the molecular techniques. Data were collected using a skills performance rubric and pre-and post- session questionnaires and were subjected to statistical analysis. There were excellent results, reflecting improvements in nearly all the abilities that were assessed in the students, making it clear that practical lessons are very important in the study of science. The recommendations highlight the need for both practical sessions, so that the students are better prepared for the molecular biology challenges that lie ahead.
Empowering Music Education: Leveraging Digital Audio Technology in the Pursuit of Vocal Mastery – A Case Study of the Modern Popular Singing Course
This scholarly article delineates the conceptual framework and evolutionary trajectory of contemporary digital audio technology (DAT). It conducts a thorough examination of DAT's application within the realm of music education, focusing on the utilization of digital audio workstations (DAW) and related digital audio tools. The study aims to investigate the efficacy of blending DAT with conventional pedagogical approaches to enhance music instructional methodologies. The research is grounded in a case study conducted at the esteemed Sichuan Conservatory of Music in China, with a specific focus on the institution's popular singing courses. This case study serves to reflect on the intersection of technological advancement and the state of music education. A comprehensive analysis is undertaken to underscore the benefits of DAT in music pedagogy. The study involves a quantitative survey of 60 students enrolled in two distinct teaching environments: one employing DAT and the other adhering to traditional non-DAT methods. The findings suggest that the incorporation of digital audio technology significantly enhances classroom efficiency for educators and boosts student motivation in music education settings.
A Narrative Review of University Entrepreneurship Education and Proposed Experimental Study of the My Counselorpreneur Module
Unemployment among recent graduates is a growing concern in Malaysia, highlighting the need to cultivate entrepreneurial intentions and capacities within the university student population. However, the impact of existing entrepreneurship education programs has been inconsistent. This narrative review synthesizes conceptual models and empirical findings regarding the outcomes of prevalent university entrepreneurship training approaches on students’ entrepreneurial knowledge, skills, and aspirations. After defining key terminology, social role theory is used to explain observed differences by gender and training methodology. Past studies reveal mixed results for structured interventions like lectures, business simulations, mentoring, and experiential exposures. While some methods strengthened cognitions, others showed no significant impact due to standardized rather than tailored content. To address these literature gaps, an experimental study is proposed to evaluate the efficacy of "My Counselorpreneur," an innovative 20-hour counseling-focused workshop developed to enhance entrepreneurial intentions and preparedness among Malaysian graduates. The module comprises customized activities to improve enterprise awareness, registration abilities, marketing, financial literacy, and motivations. By integrating experiential learning and self-efficacy development, well-designed training can help young people cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets and skills to pursue business endeavors, decreasing reliance on traditional employment. Targeted programs that promote entrepreneurship have the potential to expedite innovation, expansion, and self-sufficiency among university students.
Intention of Smart Manufacturing Technologies Adoption among Manufacturing SMEs in Malaysia
This paper aims to examine four main drivers under the institutional theory and transaction cost theory as antecedents of the intention of SMT adoption among manufacturing SMEs in Malaysia. Only 20% of the SMEs in Malaysia have started to use SMT platforms in their business. Currently, only limited insight on studies of motivation from supplier-customer perspective that drive the intention of SMT adoption among SME manufacturers in Malaysia. This reluctance risks manufacturing SMEs being left behind compared to players in neighbouring countries. This quantitative study of Malaysia manufacturing SMEs uses a non-probability sampling method. The study collected 160 manufacturing SMEs as valid data for analysis using the contact data from Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) directory as the sample frame. The result was analysed by using SmartPLS 4.0. The findings of this study indicated that the intention of SMT adoption among manufacturing SMEs in Malaysia were influenced by efficiency and expected competitive advantages but there were no significant influenced by supplier pressure and customer pressure. The theoretical and practical implication was discussed which are believed to offer meaningful insight to small SMEs, academicians and government agencies.
The Teaching Practice of Primary School Malay Language Teachers in Basic Reading Skills: A Literature Review
Quality of instruction is important in determining a student's achievement in mastering a skill learned. Quality teachers must have high skills in content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge including teaching strategies. Therefore, this study aims to review the literature related to teachers' teaching practices in an effort to improve the level of mastery of basic reading skills among students at the primary school level. The review involved an analysis of previous studies that focused on teaching strategies and teaching aids used by teachers. The results of the analysis of 30 previous studies using the Scopus, WoS and Google Scholar databases have identified several best practices that can be used as a guide for teachers in improving teaching practices. The results of this literature review are expected to provide a comprehensive view of teachers' practices in teaching basic reading skills to low-achieving students in Malay Language subjects involving remedial students, LINUS students, students with special educational needs (SENS) and Orang Asli students. Teachers' teaching practices have implications for the quality of teaching in line with the requirements of the Malaysian Teacher Standards (SGM2.0) and student achievement in the Malaysian Education Development Plan (PPPM) 2013-2025. Therefore, the professional development of teachers through continuous training and adequate resource support plays an important role in ensuring that quality teaching can be implemented to contribute to improving the quality of education in Malaysia.
Optimization of Teaching Design for FinTech Application Course
With the rapid development of financial technology(FinTech), the teaching design of financial technology application courses in universities is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. This study takes the development trend and market demand of the fintech industry as the background, systematically sorts out the current situation of fintech courses, identifies the main problems in current teaching design, and proposes corresponding optimization strategies based on actual needs. The study adopted literature review, case analysis, and observation methods to deeply analyze the logic of setting up financial technology application courses, teaching objectives, and their compatibility with industry needs. The research results indicate that although the current course content extensively covers various key areas of financial technology, further improvement is still needed in terms of depth and practicality. By improving teaching methods and strengthening practical activities, this study proposes specific optimization plans aimed at cultivating composite financial technology talents that meet the needs of the times.
The Acceptance of TikTok as a Tool for EFL Learning among High School Students in China
The integration of digital platforms into education has increased rapidly, especially with the rise of social media applications. TikTok has been particularly noteworthy and has received attention for its potential in educational settings, including English learning. Traditional teaching methods may not meet the changing needs of Generation Z students, who prefer more dynamic and rich learning experiences. This empirical study investigated the factors influencing high school students' acceptance of TikTok as an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning tool. The study utilized a quantitative research design and used a questionnaire to collect data from a sample of students. The main variables studied included perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, motivation, social influence, and potential barriers such as digital distractions and content quality. The results suggest that TikTok's simple and easy-to-understand interface and engaging learning model have a positive effect on students' motivation and ease of learning. However, concerns remain about the entertainment-cantered nature of its platform and whether the educational videos are of high quality. The study concludes that while TikTok can be a useful complementary tool for EFL learning, structured instruction is essential to maximize its educational potential.
Enhancing Visualization Skills in Engineering Education Using Virtual and Augmented Reality Environment
This study explores the impact of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) on enhancing visualization skills in engineering education, a crucial competency for understanding complex engineering drawings. A quasi-experimental design with non-equivalent control groups was employed, involving 90 first-year engineering students divided into three groups: VR, AR, and a conventional teaching method control group. The Purdue Spatial Visualization Test for Rotation (PSVT:R) was used to assess students' visualization skills before and after the intervention. Results showed that while the experimental groups started with higher initial visualization abilities. VR and AR methods led to significant declines in post-test scores, indicating potential cognitive overload from navigating these advanced technologies. In contrast, the control group showed no significant change, underscoring the limitations of traditional methods. The findings suggest that the current implementation of VR and AR may not effectively support visualization skill development without proper instructional scaffolding. A blended approach, integrating conventional and technology-based instruction with appropriate cognitive support, is recommended to optimize learning outcomes. This study highlights the need for careful integration of emerging technologies into engineering curricula to enhance education quality and meet the demands of modern engineering practices.
Internationalization of Student Mobility for Higher Education Malaysia: A Systematic Review
This study examines the internationalisation of student mobility within Malaysia's higher education sector, focussing on its dynamics, challenges, and impacts. Malaysia has emerged as a prominent centre for higher education, experiencing notable increases in student mobility, largely attributed to the Higher Education Blueprint 2015-2025. This study examines the language, cultural, and academic barriers encountered by international students, alongside institutional challenges such as insufficient support systems. This research investigates cross-cultural influences on student mobility, with a focus on the University of Technology Malaysia. The study employed a qualitative methodology to collect experiences from postgraduate students and administrative staff via interviews. The findings underscore the presence of language barriers, difficulties in cultural adaptation, and obstacles to academic integration, while also indicating beneficial effects on institutional research and reputation. The study recommends the implementation of improved language support, cultural orientation programs, and strengthened academic advisory services to enhance the internationalisation process. The establishment of a model for student mobility in Malaysia may provide a framework for subsequent educational initiatives and enhance the country's position as a global educational hub.
The Effects of Blended Learning Environment on University Students’ Critical Thinking Dispositions in College English Course
This research aims to introduce and examine the effects of blended learning on learners’ critical thinking dispositions for undergraduate students of business major at North China University of Science and Technology in China. The participants are 28 freshmen from College English Course. The research tools are Critical Thinking Dispositions Inventory Chinese Version and Blended Learning Environment Questionnaire. The findings show that blended learning environment is beneficial for improving Chinese students’ critical thinking dispositions. The students are willing to take part in the learning activities both online and offline. They find out it is most difficult part is to understand the teacher’s English instructions. Majority of students’ critical thinking dispositions is significantly improved after one semester learning in the blended learning environment. Open-mindedness, self- confidence, and inquisitiveness of critical thinking dispositions are correlated with students’ gender, English scores of college entrance exam, and science and liberal arts respectively.
Review of Issues on Sustainable Development Education in Malaysia
The educational sector of Malaysia is one of the areas of the nation that require sustainable development. The rank of the sector is 57th in the whole world. The Educational Ministry of the country is spending a lot on the development of the sector. The sustainable development of the educational sector is the main objective of the sector, the government need to focus on improving the educational sector to motivate the students and encourage them to have higher education to develop themselves and the whole country. Methodology has described the application of interpretivism philosophy, exploratory design and inductive approach. Prisma-related data collection has focused, and systematic literature review data collection method has in the methods section. Results have included the systematic literature review of the study also including the resources, key concepts, aim, methodology and outcomes effectively. The study has effectively described the secondary analysis by evaluating the themes of the research. A brief discussion has also been included in the study for in-depth clarification. Conclusion has been included in the study to clarify the link between main goals and objectives of the study with its outcome. Recommendations have been provided in the study to mitigate the challenges identified such as lack of resources, poor knowledge of teachers and economic crisis in the education sector.
What Factors Influence Online Distance Learners' Engagement? Malaysian Student's Perspective
This study evaluates both direct relationships between online learning attitudes, online peer collaboration, psychological motivation, and online engagement, as well as the indirect relationship between online learning attitudes, online peer collaboration, and online engagement, mediated by psychological motivation. This study uses a purposive sampling of three Malaysian ODL higher education students, and 307 were analyzed. The survey questionnaire uses a five-point Likert scale for 20 observed variables representing four constructs. The SmartPLS3 is used for data analysis and hypothesis testing. Online learning attitude and online peer collaboration influenced psychological motivation, with online peer collaboration having a stronger influence. Online learning attitude and online peer collaboration were found to have a direct positive relationship with online engagement. Psychological motivation mediated the relationship between online learning attitude and online engagement. The originality of this study is the holistic approach to investigating the relationships between factors influencing online distance learners' engagement within the context of ODL higher education institutions. New insights from this study enable strategies to promote collaborative learning environments, motivation, and ODL students' online engagement. The findings demonstrated that an online learning attitude and peer collaboration are essential antecedents to online engagement, while psychological motivation significantly strengthens the learners' online engagement. Higher education institutions engaged in Open Distance Learning (ODL) should cultivate a sense of community and collective academic effort to enhance positive attitudes towards online learning and boost psychological motivation.
The Relationship of Problem Based Learning Approach with the Soft Skills among High School Students
This study examines the moderating role of student engagement in the relationship between Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and soft skill development among high school students in Anhui Province, China. Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking, are crucial for success in the 21st-century workforce. Addressing a gap in understanding, this research utilizes a cross-sectional survey of 172 high school students engaged in English courses employing PBL. Data analysis through SPSS reveals that positive perceptions of PBL significantly enhance soft skills, with student engagement amplifying this effect. These findings emphasize the importance of fostering engaging learning environments to maximize PBL’s impact, offering practical insights for educators and policymakers integrating student-centered methodologies in high school curricula.
Digital Folk Literature as a Need for Educational Transformation: A Literary Narrative
The folk literature is a traditional literature that is passed down from one generation to another. It is considered a shared ownership, reflecting the community's feelings. Folk literature possesses an intrinsic value that can be used as a lesson learned and build the internalization of values in students. Its significance and function make it an essential didactic resource, shaping the archetype of the Malaysian nation. Amid modernization, folk literature should evolve into a more innovative form to captivate the public's interest and deepen community appreciation. Thus, this concept paper was developed to systematically gather literature, demonstrating the necessity of digitizing education within the realm of folk literature. The conceptual study employed descriptive qualitative methods through a systematic literature review based on the two databases from the previous five years. The systematic literature review process comprised identification, screening, and eligibility. The findings of the systematic literature review revealed that digitalization in education have long been adopted in Western nations. Nevertheless, a digital gap in education persists in Malaysia, particularly concerning the digitization of literary fields such as folk literature. Therefore, to address this issue, it is evident that digitizing folk literature is imperative for the transformation of education in our country.
The Relevance of Goal Path Theory in Addressing Teachers' Innovative Behavior in Educational Organizations
Innovation among teachers is essential to enhance educational outcomes in producing quality human capital. Teacher innovation is often associated with leadership practices in schools. However, the extent to which all leadership practices impact teacher innovation is uncertain. Therefore, this paper discusses the extent to which distributive leadership practices are used to address issues of innovative behavior among teachers. The discussion in this paper shows alignment between elements in distributive leadership practices and teachers' innovative behavior. It can be concluded that in conducting research, the suitability between dependent and independent variables can be determined by referring to the elements contained in the referenced theory.
Effectiveness of Visualisation Integrated Problem Solving Approach on Improving Grade Three Malaysian Students’ Arithmetic Word Problem Solving Ability
Problem solving serve as the centre piece of mathematical instructions in elementary school. However, tackling word problems remains one of the most challenging tasks for students. This study is conducted to determine the effectiveness of visualisation integrated problem-solving approach on improving grade three Malaysian students’ arithmetic word problem solving ability. This quasi-experimental research involved 59 Grade Three students from National Type Chinese Primary School (NTCPS) selected using multistage cluster sampling. The hypothesis of the study is tested by performing independent samples t-test. The findings indicate that visualisation integrated problem-solving approach is effective in improving students learning and retention in solving arithmetic problems. Teachers are encouraged to guide students in using schematic diagrams to illustrate the problem context and relationships between numerical information. This not only helps students apply their conceptual knowledge more effectively but also equips them with a practical tool for problem-solving in real-world contexts.
The Application Effect of Human-Computer Interaction Learning Software in Assisting Middle School English Listening and Speaking Teaching
The development of electronic teaching tools in the information age has brought about a profound change in the field of education. Especially in middle school English teaching, traditional teaching methods are facing new challenges and opportunities. In recent years, human-computer interaction learning software has gradually become an effective auxiliary teaching tool, which can significantly improve students' English listening and oral speaking abilities through diversified learning resources and personalized learning paths. This study quantitatively analyzed the English listening and oral speaking abilities by purposive sampling, investigated students' learning interests, confidence, and classroom participation of middle school students before and after using the software. The results showed that using human-computer interaction learning software can significantly improve students' listening abilities, oral speaking abilities and learning interests. Regression analysis further indicated that the improvement of oral speaking and listening abilities, as well as the increase in learning interest, had a significant positive impact on students' final grades. This study provided theoretical basis and practical guidance for educators in applying human-computer interaction learning software to analyze students’ learning situation, evaluate the effectiveness of the software in middle school English teaching.
Exploring Contemporary Teaching Methods: A Self-Reflective Study from an Educator Without a Formal Teaching Degree
This study explores the effectiveness of contemporary teaching methods, focusing on reflective practices, to enhance pedagogical effectiveness for educators without formal teaching degrees. The significance of this research lies in addressing the evolving educational demands that prioritize student-centered learning, critical thinking, and creativity, especially for teachers who lack traditional training. Utilizing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, the study synthesizes data from academic literature, student evaluations, peer feedback, and classroom observations to assess the impact of reflective teaching practices and peer collaboration. The findings reveal that integrating reflective methods, such as Schön’s Reflection-in-Action and Reflection-on-Action, enables educators to adapt their strategies in real time and retrospectively, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. This research underscores the need for continuous innovation and reflective practice in teaching, proposing that further studies should explore how peer collaboration and digital tools can be leveraged to support professional development among educators without formal pedagogical backgrounds. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on reflective teaching, offering practical insights into enhancing educational practices in the 21st century.
The Essence of Quranic Argument and Implementation
The Noble Quran serves as the primary source of Islamic law. The Prophet Muhammad PBUH was the individual, who most deeply acquainted with both the comprehensive and detailed aspects of the Quran. All legal rulings and regulations issued by him were founded upon his profound understanding of the Quran. Following his passing, the responsibility of explaining the Quran in detail fell upon the honored Companions of Prophet Muhammad PBUH instituted the generation that directly witnessed the revelation of the Quran, understanding the reasons behind the descent of each verse and its contextual significance at the time of revelation. However, with the passing of the generation of the Companions, separations arose among the Muslim community, leading to the emergence of political factions exploiting the Quran for their political agendas. Verses of the Quran began to be interpreted according to their personal desires, disregarding the established principles of interpretation outlined by the Prophet Muhammad and his Companions. Consequently, variations and misinterpretations emerged in the interpretation of the Quran, persisting to this day. This study uses a qualitative approach, involving data collection followed by analysis. The findings of the study reveal that the discipline of Istidlal is a unique and complex, challenging to master, requiring the knowledge and skill by scholarly experts.
The Effect of Modes of Funding on the Performance of Zimbabwe State Universities: Incites from Administrators
The study investigated the different sources of funding available to State Universities in Zimbabwe and their effect on universities performance. The Universities’ performance was defined to mean teaching and learning, research, community services, innovation and industrialization which is defined by the Heritage based Education 5.0. The Zimbabwean Universities had in the twenty first century been underperforming ever since the massification of students. There has been inadequate infrastructure, poor remuneration, research apathy, unequipped laboratories, among other evidence of poor funding of public universities in the country. The researcher implore the shift of public funding referred to as first stream income or government funding to other funding sources and how they affect university performance over the years. Over the years the ranking of Universities in Zimbabwe has been declining due to poor performance. The quantitative study using a semi-structured researcher designed questionnaire was used to gather data from University Administrators of ten state Universities in the country using stratified random sampling. For analysis, the gathered data was coded, arranged in spreadsheets, and imported into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, Version 29.0). The data was analysed using descriptive statistics like mean and standard deviation. To determine the link between the independent and dependent variables, correlation and regression analysis were performed. Tables and graphs were used to display the data.
Systematic Review Literature: The Issue of Illiteracy among Primary School Students
Reading skills are a very important basis of life in today's globalization era phenomenon. This study uses a systematic literature review (SLR). Therefore this study has collected as many as ten highlights of the literature review that can answer the theme set in the study. There are three themes highlighted in this study which are illiteracy factors among primary school students, the effects of illiteracy among primary school students and ways to overcome the issue of illiteracy among primary school students. The selection of articles for writing this SLR is from 2014 to 2024, which is a period of ten years. There are eight studies that discuss the factors that cause illiteracy among students, four studies discuss the effects of illiteracy and nine studies discuss how to overcome the issue of illiteracy at the primary school level. There are some common findings for each study either in terms of factors, effects and ways to overcome the issue of illiteracy.
Evaluating Parental Preferences for Preschool Education in Malaysia: A Case Study of Kindergartens in Pulau Pinang
The study aims to investigate the factors that affect the parent’s choice of preschools in Malaysia. The quantitative research design was adopted to carry out the research. A questionnaire was uploaded on the Internet and dispersed to the target population consisting of parents who send their children to preschools. A total of 100 competed questionnaires were collected and processed and analyzed statistically. The findings showed that the main factors that affected the decision of parents to choose a preschool were curriculum factors, academic factors, school-parent relationships, and school facilities. The findings suggest that Malaysian parents attach a lot of importance to the quality of the curriculum, positive academic factors, their relationship with the school, the school facilities. Based on these findings, it is suggested that Malaysian preschools can enhance the attractiveness of their brands by enhancing the quality of their curriculum, ensuring better quality academic related factors, creating stronger and closer school-parent relationships and ensuring that their preschools equipped with modern and attractive facilities.
Knowledge and Practice of Special Education Teachers in Teaching Social Skills to Students with Autism
Special education teachers need to have the knowledge and skills to plan and execute effective teaching strategies to improve the social skills of their students with autism. This study investigates the knowledge and skills of special education teachers in Malaysia in teaching social skills to students with autism. A qualitative study design was adopted where data was collected by conducting semi-structured interviews. Through a purposive sampling method, twelve special education teachers who taught students with autism in seven states in Malaysia were recruited as respondents. The results show that the knowledge of autism amongst special education teachers is low and inadequate. Respondents also reported not receiving adequate training on autism and teaching students with autism. This research also put forward some suggestions to overcome the issues highlighted by the findings, mainly emphasizing the teachers’ desperate need for training and the need for both teacher training modules on autism and modules on teaching social skills to these students.
Enhancing Higher Education Opportunities for Special Needs Students in Malaysia: A Case Study
Higher education in Malaysia encompasses undergraduate and postgraduate studies offered by a variety of public and private universities. With 20 public and 47 private universities, Malaysia boasts a well-structured higher education system that provides a wide array of educational choices. Inclusive education is a fundamental right for all, including individuals with special needs, who exhibit unique talents and capabilities. Despite initial challenges, many special needs individuals have successfully pursued higher education, showcasing inspiring success stories. Parents of special needs children, though initially faced with acceptance challenges, ultimately embrace and support their children's unique educational journeys.
Mechanical Properties of Malaysian Chengal Wood Species
Timber is defined as the structural wood used for construction or other purposes. It is one of the oldest building materials and most sustainable resources. In recent years, the availability of high-grade timber species has dwindled due to ongoing deforestation and a decrease in log production. Hence, this study explores the mechanical properties of Malaysian Chengal wood (Neobalanocarpus heimii), a species highly valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to decay and insects. Despite its widespread use in construction, flooring, and marine applications, detailed data on its mechanical behaviour is scarce. This research aims to fill this gap by systematically analysing Chengal wood’s mechanical properties through bending, compression, and tensile tests. The study measured vital parameters such as Modulus of Rupture (MOR) and Modulus of Elasticity (MOE). The MOR, indicating the wood's resistance to external forces, was determined to be 54 MPa, while the MOE, reflecting stiffness and deformation properties, was 18400 MPa. These values are crucial for understanding the wood's elastic behaviour and ability to return to its original shape after deformation. Test results revealed a linear and non-linear behaviour, with all specimens exhibiting brittle to brittle-ductile failure patterns. Failures were primarily due to defects like knots, cross grains, and splits, which caused complex stress distributions. Various failure patterns were observed, underscoring the impact of these defects on the wood's mechanical performance. This comprehensive evaluation of Chengal wood's mechanical properties provides essential insights for its use in engineering and construction. The findings confirm its robust performance and identify potential areas for quality improvement. This study serves as a critical reference for engineers, architects, and wood industry professionals, aiding in the informed selection of Chengal wood in structural applications.
Factors Affecting Low English-Speaking Proficiency among Secondary School EFL Learners in Libya: Scoping Review
Introduction: Mastery of speaking skills is essential for success in today’s society. Effective communication relies heavily on the ability to speak well. English, as a global language, holds great importance in various fields such as economics, politics, education, science, and technology. Problem statement: Libyan learners face difficulties in developing speaking skills and fail to communicate effectively as native speakers, despite studying the language for many years in schools and universities. Traditional approaches like the Grammar-Translation Method (GTM) employed in Libyan schools are often blamed for hindering fluency in English, making the language learning process challenging. English teachers in Libya often overlook teaching oral activities found in textbooks and solely focus on aspects they believe will be covered in exams. It is essential to acknowledge that learning and developing speaking skills require time, and learners need to acquire new vocabulary daily in order to understand and express themselves effectively.Therefore, there are limited studies on the difficulties of Libyan learners facing in speaking during their secondary education, as well as the factors that negatively impact their language skills and hinder their ability to speak in the classroom. Objective: this research aims to identify the causes that contribute to low proficiency in English speaking skills among Libyan EFL learners. Methods: the searching done by using some online database such as Scopus, Web of science and google scholar on articles published between 2014 and 2024. Results: the finding of this study shown that the Libyan learners have limited opportunities to practice oral communication skills both in and outside the classroom. Conclusion: there are factors that contribute to difficulties in both academic and personal communication. Furthermore, this study highlights the obstacles EFL teachers encounter when teaching speaking skills in classrooms, including proficiency, large class sizes, limited class durations, and a lack of teaching aids and resources.
Positive Innovative Thinking Based on the Integration of Spiritual Knowledge through the Subjects of Design and Technology
Today's education system places great importance on student achievement, especially in terms of innovative and creative abilities, along with the student's personal and personality development. However, the era of globalization and digitalization also pushes students toward negative innovation. The increase in negative innovative activities carried out by a few students has become a hot conversation in the community in the mass media. Therefore, improving students' positive innovative thinking is urgently needed. The subject of Design and Technology (RBT) is a subject that gives students early exposure to innovative and creative aspects to produce useful products. However, the teaching and learning process and the existing curriculum often ignore the spiritual element, which can play an important role in forming positive innovative thinking and student morals. This research is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), especially SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), by emphasizing the integration of intellectual and spiritual knowledge education to produce students with positive innovative thinking and noble character. This concept paper aims to discuss the importance of the integration of intellectual and spiritual knowledge in the subject of Design and Technology to increase the positive innovative thinking of students. This study is a qualitative study using the bibliographic highlight method by referencing material from scientific sources of books, articles, and proceedings papers to get a clearer picture of the issue under study. The research results show that the approach of integrating intellectual and spiritual knowledge is very important to give birth to people who are balanced in intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects. This balance is the basis for being an individual who is responsible for oneself, society, and the environment. Therefore, the approach of knowledge integration needs to be implemented in the subjects of Design and Technology to produce students who have positive innovative thinking to create quality products and benefit the community. This study shows the teaching and learning process by combining spiritual elements in the subjects of Design and Technology. It is very important to form positive innovative thinking of students. This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence of the benefits of such integration processes, thereby guiding educators to produce a more holistic education.
The Necessity of Implementing Theatre and Aesthetic Education in Inner Mongolia Colleges and Universities
This dissertation researches the theatre aesthetic education in colleges and universities in Inner Mongolia, China, and examines the following two issues, draws results, and presents personal conclusions: first, the status of theatre aesthetic education in colleges and universities in Inner Mongolia; second, what qualities and competencies are enhanced for college students through the study of theatre aesthetic education. In this study, the qualitative research method was adopted, using text content analysis, literature research method, and interview method. Through the study, it was found that the aesthetic education of theatre in the region is not valued in colleges and universities, the curriculum lacks inclusive consideration, teaching resources are scarce, the theatre atmosphere is not sufficiently created, the students' artistic foundation is not balanced, and there is insufficient integration with national and regional cultures, and other problems. The implementation of theatre aesthetic education courses in colleges and universities can help students in Inner Mongolia in the following five aspects: broadening artistic horizons, enhancing collective awareness, cultivating critical thinking, strengthening communication skills, and enhancing cultural identity and confidence.
The Choice of English Vocabulary Learning Strategies by Chinese Students in the Era of Intelligentization: Problems and Challenges
In the era of intelligence, cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and cloud computing have been widely applied in the field of education, leading to innovations in traditional English teaching models and enhancements in teaching efficiency and quality. However, the intelligent age has also brought about certain problems and challenges. This article explores the issues and challenges faced by Chinese students in their vocabulary learning strategies in English study under the background of the intelligent age. The study finds that in the intelligent age, the English vocabulary learning strategies of Chinese students mainly face three major challenges: the challenge of cultivating learning motivation and autonomous learning skills, the challenge in the application of technology and teaching resources, and the challenge of updating teaching content and methods. This research will provide valuable references for educators to design more effective teaching strategies and curriculum content that are conducive to the personal development of students, and it is also of great significance for improving the overall level of English education in the country.
Digital Pedagogy Perspectives: Exploring ESL Teachers’ Beliefs towards Online-Based ESL Writing Instruction
The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the closure of schools worldwide to safeguard public health, resulting in unprecedented disruptions to education. These changes profoundly affected teachers, significantly altering their roles and responsibilities. This study aims to investigate the impact of school closures on the perspectives of ESL teachers in Sabah, Malaysia, regarding online-based instruction of ESL writing skills. A quantitative approach was employed, utilizing a descriptive and survey-based methodology to examine teachers’ beliefs and attitudes towards online ESL writing instruction. The study gathered data on various demographic factors, including the type of school (public or private), participants’ gender, age, and professional experience. The results reveal no significant differences in the attitudes and beliefs of public and private school ESL teachers in Sabah concerning the effects of online-based education. Notably, the forced transition to online education during the pandemic may have catalysed future innovations, paving the way for a more effective hybrid education model.
The Effects of a Positive Psychology Course Based on the PERMA-H Model on Vocational Students' Well-Being
This study investigates the impact of a positive psychology course based on the PERMA-H theory on the well-being of vocational students. The PERMA-H model includes Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment, and Health. A total of 160 vocational students participated, with 84 enrolled in the positive psychology course and 76 in a general mental health course. The PERMA-H Profiler (Butler & Kern, 2016) was administered to all students at the beginning and end of the semester to assess these six elements, along with additional measures for loneliness and negative emotions. Results show that students in the positive psychology course experienced significant improvements in Meaning (d = 0.34), Accomplishment (d = 0.52), and reduced Loneliness (d = -0.35). However, while Relationships showed improvement, it was not statistically significant (d = 0.12). Positive Emotion and Engagement also improved with moderate effect sizes (d = 0.18 and 0.24, respectively). The general mental health course also demonstrated positive effects but to a lesser degree. Gender differences were observed in overall well-being, health, and accomplishment, but economic status did not show a significant impact. Despite the non-randomized design and reliance on self-reported data, this study supports the integration of positive psychology courses in vocational education to enhance students' holistic well-being. Future research should use larger, randomized samples and explore the long-term effects across different student groups and settings.
Research on Path of Cultivating Country Affections of Undergraduates at Public Fees
Undergraduates at publicly funded teacher training universities are crucial to these institutions. They form the backbone of rural teaching staff and are essential to the equitable advancement of rural education. Their development has established a foundation for building the rural teaching workforce, fostering balanced growth in urban and rural compulsory education. As the rural revitalization strategy progresses, local teacher training universities face both unprecedented challenges and fresh opportunities. To respond to the national strategy and meet the challenges, these universities must strengthen talent training, deepen the concept of caring education, and build closer cooperative relationships with local governments and schools. These initiatives aim to create a team of skilled and professional rural teachers, driving ongoing advancement and improvement in rural education.
Cyberbullying and its Relationship to Mental Health Issues among Adolescents
Cyberbullying has recently received significant attention, particularly involving adolescent. A majority of cyberbullying victims also face various mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and more alarmingly, suicidal tendencies. If not addressed early, cyberbullying can have detrimental effects on individuals and society as a whole. Therefore, the mental health of adolescent is a crucial element that deserves primary attention, as this group represents the assets that will drive the country's future development. In terms of methodologically, search engines such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were used, focusing on cyberbullying behaviors and their relationship with adolescent mental health, encompassing both local and international studies. This paper is expected to provide a clearer picture of how the issue of cyberbullying can lead to various uncontrolled behaviors and affect adolescents mental health, helping relevant parties to address the symptoms of cyberbullying.
The Effect of Teacher-Guided Peer Feedback on English Writing Performance of Chinese EFL High School Students
Writing is an important output skill among the five basic skills of English, and giving and receiving feedback is an important aspect in the teaching and learning of writing. In the current English writing teaching in Chinese high schools, the method used is teacher feedback, but it is time-consuming and untimely, and it is not possible to give complete feedback on the mistakes and highlights of each student’s writing. This puts students in a state of passive acceptance, which is not conducive to learning autonomy, whereas peer feedback facilitates students’ independent learning through collaborative exchanges. Therefore, in the practical application of teaching, combining the two teaching methods can make up for each other’s deficiencies and work together to bring out better advantages. This study focuses on whether the combination of teacher feedback and peer feedback is effective in improving students’ writing performance as compared to the traditional teacher feedback particularly in three aspects of writing, which are idea/content, organization, and grammar. This study takes the process writing method and cooperative learning theory as the theoretical basis and selects two classes of the second year of high school in the first high school of Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province, as the experimental subjects for the teaching experiment. The control class used traditional teacher feedback and the experimental class used teacher-guided peer feedback. A pre- and post-writing test was used in this experiment to explore whether the students’ English writing improved or not, and the data were analyzed with the help of SPSS26. Finally, through data organization and analysis, this study found that compared with the traditional teacher feedback model, the combination of teacher feedback and peer feedback can effectively improve students’ writing performance, and the average scores on writing idea/content, organization, and grammar are all improved to a certain extent.
A Study on the Implementation of the Student-Centered Teaching Model in Junior High School Physical Education Classes in Beijing
Objective: This study aims to explore the current implementation of the student-centered teaching model in junior high school physical education classrooms in Beijing. Methods: Feedback was collected through semi-structured interviews with five junior high school physical education teachers and five junior high school students from different districts in Beijing. Results: (1) Most teachers hold a positive attitude toward the concept of student-centered teaching; however, due to limited resources, large class sizes, and varying levels of students' self-directed learning abilities, the effectiveness of teachers' implementation is somewhat restricted. (2) Students generally believe that the student-centered teaching model enhances classroom engagement, but their individual needs are not fully addressed. (3) There are differences in the perceptions of teachers and students regarding classroom autonomy, differentiated instruction, and classroom management. Conclusion: The current implementation status of student-centered teaching in junior high school physical education classrooms in Beijing remains unclear. Due to the lack of effective assessment tools, teachers find it challenging to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of this teaching model in practice. To overcome this limitation, future research should focus on developing an evaluation model based on McCombs' internationally recognized K-12 Learner-Centered Practices to accurately assess the implementation of student-centered teaching in junior high school physical education classrooms in Beijing.
Bibliometric and Visualized Analysis of Research on English Learning Under Mobile-Assisted Language Learning based on CiteSpace
The development and application of mobile-assisted Language learning (MALL) has influenced the reform and development of English teaching and has gradually become a hot topic educational field. This paper employs the bibliometric analysis, which is conducted on CiteSpace, to visualize the relevant literature on MALL and English learning from Web of Science (WoS) core database. After applying the PRISMA framework for rigorous article selection, a sample of 327 published articles is scrutinized. Within this analysis, emphasis is placed on knowledge mapping, clusters, and keywords to unveil insights within the selected 327 articles. The study reveals several significant findings, including a discernible publication trend, identification of the top 10 influential and productive journals, an exploration of the top 10 influential articles, and the delineation of four principal research themes: enhancing classroom pedagogy, mobile learning modalities, the impact of text messages, and the sociocultural dimension. The meticulous analysis offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of MALL and its intersection with English language learning. As the research unfolds, this study seeks to illuminate the intricate connections within this dynamic field and potentially inform educators, researchers, and policymakers about effective strategies and future directions in English language education through mobile-assisted platforms.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Enhancement of Quality of Teaching in the Private Sector Tertiary Education: International Perspective
This qualitative research explores the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on enhancing the quality of teaching within the private sector tertiary education from an international perspective. Through in-depth interviews with educators, administrators, and AI experts across multiple countries, the study examines how AI technologies are being integrated into teaching methodologies and their effects on educational outcomes. The research reveals that AI contributes significantly to personalized learning, offering tailored educational experiences that cater to individual student needs and learning styles. Educators highlighted the role of AI in automating administrative tasks, thus allowing more time for interactive and student-focused teaching. Furthermore, the integration of AI-driven analytics provides educators with actionable insights into student performance, facilitating data-driven decision-making and early intervention for at-risk students. However, the study also identifies challenges such as the digital divide, data privacy concerns, and the need for professional development to equip teachers with the skills required to effectively leverage AI tools. The international perspective underscores varying levels of AI adoption and its impact, influenced by regional technological infrastructure, policy frameworks, and cultural attitudes towards AI in education. This research underscores the transformative potential of AI in enhancing teaching quality while also highlighting the necessity for addressing ethical considerations and ensuring equitable access to AI technologies in education.
Methodological and Contextual Trends of Teacher Leadership and its Conceptualization: A Systematic Literature Review (2018-2022)
Despite decades of research on teacher leadership, its definition remains marked by significant conceptual and operational disagreements. To systematically update the latest developments and research trends in this field, this literature review employed the Scopus and ScienceDirect databases to analyze 80 empirical studies published between 2018 and 2022 that met predefined criteria. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) screening procedure, a detailed examination was conducted on the research contexts, methodological approaches, and definitions of teacher leadership. The findings revealed that the overall growth rate has been relatively slow between 2018 and 2022, with most studies utilizing qualitative research methods. Currently, teacher leadership research focuses primarily on K-12 teacher populations in North America and Asia. Notably, teacher leadership is conceptualized as a complex and multidimensional construct, and its definitions remain conceptual and operationally unharmonized, influenced mainly by the specific context and school culture of each study.
Integration of Music in Teaching and Learning in Preschool: Teacher Readiness
The integration of music in preschool teaching and learning has received attention in efforts to enrich children's learning experiences. According to the 2017 revised National Preschool Standard-Based Curriculum Malaysia, music is recommended as one of the teaching activities based on creativity and aesthetics. The utilization of music in early childhood education not only stimulates cognitive and emotional development, but also enhances their social and motor skills. However, the effectiveness of integrating music in preschool education largely depends on the readiness of the teachers. Based on a literature review, it is shown that teachers' knowledge of the use of music in preschool education is at a moderate level and lacks appreciation for the importance of music. Furthermore, teachers often feel uncertain and lack confidence in utilizing music as a teaching aid. Therefore, this concept paper discusses the issues and challenges faced by preschool teachers in integrating music into teaching and learning. In addition to examining the importance and approaches of music educations that can help enhance the effectiveness of music integration. Several theories regarding teacher readiness and music learning are discussed to gain a deeper understanding of the implementation of music integration in preschool teaching and learning.
Cultivating the Learning Habits of Higher Vocational Students in Class
Higher vocational education is an indispensable and vital component of national education. It bears the heavy responsibility of supplying excellent skilled labor talents to the country. However, through classroom observation by teachers and student questionnaires, it can be found that many higher vocational students have bad learning habits such as playing with mobile phones in class, over-reliance on network resources, ignoring classroom discipline, skipping classes without reason, not liking to do hands-on operations in practical teaching, and not actively thinking about problems. This article analyzes the reasons for the formation of these bad habits. Since classroom teaching is the central link of teaching activities, the success or failure of classroom teaching directly affects the formation of students' learning habits. Therefore, this article explicitly proposes the following six methods to change students' bad learning habits through classroom teaching: cultivate a positive learning attitude, establish clear learning goals, strengthen the management of classroom discipline, improve the ability of reasonable planning, enrich teaching methods, and enhance teaching ability. Make full use of classroom teaching to stimulate students' learning potential and develop good learning habits.
Enhancing Student Retention through Academic Support and Course Design: Satisfaction as Mediator
This study highlights the critical role of student retention in higher education, focusing on academic support services, course design, and student satisfaction as a mediator. The study aims to explore these elements' interactions to enhance retention rates, offering actionable insights for educational institutions. Surveys were strategically distributed to capture diverse student experiences, yielding 476 responses from 588 surveys, with 433 suitable for analysis. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) for data analysis, the study employed Smartpls4 to test hypotheses. Findings demonstrated that academic support services and course design positively impact student satisfaction and retention. Hypothesis testing indicated vital pathways between academic support and retention, course design and satisfaction, and satisfaction as a mediator. For future research, longitudinal studies should be conducted to assess the long-term impacts of enhanced academic support and course design on retention. Expanding the research to include diverse educational settings may provide nuanced insights across various student populations. Incorporating technological integration and qualitative methods can further enrich the findings. The study's implications are significant: By focusing on personalized academic support and engaging course design, institutions can boost student satisfaction and retention, enhancing reputation and loyalty. This research lays a foundation for institutions seeking to excel in a competitive educational landscape by addressing evolving student needs and promoting sustained academic success and growth.
Technological Innovations in Welding Education: A Review of Teaching and Learning Approaches
Welding education is undergoing a significant transformation due to the integration of advanced technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and robotic automation, aligning with the demands of Industry Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0). This study utilized a systematic review through the Scopus database to investigate the incorporation of these technological innovations into welding training. The focus was on identifying how these technologies enhance the learning experience beyond traditional methods, emphasizing practical skills in immersive, cost-effective environments without safety risks. The results from the review highlight that VR and AR not only revolutionize the way welding skills are taught by simulating realistic scenarios but also improve student engagement and understanding. Additionally, robotic systems prepare students for the automation prevalent in modern industries, while eLearning platforms extend educational reach beyond conventional classroom settings, promoting flexible, self-paced learning. The adoption of VR, AR, and automation in welding education enhances both the effectiveness of teaching and the quality of learning, ensuring students are well-prepared for a technologically advanced workforce. This shift towards technology-driven education is critical for developing a workforce capable of meeting the evolving needs of contemporary manufacturing sectors.
The Role of Employee Engagement in Individual Work Performance: A Systematic Review
This study aims to analyze the direct effect of employee engagement on individual work performance. This study mainly used descriptive analysis to comprehensively analyze the direct impact between the two, following the guidelines of the systematic evaluation process and objectively summarizing these literature. This study selected 13 articles related to the two based on a comprehensive literature review method from 112 articles. The results showed that employee engagement has a direct impact on individual work performance during the work process. This study will provide positive references for the application of both in future work fields, and help promote the healthy and sustainable development of enterprises.
Servant Leadership and its Influence on Work-Life Balance in Work from Home Settings
This study examines the impact of work from home on work-life balance within the Malaysian public sector, with a specific focus on the moderating effects of servant leadership. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed traditional work practices, requiring an exploration of how work from home influences employee well-being and organisational outcomes. Using a correlational research design and a quantitative approach, data were collected through online surveys from 264 employees. Analysis was carried out using structural equation modelling (SEM) using SPSS version 27 and SmartPLS version 3.3.9. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between work from home practices and work-life balance (β = 0.225, t = 3.587, p = 0.000), indicating that work from home improves the ability of employees to manage professional and personal responsibilities. Furthermore, the inclusion of Servant Leadership as a moderating factor significantly amplified this relationship, increasing the explained variance in work-life balance outcomes to 27.5%. This highlights the critical role of supportive leadership in shaping positive work from home experiences. However, a subtle understanding emerged from the slope analysis, which showed that while the low to median levels of servant leadership positively influenced the relationship, the high levels of servant leadership had a negative impact. This complexity indicates that the effectiveness of leadership support in remote settings varies and requires a balanced approach. This study contributes to the existing literature by emphasising the importance of leadership dynamics in work from home environments and providing practical recommendations for organisations. These include implementing flexible work policies, promoting open communication, offering training and development opportunities, prioritising mental health, and encouraging clear work-life boundaries. Future research should explore cross-cultural perspectives, the long-term effects of work from home, and the impact of various leadership styles to better understand the intricate dynamics of work from home and work-life balance. By addressing these factors, organisations can foster a resilient, engaged, and well-balanced workforce in the evolving landscape of work from home.
Analysing the Impact of Artificial Intelligence in ESL Education: A Systematic Review
The review is based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to explore the types of platforms used in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in English as a Second Language (ESL) education and their relevant impacts. As the education sector increasingly adopts Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, a diverse array of platforms is globally utilized in institutions to enhance learning experiences. This review synthesized insights from pertinent previous studies, examined the relevant impacts presented in each research article, and assessed the overall impacts of Artificial Intelligence integration in ESL education. A comprehensive analysis of 25 articles published between 2021 and 2024 from various reputable sources such as Springer, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The review highlights the current landscape of AI integration in ESL education and explores the relevant impacts that AI offers in enhancing ESL learning outcomes. It was also found that AI positively impacted the learners in terms of a holistic approach, personalized learning experiences, innovative teaching, and enhanced interaction. This study will be beneficial to educators to fully utilize AI in the classroom to engage learners’ participation, hence creating an effective learning session.
Modeling the Impact of Social Media Usage and Interaction with Tutor on Collaborative Learning: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy in Distance Learning Environments
This study highlights the significance of acceptance of collaborative learning among students in online flexible distance learning higher education institutions. Collaborative learning is crucial as it enhances student engagement, fosters critical thinking, and improves learning outcomes, making it essential for modern educational frameworks. The study investigated how interactions with tutors and social media usage influence collaborative learning, focusing on learners' self-efficacy as a mediating factor. Purposive sampling was used to carry out the survey. A total of 388 responses were collected and deemed suitable for analysis. Data analysis was performed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) method, which allowed for comprehensive hypothesis testing and evaluation of complex variable relationships. The outcomes of the hypothesis testing demonstrated significance pathways: interactions with tutors and social media usage were both found to affect learners' self-efficacy, significantly enhancing collaborative learning positively. These insights suggest that institutions should strengthen interactions through digital platforms and effective tutor engagement to maximise collaborative learning. The study's implications are significant for educational policymakers and institutions seeking to optimise online learning environments by leveraging technology and fostering interpersonal interactions that build student confidence. Future research should encompass longitudinal studies to examine the sustained effects of these variables on collaborative learning, expanding demographic diversity to enhance the generalizability of the findings, and exploring the influence of emerging technologies, such as virtual reality, in these educational settings. By integrating these elements, future studies can further illuminate the pathways through which technology and human interaction can be harnessed to enhance learning efficacy. This study underscores the transformative potential of collaborative learning in online education and provides a valuable framework for institutions aiming to cultivate a responsive and effective digital learning experience.
Siddiq Fadzil’s Blueprint for Manhaj Malizy: A Conceptual Exploration of His Role in Education, Politics, and Social Reform
One of Malaysia's most prominent public characters, Siddiq Fadzil has had a tremendous impact on the political, social, religious, and educational environments of his country. The major objective is to examine his contributions in several fields, illuminating the ideas and tactics that propelled important advances in society. The goal of the study is to identify the guiding ideas and results of his activities by looking at his blueprint for Malaysia. The study employs a qualitative methodology and comprises a review of previous research as well as a content analysis of Siddiq Fadzil's publications, speeches, and policy proposals. The results demonstrate the significant impact of Siddiq Fadzil on Malaysia's educational system, especially with regard to his advocacy of inclusive and progressive educational practices. His social reforms encouraged harmony and fair growth, while his political philosophy placed a strong emphasis on openness, democracy, and moral leadership. By offering a thorough examination of Siddiq Fadzil's influence, this work contributes to scholarly discourse and can be used as a useful tool for researchers and policymakers who are motivated by his all-encompassing approach to nation-building. Siddiq Fadzil's vision for Malaysia is a pragmatic yet progressive approach to building an equitable, well-educated, and harmonious society. His legacy characterized by a steadfast dedication to moral values and the well-being of society continues to influence and mold Malaysia's growth. This study recognizes his accomplishments and emphasizes how his concepts are still applicable to solving today's problems
Development of an English Cloze Test Model for Middle School Students' English Learning Strategies, Motivation and Self-Efficacy
The English Cloze Test evaluates students' foundational English knowledge and provides a relatively accurate indication of students' overall English proficiency. The researchers conducted this study quantitatively using surveys and Partial Least Square-Structural Equational Modelling (PLS-SEM). They involved 562 middle school students, including senior and junior high school students; it attempted to establish a relationship model of English learning strategies, motivation and self-efficacy in Cloze Test learning and study the relationship between these in terms of gender, grade level, and English scores. The study discovered a significant positive correlation between learning strategy and motivation and between motivation and self-efficacy. Furthermore, there are significant positive correlations between English scores and learning strategies, motivation, and self-efficacy; gender exhibited a negative correlation with self-efficacy; and negative correlations between grade level and learning strategies.
The Practice of Headmaster Instructional Leadership and its Relationship with Teacher Self-Efficacy
The effectiveness of an institution is determined by the strength and style of effective leadership. In Malaysia, past studies have shown inconsistent findings, such as the varying levels of instructional leadership in primary schools and the relationship between instructional leadership and teacher self-efficacy being moderate or weak. This concept paper aims to discuss the problem statement, research model, literature review, and implications of the study regarding the practice of instructional leadership and its relationship with teacher self-efficacy in Malaysia. To ensure that instructional leadership is continuously practiced, training and courses organized by the Ministry of Education Malaysia to strengthen the quality of instructional leadership and teacher professionalism enhancement courses need to be continued. This concept paper is hoped to help educators deepen the understanding of the 5th shift in the Malaysian Education Blueprint, which ensures that high-performing leaders are placed in schools, serving as literature related to instructional leadership and teacher self-efficacy. It is also hoped to provide implications in terms of leadership training planning in schools to enhance the professional development of teachers. In conclusion, the practice of instructional leadership must be continuously implemented to improve teacher self-efficacy and ensure the continuous development of education quality.
Perception of Law Students on Flipped Classrooms and Technology Integration in Constitutinal Law Subject
Constitutional law is a foundational subject in legal education, encompassing critical concepts such as the supremacy of the constitution, fundamental liberties, and the roles of government organs. However, students often struggle with understanding complex textual materials, limiting their ability to engage with and apply constitutional principles effectively. This research aimed to address these challenges by evaluating the effectiveness of a flipped classroom model integrated with an interactive learning module in enhancing students’ comprehension and engagement. This research employed a mixed-methods approach that combined a qualitative research method and a quasi-experimental design. The data were collected from 125 constitutional law students through questionnaires, classroom observations, and activities incorporating the module. The module featured diverse elements, including mind maps, videos, and problem-based learning exercises, to foster higher-order thinking and deeper engagement. The findings revealed that 58.4% of students preferred a blended learning approach combining traditional lectures and interactive methods, while 73.6% found mind maps particularly beneficial when integrated with textual materials. The flipped classroom approach significantly enhanced students’ understanding, allowing for active participation and critical thinking. Moreover, technological tools such as QR codes and multimedia resources increased accessibility and engagement, addressing diverse learning styles. This research underscored the potential of interactive, technology-driven pedagogical strategies in overcoming traditional learning barriers in constitutional law.
Research Trends on the Effects of Physical Activity on Bipolar Disorder from 2014 to 2024: A Bibliometric Analysis
Background: Recent years. Bi-directional affective disorder and physical activity (PA) are being studied further. This area's research progress and future directions are undetermined. This study investigates hot research topics and emerging trends in this sector. The goal is to suggest future research and offer physicians references. Materials and Methods: Retrieve relevant literature from the Web of Science core ensemble database, import the downloaded files into CiteSpace6.2.R3 for visual analysis, generate the cooperative network diagram between authors, countries, institutions, cited journals, and co-occurring keywords, and identify research hotspots and trends through keyword clustering, timeline browsing, and keyword citations. outbreaks and other analysis to identify research centers and trends. Results：There were 723 research, and PA in bipolar illness is growing. The US (256), London University (64), and AM J PSYCHIAT (394) had the most articles. The keywords identified youth, quality of life, physical health, risk health, and coronary heart disease as groups of interest, observational indicators, and related illness categories. Conclusions: This study highlights ongoing research and developing trends and underscores the need for further research to widen the findings. Future collaborations between institutions and authors must be strengthened and explored to explore physical and mental exercise and its effects on bi-directional affective disorder, PA, and specific populations, as well as the physiological mechanisms of various exercises, and to validate current findings or hypotheses through longitudinal studies or randomi.
Cross-Cultural Adjustment of International Students in China: The Impact of Educational Services and the Role of Gender
To investigate how educational services (ES) and gender influence international students’ cross-cultural adjustment (CCA), the study sampled 411 participants including 210 females and 201 males from Chinese universities. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed by SPSS and Smart-Pls. The findings suggest that international students' views on ES significantly impact their personal-emotional adjustments (PEA), social adjustments (SA), and academic adjustments (AA). Notably, female students face more challenges on SA and AA. Gender significantly moderates the influence of ES on both SA and AA. However, this moderating effect of Gender is not observed in the relationship between ES and PEA. These findings emphasize the influence of ES on international students' CCA and propose to higher educational institutions the need for gender-sensitive strategies.
“Educating for a Sustainable Future: Navigating the Impacts of Land Reclamation on Fishing Communities”. Case Study: Pantai Robina, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
This study explores the intertwining of sustainability and education in fostering a society capable of preserving ecological resources, with a focus on the environmental impacts of coastal land reclamation on local communities. In Malaysia, particularly on Penang Island, land reclamation has surged over the past two decades to support commercial, industrial, residential, and tourism development. While these projects enhance urban capacity, they raise significant environmental concerns, particularly regarding marine ecosystems and local livelihoods. This research investigates the sustainable implications of land reclamation on Robina Beach in Penang, emphasizing its effects on the local fishing community. Through structured questionnaires targeting fishermen, segmented into demographics, professional background, and a Likert scale for nuanced responses, along with discussions with the Head of the Fishery Association in Bagan Ajam, Pulau Pinang, the study captures the community's experiences and concerns regarding reclamation projects. Findings reveal that all respondents recognize the negative environmental impact of reclamation, which threatens marine life breeding grounds and disrupts their livelihoods. While fishermen do not oppose development, they urge the state government to consider all aspects of reclamation to prevent adverse outcomes. The study advocates integrating sustainability into reclamation practices to safeguard environmental integrity and protect the livelihoods of affected communities.
Examining the Impact of Common Law on Job Security in Zimbabwe's Private Sector Legal Insights and Employee Perspectives
This research addresses the profound implications of applying common law in resolving labor disputes amidst Zimbabwe's stark unemployment rate exceeding 90%. Employing mixed research methods, including a structured questionnaire administered to 400 respondents and qualitative data from focus group discussions and interviews, the study explores the detrimental effects. In the study, the collected data underwent rigorous statistical analysis including Chi-Squared tests, Cramer’s V Test, and Regression tests. These analytical methods were employed to examine the relationships and significance between variables related to the impact of common law on job security in Zimbabwe's private sector. The Chi-Squared test assessed the independence between categorical variables, providing insights into patterns and associations. Cramer’s V Test measured the strength of these associations, highlighting the magnitude of relationships observed. It reveals that common law, particularly influenced by the Zuva Judgment precedent, has severely eroded job security for countless employees who face termination notices without adequate recourse. This insecurity breeds profound distrust among remaining employees, who live under constant threat of dismissal. The study highlights how the Zuva Judgment undermines permanent employee protections, enabling termination with minimal compensation, exacerbating uncertainty and fear in the workplace. Moreover, common law's broad discretionary powers empower employers to exploit loopholes, potentially leading to discriminatory practices under the guise of lawful termination. In essence, the application of common law in labor dispute resolution undermines the security of tenure across all employment grades. Recommendations include judicial reforms to advocate legislative safeguards for employee rights, consideration of public opinion in labor judgments, and the implementation of robust company policies and conflict resolution mechanisms by employers. Emphasizing a shift towards high-performance workplaces through training, employee involvement, teamwork, and information sharing emerges as pivotal for mitigating workplace conflicts in Zimbabwe's challenging economic environment.
Connotation, Development and Construction of the Concept of Preschool Integrated Education with Chinese Characteristics
As an important way to achieve educational equity and high-quality development, the popularization and development of preschool integrated education is particularly urgent. According to the existing research , one of the important problems in the development of preschool integrated education in China is the adequate understanding of the concept of integrated education. Therefore, understanding the development of preschool integrated education and constructing the concept of preschool integrated education with Chinese characteristics have become an important agenda to promote the high-quality development of preschool integrated education. Based on the relevant research of China's current preschool integrated education, this paper puts forward the concept of preschool integrated education with Chinese characteristics on the basis of traditional Chinese education concepts. These ideas are deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture and reflect the idea of universal love in Chinese culture. Finally, from the aspects of publicity and promotion, teacher training and policy formulation, this paper puts forward the strategy of constructing the concept of preschool integrated education with Chinese characteristics, so as to try to promote the combination of theory and practice of preschool integrated education and realize the high-quality development of preschool integrated education.
Investigating the Influence of Steel Fibre on Self-Healing in Stone Mastic Asphalt Mixtures Using the Indirect Tensile Strength Test: A Case Study Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9
This study driven by the urgent need to improve the durability and resilience of road infrastructure in response to increasing traffic loads and environmental challenges. By focusing on the self-healing properties of Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures, this study aims to tackle a critical challenge in pavement engineering; by focusing on the self-healing properties of Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures, this study aims to tackle a critical challenge in pavement engineering, thereby reducing the frequency and cost of road maintenance while ensuring sustainable road performance. SMA is a gap-graded hot mix commonly utilized for heavily trafficked roadways, providing 30% to 40% enhanced resistance to permanent deformation and rutting relative to dense-graded asphalt. SMA's higher binder content increases its susceptibility to moisture-induced degradation and variations in temperature, necessitating modifications to improve its durability. The incorporation of steel fibre has been identified as a viable solution, enhancing moisture resistance and self-healing capabilities. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of incorporating steel fibre into SMA mixtures, with particular emphasis on enhancements in specific gravity, abrasion resistance, and indirect tensile strength. This study investigated four proportions of steel fibres (0%, 0.30%, 0.50%, and 0.70%) in SMA mixtures with a 6.2% PEN 60/70 binder content. Comprehensive testing, which included specific gravity, Marshall stability, and indirect tensile strength tests, was performed to evaluate performance. The findings indicated that the incorporation of steel fibre markedly improved the tensile deformation resistance, stability, and abrasion resistance of the SMA mixture. The 0.30% steel fibre proportion yielded the most favorable performance enhancement among the tested ratios. This research supports the SDG 9 objective of promoting resilient and sustainable infrastructure by demonstrating that steel fibre-modified asphalt mixtures improve the durability and safety of road structures.
The Kirkpatrick Assessment for the "BackwordedTM" Technique Approach for Scoping Review Training Course
Postgraduate students struggle with understanding the process of scoping reviews and how to effectively conduct them. This study aims to evaluate the application of Backwarded technique as a teaching approach in scoping review training course using Kirkpatrik model. The Backworded technique is a newly innovative approach emphasise fostering students' thorough comprehension of content by first pinpointing desired results, essential questions, knowledge, and skills, then creating assessments and instructional activities. The technique aimed to enhance teaching and learning objectives for the scoping review training course. This study utilised the 4 levels of Kirkpatrick model incorporating Relevancy, Satisfaction, Learning and Behaviour. Sixteen postgraduate students participated in the scoping review training course and were involved in the data collection. Results showed the majority of the students strongly agree to the relevancy and satisfied to the training course. 90% of the students learnt from the course and shows changing behaviour. The result explained that students improved skills in curriculum mapping, identifying learning priorities, and aligning objectives, assessments, and activities align with the Backworded technique. Teachers noted enhanced lesson clarity, increased student engagement, and improved ability to activate prior knowledge and customise instruction.
Visual Analysis of Research Hotspots and Frontiers on Left-Behind Children in China Using CiteSpace (2010-2022)
Left-behind children (LBC) have become a pressing social issue in China, as these children face unique psychological and developmental challenges due to parental absence. Given the rise in attention to LBC over the past decade, it is essential to evaluate trends and emerging themes in this research domain. This study retrieves 634 papers on left-behind children (LBC) from the Chinese Social Sciences Citation Index (CSSCI) between January 1, 2010, and December 30, 2022. Utilizing CiteSpace 6.1.R6 software, it visualizes and analyzes authors, institutions, and keywords. Findings reveal a significant increase in LBC research in China over the past decade, followed by a recent decline in the last two years. Leading contributors include Zhao Jingxin, Liu Xia, Fang Xiaoyi, and Ye Jingzhong, affiliated with prominent Chinese universities. Key research areas encompass rural LBC, mental health, loneliness, psychological resilience, education, and parent-child relationships, transitioning from problem identification to problem-solving. Previous research focused on rural and migrant LBC, emphasizing mental health, education, loneliness, and academic performance. Proposed countermeasures encompass family support, psychological resilience, and parent-child attachment. Future research frontiers involve peer attachment, teacher support, and psychological capital for LBC in China.
Increasing Students' Intrinsic Motivation to Learn Music: The Teacher's Voice in Cello Ensembles
This study uses interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) to explore the specific ways in which cello teachers can improve students' intrinsic motivation through strategies such as personalized teaching and positive feedback. The main goal of the study is to identify the strategies used by teachers in the teaching process, specifically in ensemble teaching, to enhance students' intrinsic motivation by meeting their psychological needs (autonomy, sense of competence, and sense of relatedness). Through semi-structured interviews, the study found that personalized teaching, interest-oriented content selection, positive feedback, and providing performance opportunities can significantly improve students' autonomy and enthusiasm for learning. The research results provide practical teaching strategies for cello teachers, and also provide directions for future research on the relationship between motivation and learning effectiveness.
The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Companies’ Preferences on Digital Literacy among Fresh Graduates
Digital literacy refers to the understanding and use of information through digital technologies. In the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, digital advancements have been adopted later than in other sectors. However, Industry 4.0 is driving the AEC industry to embrace digitalization for improved efficiency and performance. Today, digital platforms are integral to most aspects of work, prompting companies to invest in human capital with proficient digital skills. This study aims to identify AEC companies' preferences for digital literacy among graduates and explore strategies to enhance these skills. Using a quantitative approach, over 100 questionnaires were distributed to AEC companies, yielding 83 valid responses. The key findings indicate significant differences in preferences for graduates' digital literacy, particularly in the areas of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, across the three sectors. The study concludes that improving graduates’ digital skills in these areas is essential to meet industry demands.
The Factors of Deficiencies of Imported Halal Meat in Malaysia: A Proposed Model of Halal Meat Importer
The importation of halal meat in Malaysia is becoming a subject of growing interest among various stakeholders, both within the country and abroad. Malaysia is one of the largest halal meat importers in ASEAN for its meat needs for domestic consumption. In light of the various problems that have emerged with imported meat in recent years, it is necessary to do a thorough investigation to uncover any deficiencies in the procedures for importing halal meat into Malaysia and suggest potential enhancements. This study aims to create a robust and enduring model for importing halal meat. An essential aspect of the meat import sector is a halal meat importer model, which serves as a standard for exemplary practices among meat importers. This model ensures adherence to halal standards and offers advantages to customers and the domestic food industry.
The Development Prospects and Future Trends of China's Badminton Industry Under the Guidance of Sports Industry Policies
This article aims to explore the opportunities and challenges facing the badminton industry within the broader context of sports policies in China. By conducting an in-depth analysis of sports policies over the past decade, it seeks to understand the current state of the badminton industry and make reasonable predictions about its future prospects and development trends. Research Method: The article adopts a market-oriented approach, combining China’s unique national conditions with the government’s macroeconomic regulation to analyze the badminton industry, guiding it toward healthy development. Results and Discussion: The badminton industry is continuously expanding within the sports sector, encompassing areas such as leisure entertainment, professional competition, and training education, thereby creating abundant business opportunities and value-added services. Due to characteristics such as low risk, high technicality, and overall physical exercise, badminton has become widely popular, with over 200 million participants in China. Enhanced policy guidance is identified as a key driving force for the sports industry’s development. The sustained economic growth and the implementation of the National Fitness Plan have further propelled the vigorous growth of China’s sports industry, with badminton emerging as a new economic growth point. Findings: The Chinese badminton industry possesses abundant untapped resources, necessitating collaborative efforts from the government and society to establish mechanisms for innovative production factors. Market demand continuously drives the industry’s innovative development, requiring enhancements in product quality and service levels to gain competitive advantages in a fiercely competitive environment. Upstream and downstream enterprises should share similar industry values and target customer groups to enhance competitiveness through mutual information and resource sharing. Badminton enterprises need to focus on enhancing core competitiveness, leveraging domestic advantages, integrating resources, and gradually achieving strategic objectives while actively expanding into international markets. The restructuring of the national industrial structure presents new development opportunities for the tertiary industry, and badminton enterprises that seize timely opportunities are poised to become industry pioneers with international influence. The burgeoning badminton industry in the eastern region is expected to deepen its development in the central and western regions. Additionally, the development of the Chinese badminton industry should fully utilize economies of scale, leverage existing industrial advantages, and increase market share, enhancing the value-added services of badminton participation and viewing through cooperation with related industries to create a more competitive badminton industry chain.
Influence of Big Five Personality on Impulsive Buying Behaviour among Consumers
Impulsive buying behaviour has surged significantly in contemporary society, particularly during the pandemic, which reshaped consumer purchasing patterns in Malaysia. This phenomenon underscores the need to explore factors driving impulsiveness, as it carries numerous consequences. This study focuses on personality traits as intrinsic factors influencing impulsive buying behaviour. The objectives are to assess the levels of the Big Five personality traits and impulsive buying behaviour and to examine the impact of these traits on impulsive buying behaviour among Malaysian consumers. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed to collect data from consumers in Malaysia. Descriptive analyses, including mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage, were conducted, alongside multiple linear regression for inferential analysis. The Big Five Inventory (41 items) and the Impulsive Buying Scale (9 items) were utilised to measure personality traits and impulsive buying behaviour, respectively. The findings revealed a significant influence of extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness on impulsive buying behaviour, while neuroticism and openness showed no significant effect. The study contributes theoretical and practical insights, enriching the literature on the relationship between the Big Five personality traits and impulsive buying behaviour in the Malaysian context. It also offers valuable guidance for marketers and consumers. However, the study faced limitations such as time constraints and inconsistencies with prior research, which identified significant effects for neuroticism and openness. Future research is encouraged to investigate these variables further, focusing on specific locations within Malaysia.
Analysis of Factors Influencing the Employment Competitiveness of Art Education Graduates----A Qualitative Research Based on the Grounding Theory
This research examines the obstacles encountered by fine arts graduates in their attempts to secure teaching positions within a highly competitive and saturated job market. Utilizing grounded theory as a foundational framework, the study constructed a model by carefully analyzing data sourced from a variety of reliable channels. Through this analysis, four critical dimensions—teaching quality, general competence, perceptual attitudes, and educational background—were pinpointed as significant factors influencing the employment competitiveness of arts graduates. Based on these findings, the study offers practical strategies aimed at enhancing the employment prospects of arts graduates and fostering a closer alignment between talent development and societal needs.
Literature Review on Integrating STEAM in Preschool: International Practices and Malaysian Implementation
This literature review examines the impact of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education on preschool development in Malaysia, with specific emphasis on its incorporation into the National Preschool Standard Curriculum (NPSC). Although STEM education is widespread, the integration of the Arts within this framework is yet little examined in Malaysian preschools. The literature study analyzes the alignment of Vygotsky’s constructivist theory, namely his Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) and scaffolding, with the application of STEAM education. It emphasizes that practical and collaborative learning activities, guided by educators, foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in young learners. The assessment examines the obstacles to STEAM integration, including inadequate resources and teacher training, and highlights programs such as GoSTEAM@Tech and EDUSIMSTEAM that tackle these concerns. The findings indicate that integrating STEAM into early childhood education can significantly enhance fundamental development, equipping children for the future and promoting innovation and creativity. It necessitates enhanced governmental funding for the training of educators and the development of curricula to comprehensively incorporate STEAM in preschools.
Teachers’ Organizational Citizenship Behavior: The Malaysia Scenario
Increased economic competition, both within and between nations, results from globalization. Economic competitiveness is thought to promote the development of human capital. According to earlier research, an organization will only succeed if its workers put in much effort each day to complete their tasks and support their efforts to remain productive and competitive. Extra-role behavior, or organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), is the term used to describe this circumstance. Still, the research on OCB among Malaysian teachers is relatively new. Hence, this study examines the scenario of teachers’ OCB in Malaysia. A total of 824 secondary school teachers in Malaysia participated in this study. The findings revealed that the level of teachers' OCB in Malaysia is moderate. Additionally, this study showed that the OCB level by dimensions. The study also looked at the response distribution to illustrate the OCB scenario among teachers. The current study made the case that additional empirical research on OCB in educational settings is necessary to improve OCB among teachers, enhancing their effectiveness and the success of their schools.
IT Talent Transformation for Vocational Students: The Dilemma of Screening or Entrance Test?
In an era where digital competencies are increasingly pivotal, the need for robust screening tests that accurately assess programming and computational skills has become paramount. This concept paper explores the global landscape of screening tests, with a particular focus on their application in identifying potential IT talent. It begins by reviewing diverse international implementation for screening tests, analyzing their strengths, limitations, and cultural adaptability. The paper then narrows its focus to the Malaysian context, where the rapidly growing tech industry necessitates a localized approach to talent assessment. Drawing on global best practices, this paper discussed the impact of screening test for Malaysia that aligns with the country’s educational objectives and industry needs. By integrating international insights with local nuances, this screening test aims to enhance the efficacy of vocational college admissions, ensuring that Malaysia is well-positioned to cultivate future IT professionals who can compete on a global stage. The discussion of this research supports the idea that the brainstorm and invention not only address the technical competencies required for IT careers but also considers broader educational and societal factors. This will make it a comprehensive tool for identifying and nurturing Malaysia's next generation of tech talent. Further research should be done to investigate the potential of using screening tests with different style of test rather than applying conventional test.
Crafting a Full Proposal for Thesis: An Instructional Perspective
This conceptual article serves as a detailed guide for developing the three critical chapters of a thesis - Introduction, Review of Literature, and Research Methodology, emphasizing desk review as the main method of exploration. It aims to equip researchers with a structured approach to effectively communicate their insights and contributions. As the present researcher experienced numerous critical issues while guiding the early-stage, young researchers in academia rightly shaping their manuscripts, the idea of writing this article emerged strongly to address this universal reality. Based on personal experience and life-long learning in this discipline, the present scholar has devised instructional insights to craft an academic research proposal in three chapters. The first chapter should provide a thorough introduction to the research topic, presenting the background, clearly stating the research problem, and setting out specific objectives, research questions, and hypotheses. In the second chapter, an extensive literature review should be performed covering conceptual and theoretical perspectives, relevant policies, empirical studies, best practices, and case studies. This comprehensive review should lead to the development of a conceptual framework that underpins the research. By synthesizing existing knowledge, the literature review should establish a solid foundation for the study, ensuring it is both theoretically grounded and contextually relevant. The third chapter should outline the research methodology, detailing the philosophical underpinnings, research design, strategies, and methods for data collection and analysis. It should address issues of validity, reliability, and ethical considerations, ensuring the methodological rigor of the study. By following the principles outlined in this guide, researchers can enhance the academic rigor and practical impact of their work, ensuring it is methodologically sound and theoretically informed. At the same time, it is not a blue-print, it is just a tentative guide, needful changes may apply as per the requirements across the disciplines and departments of study.
The Challenges of a Lecturer in a Higher Learning Institution (HLI) in Malaysia
This study explores the complex environment of higher education in Malaysia, paying particular attention to the difficulties faced by instructors as they strive for scholarly achievement. The study takes a qualitative approach, collecting thoughts from instructors across a range of subjects and institutions through questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Mokhtar et al. (2015) examined the challenges faced by university lecturers in balancing their teaching and research duties within Malaysian higher education. They highlight institutional pressures and resource limitations as significant factors affecting lecturers' performance. Their qualitative study used interviews and questionnaires to gather data, echoing the methodological approach you describe. The results draw attention to the wide range of difficulties lecturers have, from institutional demands to uphold rigorous standards of instruction and research to negotiating the intricacies of a quickly changing educational environment. We look closely at how professors in Malaysian higher education manage their teaching duties, research obligations, and administrative tasks. The impact of resource limitations, changing student demographics, and bureaucratic obstacles on the lecturer's experience are important themes. Lee et al. (2017) explored the impact of administrative and bureaucratic demands on Malaysian university lecturers, focusing on how these external pressures impact both their teaching and research responsibilities. This study highlights the complex relationship between academic expectations and cultural factors influencing pedagogical methods in Malaysia. The study also looks at how cultural and societal expectations affect pedagogical approaches, which helps to clarify the fine line that must be drawn between upholding traditional values and embracing cutting-edge teaching strategies. In summary, this study provides insightful information about the challenges and struggles faced by lecturers in Malaysia's higher education institutions on a daily basis. Policy makers, academic administrators, and faculty development efforts can benefit from the findings, which establish the groundwork for creating an environment that supports educators' growth and well-being in the context of Malaysian higher education.
Can Project-Based Learning with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Enhance Attitudes Towards Science?
Previous research yielded diverse results concerning the efficacy of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and raised concerns about potential adverse psychological and behavioural consequences. This study seeks to address these ambiguities and ascertain potential benefits of PBL with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an innovative educational strategy. This study investigates the effectiveness of an innovative educational approach that combines PBL with CBT; and evaluates its’ impact on enhancing students' attitudes toward science in Malaysian primary schools. This study employed a quasi-experimental research design with primary school students in Malaysia as participants. Sixty students were selected and divided into two groups: one group received PBL with CBT, while the other was exposed to PBL. The use of one-way ANCOVA allowed for comparisons of the effects of these two treatments while controlling for covariates. The study finds there is a significant different in students' attitudes towards science following the PBL-CBT intervention. Mean scores for students in the PBL-CBT group were significantly higher compared to those in the PBL group. This suggests PBL-CBT approach has a positive impact on students' attitudes towards science. This contributes a novel approach to improving students' attitudes towards science through the combination of PBL and CBT. While prior research has explored these methods individually, this research bridges the gap by examining their synergistic effects.
Analysis of Status Quo of Guangxi Elderly Care Service Model Based on Panel Data: Prospects and Challenges
The main objective of the research is to analyze the current situation and existing problems of pension institutions in Guangxi and puts forward suggestions and countermeasures. The specific objectives of research include three parts, suggest supporting policies that financial institutions should formulate, identify what dividend policy should the government implement, discuss how to broaden the financing channels of financial institutions. The survey covers 14 cities in Guangxi province. Statistical information analysis conducted of pure elderly families, elderly population over 60 years old and elderly dependency coefficient in each city. Data collected from China Bureau of Statistics, Guangxi Bureau of Statistics, Guangxi pension website. 1ervice industry structure is more irregular, demand cannot be met. The conformity of medical services is low, and the market regulation is weak. The health care service mechanism is not perfect enough, and the requirements are difficult to achieve.
A Systematic Review of Hope as a Psychosocial Factor among Gifted Students in the Asian Context
A systematic literature review was conducted to explore the role of hope as a psychosocial factor among gifted students within the Asian context, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of its impact on their well-being and academic performance. Five online databases (SAGE, Scopus, Taylor & Francis Online, Elsevier and WILEY) were systematically searched to identify relevant articles published between 2016 and 2024. Most studies in the review employed qualitative methods in order to have a deeper understanding about the element of hope among gifted students. This review highlights how hope is crucial for gifted students who often face unique challenges. The review also identifies research gaps, including the need for more longitudinal studies and comparative research to understand how hope among gifted students differs from their non-gifted peers. The insights gained from this review emphasises the importance of incorporating hope-focused interventions in educational and psychological support frameworks to enhance the holistic development of gifted students in Asia.
Identifying the Influence of Parenting Practices on the Communicative Development of Preschool Children
Parenting style practices in assisting preschool children’s communicative development need to be supported by all parties especially parents. This study aims to identify parenting style practices in relation to preschool children’s communicative development. The respondents were parents of preschoolers from Kuantan, a district in Pahang. This study is based on quantitative research and survey study design. Samples involved 281 parents of 5 and 6 years old preschoolers, using simple random sampling method. Samples were gathered through a survey of questionnaire instruments answered via Google Form. The instrument responses were measured using the Likert scale, on the scale of 1 - 5. The data was then analyzed using the Statistical Package For the Social Science (SPSS) application and the outcomes were presented in the form of frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. The result of the study shows that there is significant difference in communication among the authoritative, authoritarian and permissive parenting style. Parents of preschool children should adopt a suitable parenting style in raising their children to ensure that they receive the love and care that they need to support proper growth and development.
Boosting Physical Fitness in Primary School Students with Learning Disabilities: A Conceptual Framework Design
This study outlines a conceptual framework for designing and developing a Physical Fitness Intervention Module tailored for students with learning disabilities (LD) in lower primary schools. The module leverages Social Constructivism Theory, Social Learning Theory, the ADDIE Model, and McKillip's Needs Analysis Model. An extensive literature review on physical fitness, health-related fitness components, physical activities for children with special needs, the ADDIE model, Constructivism Theory, Social Learning Theory, and Design and Development Research (DDR) forms the foundation of this study. The research adopts a structured DDR methodology, divided into three phases: needs analysis, design and development, and implementation and evaluation. In the needs analysis phase, data will be collected through teacher-administered questionnaires to identify module requirements, analyzed using SPSS software to produce descriptive statistics. The design and development phase employs the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) to achieve consensus from 15 experts in special education and sports science. The module's content will be validated using the Content Validation Index (CVI) based on evaluations from six experts. The final phase assesses the module's usability through interviews with special education teachers, adapting the USE questionnaire for this purpose. Additionally, a one-group quasi-experiment with pre- and post-tests will evaluate the module's effectiveness, using the SEGAK test to measure physical fitness levels before and after the intervention. This study aims to develop a comprehensive physical fitness intervention module to enhance physical activity and health outcomes for students with learning disabilities in lower primary education, ensuring its effectiveness and relevance through expert feedback and empirical testing.
Teachers’ Perceptions of DELIMa 2.0 in Teaching and Learning Process
DELIMa 2.0 is a platform introduced by the Malaysian Ministry of Education to help teachers and students increase their knowledge of the latest information technology. In addition, DELIMa 2.0 can also help teachers to save time to provide materials for teaching in the classroom. Teacher perception is important in launching the use of DELIMa 2.0. Therefore, this study aims to identify the level of teacher perception in the use of the DELIMa 2.0 launcher in the teaching and learning process. This study utilized a review study design involving all SJKC teachers who teach in the Port Dickson area. Data will be collected by google form to assess the teachers' acceptance stage and the teachers' willingness stage towards the use of DELIMa 2.0 in teaching and learning process. The data analyzed using by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software to answer the study objectives. This study found that teachers have a high perception in the use of DELIMa 2.0 especially in teaching and learning process.
Exploring the Perception and Understanding of Malaysia Public University Lecturers on Critical Thinking Skills in Chemistry Using Facione’s Critical Thinking Model
Teaching and learning critical thinking skills is not a foreign concept in education, especially in tertiary education. This study investigates the perception and understanding of Malaysia public university lecturers on critical thinking skills in chemistry. A semi-structured interview was conducted on three chemistry education lecturers, selected using purposive sampling. The interview transcripts were then analyzed to form themes for the study. The findings show that interpretation, making inference, analysis, evaluation, explanation, and self-regulation is suitable for chemistry.
Inquiry-Based Learning Model for Teaching the Concept of Force in Malaysian Matriculation Colleges
The study evaluates the use of Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) in teaching force concepts at Malaysian matriculation colleges, utilizing the 5E Learning Model. IBL emphasizes active, student-centered learning, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. However, implementing IBL faces challenges such as insufficient training, limited resources, and the need for structured guidance. This research aims to identify the inquiry levels used by lecturers and their impact on students' understanding of force. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through classroom observations and semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate significant improvements in students' conceptual understanding of force when IBL is employed, particularly with lower-level inquiries like Confirmation Inquiry (CI) and Structured Inquiry (SI). These methods help students build foundational skills before progressing to higher-level inquiries. Thematic analysis found that the main roles of IBL during the learning of force concepts are conceptual understanding, correlation between concepts, application in real-world contexts, concept reinforcement, and understanding signs or symbols. Despite challenges, lecturers who used IBL observed increased student engagement and improved learning outcomes. The research underscores the importance of varied inquiry levels in science education, demonstrating that low-level inquiries effectively prepare students for more complex investigations. The study also emphasizes the need for additional training and resources to support effective IBL implementation, suggesting that a tailored IBL model can significantly enhance physics education at the pre-university level in Malaysia.
The Use of Youtube in Facilitating Undergraduate Students' Speaking Skills in the School of Education at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
This study examines ESL learners' perceptions of YouTube videos as supplementary tools for enhancing their speaking skills and ranks improvements in vocabulary, pronunciation, and sentence structure as a result of using YouTube. The research was conducted in response to the increased use of YouTube in global language learning, especially after the shift to online classes following the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Malaysian ESL learners perform better in writing than in speaking assessments, indicating a lower awareness of the importance of mastering speaking skills for the workforce. To address this, the study focuses on undergraduates in the School of Education at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), with ten participants in semi-structured interviews and 60 respondents in an online questionnaire. Using a mixed-method approach, the qualitative component explores learners' perceptions, while the quantitative part ranks improvements in specific language elements. Findings reveal that YouTube videos are effective in facilitating speaking skills due to digital immersion and enhanced communicative competence. Pronunciation showed the most significant improvement, followed by vocabulary and sentence structure. These insights suggest that YouTube could be further integrated into language learning with clear guidelines for improving speaking skills, and future research could explore optimizing YouTube features to match learners' preferred styles.
The Effect of Shyness on Academic Achievement among Bahraini EFL Students: The Moderating Role of Gender
Learning a second language (L2) presents various challenges, with shyness being a significant barrier for EFL students. This study investigated the impact of shyness on the academic achievement of 291 Bahraini EFL students and examines how gender may moderate this relationship. Using a quantitative approach, the research involved administering Revised Cheek and Buss Shyness Scale and analysing students’ academic scores. Data were processed through descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and regression analysis. Results revealed moderate shyness levels among participants, with cognitive shyness—marked by fears of negative evaluation and conversational mistakes—negatively affecting academic performance. In contrast, behavioural and affective shyness did not significantly influence academic success. Cognitive shyness resulted in reduced class participation and social isolation, which contributed to lower academic achievement. The study also found that gender did not significantly moderate the effects of shyness on students’ achievement, suggesting that cultural norms and equal social support levels for both genders might mitigate gender differences. These findings highlight the importance of addressing shyness, especially cognitive shyness, to enhance EFL students' academic outcomes and suggest the need for tailored interventions to support learners with social anxieties.
English Teachers’ Acceptance towards the Use of Technology for Language Teaching: A Systematic Review (2021-2023)
Technology is integral to education, enriching learning experiences, enhancing accessibility, and equipping students for contemporary challenges, including those within the Malaysian education system. Despite these advantages, educators encounter diverse obstacles when integrating technology into their teaching methodologies. This systematic review aims to investigate English language teachers' perspectives on technology utilization, utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the conceptual framework. By scrutinizing Google Scholar, Scopus, and Educational Resources Information Centre (ERIC), 14 pertinent articles published between 2021 and 2023 were identified from an initial pool of 125, employing predefined exclusion and inclusion criteria. The findings reveal that English teachers generally demonstrate robust acceptance of technology. Specifically, they exhibit high levels of Perceived Usefulness (PU), positive Attitude Towards Use (ATT), and Behavioral Intention (BI) to incorporate technology in their classrooms. However, the teachers’ assessment of Perceived Ease of Use (PEoU) was characterized at a moderate level.
Circular Economy Governance and its Influence on Second-Hand Luxury Consumption: Insights from Turkey
The circular economy, governed by sustainable frameworks, has become increasingly important with rising environmental awareness. As customers prioritize eco-consciousness, they focus on second-hand products that extend product lifespans and promote sustainable consumption under effective governance. Luxury goods, due to their superior quality, durability, and timeless appeal, are particularly well-suited for second-hand markets, offering opportunities for a governance-driven closed-loop consumption system. This study explores the second-hand shopping trend among Turkish consumers, specifically its validity for luxury consumer goods, a key component of the circular economy. Employing a qualitative research method and an exploratory model, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants. The findings reveal that second-hand luxury product consumption is increasingly common among Turkish youth. This trend, facilitated by improved governance, aligns with circular economy principles and enables middle- and lower-income segments to access luxury products more affordably. Governance mechanisms are crucial in ensuring equitable, sustainable practices in this market, contributing to stakeholder-friendly outcomes. Overall, integrating governance with circular economy initiatives strengthens the movement toward environmentally conscious consumption and fosters inclusive access to luxury goods in Turkey. This highlights the potential of governance to transform consumer behavior toward sustainable economic models.
Repositioning Smart Classrooms in the AI Era: A Systematic Review of Online Interaction and AI-Driven Pedagogical Innovations
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a technological advancement in online learning, and the emergence of ChatGPT has brought about a technological revolution in AI-enhanced learning. With smart classrooms at the forefront of educational innovation, this study aims to reevaluate their design to incorporate online learning and AI-enhanced tools effectively. It has become clear that incorporating online learning and AI-enhanced learning into smart classroom design process is important. This paper attempts to fill the research gap by providing a systematic review of the current state of conceptual research and theoretical practice in the smart classroom. The study selected target documents from the literatures of the past ten years covered 443 studies published from 2014 to 2023. Firstly, these studies are readily available for review to address the three sub-objectives about: (1) To analyze the development of the theoretical concept of smart classrooms over recent years; (2) To examine the advancements in smart classrooms equipped with educational technology in recent years; (3) To investigate the practical implementations and explorations of smart classrooms in the recent years. Secondly, these 443 articles were analyzed for the patterns and trends. These analyses helped to explain the status of research on smart classrooms that incorporate online learning and AI-enhanced learning in various nations and disciplines around the world, as well as the contemporary technological environment of smart classrooms. At last, this study examined approaches to incorporate traditional, online, and AI-enhanced learning to redefine the role of the smart classroom as a hub in the landscape of modern educational technologies.
The Relationship between Leadership Competency and Teaching Quality in Sarawak, Malaysia
The purpose of this study was to investigate headmasters' level of leadership competency and the effectiveness of teachers in facilitating learning (LF) in classrooms. Additionally, it used a quantitative survey approach with 113 respondents to investigate the relationship between these two variables through a questionnaire. The level of perception of the variables were evaluated using descriptive statistics, and the relationship between leadership competency and teacher quality in LF was determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The results showed that teachers had excellent quality in LF and headmasters had a high degree of leadership competency. Furthermore, headmasters' leadership competency and teacher quality in LF had a strong positive correlation, with leadership competency explaining 25.3% of the variation in teacher quality. This suggests that leadership competencies play a crucial role in enhancing teacher quality in LF, which, in turn, has the potential to improve student learning outcomes. These findings highlight the significance of excellent leadership in educational settings and show that headmasters' leadership competency have a direct impact on how well teachers facilitate learning. The report emphasizes how crucial it is to keep funding school headmasters' efforts to build their leadership skills to create a learning environment that promotes excellent instruction and higher student accomplishment. The results have important implications for educational policy and practice, especially when it comes to improving schools' overall effectiveness through focused leadership development.
Second Language Learners’ Difficulties in Reading Comprehension: A Review
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to achieve inclusive, equitable quality education for all, with SDG 4 emphasizing its importance for individual empowerment, economic prosperity, and social advancement. Reading comprehension is a crucial language skill for students to acquire, particularly in English language learning. Despite its importance, students often encounter challenges in grasping reading materials, such as making inferences and locating main ideas, due to the lack of comprehension tactics and difficulty maintaining focus. The objective of this review is to identify difficulties in reading comprehension faced by second language learners and propose effective teaching strategies for improved reading experience. Hence, by using the PRISMA framework, this review examined journal articles on reading comprehension across the globe through four phases: identification, screening, eligibility and inclusion. Out of 100 publications, 24 were selected for further evaluation. Besides taking into consideration of The selection was based on the timeframe (between 2017 and 2024), taking into account both the inclusion and exclusion criteria.Three databases were consulted, including Google Scholar, Educational Resources Information Centre (ERIC) and Mendeley. Rather than focusing solely on identifying the difficulties of reading comprehension, this review also identifies the most effective strategies for optimal outcomes including the explicit teaching strategies, reciprocal teaching strategy, choice theory, multi fluency strategy and multi reading strategy. Reading comprehension is crucial in educational settings, enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. Future research should explore strategies, technology, and long-term effectiveness, as well as the impact of family engagement and home literacy contexts.
Building a Brighter Future: The Crucial Role of Character Education in Malaysia’s Education System
As Malaysia continues to develop economically and socially, the nation's education system is pivotal in shaping a future where individuals are not only academically proficient but also imbued with strong moral values. Character education, which focuses on developing virtues such as integrity, responsibility, and empathy, plays a critical role in this vision. This article explores the importance of character education education in Malaysia's changing educational environment. Recognizing the ongoing difficulties faced by the country's education system, such as decreasing aca-demic achievement and social issues. It assesses the current status of character education in Malaysia, emphasiz-ing its inclusion in the national curriculum and the obstacles encountered during its implementation. Drawing on research results and comparisons with neighboring countries like Indonesia, this article identifies critical factors that affect how effective programs for character education are. These encompass a variety of cultural influences, policy structures, family and community engagement, and integration of Islamic principles. By addressing these multifacet-ed challenges and taking advantage of opportunities for cooperation and cultural diversity, Malaysia can effectively incorporate moral education into its schools to nurture morally upright individuals who are equipped to handle today's complexities. Ultimately, prioritizing moral education is crucial for advancing Malaysia's educational system and promoting societal unity while laying a foundation for a more ethically excellent future.
Impact of Robotics Workshops on Secondary School Students' Interest in Science and Technology Fields
The goals of Malaysia for digitization and technical growth are seriously challenged by the country's secondary school students' dwindling interest in science and technology sectors. Motivated by this concerning trend, this study seeks to evaluate how a targeted robotics workshop can enhance students' interest and confidence in science and technology fields, contributing to the country's long-term educational and economic goals. A one-day robotic workshop involving 60 secondary school students was conducted, with pre- and post-program surveys assessing participants' knowledge, interest, and confidence levels in science and technology. A gender-specific analysis highlights a narrowing gap between male and female participants in interest levels post-program, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to enhance female participation in science and technology activities. The study's contribution lies in demonstrating significant improvements in knowledge, interest, and confidence levels among participants, underscoring the potential of robotics education to foster enthusiasm and competence in STEM fields. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers on preparing future generations for the demands of the digital era through effective educational interventions.
Design and Development of the Didik BacaAR Application Utilizing Buildbox Classic to Support Early Literacy Acquisition among Students
Augmented Reality (AR) is an advanced technology that enhances student engagement and comprehension during the learning process. AR facilitates the integration of interactive visual components into complex subjects, thereby making learning more engaging, efficient, and authentic. However, research on the application of AR technology in Malay language education in contemporary schools is limited. The primary objective of this study is to develop a storyboard creation process using the Buildbox Classic platform, employing the Design and Development Research (DDR) methodology while incorporating elements of Malay syllables to create educational applications. The storyboard serves as a crucial planning tool in designing and developing AR applications. This process involves scriptwriting, organizing visual recordings, and arranging interactive elements, all of which are essential for constructing a well-structured AR application for educational purposes. Analysis indicates that the use of applications in reading instruction can assist students in learning more effectively. Data were collected and analyzed using frequency and percentage values derived from a checklist. Findings suggest that the combination of AR technology with storyboard applications addresses challenges in creating interactive and accessible educational tools, thereby enhancing student learning outcomes.
Exploring Students’ Flipped Learning Experiences in an Undergraduate English Debate Course: Qualitative Insights for Innovative EFL Teaching in China
This study examines the experiences of EFL students with flipped learning in an undergraduate English debate course, providing qualitative insights into innovative teaching practices in China. It explores the impact of the flipped classroom model on student motivation and engagement. Thirty-two second-year English majors from a public university in Sichuan, China, participated in a 16-week flipped learning program. Data were collected through semi-structured focus group interviews and open-ended questionnaires. Six key themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: student engagement, teacher roles, collaboration and interaction, instructional materials, BP debate exercises, and technological challenges. The findings indicate that the flipped model enhances student motivation and engagement, promotes collaborative learning, and supports effective technology use. However, challenges such as time management, technological skills, limited teacher guidance, and peer collaboration were also identified. This study offers insights into using flipped learning in debate courses and provides practical recommendations for educators aiming to integrate technology and innovative methods, particularly in the context of generative artificial intelligence.
A Study on the Determinants that Influence Digital Transformation Adoption among Malaysia’s Manufacturing Firms
Purpose: This study aims to examine the factors influencing the adoption of digital transformation in Malaysian manufacturing firms. By integrating the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) and Human-Organization-Technology (HOT-fit) frameworks, this conceptual paper seeks to understand how various organizational, technological, environmental and human factors contribute to successful digital transformation adoption. Design/methodology/approach: Using a deductive approach, hypotheses were developed based on existing literature. Data will be collected via a cross-sectional survey targeting Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) and senior managers from manufacturing companies listed in the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) directory. Structural equation modeling (SEM) with Partial Least Squares (PLS) will be used to analyze the relationships among digital transformational leadership, organizational agility, cost, competitive pressure and digital transformation. Expected Findings: Digital transformational leadership, organizational agility and competitive pressure significantly influence digital transformation adoption positively, while cost will negatively impact adoption of digital transformation. Research limitations/implications: Limited to Malaysian manufacturing firms, which may affect the generalizability of findings to other sectors or regions. Future research could expand to different industries and areas, and longitudinal studies could provide deeper insights into the dynamic nature of digital transformation. Practical implications: The research offers insights for policymakers and business leaders in the manufacturing sector, emphasizing the need for digital transformational leadership, organizational agility, healthy competitive pressure and low technological infrastructure investment. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between technological, organizational, environmental and human factors, aiding effective digital transformation strategies. Originality/value: This study integrates the TOE and HOT-fit theories, empirically testing their applicability in digital transformation adoption within manufacturing firms. It lays a foundation for future research and practical applications in enhancing digital capabilities and competitiveness.
Challenges in Integrating Outcome-Based Education (OBE) in Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Literature Review
This systematic literature review investigates the challenges of integrating Outcome-Based Education in higher education institutions. Following PRISMA guidelines, 10 empirical studies published between 2013 and 2024 were analyzed. The review identified seven primary challenges: continuous assessment and feedback (80% of studies), efficient time and resource management (80%), developing teaching and learning resources (70%), mindset and cultural change among educators (70%), redesigning Outcome-Based Education curriculum (60%), enhancing educators' skills as facilitators (60%), and diversifying teaching methods and assessment (30%). These challenges span pedagogical, administrative, and cultural dimensions, highlighting the complex nature of Outcome-Based Education implementation. The findings underscore the need for a multifaceted approach to Outcome-Based Education integration, encompassing professional development, strategic resource allocation, and institutional culture change. This review provides valuable insights for higher education institutions implementing or refining Outcome-Based Education practices, offering recommendations to address these challenges systematically and enhance the effectiveness of Outcome-Based Education implementation.
Parental Involvement Level on Preschool Student’s Communication Development
Children's communication development can be improved with parental involvement. However, busy working parents spend less quality time with their children. Thus, this study identified the parental involvement level in the development of communication among preschool students. Research design used in this study was a quantitative approach through survey study. Parental involvement in reading was applied as the questionnaire instrument with some modifications to measure the parental involvement level in the development of communication. The questionnaires using a 5-point Likert scale were distributed to the respondents via Google Form. The respondents of this study were 300 parents or guardians from 29 preschool classes in Telupid, Sabah, who were selected via simple random sampling technique. Data collection and analysis was performed by Statistical Package Social Science (SPSS) software. Descriptive statistics were used to obtain the mean value, standard deviation and percentage of parental involvement on the development of communication among preschool students. The results of this study indicated that the parental involvement level in the development of communication was very high. This showcased the awareness of parents of their responsibility to be involved in their children's communication development. Discussion of the results found that parental involvement has a positive influence on the development of children's communication. Parents must increase their involvement to achieve optimal and holistic development of their children.
The Effect of Different Realism Designs of Virtual Agents on Students’ Grades in Quiz App: The Mediating Role of Arousal and Valence
This study investigates the impact of various realism designs of 2D virtual agents on students' grades in a quiz app, focusing on the mediating roles of arousal and valence. A total of 134 electrical engineering students from four Malaysian polytechnics participated in this experiment. Four different types of virtual agents—cartoon-like, stylized, semi-realistic, and realistic—were embedded into the quiz app, each designed to guide students through answering 20 multiple-choice questions. Valence and arousal levels were measured using the Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM) questionnaire, and the quiz grades were recorded. The findings revealed that virtual agents with higher levels of realism (semi-realistic and realistic) were negatively associated with student grades, while the cartoon-like agent led to better quiz performance. Mediation analysis showed that both arousal and valence significantly influenced the relationship between virtual agent design and grades. The results suggest that overly realistic virtual agents may cause cognitive overload, thus hindering academic performance. In contrast, simpler, cartoon-like agents reduce distractions and improve learning outcomes. These findings have implications for designing virtual agents in educational settings, recommending that simplicity and reduced realism can enhance learning efficiency by minimizing emotional distraction and cognitive load.
An Investigation of Self-Directed Learning Skills of Undergraduate Music Education
Self-Directed Learning (SDL) is the core competence of lifelong learning, especially in the era of rapid development of the knowledge economy. SDL skills are increasingly necessary in global education reform. SDL refers to learners' autonomy in learning, including setting learning goals, selecting resources, implementing strategies and evaluating results. Learners play an active and proactive role in this process. For music education, the importance of SDL is even more significant. Music learning requires students to have solid technical ability and much independent practice to enhance creativity and artistic expression. Therefore, cultivating the SDL ability of music undergraduates can help them improve their academic performance and lay the foundation for their future career development, enabling them to cope with the complex and changing professional requirements. The purpose of this paper is not only to explore the differences in the SDL ability of music undergraduates and to analyse the influence of gender and regional background on learning outcomes but also to provide a theoretical basis and practical suggestions for educational practice, which can potentially transform the way music education is approached.
Compulsive Pornography Behaviour and Religiosity of Malaysian Teenagers in Juvenile Rehabilitation Institution
In this post-pandemic era, teenagers have access to the internet at a very young age and are easily exposed to explicit materials. Excessive consumption of pornography can lead to compulsive pornography behaviour (CPB), a subtype of compulsive sexual behaviour (CSB) which has been added to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (11th ed.), ICD 11 by the World Health Organisation (WHO). CPB have many damaging effects especially to teenagers including increased risky behaviour, depressive symptoms and interpersonal relationship problems. There are multiple factors that cause teenagers to engage in pornography behaviour and the measures to curb this phenomenon currently is ineffective. Past researchers suggest that comprehensive sexual education including religiosity may help prevent teenagers from engaging in the behaviour. Therefore, this study aim to investigate the relationship between CPB and religiosity in teenagers. This study is a qualitative research design to describe the relationship between religiosity and the CPB of teenagers in a juvenile rehabilitation education institution. Semi-structured interviews were done on 10 teenagers with CPB and 3 professionals with experience handling them. Interview participants was recruited from recommendations of the professionals. The data was analysed thematically. The themes that emerged from interviews for the influence of religiosity towards pornography behaviour are ‘irrelevant’, ‘discomfort’, ‘knows sinful but no effects’ and ‘easier rehabilitation’. Meanwhile, themes that emerged for the influence of pornography behaviour towards religiosity are ‘no consequences’, ‘reduced worship’ and ‘reduced faith’. The findings in this study shows that there are little direct relationship between religiosity and CPB for teenagers in juvenile rehabilitation institution. This means that religion may not be the most effective preventive factor against CPB. However, the personality development and social activities aspect from religion may help with prevention and intervention measures. Although this research is not generalizable to the entire teenage population in Malaysia, the insights from the findings of this research could potentially generate more research in this field in the future and serve as a guide for preventive and intervention programmes by stakeholders
The Effect of Manipulative Aided Learning Module on form One Student’s Achievement in Algebraic Expressions
Mathematics is divided into several branches including geometry, algebra, statistics, and probability. Out of these branches, algebra is considered difficult for many students. Mastering the rules of algebraic expressions is the foundation of learning algebra. However, due to its abstract nature, many lower secondary school students find it difficult. The purpose of this study is to identify the effect of manipulative aided learning module on form one student’s achievement in algebraic expressions. A quasi-experimental study was conducted involving a treatment group and a control group where the treatment group used the manipulative aided learning module to learn algebraic expressions. The instrument of this study is a pre-test and a post-test on algebraic expressions. The results of the pre-test and post-test analysis show that the module help to close the achievement gap between the intervention group, where the intervention group also showed better results. This research paper suggests that using learning module that includes manipulative materials can be effective to improvement student’s achievement in algebraic expressions.
Trends and Insights in Academic Procrastination of Students: A Bibliometric Analysis
Academic procrastination, the behavior of delaying studies or assignments despite knowing the negative consequences, is prevalent across all educational stages, impacting academic development and education quality. This study systematically analyzes and summarizes research on academic procrastination among students from 2013 to 2023 through bibliometric analysis using the PRISMA framework and VOSviewer. Scopus was selected, yielding 801 publications then refined to 346 relevant articles. Results show the distribution of publications on students’ academic procrastination in recent years, identifying the most relevant journals and authors, significant contributing countries, primary research keywords, and key subjects. It also presents trends and recommendations for future research on students’ academic procrastination. Future research should cover academic procrastination behaviors at different stages of education, with particular attention to students in the lower grades. Additionally, the influence of external factors such as parents and teachers should be explored to gain a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon and to develop effective coping strategies.
Error Analysis of Narrative Writing among Secondary School Students in Selangor, Malaysia
Writing complexity is a significant challenge for ESL students since students are pressured to master a variety of linguistics skills, grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. For students to develop a strong command of English in writing, they must be able to integrate these skills effectively, which can be a daunting task. This issue is increasingly recognised by educators and researchers, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the complex challenges of writing in a second language. Employing the Error Analysis framework (Corder & Brown, 1988), this study aims to determine the frequent errors in narrative writing among secondary school students. The research design chosen for this study is a quantitative content analysis of the student’s narrative writing corpora. Data collection involved 52 writing samples of secondary school students with varying levels of English proficiency, ranging from beginner to intermediate. Students’ corpora were marked, tagged, and analysed based on surface and linguistics taxonomies (Dulay,1982) using the TagAnt and Antconc software. The findings show that the most common errors were related to grammar (42.64%), followed by omission (18.29%), morphology (12.51%), lexical issues (12.22%), addition (6.35%), misformation (3.85%), semantics (2.40%), and misordering (1.64%). The results and discussion suggest that students frequently make errors in the application of grammar rules and the omission of function words in sentences, indicating a need for targeted assistance in these areas of language learning.
Exploring Fabric Selection: An Educational Initiative for UiTM Negeri Sembilan Football Players on Optimal Sports Jersey Choices
This study aims to explore the knowledge and awareness of different types of sports jersey fabrics among football players. Specifically, it seeks to evaluate how well the collegiate football team members at Universiti Teknologi MARA, Negeri Sembilan, understand the characteristics and benefits of various fabric options available for their jerseys. By investigating their familiarity with these materials, the research intends to identify gaps in knowledge that may impact their choices and performance. Ultimately, the findings will contribute to a better understanding of how fabric selection can influence athletic performance and comfort, thereby informing educational initiatives and resource allocation within the sports program.
Emotional Intelligence in Orphanages: Assessing Self-Awareness and Emotional Regulation in Children
This study explores the emotional intelligence (EI) levels among children residing in two orphanages in Pahang, Malaysia. A sample of 32 children, randomly selected from current residents regardless of age, completed a questionnaire assessing demographic profiles and EI using a Likert-type scale. Results reveal high levels of self-awareness and emotional understanding among children, with moderate abilities in stress management and maintaining calm. This study underscores the significance of nurturing emotional competencies in orphaned children and offers insights for tailored interventions to enhance their emotional well-being and social adaptation. Besides, integrating EI with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles enhances organizational practices in several key areas, fostering inclusive decision-making, improving employee well-being and social responsibility efforts and facilitating effective stakeholder engagement.
The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence Leadership and Team Effectiveness: Literature Review
This literature review comprehensively examines the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI), leadership, and team effectiveness. The review defines and explores the key concepts, models, and theories underpinning these constructs, highlighting their interdependence and relevance in organizational settings. The review outlines the influential models of emotional intelligence, including the ability-based model by Mayer, Salovey, and Caruso, as well as the mixed model proposed by Goleman. It then delves into the multiple definitions and theories of leadership, emphasizing the process of influence, goal attainment, and facilitating collective efforts. Regarding team effectiveness, the review discusses the multidimensional nature of this construct, encompassing factors such as team processes, emergent states, and organizational context. The review synthesizes the existing empirical evidence, demonstrating the critical role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and team dynamics. Leaders with higher emotional intelligence are better equipped to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as those of their team members, leading to enhanced communication, conflict resolution, and overall team performance. The review also explores the impact of emotional intelligence on team cohesion, underscoring the potential moderating effects of various contextual factors. Furthermore, the review examines the policy-related aspects, highlighting the growing recognition of the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership development and team-building programs implemented by organizations and governmental bodies. However, the review also identifies the challenges associated with the standardization, cultural adaptation, and resource allocation in the integration of these policies. The literature review concludes by discussing the emerging research trends, such as the emphasis on complexity, interdisciplinarity, and methodological rigor, as well as the ongoing challenges and future directions for this field of study.
Technology Leadership and Teachers’ Technology Integration in Malaysia: Concept and Issues
The integration of technology in teaching and facilitation (PdPc) is a practice that is often debated by scholars due to its potential impact on students’ learning. Relevant policies are being implemented in Malaysia’s educational system but past studies have found some existing gaps such as the level of technology leadership is still uncertain, teachers still lack the knowledge and skills to integrate technology in PdPc, and there is a lack of research on the relationship between technology leadership and teachers’ technology integration, especially studies that utilised the International Society for Technology in Education Standards for Education Leaders (ISTE-EL) model. Therefore, this concept paper aims to discuss the concept, models, issues, and research suggestions on technology leadership and teachers’ technology integration in Malaysia. Schools need visionary technology leaders and teachers who are competent in Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) to achieve educational goals through technology. The discussion in this concept paper is expected to assist future researchers in making informed decisions when conducting research related to this topic so that policymakers in the Malaysian Ministry of Education (MOE) will have relevant and meaningful data for future educational policy planning.
Spelling Errors in the Essay Writing of Malay Language by Lun Bawang Ethnic Students
This study aims to identify common spelling mistakes made by Lun Bawang students. Data was collected through the analysis of 52 essays by level 2 students from a rural school in Lawas District, Sarawak state. The essays were analysed using the Content Analysis method. The findings reveal a total of 198 spelling mistakes, including the addition, deletion, and replacement of letters in both derived and base words. Additionally, the study found that students often confuse words that should be spelled together or separately, show insensitivity to the use of uppercase and lowercase letters, and mix up the letters 'b' and 'd'. The study suggests several strategies to reduce spelling errors in students' writing.
The Factors of Student Dimensions in Influencing E-Learning Student Satisfaction
E-learning has become an integral part of the educational landscape, offering flexible and accessible learning opportunities to students worldwide. However, achieving high levels of student satisfaction in e-learning remains a challenge due to the unique nature of online education. This study investigates the factors influencing e-learning student satisfaction, focusing on key student dimensions such as self-efficacy, learning motivation, technological readiness, and interaction preferences. Utilizing a library research methodology, the study systematically reviews recent literature to identify how these dimensions impact student satisfaction. The findings reveal that high levels of self-efficacy, strong intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, adequate technological readiness, and a preference for meaningful interactions significantly enhance e-learning satisfaction. By integrating Social Cognitive Theory and Expectancy-Value Theory, this research provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of student dimensions in e-learning. The study offers practical recommendations for educators and e-learning platform developers to improve online education quality, emphasizing the importance of addressing diverse student needs and preferences to foster a more engaging and satisfying learning experience.
Development of Effective Instructional Teaching Module in Tvet: A Comparative Review of Addie and Nedham’s 5 Phases Instructional Design Model
Instructional design is a constantly changing field in education and training. The ADDIE technique, which encompasses the stages of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation, has gained widespread use in educational resource creation since its introduction. This article thoroughly examines the ADDIE and Needham 5-phase models and their implementations in technical and vocational education and training (TVET). The research examines the similarities and distinctions among these approaches and their benefits and drawbacks in creating efficient teaching materials for TVET students. In addition, the study analyses the latest developments and modifications of these models, including the incorporation of technology and focused methodologies, and presents instances of their implementation in diverse settings. The article evaluates the efficacy of these models in various learning environments and topic domains in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) aiming at potential areas for further study advancement and development.
Smartphone Technology and Social Transformation of Older Adults: From Capability Approach Theory Perspective
Older adult’s (OA) participation in the digital world is still behind other consumer segments globally. Capability of using technology is crucial for the OA so that they can be free and be self-independent. This study explores the impact of smartphone adoption on OA’s social transformation through the lens of the Capability Approach (CA) theory, which focuses on enhancing individual capabilities. In specific, it investigates OA’s personal experiences in using smartphone technology, which is assumed to socially transformed themselves. Using a qualitative method via focus group discussion (FGD) involving 20 participants, the study found five emerging themes: i) social and business connectivity, ii) independence and health management, iii) technology accessibility and affordability, iv) digital literacy – motivation and openness to learning, training, and v) supportive social networks and technology experts. Overall, findings show that OAs are capable of using smartphones, and that the smartphone technology does function in improving this group’s ability to stay connected with family, for some to manage their businesses, and their personal health and well-being. Access to technology and affordability, motivation, and openness to learning, and training play facilitating roles in OA’s use of the smartphone technology. The OA’s capability and confidence to use smartphones increased with the presence of social support from their trusted family members and/or other “technology experts”. From the perspective of CA theory, the study concludes that the OA’s problems in smartphone technology match their personal needs and problems; having social support facilitates ease of use and self-confidence in using the technology; and that smartphone technology has a positive impact on the social transformation of the OA and able to minimize social isolation problem. The findings offer several implications; one, on the importance of promoting smartphone technology to this group; two, on the importance of identifying specific and various technology applications to suit the OA’s needs; three, on the importance of not neglecting the OA as a consumer group in society. These will help the government and other stakeholders in tackling the digital divide among Malaysian consumers and contribute to building an inclusive and digitally just society.
The Overview of the Compliance Management
With the development of the modern economy, enterprises face more and more operation problems. To better sustainable operations, enterprises take the initiative to carry out compliance management has become a major trend of modern enterprise management. Compliance management is to actively control and restrain the problems that may affect the continuing operation of enterprises through internal control, to ensure that the impact on enterprises. The objectives of this study are to (i) determine the relationship between risk management and compliance management, (ii) the relationship between administrative supervision and compliance management, (iii) ethics and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in compliance management, and (iv) the relationship between employee training and awareness and compliance management. This study used an explanatory approach. The research results show that the basic tasks of compliance management should meet the full consideration of risk, administrative supervision, corporate social responsibility, employee awareness, and other aspects, and a qualified compliance management system should cover the above contents. The study employs an interpretive approach research method. Therefore, this study can be a foundation for the subsequent research about the influences of compliance management in the enterprises.
Art Therapy through the Eyes of Art Teachers: A Qualitative Study of Adolescents’ Educational Practices
Art therapy activities have proven valuable in emotional expression, psychotherapy, cognitive development, and social interaction. However, at present in China, the popularity of art therapy is low, and teachers lack practical and theoretical experience as well as professional training in art therapy. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore art teachers' perceptions and challenges facing art therapy activities in school-based settings and provide insights into art teachers' professional training and policy making. This study utilized a qualitative case study to collect data through semi-structured interviews with three professional art teachers in a primary school in China. Thematic analysis was conducted in analyzing the research data. The main findings of the study showed that despite some challenges faced by the teachers, such as dealing with sudden changes in students' moods and a deep lack of knowledge about psychology, they had a positive attitude towards painting art therapy, and the participants described the art therapy activities as a release of stress, and activity for the unique expression of art. In future research, we encourage more schools and teachers at different grade levels to support art therapy activities for more age groups of youth to increase the representativeness and credibility of the study.
Pedagogical Strategies for Blind-Autistic Students: A Literature Review
This concept paper elucidates the critical importance of education for students with special educational needs (SEN), specifically those with blind-autism, and examines the pedagogical strategies employed by special education teachers to facilitate their academic growth. The discourse highlights the imperative of inclusive educational practices through the lens of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) in Malaysia, which underscores quality education for all. Special education teachers are pivotal in fostering an environment conducive to the distinctive requirements of blind-autistic students, ensuring that these students receive tailored educational experiences that accommodate their unique challenges and strengths. The collaborative efforts among special education teachers, transdisciplinary professionals, parents, and the broader community are emphasized as vital in nurturing the holistic development of blind-autistic students. This integrative approach underscores the necessity of a cohesive support system that extends beyond the classroom, ensuring that educational strategies are reinforced in various aspects of the students' lives. The paper posits that with a comprehensive, adaptive, and sustained pedagogical framework, educators can significantly enhance the learning trajectories of blind-autistic students. By embedding holistic methodologies and continuous support mechanisms, teachers can cultivate an educational milieu that not only meets the academic needs of these students but also promotes their overall well-being and potential for lifelong learning. Thus, this paper advocates for a robust, inclusive education system where blind-autistic students are empowered to achieve their fullest educational potential, aligned with the broader goals of equity and quality in education espoused by SDG 4.
Innovative Feedback Techniques in Physical Education: A Study on Long Jump Performance in Students Aged 13-15
A significant shift in educational practices has occurred in physical education (PE) recently, with a focus on moving away from more conventional approaches to instruction and towards more modern, technology-based feedback strategies. This study assesses the impact of Self-Controlled Video Feedback (SC-VF), Externally Controlled Video Feedback (EC-VF), Peer Review Video Feedback (PR-VF), and Teacher-Guided Instruction (TG) on long jump performance and self-efficacy among students aged 13-15. Utilizing a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), the research maintains stringent scientific standards and involves 180 secondary school students (96 boys and 84 girls, mean age = 14 years, SD = 0.82 months) with no prior experience in long jumping, all taught by the same PE teacher over eight years. The eight-week study period included assessments at baseline, mid-point, end-point, and two weeks post-intervention using the Self-Efficacy Scale and long jump distance measurements, analysed through Repeated Measures ANOVA. Results showed significant enhancements in performance and self-efficacy across all feedback methods, with SC-VF and PR-VF exhibiting notable improvements; SC-VF participants increased their jump from 4.52 m to 6.41 m and their self-efficacy scores from 14.62 to 25.62, while PR-VF participants saw jumps from 4.50 m to 5.80 m and self-efficacy scores from 14.51 to 22.51. The study confirms the effectiveness of video feedback in enhancing both the physical and psychological attributes of young athletes and suggests future research could explore integrating cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to further enhance feedback delivery in sports training.
Comparative Study on the Implementation of Blended English Teaching in Private and Public Universities in China
With the reform and development of globalized education, blended learning has become a commonly used learning model in higher education. Nevertheless, there are differences in the implementation of blended learning between public and private universities due to the distinct characteristics of these two types of institutions.This study examined the perceptions of blended learning among students and teachers from one public and one private university. The findings indicate that both groups recognize the benefits of blended learning, such as improved student performance, diversified teaching methods, and increased student interest. However, differences emerged: public university students criticized outdated online content, while private universities effectively met student needs with up-to-date materials. Private university students, who often struggle with foundational skills and EFL(English as a Foreign Language) interest, benefit from the engaging and diverse nature of blended learning. Enhanced teacher supervision in private universities also helps cultivate better study habits. Additionally, private universities’ financial flexibility allows for timely adoption of new technologies and resources, making them more responsive to current issues. Interviews with EFL heads further highlight that private universities focus on current adjustments, while public universities plan for future trends. Overall, private universities appear better equipped to leverage the advantages of blended learning for improved EFL outcomes.
The Accuracy of Qibla Direction Applications Used by the Public
The Qibla direction is a fundamental concept in Islam, holding significant religious and spiritual importance, as it is the direction Muslims face during the five obligatory daily prayers towards the Holy Kaaba in Mecca. Beyond prayer, the Qibla also plays a role in various other daily activities, underscoring its importance in the lives of Muslims. Given the geographical diversity of the global Muslim population, this direction can vary based on one's geographical location. However, with the rapid development of technology, modern tools such as smartphone applications have made it easier to determine the Qibla direction. Despite their convenience, there remain concerns regarding the accuracy of these applications, which can vary due to differences in algorithms and data used. This study aims to assess the accuracy of the twenty most downloaded and highly rated Qibla direction applications available on the Play Store and App Store for Android and iOS. This study employed the theodolite method, which involves solar observations and surveying equipment to measure horizontal and vertical angles, thus accurately obtaining the Qibla direction of 292° 57' 44". This study found the differences in degrees between the actual Qibla direction, and the directions provided by five of ten Android and iOS applications. In conclusion, while most Android and iOS applications accurately provide the Qibla direction at 292 degrees, there are a few exceptions with minor variations. However, it is still functional as it falls within the allowed limits of degrees.
Bridging the Gap: Unveiling Business English Needs through a Needs Analysis of Malaysian Polytechnic Students
The skills to communicate effectively in English language are crucial in the business industry. However, employees still experience communicative apprehension despite being exposed to the language from an early age. By employing descriptive quantitative method, this study aims to explore English language needs of business students in Malaysian polytechnics. The needs analysis includes their current English language proficiency, areas of improvement, preferences, and training needs. The findings indicated that polytechnic students have an average proficiency in English, with a strong desire to enhance their speaking skills, vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. There were some challenges identified when learning business English such as difficulties with business terminology, expressing opinions, using tenses correctly, and building communication confidence. The polytechnic students showed a keen interest in English for Specific Purposes courses tailored to practical workplace scenarios such as client interactions, business vocabulary usage, presentations, and negotiation skills. This study provides recommendations that include emphasising speaking skills in ESP courses, aligning course materials with students' proficiency levels, and introducing a Situational Syllabus to address specific linguistic requirements for the business field. The study highlighted the significance of catering English language needs of business students to improve their employability and success in the business sector.
The Localization Development Path of Chinese R&B Music: A Study Based on Representative Works of David Tao and Jay Chou
The development of contemporary Chinese R&B music has undergone a complex process from initial introduction in Hong Kong and Taiwan regions to localized integration. However, existing research mostly focuses on macro-level descriptions, and even when specific works and artists are discussed, they often lack systematic depth. This paper adopts a combination of literature review and case study methodologies. Firstly, it systematically reviews the introduction, early development, and localization characteristics of R&B music in China, pointing out the shortcomings of current research. Subsequently, it selects four representative works by David Tao and Jay Chou as cases to deeply analyze the specific manifestations of Chinese R&B music in musical characteristics, cultural fusion, and vocal techniques. The study finds that these two artists have played a key role in the localization process of R&B music in China. Their innovative practices have enriched the diversity of Chinese pop music, created a unique "Chinese style" R&B, and promoted the localization process of R&B music in China. Based on the analysis, the study also proposes relevant strategies and suggestions to promote the healthy and sustainable development of Chinese R&B music, providing new perspectives for further understanding the development path and future trends of Chinese R&B music.
Gamification in English as Second Language (ESL) Learning: A Systematic Review
Gamification has become an indispensable part of modern education. Modern trends have led to innovative technologies in education, which have consolidated the utilisation of gamification as a mechanism for augmenting language acquisition. Although studies have been conducted on using different gamification platforms in education, more resources need to be specifically focused on gamification in language learning, particularly in the context of English as a Second Language learning. Therefore, based on previous studies, this systematic review investigates the impact of gamification on the acquisition of English as a second or foreign language. A total of 28 articles meeting inclusion criteria were selected from 85 retrieved through searches in three databases: Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and the Educational Resources Information Centre (ERIC), covering the period from 2020 to 2024. The review will critically evaluate the effectiveness of gamification in ESL/EFL education by analysing various studies and their findings in this field. By synthesising existing literature on the topic, the review provides an overview of the impact of gamification on language acquisition, motivation, engagement, and engagement among ESL/EFL learners. The review also discusses the potential challenges and limitations associated with implementing gamification in language learning contexts. Through this comprehensive analysis, the review seeks to offer insights into the best practices for integrating gamification into English language learning curricula and to identify areas for future research in this field.
The Study on the Influence of Peer Relationships on College Students’ Academic Performance in HEZE University, ShanDong Province, China
Peer relationship is an important part of college students' study and life. The communication and interaction between college students and their peers can not only promote their own development, but also hinder their development. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of peer relationships of college students on academic achievement to understand the current situation of peer relationships and academic performance, and analyze whether students peer relationship can affect students' academic performance, students' peer relationship quality on the academic performance of college students can play a predictive role, or to what extent we can predict the academic performance. This paper first defines the related concepts of peer relationship and academic performance through the summary of related literature, and puts forward the related theoretical basis, and what aspects of the current research are mainly focused on. Then combined with the results of empirical research, this paper analyzes the actual situation of peer relationship, academic engagement and academic performance of college students studying in HEZE university. And we do the descriptive analysis, measurement model analysis and structural equation model analysis to these situations. Finally, it summarizes the peer relationship academic engagement and academic performance of college students, and puts forward some suggestions.
Exploration of Aesthetic and Cultural Education for University Students in the New Era from the Perspective of Cultural Confidence
University students are at a critical stage of establishing their value systems, and the development of cultural confidence is crucial for guiding their future societal values. However, enhancing aesthetic and cultural education cannot be achieved in the short term. It requires a foundation based on national spirit and traditional Chinese culture, focusing on the core development of students to effectively elevate their aesthetic and cultural levels in the context of the new era. This study explores how aesthetic education can improve university students' cultural literacy, cultivate their aesthetic abilities, and foster national pride from the perspective of cultural confidence. Combining the characteristics of the new era, the discussion spans various aspects such as curriculum content, teaching methods, practical teaching, and cross-cultural communication, providing guiding suggestions for the aesthetic and cultural education of university students in the new era.
The Impact of Instructional Leadership Practices on Teachers' Job Satisfaction and Work Quality
The practice of leaders is able to mobilize teachers to achieve excellence. This concept paper aims to discuss the practice of instructional leadership and its suitability in dealing with teacher job satisfaction and work quality. Most previous studies have found that there is a relationship and influence of instructional leadership practices on teacher job satisfaction and work quality, but the extent to which the suitability exists has not been made. Based on the analysis and synthesis, it can be concluded that instructional leadership practices are relevant to be applied by school leaders and can develop the potential of teachers as well as improve the level of teacher job satisfaction and the quality of teacher work.
Innovative Practice in the Teaching of College Japanese Based on the Output-Oriented Approach
This paper examines a restructured approach to teaching "College Japanese" in applied undergraduate institutions, designed to align with contemporary demands for interdisciplinary education and practical language application. Grounded in the Production-Oriented Approach (POA), the course integrates local cultural resources such as Wuyi Mountain’s heritage and professional knowledge from various fields to construct a student-centered, output-oriented teaching model. Innovations in content design, teaching methods, learning environments, and evaluation systems create a dynamic framework that addresses deficiencies in traditional language education. The findings demonstrate significant improvements in students' linguistic proficiency, interdisciplinary competence, and cultural engagement. These results suggest that this approach offers a replicable model for foreign language education reform in applied institutions worldwide.
The Imperative of Standardized Comparative Standards for Sustainable Growth and Global Competitiveness in Islamic Finance
This article delves into the significance of comparative standards for hybrid financial products in Islamic finance. It provides a comprehensive analysis of conceptual frameworks, case studies, challenges, and opportunities, offering recommendations tailored to hybrid products in Islamic financial institutions. The paper discusses three categories of hybrid products: sukuk and equity-based hybrids, mudarabah and profit-sharing hybrids, and murabaha and debt-based hybrids. These products amalgamate diverse financial elements, demonstrating a mix of equity, profit-sharing, and debt-based instruments. The analysis focuses on key comparative standards, including Shariah compliance, risk management, financial reporting, and regulatory frameworks. Shariah compliance ensures adherence to Islamic principles, while risk management addresses the identification and mitigation of potential financial risks. Additionally, financial reporting standards emphasize the importance of transparency, and regulatory frameworks provide guidelines for institutional oversight. One of the primary challenges identified is the lack of harmonization across various institutions due to differing interpretations of Shariah principles and regional regulations. However, establishing standardized comparative guidelines can enhance transparency, foster market integration, and boost investor confidence. This article concludes by recommending collaboration between regulatory bodies, harmonization of Shariah interpretations, and the development of international best practices. These efforts aim to facilitate consistency, transparency, and comparability in hybrid financial products within the Islamic finance industry.
Forging Patriotism among Youth in Lagos: Unveiling the Impact of Social Integration and Civic Education
Every society's level of excellence is primarily determined by how much its citizens love and support their country, the main objective of the study is to examine forging patriotism among youth and unveiling the impact of social integration and civic education. The study adopted a quantitative research design that employed Simple random sampling, the study focused on suburban areas in Lagos State, this area was chosen due to low youth participation in national activities, with a sample size of 171 youth for the study, data were collected using self-administered questionnaires to gather data among the selected respondents and were analyzed using the statistical tool. Pearson’s correlation was used to analyze the data, and the findings revealed that the level of patriotism and social integration was good, however, the level of civic education was negative. As an implication, the youth should be sufficiently educated to ensure they are patriotic toward the nation.
Assessing the Importance of Digital Literacy as a 21st Century Skill among TVET Educators
The skill of digital literacy is essential for teachers today. This study looked into the difference in importance that teachers in a Malaysian district attributed to digital literacy. The sample consisted of 138 TVET teachers. The research used surveys and interviews to check the level of digital literacy. The average scores for essential digital skills were software use (4.60), digital communication (4.52), and data management (4.47). Teachers stated that digital literacy helps improve teaching by enhancing the communication with students, increasing participation within classes and thus reducing barriers to technology access. Though teachers agree that they need to assist students in gaining digital skills for jobs, they face challenges such as lack of initiative. The study recommends ongoing discussions on development initiatives as well as exploration of new economic features. If some hurdles exist regarding integrating technology, an update is required in tools plus teachers should have to be proactive about creating technology through professional growth. These outcomes could lead educational institutions and policy makers in shaping up a strong system that adapts flexibly as per ongoing changes arising from new technologies.
The Level of Coaching Competencies towards Athletics Performance in Malaysian Sports Schools
The training scenario in the field of sports has become increasingly complex and challenging due to the development and advancement of science and technology in the present time (Hamze & Keshkar, 2020). From time to time, sports coaches need to enhance their mastery of knowledge and skills to be more capable and competent in carrying out their responsibilities. In the ecosystem of coaching at the Malaysian Sports School (MSS), there are several issues that receive primary attention in the selection of coaches. Similar issues exist within the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) system, especially regarding coach performance and the development of student-athlete achievements. Up to now, the selection system for sports coaches at MSS is based on minimum qualifications. This fact is stated through the announcement of vacancies for sports coach positions ranging from grades 29 to 44 at Malaysian Sports Schools (MOE, 2018). Some coaches have high certification qualifications but lack experience, while others have extensive experience but minimal certification qualifications. It is proposed to implement a sports coaching mentorship program using a mentorship program approach. Mentorship programs have been introduced in academic systems, for example, under counseling programs. The mentorship program structure is usually implemented face-to-face between senior coaches and mentored coaches. Senior coaches are among coaches who have achieved national and international recognition. They have previously produced high-performing athletes and have experience in leading and managing athletes in prestigious competitions both domestically and internationally. Meanwhile, mentored coaches consist of new coaches who are in the process of gaining knowledge but still lack experience. Being a mentor to junior coaches provides several advantages are achieving the highest level in the coaching profession,practicing educational values and leadership in coaching,experimenting with new coaching techniques and strategies and mastering new knowledge and technology to enhance coaching curriculum.All coaches aspire to advance their coaching careers to higher levels. From a junior coach, they become a senior coach and then a mentor coach. Experience in mentoring junior coaches provides confidence to take on coaching responsibilities at higher levels, namely national and international levels.
Examining the Factors that Influence the Employee Green Behavior in China Logistics Industry Using Social Identity Theory
Purpose: The logistics industry has long been among China's top four carbon-emitting industries. However, previous research has shown that the green behavior of employees in the logistics industry has not received sufficient attention. The main objective of this study is to examine the factors influencing the green behavior of employees in the Chinese logistics service provider industry. Additionally, this study will examine how different external factors affect employees' organizational identification and further stimulate their green behavior. Design/methodology/approach: The present study will use quantitative research with a survey method. Questionnaires will be used to collect data from logistics enterprise managers. Data screening and analysis will use the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and SmartPLS 4.0. Findings: This study's findings emphasize the mediating role of organizational identification in the relationship between perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR), environmentally specific servant leadership (ESSL), and employee green behavior (EGB). Practical implications: It is among the first empirical studies focusing on these relationships in China’s logistics industry, which focuses on the individual level. Therefore, the proposed empirical investigations will be helpful to the managers from logistics service providers because they have implications for the organizational environmental sustainability decision-making process. Originality/value: By testing this mediating effect in different contexts, this study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the intermediary role of organizational identification between perceived CSR and EGB. Also, this study should benefit the Chinese logistics service providers' managers and policymakers by stimulating them to improve their ability to develop, practice and guide environmental policy.
Graduate Employability in Malaysia: Analysing Students’ Level of Study and Fields of Study in Relation to their Employability
This study analyzes the employability trends of graduates from Malaysian higher education institutions, with a focus on bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree holders. Using data from the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), the study examines graduate employability across different types of education and fields of study by using the Python analysis. The findings reveal that while bachelor’s degree graduates exhibit lower employability rates, averaging around 30%, master’s and PhD graduates show significantly higher employability, with PhD programs achieving a 100% employment rate. The study also highlights that fields such as Applied Arts, including accountancy and business-related disciplines, demonstrate the highest graduate employability. The Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) analysis confirms a positive relationship between institutional type, level of education, and field of study, with an R² score of 0.83. Despite overall high employability rates, certain variables negatively influence graduate outcomes, signaling areas for further investigation. This research provides valuable insights for stakeholders to address graduate unemployment and improve alignment between tertiary education and labor market demands.
Teletherapy Services for Children with Hearing Devices: The Malaysian Parents Experience
This study aimed to examine parents’ perspectives on the implementation of teletherapy for deaf children with hearing devices. Teletherapy is a new method in Malaysia and has not yet been widely introduced to the community. There are still many individuals especially from the deaf community who need the services of a therapist, yet the lack of pathologists and therapists prevents this community from getting therapy. The problem is rotation system for the services of a therapist also takes a long-time causing child with hearing impairment to lag in terms of language and cognitive development and does not show significant results due to the relatively long time to get the next therapy session. The busyness of parents and the high cost of therapy are examples of factors that cause low access to the therapy. The use of teletherapy methods can help improve the access for deaf children with hearing device to therapy. This study has two main objectives which is to examine the factors that influence the readiness of parents and the suitability of the implementation of teletherapy in Malaysia based on the experience of the study respondents. Participants in this study are parents of children who are still or have received teletherapy treatment in an organization that provides support to the community with hearing impairment that known as Hear Me. This study showed that most parents in this study agreed that teletherapy was appropriate and potentially to be featured.
Examining the Determinants of Anxiety and Academic Stress in Learning Mathematics
This paper determines mathematics anxiety and academic stress in mathematics learning through an analysis of the interrelationship between the factors thereof and its impact on the performance of students. Mathematics anxiety refers to a type of anxiety characterized by feelings of tension coupled with fear, which often predicts academic stress, especially in educational settings which are highly pressurized. This article has highlighted major precursors that math anxiety is normally typified with, which include previous traumatic experiences, learning strategies, and parental influences, all of which contribute to the escalation in the levels of stress. Math anxiety has also been debated on the perspective of males and females; findings have established that female students are prone to developing math anxiety due to stereotype threats and stereotypes present within society. It also looks at how math anxiety disrupts cognition, such as working memory, following the derivation of lower performances. For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and growth mindset teaching strategies are discussed as being particularly effective for alleviating anxiety and stress. The interdependent relationship between mathematics anxiety and academic stress goes both ways, meaning that a deeper, more nuanced understanding of this will further enable educators and policymakers to develop appropriate targeted strategies aimed at student support, enhanced mathematical proficiency, and overall better academic success for all. Longitudinal effects of the interventions and complex relationships between anxiety, stress, and performance in math learning are suggested for further investigation in future research directions.
A Study of Teacher-Child Interaction in Social-Emotional Teaching Activities in Kindergarten
Kindergarten social-emotional teaching activities are an important way for young children to learn social-emotional skills, and the quality of teacher-child interaction is a key factor in the effective implementation of social-emotional teaching activities. The purpose of this study was to examine the current situation of teacher-child interactions in social-emotional teaching activities in kindergartens, to analyse their characteristics and influencing factors, and to try to put forward educational suggestions to promote the development of young children's social-emotional skills. The study selected Kindergarten G in City Y, which has been implementing a social-emotional learning programme for five years, and used 30 full-time teachers in the kindergarten as the study subjects. The study adopted the measurement method, using the CLASS classroom assessment scoring system as the research tool and SPSS to analyse the scores of teacher-child interactions in the specific indicators of CLASS, and at the same time, combined with interviews and measurement methods to analyse the characteristics of teacher-child interactions and analyse their influencing factors.
Effectiveness of Interactive Module of Occupational Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and sensory processing, which affect their ability to engage in everyday tasks. Occupational therapy (OT) has been recognized as an effective intervention to improve the functional skills of children with ASD. In response, interactive modules of occupational therapy have been developed to enhance the therapy experience by offering personalized, engaging, and accessible therapeutic tools. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the interactive module of occupational therapy in enhancing participants' understanding and practical skills in handling children with ASD. The module aims to address core areas of motor skills, sensory integration, and social participation through interactive learning tools that are engaging and user-friendly. This study used a pre-test and post-test quantitative approach to measure participants’ knowledge before and after undergoing the module. Results showed significant increases in understanding across all areas: autism therapy needs improved from 37% to 81%, early home interventions from 43% to 85%, and home-based intervention simulations from 39% to 86%. Participants also expressed high satisfaction with the program content (mean: 3.961) and the speaker’s effectiveness (mean: 3.968), indicating a well-received and impactful learning experience. The findings align with previous research on the benefits of hands-on, simulation-based learning in improving understanding and retention. Overall, the interactive module of occupational therapy proved to be a valuable educational tool, equipping participants with practical strategies to support autistic children both at home and in therapeutic settings. The findings of this study provide insights into the potential of interactive therapeutic tools as a supplementary intervention to traditional occupational therapy for children with ASD, ultimately contributing to more effective treatment strategies.
Best Practices in Supporting Career Transition for Students with Special Needs in the 21st Century: A Systematic Review
Transitioning from school to employment or higher education is critical for students with special needs, requiring tailored support and innovative approaches aligned with 21st-century teaching and learning principles. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize best practices in supporting career transition for these students, focusing on family involvement, individualized career planning, and technology integration. This study used the PRISMA approach. A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed articles published between 2022 and 2024 was conducted across multiple databases, including Scopus and Web Of Science database fields an extensive selection of studies, reviews, and articles related to transition programs for special education students. After applying advanced searching, the final data set consisted of (n=15). The findings highlight three key themes emerged Inclusive Career Transition Programs, Barriers and Facilitators in Career Transition, and Innovative Practices and Pedagogies. This review provides valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and families, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that leverages 21st-century skills and technologies. By adopting these best practices, stakeholders can enhance the career readiness and long-term success of students with special needs, ensuring a smoother transition to adulthood and greater opportunities for meaningful employment and community participation. Further research is recommended to explore these practices' long-term outcomes and address the identified challenges.
Cultural Immersion and Language Acquisition: An Autoethnographic Study of Japanese Students in a Summer School English Programme
This study explores the experiences and progress of Japanese students enrolled in a summer school programme focused on English communication through the lens of autoethnography. By engaging in cultural immersion and language acquisition, students faced numerous challenges and opportunities. These factors influenced their learning trajectories. This research employs a qualitative method. Autoethnographic narratives provide an in-depth understanding of the students' personal journeys, reflections and transformations. The findings reveal the complexities of navigating a new linguistic environment. The strategies employed by students to overcome language barriers are also highlighted. Additionally, the impact of cultural exchange on their language development and self-perception is examined. This study contributes to the broader field of language education. It highlights the value of immersive learning environments and personal narratives in fostering language proficiency and cross-cultural understanding.
Understanding Psychological Stress in College Student: A Qualitative Case Study of Xinyang Agricultural and Forestry University
In the high-level academic environment of higher education, students at Agricultural and Forestry University face unique stress. These stress factors stem from both the demanding nature of their specialized fields and the general pressures of college life. There remains a lack of in-depth understanding of the specific factors contributing to psychological stress among these students, which can significantly impede their academic performance and mental health. This study aims to identify the primary factors contributing to psychological stress among students at the Agricultural and Forestry University and to examine the effectiveness of existing support systems and coping mechanisms utilized by these students. This study employs a qualitative research approach, involving semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 6 students from the Agricultural and Forestry University. The research was conducted on campus, with data analysis following the principles of thematic analysis. The theoretical underpinning of the study is grounded in the transactional model of stress and coping.
Advancing Malaysian Youth Development: Promoting Anugerah Remaja Perdana Rakan Muda (The International Award by the Duke of Edinburgh)
The Anugerah Remaja Perdana Rakan Muda program, also known as the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (hereinafter referred to as “The Award”), is a global initiative designed to engage young people in purposeful activities that promote personal growth, leadership, and community involvement. By focusing on an experiential learning model, the program aims to complement formal education, equipping participants with essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. This article examines The Award’s structure, which is divided into three levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—each comprising four sections: Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey. Operating in over 140 countries and territories, The Award’s non-formal educational framework has been lauded for its comprehensive approach to youth development. Participants consistently report gains in confidence, improved interpersonal skills, and a greater sense of responsibility, ultimately leading to meaningful contributions within their communities. The significance of The Award will be explored in fostering holistic youth development, with a focus on its role in shaping future leaders, encouraging civic engagement, and connecting Malaysian youth to a broader international network. Through case studies and participant testimonials, the article will demonstrate how The Award empowers young people to realize their full potential and make a positive impact in both local and global contexts.
Increasing Interest in Science Concepts among Primary School Students through Tiktok
This study examined the increase in interest in science concepts among primary school students through TikTok. In an era of rapid development of educational technology, there is a need to improve science teaching approaches that can attract students' attention. The main objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of TikTok as a learning tool in increasing students' interest in science. This study used a quantitative approach involving 321 randomly selected primary school students in Malaysia. Descriptive statistical analysis showed that the average interest in science increased slightly after using TikTok, from 3.50 to 3.55. Factors contributing to the increase in interest included preference and excitement for content (r = .676), attractive visual effects (r = .570), social interaction (r = .578), and scientific activities and professional interests (r = .463). Regression showed preference and excitement for TikTok as the most significant predictor of science interest (β = .526), ​​followed by visual effects (β = .241), social interaction (β = .215), and scientific activities (β = .083). Although the increase in interest was statistically significant (p = .018), the effect was small (Cohen’s d = -0.132). The study concluded that TikTok has the potential to be an innovative and fun learning platform, but its effectiveness in increasing scientific interest requires a more strategic content approach.
Forging Paths in Uncertainty: Embracing the Educational Administrators’ Agile Trailblazing Leadership Paradigm
This visionary article delves deep into the transformative power of aligning agility, adaptability, collaboration, self-awareness, critical reasoning, and solution-oriented mindsets within the innovative Agile Trailblazing Leadership paradigm. In the dynamic landscape of educational administration, where challenges are multifaceted and uncertainty is prevalent, comprehensive and holistic leadership approaches are vital to fostering creativity, innovation, and effective decision-making. Educators and administrators are confronted with navigating a turbulent environment, that necessitates a leadership approach that embraces change and empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Through the strategic integration of key elements such as agility, adaptability, collaboration, self-awareness, critical reasoning, and solution-oriented mindsets, administrators can skillfully navigate complexities, nurture personal development, amplify their leadership efficacy, and cultivate resilience and a culture of continuous improvement within educational environments. Ultimately, this article extensively draws on a wealth of contemporary literature and practical insights sources from esteemed platforms to illuminate the profound effects of harmonizing these fundamental principles. It establishes a comprehensive framework for advancing leadership competencies and driving organizational triumph in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous world. At its core, this research offers a compelling blueprint for educational administrators seeking to thrive amid ambiguity and uncertainty.
The Role of Self-Directed Learning in Promoting Deep Learning Processes: A Systematic Literature Review
In the realm of current educational research, deep learning is extensively acknowledged as a pivotal approach to enhancing the holistic development of students' capabilities. However, the effective facilitation of deep learning, particularly within diverse educational settings, continues to pose a significant challenge. Notably, the contribution of Self-Directed Learning (SDL) within the deep learning process and its integration into educational practices have yet to be comprehensively explored. Against this backdrop, this study engages in a systematic literature review to investigate the promotive effect of SDL on deep learning, and to analyze how strategies and environments conducive to self-directed learning can bolster the deep learning process. This article, grounded in Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and metacognitive theory, delves into the synergistic impact of self-regulation, interest and motivation, reflection and evaluation, as well as the effective application of technology on deep learning. Through an integration of existing literature, this study reveals how self-directed learning significantly enhances deep learning by fostering students' active engagement, self-management, and the development of metacognitive skills. The analysis underscores the critical role of students' personal interests and intrinsic motivation, as well as reflective and evaluative activities in deepening knowledge comprehension. It also highlights how the effective utilization of technology supports self-directed learning, further facilitating the realization of deep learning. Although the positive relationship between Self-Directed Learning (SDL) and deep learning has been confirmed, challenges remain in effectively integrating these two modes of learning across diverse educational contexts. Future research should see educators and researchers continuing to explore innovative teaching strategies and learning environments to facilitate the effective amalgamation of SDL and deep learning.
Spiritual Integrity in the Digital Realm: Sufism and Technology Dilemmas
The intricate interaction of technology growth and human values in this modern society is agitating and stirring up concerns about its ethical governance as it comes with unprecedented hurdles that gaining traction at an exponential rate. The adversity of infringement of data ownership, uncertainty on the authenticity of data, and plagiarism illustrates the problems of overreliance on digital technologies. It has been proposed that moral thinking and ethical conduct should be revamped in the face of technological advancements, nevertheless, the enlightenment of moral values from the prospect of Sufism, toward ‎technology is still limited. Thus, this study delves into one of the branches of Islamic teaching named Sufism to assess its ethical teaching toward technology. By applying the qualitative method, this study utilises contextual analysis in assessing the books, and journal articles of Islamic philosophers and scholars. The findings of this study highlighted the significance of Sufism's moral values in uplifting ethical awareness in confronting technological progress.