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number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 765
The primary aim of this study was to explore the usability of Language Massive Open Online Courses (LMOOCs) from the perspective of Vietnamese learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). To achieve this, the research utilized a qualitative questionnaire to gather data from a purposively selected group of 12 EFL learners. These participants were drawn from five different universities in the north of Vietnam. The outcomes of the study encompass a wide array of positive and negative facets pertaining to LMOOCs. Based on the findings of content analysis, it can be observed that learners exhibit consensus regarding the favorable attributes of LMOOCs. These attributes encompass the learning environment, the applicability of LMOOCs in language acquisition, the inclusive nature of educational technology employed, and the existence of parental involvement. However, the attitudes of the learners exhibited inconsistency when it came to affective variables and feedback in the context of LMOOCs. Ultimately, it was posited that contextual considerations serve as impediments to the adoption of LMOOCs. The study posits that it would be beneficial for EFL authorities in Vietnam and similar contexts to increase the provision of teacher education and professional development courses. This would help EFL instructors to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement teaching methodologies utilizing LMOOCs.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 1,338
This study investigates the impact of reading habits on English academic performance among Bhutanese higher secondary students using a mixed methods approach. Quantitative data were collected from 378 participants, while qualitative data were gathered from 16 interviewees and one focus group discussion involving teachers, parents, and students from higher secondary schools. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were employed for quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that students’ reading habits positively influence academic performance in English. Moreover, the study highlighted the crucial roles of teachers and parents in fostering these habits. However, it underscored that modern challenges such as the pervasive use of information and communication technology threaten to diminish students’ reading habits. The study also identified barriers to regular reading, including difficulty comprehending texts, time constraints, inadequate guidance, unsupportive environments, limited resources, and restricted library access. Consequently, the study recommends collaborative efforts among parents, teachers, and schools to adopt diverse strategies and methods to promote and sustain reading habits among students.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 6,114
Global learning measurement systems such as Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS), and Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) have been widely used to compare the educational performance of different countries. However, these systems have some limitations that need to be considered. After analyzing 1,265 research articles on such measurement agendas, this article highlights blind spots and blackspots surrounding largescale metrics’ development, measurement, and implications. This commentary article emphasizes that essential factors about culture and diversity have yet to be included in such metrics, leading to monochrome paintings of the global education landscape rather than mosaics. Overall, we advocate for a strategic shift in developing and adopting such global measurement agendas.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 817
Integrated education models, particularly the integration of STEM into secondary education programs, have a positive impact on students’ critical thinking. This study emphasizes significant changes in the education systems of many countries, specifically those within the Research4Life group. By integrating STEM into secondary education, the study shows improvements in students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Enhancing STEM knowledge, developing creative thinking and problem-solving skills, and boosting learning spirit and confidence are key findings. The study also focuses on developing a comprehensive 6-step process from idea generation to STEM model design for secondary education. The goal of this process is to create STEM models that students from elementary to high school levels can use to solve real-life problems. To expand the research, the next step involves testing and evaluating the STEM model design process in actual secondary schools to determine its effectiveness and feasibility. The study also needs to continue exploring education policies and support measures to promote the integration of STEM into secondary education, especially in developing countries. This will help raise awareness and support from policy decisions and the education community.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 2,070
This study aimed to investigate the effect of games and simulations on the academic achievement of secondary school students in mathematics. Employing a quasi-experimental design, the study utilized both an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG) to assess the effectiveness of games and simulations in learning mathematics. A total of 62 grade nine students participated. The EG was exposed to quiz games, problem-solving games, polyprod games, and PhET simulations for teaching polynomials, while the CG followed traditional teaching methods. Data were collected using mathematics achievement test scores and a survey questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The findings indicated that students had positive perceptions of using games and simulations in learning mathematics, with an overall mean score (M = 4.18, SD = 0.71). The EG showed significantly higher mathematics achievement than the CG, demonstrating the effectiveness of games and simulations in learning (p<0.05). Additionally, a strong positive correlation (r = 0.96) was found between students’ perceptions of games and simulations and their mathematics achievement. The study concludes with implications and recommendations for future research.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 929
Education aims to enhance students’ mathematical abilities in alignment with the demands of the 21st century. Essential to these contemporary skills are the 4C competencies, among which is the capacity for creative thinking - a fundamental skill enabling students to critically analyze problems and devise various innovative solutions. This study endeavors to assess whether the application of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) combined with Augmented Reality (AR) enhances creative thinking abilities more effectively than PjBL alone. Employing a quasi-experimental research design, two distinct classes were subjected to different instructional treatments. The study participants comprised eighth-grade junior high school students, with each class consisting of 140 students, divided into control and experimental groups. The research instrument utilized was a test assessing mathematical creative thinking abilities. Data analysis commenced with prerequisite tests for normality and homogeneity, followed by hypothesis testing using the t-test, facilitated by SPSS 21 software. The findings revealed that that there is an influence on students’ creative thinking abilities in using PjBL using AR than PjBL without AR. This underscores the efficacy of Augmented Reality (AR) media in cultivating the creative thinking abilities of junior high school students, particularly in geometric contexts. The positive impact of PjBL augmented with AR can be attributed to the immersive nature of AR technology, which encourages students to engage creatively with projects, thereby enhancing their capacity for innovative problem-solving.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 1,660
In light of the changing dynamics and developments in the education system, the professional development (PD) of teachers is seen as a crucial means to improve the competencies of teachers. There have been numerous prior studies that examined the need for teacher professional development in various educational contexts. However, research in this area is extremely scarce in Bhutan. The main aim of this study was to examine the perceptions of geography teachers in the western region of Bhutan regarding the need for professional development. The study was conducted based on the pragmatic paradigm and included an explanatory sequential mixed-method design. Considering the need of the study and the methodology designed, the study employed stratified simple random sampling for the survey and non-probability purposive sampling for Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). A total of 104 geography teachers participated in the survey, and 10 teachers participated in FGDs, which were conducted in two groups. The findings of the study revealed that most teachers could not meet the 80 hours of PD requirement. The findings also indicated that the most needed professional development areas for the teachers were subject content, instructional technology and designs, assessment and evaluation, special education, and research. It was determined that some of the participants needed professional development in the areas of teaching strategy and classroom management. The study suggests that the Ministry of Education (MoE) and other relevant stakeholders provide subject-based PD Programmes that respond to teachers’ needs.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 894
In recent decades, the world has experienced escalating global environmental crises resulting from widespread environmental degradation. The magnitude of this degradation underscores the urgent need to foster environmental knowledge, particularly among school children, who represent the future leaders and custodians of our planet. In Bhutanese school education, environmental education primarily takes place within the geography curriculum. Therefore, this study aims to assess the level of environmental knowledge among students in Key Stage III within the Bumthang district. To achieve this goal, the study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. Two hundred Key Stage III students participated in the survey, and 32 students were purposefully selected for four focus group discussions. Descriptive analysis was employed to analyze the quantitative data, while the qualitative data underwent coding and identification of emerging themes. The findings of this study indicate that students possess a low level of environmental knowledge. This low level of environmental knowledge is attributed to a lack of motivation in learning, the use of the same teaching strategies, and limited information in the text. Hence, efforts should be made to enhance motivation, diversify teaching strategies, and highlight the need for curriculum reforms to enhance students’ environmental knowledge.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 1,225
This study delves into the complexities of mastering English adverbials among Vietnamese young adults, highlighting the intricate interplay between linguistic exposure, educational background, and the nuanced challenges imposed by cultural and linguistic disparities. Through a quantitative analysis involving a sampling of 500 participants from various English language centers across Vietnam, this research elucidates how different levels of English exposure and educational attainment correlate with proficiency in English adverbials. Key findings reveal that Vietnamese learners face significant challenges in correctly placing, interpreting, and practically using adverbials, underscoring a substantial gap in syntactical understanding and application. Notably, a strong correlation was identified between learners’ English exposure and their adverbial mastery, with increased exposure leading to enhanced knowledge and application. Additionally, the study highlights the profound impact of native language proficiency on mastering English adverbials, suggesting that a deeper grasp of Vietnamese facilitates a better understanding and use of English adverbials. knowledgeThe research contributes valuable insights to the field of English language education, advocating for pedagogical strategies that embrace learners’ linguistic and cultural backgrounds. It calls for integrating practical exercises and context-rich learning experiences in teaching English adverbials, alongside promoting culturally responsive teaching methods to address the identified challenges.
number: /2024
CIT number: 0
Number of views: 1,149
Teachers’ knowledge and skills in assessment are important factors for improving the practice of Classroom Assessment (CA), which is a vital component of teaching and learning. There is ample research attempting to ascertain if training can contribute to increasing teachers’ knowledge and skills in assessment. In Bangladesh, the new curriculum places significant emphasis on classroom assessment compared to summative assessment. This study aims to answer the following questions: What is the status of Classroom Assessment Literacy (CAL) among primary school teachers in Bangladesh? What is the relationship between teachers’ training in assessment and their CAL? And what factors do teachers believe affect the translation of training in CA into CAL? The study followed a mixed-method research approach. Initially, quantitative data on teachers’ CAL and their training in CA were collected from 100 primary school teachers in Dhaka city using a CAL Test. Based on the results of this test, eight teachers with different combinations of CAL levels and training were interviewed. The results showed that the mean score of the sample of primary school teachers was above the middle score but still not high. Their mean score varied across different components of the test. For example, teachers were found to be most competent in using assessment data to make decisions and least competent in selecting appropriate assessment tools. We found that the more hours of training in assessment the teachers had, the lower they scored on the CAL test. However, this relationship was weak. We also found that having a Master of Education (MEd) degree can make a significant difference in their CAL test score. Teachers with more years of experience appeared to score lower on the test and vice versa (though not statistically significant). Qualitative data revealed that each teacher followed their own unique CA styles with a combination of different CA techniques, and there was no pattern based on teachers’ CAL test scores. However, teachers with higher CAL test scores seemed to provide feedback to their students in a more descriptive and meaningful way than teachers with lower CAL test scores. Data revealed that training is one of the sources of teachers’ knowledge and skills in CA among others. However, various enabling and deterring factors work together to determine the effectiveness of training in bringing about sustainable change in teachers’ knowledge and skills in CA. Among many factors, the “one shot” and “one size fits all” design of the trainings were found to be ineffective by teachers who have unique classroom contexts. Additionally, teachers’ own perceptions of training, the school environment, and context are also factors that affect the translation of training in CA into sustainable CAL that they can apply in practice.