bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Rapid Application Development Method to Design E-Commerce Systems in National Expedition Company to Increase Marketing Effectiveness
Authors: Pramudito Dendy K , S.Pettalongi Sagaf , Risal Tawil Muhamad , A Hermila , Zein Afrizal
Published: January 2024

This research aims to find out how to design a B2C, online-based e-commerce reservation system for companies. In this research, the data collection methods applied include observation, interviews, and a literature study. The system development process uses the RAD (Rapid Application Development) model and UML modeling tools. The development stages consist of requirement planning, design workshops, and implementation. Based on the research results, it was found that the existence of this B2C e-commerce system can help the public find out information about hotels in real time, find out the condition of room availability, and make room reservations online anytime and anywhere via the web. This system consists of customer registration, room reservations, payments, expense input, and viewing monthly income and expense reports. This e-commerce system makes it easier for customers to make room reservations and helps managers monitor the occupancy rate in the form of the ratio of the number of customers who make room reservations to the total number of rooms in the company through the visitor list view menu, which displays a list of the number of rooms and the number of visitors who are staying overnight. This system makes it easier for managers to view reports on total monthly income and total expenses by selecting the menu to view report data on total income and total monthly expenses.
Application of The End User Computing Satisfaction Method to Analyze User Satisfaction Toward the Quality of Mobile Banking Services
Authors: Sudirjo Frans , Ekasari Silvia , Hendayani Nenden , Dharmawan Donny , Launtu Ansir
Published: January 2024

This research aims to find out how to analyze user satisfaction with the quality of mobile banking application services using the end-user computing satisfaction model. This research adopts a quantitative approach. Use of questionnaires as a data collection tool. Sampling was done using the purposive sampling technique, with a sample size of 100 respondents. Researchers conducted demographic, outer, and inner model analyses using the PLS-SEM approach via Smart-PLS. This research indicates that most mobile banking application users were satisfied with their overall use. The four hypotheses proposed, namely ease of use, perceived usefulness, and timeliness, were all accepted with solid evidence. The results of hypothesis testing show that three hypotheses have a highly significant influence on user satisfaction, namely H5 (perceived usefulness), H4 (format), and H3 (ease of use). These factors, such as user-perceived usefulness, format quality, and ease of use, provide a positive experience for users to feel satisfied with the application. However, two hypotheses are not accepted, indicating that the accuracy variable (accuracy) and content variable (content) do not significantly influence user satisfaction. The purpose of adding the perceived usefulness variable to this research is to obtain information about how practical the application is for users, and the results of the t-test show that this variable has a significant relationship with user satisfaction.
In My Experience…Cementless Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Chen Antonia F.
Published: January 2024

The author presents here her experiences with adopting cementless total knee arthroplasty.
Factors affecting bone mineral density in children and adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Park Su Jin , Sim Soo Yeun , Jeong Dae Chul , Suh Byung-Kyu , Ahn Moon Bae
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Patients with juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) are at a high risk of entering adulthood with disease-related morbidities like reduced bone mass and osteoporosis. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of JSLE and to analyze the factors associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) in these patients.Methods: Children and adolescents diagnosed with JSLE at a single institution in Korea were included. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data as well as details about the use of glucocorticoids (GCs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs were collected. The lumbar spine (LS) BMD z-score was measured using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, and lateral thoracolumbar spine radiographs were collected.Results: A total of 29 patients with JSLE were included in this study. Of these patients, 7 had a BMD z-score of -2.0 or lower and were designated as the low BMD group. The differences in the clinical parameters and treatment variables between the low BMD and non-low BMD groups were compared. Higher cumulative GC dose, longer GC exposure, and higher cumulative hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) dose were all associated with low BMD; among them, the main factor was the duration of GC exposure. There was no significant correlation between BMD and clinical profile, disease activity, or bone-metabolism markers.Conclusion: The duration of GC exposure, cumulative GC dose, and cumulative HCQ dose were risk factors for low BMD in patients with JSLE, with the main factor being the duration of GC exposure. Thus, patients with JSLE should be routinely monitored for low BMD and potential fracture risks, and GC-sparing treatment regimens should be considered.
The impacts of COVID-19 on childhood obesity: prevalence, contributing factors, and implications for management
Authors: Kim Min-Ji , Kim Minji , Yoon Ju Young , Cheon Chong Kun , Yoo Sukdong
Published: January 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to identify changes in the prevalence of obesity and related diseases among children and adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.Methods: This study was conducted using data from the 2016–2021 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and included 3,861 children and adolescents aged 10–18 years. The prevalence of obesity and related diseases was adjusted for age, sex, and income. We also analyzed the socioeconomic, nutritional, and physical activity items in the survey.Results: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in the prevalence of obesity (p=0.02), central obesity (p=0.001), mean body mass index (BMI, p=0.03), and hemoglobin A1c (p=0.005) among children and adolescents aged 10–18 years. The intake of food and calories was significantly reduced in the normal-weight group (p=0.001 and <0.001) but not in the obese group. Incidences of skipping breakfast increased and eating out decreased, regardless of obesity status. However, the changes in health behaviors were not significant. The prevalence of central obesity and increased BMI showed a significant linear association between children and their parents, especially in the 10–12-year-old age group. A clear increase in the proportion of metabolically unhealthy children and adolescents was observed in the obese group, and the frequency of central obesity in parents also increased.Conclusion: The number of metabolically unhealthy, obese children and adolescents increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Age-specific strategies that consider growth, development, and genetic and social factors are required. Health strategies targeting the entire family are required to develop healthier habits.
Idiopathic ketotic hypoglycemia in children: an update
Authors: Metwalley Kotb Abbass , Farghaly Hekma  Saad
Published: January 2024

Idiopathic ketotic hypoglycemia (IKH) is defined as bouts of hypoglycemia with increased blood or urine ketones in certain children after prolonged fasting or during illness. IKH is divided into physiological IKH, which is most frequently observed in normal children with intercurrent acute illness, and pathological IKH, which occurs in children who lack counter-regulatory hormones, have a metabolic disease, or have Silver-Russell syndrome. The typical patient is a young child between the ages of 10 months and 6 years. Episodes nearly always occur in the morning after overnight fasting. Symptoms include those of neuroglycopenia, ketosis, or both. IKH may be diagnosed after ruling out various metabolic and hormonal conditions associated with ketotic hypoglycemia. Sufficient amounts of carbohydrates and protein, avoidance of prolonged fasting, and increased frequency of food ingestion are the main modes of treating IKH. It is crucial to understand the pathogenesis of IKH and to distinguish physiological IKH from pathological IKH. In this mini-review, we present a brief summary of IKH in terms of its definition, types, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and therapeutic approach in children.
Peran Pemimpin Gereja dan Etika Kristen dalam menyikapi Isu Kontemporer di Era Revolusi Industri 4.0
Authors: Ritonga Nova
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This article discusses the role of church leaders and Christian ethics in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Church leaders have a crucial responsibility in providing guidance and correct answers amidst the issues and challenges faced by the congregation and society. The literature review method was used in writing this article. The objective of this article is to explore the role of church leaders in addressing contemporary issues and upholding Christian ethics. The findings indicate that church leaders need to be sensitive and caring towards the congregation, and they play various roles such as administrators, organizers, decision-makers, group facilitators, board chairpersons, and counselors. The conclusion drawn is that church leaders must be able to provide guidance based on the Word of God and Christian ethics in dealing with complex issues in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.Abstrak: Artikel ini membahas peran pemimpin gereja dan etika Kristen di era Revolusi Industri 4.0. Pemimpin gereja memiliki tanggung jawab penting dalam memberikan arahan dan jawaban yang benar di tengah persoalan dan isu yang dihadapi oleh jemaat dan masyarakat. Metode penelitian kepustakaan digunakan dalam penulisan artikel ini. Tujuan dari artikel ini adalah untuk menggali peran pemimpin gereja dalam menghadapi isu-isu kontemporer dan menegakkan etika Kristen. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pemimpin gereja harus memiliki kepekaan dan kepedulian terhadap jemaat serta berperan sebagai administrator, organisator, pembuat keputusan, fasilitator kelompok, ketua dewan pengurus, dan konselor. Kesimpulan yang diperoleh, pemimpin gereja harus mampu memberikan arahan yang didasarkan pada firman Tuhan dan etika Kristen dalam menghadapi isu-isu yang kompleks di era Revolusi Industri 4.0
Kuasa Kepemimpinan Seorang Pemimpin Kristen: Studi Biblika terhadap Kuasa Yesus sebagaimana tercatat dalam Markus 11 sebagai Kerangka Acuan bagi Kuasa Kepemimpinan Kristen Masa Kini
Authors: Worang Ronny O. B.
Published: January 2024

Abstrak: Secara umum beberapa pihak menanyakan kuasa kepemimpinan, khususnya bagi pemimpin Kristen. Seakan pemimpin Kristen tidak memiliki kuasa kepemimpinan. Akibatnya, beberapa pemimpin Kristen menjadi kurang percaya diri dalam melaksanakan tugas tanggung jawab kepemimpinan yang dipercayakan kepada pemimpin Kristen dimaksud. Eksplisit di dalam respons Yesus Kristus terhadap pertanyaan para imam kepala, para ahli Taurat dan tua-tua Israel pada masa pelayanan-Nya, bahwa kuasa yang dimiliki Yesus berasal dari Allah Bapa di Surga. Kuasa dalam diri Yesus berupa kecakapan, kemampuan dan otoritas-Nya memampukan Yesus menarik simpati banyak orang sehingga orang-orang tersebut mengelu-elukan Dia ketika Ia masuk kota Yerusalem, mengeringkan pohon ara ketia Ia tidak menemukan buahnya dan menyucikan Bait Allah ketika Ia melihat penyalahgunaan fungsi Bait Allah. Hanya oleh kuasa dari Allah Bapa di Surga Yesus mampu mengerjakan ketiga hal tersebut.
Effect of Brand Elements on Organizational Success: A Moderating Approach to the Brand Experience of Muslim and Non-Muslim Customers of Islamic financial Products in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Sana-ur , Shahzadi Kiran , Nisar Shoaib
Published: January 2024

The primary purpose of this research is to analyze the impact of brand elements on the achievement of an organization. In addition, the study also examined the moderating effect of brand experience on Muslim and non-Muslim customers' perception of Islamic products in Pakistan. This research examines the significance of brand elements in the success of organizations and compares the reactions of Muslim and Non-Muslim customers of Islamic Products in Pakistan. The researchers used Keller's renowned CBBE model to examine the impact of brand elements on organizational success. This research used the convenience sampling technique to gather data from customers of Islamic products. Following the completion of the missing value analysis, only 124 out of 150 respondents provided their replies. The study analysis indicates that the brand resonance of both Muslim and non-Muslim customers of Islamic products has a positive effect on the success of the organization. Additionally, the relationship between these consumers and the organization is also crucial for achieving success or improved performance. The study shows that both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers in Pakistan have positive responses towards Islamic products offered by Islamic banks. This information can be used by managers to implement this strategy for the success of their organizations.
Ekstraksi senyawa tanin dalam ampas kopi sebagai sumber daya tanin terbarukan
Authors: Suhaila Rif'ati , Husna Zakiatul , Manurung Renita , Siregar Alwi Gery Agustan
Published: January 2024

The increase in global coffee consumption causes an increase in the amount of waste. One of the components of coffee grounds waste that is thrown into the environment is tannin. Tannins are applied in various industries, including the textile, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The research aims to observe the effect of temperature and extraction time on tannin content using the ultrasonic extraction method. Extraction was carried out using 80% ethanol solvent with 2 variations, namely, variations in extraction temperature (40, 45, 50, 55, and 60) ˚C and extraction time (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60) minutes. Extracts containing tannins were then analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Tannin levels were tested qualitatively using FeCl3 and Gelatin, and quantitative analysis was carried out using a UV-VIS Spectrophotometer. The functional groups contained in the tannin extract were tested using the FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra Red) Spectroscopy method. The highest tannin content was obtained at an extraction temperature of 55°C and an extraction time of 10 minutes, amounting to 215.85 mg/g-1. The tannins contained in coffee grounds extract are condensed tannins.
Pengaruh pemupukan P dan populasi jagung dengan tumpang sari kedelai pada budidaya jenuh air di lahan pasang surut
Authors: Faadhilah Fajar , Lubis Iskandar , Ghulamahdi Munif
Published: January 2024

Soybean and corn are the main food crops in Indonesia after rice. Currently to fill the needs of national soybeans and corn obtained through imports. That was due to the low productivity of soybeasn and corn in Indonesia compared to other countries like as the United States and China. Iimproving the productivity of corn and soybean is by regulating plant population and fertilizing. The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of P fertilizing and corn population on soybean and corn intercropping in tidal swamps. This research was in March to August 2019 in Karyabakti, Rantau Rasau District, Tanjung Jabung Timur Regency, Jambi Province. The tidal swamps type used was type B. The study was conducted using two factors i.e P fertilization (0 kg P2O5 ha-1, 46 kg P2O5 ha-1, 92 kg P2O5 ha-1, 138 kg P2O5 ha-1) and population maize (50,000, 63,000 and 73,000 plants ha-1). The intercropping system showed the highest results in a population of 63,000 maize ha-1 plants with a fertilizer dosage of  P 46 kg P2O5 ha-1. Land equality ratio highest 2.3 showed that intercropping systems were 130% more effective than monoculture planting.
A National E-assessment Implementation Framework: Assessing Readiness in Secondary Schools and Teacher Education in Tanzania
Authors: Ally Said
Published: January 2024

Nearly every aspect of teaching and learning in the education sector has undergone a technological and pedagogical shift globally. The outburst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the digital advancements in recent years are two major factors that have geared and transformed the sector practically. Due to the rapid population growth and the fee-free education policy, candidate enrollment is constantly expanding, so it is crucial to devise an efficient, cost-effective, and secured approach for conducting educational assessments. This paper explores the possibilities of implementing a national e-assessment system for teacher education and secondary schools in Tanzania. Considering that the e-assessment philosophy is diverse, interdisciplinary, and multidimensional, a holistic research approach focused on library search, document review, and international benchmarking was applied. The e-assessment adoption framework and its design are based on expert opinion. The data used for theoretical and qualitative analysis was captured from the candidate and school registration portals. The study suggests that e-assessment in Tanzania is an inevitable part, especially in the educational system of the 21st century. More importantly, the findings show that e-assessment for teacher education appears to be more pressing as it can be deployed quickly given the computing status and educator readiness in teacher training colleges. For secondary education, e-assessment seems possible in about 6.4% of all schools that currently offer computer science as a subject. To facilitate a seamless adoption process and secure registration of examination centers, a national e-assessment framework is proposed. The framework is tailored to the local context as it applies adaptive staging, on-demand, and ready-to-go approaches to ensure the adopted solution is feasible and sustainable. Through this framework, you can tell whether certain schools are prepared to switch from conventional pen-and-paper exams to e-assessments.
Barriers hindering Effective Engagement in Online Assessment for Teacher Education in Tanzania: Perspectives from two Teachers’ Colleges
Authors: Chasubuta Aines , Ndibalema Placidius
Published: January 2024

The recent shift to online distance learning in education institutions has prompted the implementation of online assessment. However, the effectiveness of online assessment in most countries, particularly sub-Saharan Teacher Colleges, remains in a critical dilemma as their adoption of technology is still at an infancy stage. Evidence about tutors and student-teachers from sub-Saharan Africa using available virtual platforms such as Learning Management System (LMS) to conduct effective online assessment is scarcely available. This paper addresses how tutors and student-teachers face challenges of integrating online assessment into their teaching through LMS as well as how they benefit from it. The paper is based on a study that employed a qualitative approach where the phenomenological design was adopted to gain lived experiences from participants on the use of LMS for online assessment. 15 tutors from two colleges were interviewed with the expectation that they would have rich information about the implementation of online assessment through LMS. Findings indicated that both tutors and student-teachers faced multiple barriers which compromised their ability to engage in online assessment. Such barriers are categorized into policy issues, resource-related challenges, online teaching and learning services and instructor-related challenges. Despite the challenges, participants perceived online assessment to have significant impact towards learning. Participants also expressed that online assessment is essential for learning in the digital age and thus, suggested the need to strengthen their capacity to improve their engagement. This study recommends that Teacher Colleges should invest in technological systems that enhance online assessment. To accelerate learning transformation in Teacher Colleges, awareness in online learning is vital. To increase student-teachers’ engagement in online assessment through LMS, it is necessary to make curriculum reforms to ensure effective e-learning. Future research may focus on generating evidence about practices in different contexts.
Mathematics Teachers’ Use of National Assessment Feedback Reports in Improving Pedagogical Practices in Secondary Schools
Authors: Nicodemus Michael W. , Kihwele Jimmy Ezekiel
Published: January 2024

Despite its importance in contributing to economic development, the trend of Mathematics performance has been low. The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) provides Mathematics assessment reports to the schools, highlighting students’ strengths and weaknesses and recommending teachers to improve their teaching and learning practices. However, Mathematics performance in national examinations is still poor. This study examined how Mathematics teachers utilise Form Two National Assessment - Students’ Item Response Analysis (FTNA-SIRA) feedback reports to enhance their teaching practices. Specifically, the study focused on teachers’ perceptions and use of assessment feedback reports and their challenges. This qualitative study employed a phenomenology design that purposively selected 33 participants from ten (10) districts after obtaining their consent. The study used interviews and open-ended questionnaires to collect and analyse information using thematic analysis. Mathematics teachers admitted they hardly access feedback reports, and most of them revealed that they could not use them despite understanding their importance. Three Mathematics teachers from urban areas admit that using assessment feedback they accessed from the NECTA website improved their classroom teaching practices. However, underutilisation of the feedback is due to frailty in utilising online copies, reports remaining at the district or heads of schools’ offices, and low motivation and skills in implementing the recommendations provided. Underutilisation of assessment feedback hardly informs any pedagogical improvement, which risks the continuation of poor Mathematics performance. The study recommends establishing strategies for teachers’ effective use of assessment feedback for improving pedagogical practices, including capacity building, feedback use framework and motivation.
Investigating the Effect of Assessment Feedback on Students’ Learning and Performance in Tanzania: Lessons from Secondary Education Mathematics
Authors: Mlemba Alex , Mlemba Alex , Massam Winston , Mrema Beatitude J.
Published: January 2024

This qualitative study investigated the effect of assessment feedback on students' learning and performance in Mathematics in form three secondary classes in Moshi Municipality. The study explored the nature of assessment feedback used by Mathematics teachers and the perceived effect of such feedback on students' learning and performance. The sample consisted of 24 form-three students and two (2) Mathematics teachers from two community secondary schools. Employing a case study design, the study used classroom observation, interviews, focus group discussion (FGD), and document analysis as methods of data collection. The data were then coded into patterns, categories and themes. The findings revealed that task-level feedback that is evaluative dominated Mathematics classes. This task level, evaluative feedback either verbal or written does not help learners to get a deep understanding of various concepts through making revisions and solving Mathematical problems of a similar nature which may in turn improve their learning and performance. The study recommends that professional development programmes for in-service teachers focusing on the provision of effective feedback should be conducted regularly to equip them with appropriate knowledge and skills. The programmes will enable teachers to provide effective feedback which will, in turn, enhance students learning and improve performance in Mathematics at CSEE.
Differentiated Assessments for Learners with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Inclusive Elementary Schools in Tanzania
Authors: Laiser Miriam Loivotoki , Msoka Mohamed Salum , Shavega Theresia Julius
Published: January 2024

Differentiated Instructions and modifications in curriculum and assessments are considered a prerequisite for the successful inclusion of learners with disabilities in general education. This qualitative study assessed the current provisions and the aspired changes in the curriculum, assessments, and transition plans for learners with Neurodevelopmental Diversities such as Autism in Tanzania. A total of 21 participants partaken in this study. The participants were obtained through purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data collection methods included in-depth interviews, documentary reviews and non-participant observation. Data were analyzed thematically, aided by the vivo 12. Participants were of the opinion that there is a limited provision with regard to only time (an additional twenty minutes in every hour for mathematics and ten minutes in each hour for other subjects) within the subsidiary legislation of the Examination regulations released by the National Examination Council of Tanzania (NECTA) in 2016. The provision, however, does not mention any neurodevelopmental disabilities in the categories of disabilities and the special provisions entitled to them. Lack of reasonable accommodations in the type and structure of questions, rigid modality of responses to the examination questions for learners with learning disabilities and limited flexibility in time and room arrangements have been mentioned as barriers to proper assessments for such learners. The study concludes that there is a need to embrace the evidence-based practices of responsive education, instead of the “one-size-fits-all” kind of education. This will help to improve the curriculum for all learners instead of the approach to “fix” the deficits of learners with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Formative Assessment Practices and its Influence on Students’ Learning and Achievement in Biology: Lessons from a Selected Community Secondary School in Moshi, Tanzania
Authors: Mrema Beatitude J. , Mlemba Alex , Massam Winston
Published: January 2024

This qualitative study explored current teachers’ formative assessment practices in Biology classrooms and how these practices influence performance in the subject. The study employed a case study design in a single selected community ordinary-level secondary school in Moshi municipality. It purposively involved two Biology teachers and twenty students selected from classes that do not have national examinations. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with teachers, classroom observations, and focus group discussions with the students, as well as a review of students’ exercise books. The data were transcribed verbatim, then coded and themes generated through interpretive phenomenological analysis. The findings showed that teacher’s oral questioning dominated the assessment practices. Other strategies such as peer assessment, student-student interactions, descriptive feedback, and sharing of learning intentions with students seemed to be unfamiliar to the Biology teachers involved. The study recommends among other things, in-service training for teachers on how to employ alternative formative assessment practices during instruction to promote students’ learning and achievement in Biology.
Applauding or Criticising the Announcement of the Best School and Student in the National Examination: Which Way to Go?
Authors: Charles Raphael CRN,
Published: January 2024

On 29th January 2023, the National Examination Council of Tanzania (NECTA) stopped announcing the best-performing schools and students. The announcement drew mixed reactions (some applauding or criticising) among education stakeholders. Using a descriptive survey design, this quantitative study specifically identified reasons for the applause or criticism; compared statistically the identified reasons; and the private and public education stakeholders on the announcement. The questionnaires were used to collect data from 500 stakeholders who were selected through a multi-stage sampling technique in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Mbeya, and Dodoma cities. The collected data were analysed using Descriptive Statistics and Independent t-tests. The findings indicate that, the applauding reasons include different study environments; no longer motivation for studying, improved understanding and restoring original logic of schooling. Other reasons are the announcement served no good purpose; the announcement marketed the schools; and it was not fair to compare schools using the British and NECTA systems.  Contrarily, the criticism reasons are the Government escapism from under-investment in public schools; denying of information to education researchers; suppressing information and putting society in the dark; removing the incentives for students; cause unforeseen consequences;  leader’s in-charge subjectivity/selfishness move and the Council ignores the foundational reason for the announcement. Furthermore, there is a very minimal statistically significant difference between the reasons for applauding (M=3.611, SD=.825) and the reasons for criticising (M=3.645, SD=.829) the announcement.  The t-test results portrayed no statistically significant difference between the private and public education stakeholders on the announcement. Therefore, none is more powerful than the other between the applause and criticism of the announcement. The private and public education stakeholders should look for an alternative approach to improving results in the national examinations than depending on the announcement of the best schools and students.
Transforming Biology Assessment through Written Feedback in Tanzania Secondary Education: Insights from Action Research
Authors: Wilfredi Devotha , Wachira Nicholas
Published: January 2024

This study examined the impact of written feedback in Biology assessment in secondary schools, focusing on both student and teacher perspectives. Using action research with 80 students and their teacher, the study spans four months across three reflective cycles. Central findings reveal that descriptive, non-evaluative feedback empowers students. Feedback clarifies misunderstandings, offers specific improvement guidance, and makes "next steps" manageable. Further, descriptive feedback exposes students to broader problem-solving strategies. The study also shows that written feedback transcends mere evaluation. It becomes a reflective dialogue, with students actively using feedback to improve, and teachers acting as facilitators, guiding students towards better learning outcomes. Consequently, assessment shifts from simply judging to a transformative partnership. Both students and teachers contribute actively, aligning assessment with the ultimate goal of enhanced learning.
Competence-Based Assessment in Tanzanian Teacher Education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Juma Hamis , Patel G. S.
Published: January 2024

Competence-based assessment plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality and effectiveness of teacher education programs in the dynamic landscape of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Understanding the existing assessment practices and their alignment with competence-based principles is essential for enhancing the preparation of future educators in this context. This study examined the assessment practices in Tanzanian teacher education programs gaining insights into how student teacher assessment is done and the alignment of competence-based principles in the preparation of student teachers. A survey involving 531 participants was conducted to gather data on Statistical analysis were employed to explore variations in assessment experiences based on gender, age, and education level. The findings indicate that traditional pen-and-paper assessments remain the dominant assessment method in Tanzanian teacher education, comprising a substantial 69%. Notably, 52% of student teachers believe are evaluated on their aptitude to seamlessly integrate technology into teaching and learning, accentuating the criticality of digital skills. Furthermore, our study unveils a multifaceted assessment landscape for innovation and critical thinking, with 25.2% of students always feeling assessed, in contrast to 13.6% who seldom or never experience this evaluation. Remarkably, gender emerges as a potent influencer in technology integration assessments, while age distinctly shapes the evaluation of research skills and collaborative abilities. Moreover, the findings underscore that competence-based assessment in Tanzanian teacher education is progressively adapting to meet the demands of the 4IR. However, they also underscore the need for a more diversified and innovative assessment approach to effectively address the evolving educational landscape. This study highlights the pronounced impact of gender, age, and education level on assessment experiences, underscoring the imperative for tailored approaches in nurturing future educators.
Formative Assessment Practices and its Effect on Employability Skills to Vocational Students in Tanzania
Authors: Ogondiek Mary
Published: January 2024

The study evaluated the effect of formative assessment practices on employability skills development. Specifically, the study explored students’ perceptions on essential employability skills for vocational career; examined formative assessment practices in vocational training centres and assessed the influence of formative assessment practices on employability skills among vocational students in Tanzania. It adopted a pragmatism paradigm which enabled the use of sequential explanatory mixed methods design. Data were collected from 97 vocational students and six vocational tutors sampled from Chang’ombe and Mwanza Vocational training centres. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using regression model and content analysis techniques respectively. The study found that, vocational Students perceive a number of employability skills as essential for their career. The vocational education and training centres employ workshop, industrial projects and field placement as formative assessment practices to enhance such employability skills. However, formative assessment which is essential for employability skills, accounts only for 40%, compared to 60% of its counterpart summative assessment. Therefore, the study recommends for curriculum review to give formative assessment a more weight than summative assessment. Further study may develop measuring scale for employability skills among vocational education graduates in Tanzania.
Integrating Learning Management System and Digital Library for Students’ Assessment
Authors: Makolo Renatus , Ishengoma Fredrick , Shao Deo
Published: January 2024

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has recently advanced in education sector where teachers and other educational stakeholders use learning management system (LMS) to improve students learning. Tanzania in the meantime, has implementing multiple initiatives aimed at enhancing ICT integration in education. The initiatives includes connection of National ICT broadband backbone, implementing various ICT projects such as Tanzania Education and Research Network (TERNET) and the use LMS and digital library (DL) through Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE). Apart from the government initiatives, a critical gap exists in the knowledge and proficiency of both tutors and students in utilizing LMS and DL skills to enhance creativity. This study seeks to address this issue by exploring the integration of LMS and DL to preserve the talents and skills of educators and students. The research utilized a mixed-method approach that involved questionnaires and interviews from tutors. Data were analyzed both inferentially and descriptively. The study found that 33% of tutors were competent to ICT skills related to LMS and DLs. Furthermore, the study proposed a digital library system (DiLaS) prototype as a blueprint for integrating LMS and DLs to support students in learning and assessment. The paper recommends that the government should draw policy strategies that support innovation in digital systems to preserve exceptional skills.
Examiners’ Feedback Reports and their Effects on Mathematics Performance in Tanzanian Secondary Schools
Authors: Shahanga Geofrey , Kasambala Momole
Published: January 2024

The National Examination Council of Tanzania (NECTA) issues Candidates Items Response Analysis reports (CIRA) as feedback reports for improving performance in secondary schools. Despite such initiative, the performance is in critical condition. Therefore, this paper presented in the NECTA 50th years’ anniversary conference which had the theme about ‘Assessment bodies as stirrers for effective learning’, evaluated such reports.  Specifically, the study explored students’ awareness of candidates’ items response analysis reports; examined the perceived usefulness of candidates’ items responses analysis reports; evaluated the availability of candidates’ items analysis reports, assessed students access of candidates’ items response analysis reports and evaluated the influence of candidates’ items responses analysis reports on mathematics performance in secondary schools. The study adopted a sequential exploratory mixed methods design, multiple regression model and feedback intervention theory. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interview from students and teachers in secondary schools. The study found that, most of the students in secondary schools are not aware of examiners’ feedback reports issued by the National Examination Council of Tanzania, hence do not make use of them, as the results they influence little on mathematics performance. Therefore, the study concludes that, there is a dire need for enforcing the effective utilization of such reports for improving performance. The study recommends therefore, teachers’ professional training institutions, T.I.E and ADEM to incorporate the use of feedback reports in their training packages.  Further study may develop intervention programme on effectiveness use of feedback reports for improving performance in secondary schools.
Utilisation of Information and Communication Technology in Teaching and Assessment of Secondary School Students in Tanzania
Authors: Swai Saukwaeli E.
Published: January 2024

This study assessed the implementation of ICT as a pedagogical tool in teaching and assessment of secondary school students in Tanzania. The study employed a survey design with 179 secondary school science teachers.  One teacher was randomly sampled from each of 179 randomly selected secondary schools. The teachers responded to questionnaires. Responses from questionnaires were coded and numbers entered into M-Excel for processing. Results obtained were presented in Tables showing absolute numbers and percentages. The study established that 62 per cent of teachers were trained in ICT as a pedagogical tool. They used the knowledge in teaching and assessment aspects such as searching teaching materials through internet (90%), examination word-processing (81%), typing notes (80%), processing examination results (59%) and using projectors in classroom instruction (56%). However, no teacher was found to use computer technology for assessment. Teachers faced various challenges in utilisation of ICT such as inadequate number of ICT equipment (78%), inadequate knowledge and skills in ICT (59%), unreliable internet (35%) and absence of electricity or power cut-off (34%). The study recommends that all teachers should be trained in the use of ICT in both teaching and assessment. Moreover, the challenges observed in the use of ICT should be addressed for effective utilisation and integration of ICT in secondary education.
Game Theory and International Politics (Free 2-Hour Introduction)
Authors: Güner Serdar
Published: January 2024

This free workshop, led by professor Serdar Güner from Bilkent University, explores the application of game theory in international politics, targeting PhD students, professors, and researchers in related fields. Participants will gain comprehensive insights into the strategic interactions within international politics through game theory, learning to apply these concepts to conflict resolution, negotiation, and policy-making. The workshop will be conducted via Zoom and all recordings and materials (including slides) will be availble for 30 days after the conclusion of the workshop.
KEPATUHAN MINUM OBAT BERBASIS TEORI MODEL IMOGENE KING PADA PASIEN HIPERTENSI
Authors: Sunaringtyas Widyasih , Habibah Diana Binti Tri
Published: January 2024

Hypertension is still an important problem for elderly. Most of those who suffer from hypertension are elderly, the aging process which has an impact on weakening brain function can cause mild memory problems or dementia so that most elderly people are disobedient to drinking, because they forget. The family as a companion to the elderly plays a role in reminding them through communication and function as a support system. The aim of this study was to determine adherence to taking hypertension medication based on the Imogene King model theory. The research design used is quantitative descriptive. The population in this study was 45 respondents, while the sample used was 40 respondents, using a purposive sampling technique in the UPTD Work Area of the Bendo Health Center, Pare District, Kediri Regency. Research variables on medication adherence based on Imogene King's model theory in hypertensive patients. This research instrument uses a questionnaire. Data analysis uses percentages and is interpreted quantitatively. The results of the research from 40 respondents, the majority of respondents, namely 28 (70%) were obedient to taking hypertension medication and a small portion of respondents, 12 (30%) were quite obedient in taking hypertension medication. The research results showed that the majority of respondents adhered to taking hypertension medication. It is hoped that the Imogene King model's theoretical interaction system can become a model for increasing medication adherence for families who have elderly family members who suffer from hypertension so that blood pressure is well controlled.
PENGETAHUAN MASYARAKAT USIA PRODUKTIF TENTANG DAMPAK MENGKONSUMSI MINUMAN BERENERGI PADA ORGAN GINJAL
Authors: Tanoto Wahyu
Published: January 2024

Productive age people are people who are in the age range of 15-64 years who have many activities and targets that must be achieved, coupled with the demands of work that require more energy instantly by consuming energy drinks without knowing the impact of energy drinks on the kidneys. The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge of the productive age community about the impact of consuming energy drinks on the kidneys in Putuk Kulon Hamlet, Ngluyu Village, Ngluyu District, Nganjuk Regency. Descriptive research design, population of 304 respondents, sample of 30 respondents, using a purposive sampling technique, questionnaire sheet research instruments, the research was conducted on March 16 - April 16 2023. The research variable was knowledge of the productive age community about the impact of consuming energy drinks on the kidneys. The data were analyzed using the percentage formula and the results were interpreted quantitatively. The results of the study were obtained from 30 respondents, half of the respondents had sufficient knowledge of 15 respondents (50%), almost half of the respondents had less knowledge of 8 respondents (27%), and a small proportion of respondents had good knowledge of 7 respondents (23%). This is influenced by several factors, namely age and marital status so that respondents are expected to have and add insight about knowledge of the impact of consuming energy drinks on the kidneys. Health workers are expected to provide regular health counseling for the community.
HUBUNGAN PERILAKU MEROKOK DENGAN MEMORI JANGKA PENDEK PADA REMAJA
Authors: Setianingsih Setianingsih , Purnomo Romadhoni Tri , Qotifah Ninda Lilis , Murtono Agus
Published: January 2024

Perilaku merokok merupakan kebiasaan buruk yang sering ditemui dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Dianggap sebagai permasalahan yang dapat mengganggu  perkembangan remaja di masa depan dan perubahan tersebut mempengaruhi perilaku anak di lingkungan masyarakat, selain itu dapat mengganggu kesehatan serta faktor risiko dari suatu penyakit tidak menular. Hal tersebut menjadi masalah di seluruh dunia baik negara maju maupun negara berkembang. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan perilaku merokok dengan memori jangka pendek pada remaja kelas X di SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Klaten Utara. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain deskriptif korelasional dengan pendekatan cross sectional. Populasi penelitian ini adalah remaja laki-laki usia (16-19 tahun). Responden penelitian sebanyak 135 siswa yang diperoleh dengan teknik purposive sampling yang sesuai dengan kriteria inklusi dalam penelitian. Instrumen pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner dan tes digit span. Analisa data bivariat menggunakan uji Kendall Tau. Hasil penelitian ini rerata usia 61,43 tahun. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan perilaku merokok pada derajat sedang (34,1 %), memori jangka pendek pada remaja di SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Klaten Utara adalah memori lemah (52,6 %). Hasil uji Kendall Tau menunjukkan ada hubungan antara perilaku merokok dengan memori jangka pendek pada remaja p value 0,00 (p < 0,05). Kesimpulan antara perilaku merokok memiliki hubungan dengan memori jangka pendek pada remaja di SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Klaten Utara.
KONSEP DIRI BERKORELASI DENGAN KESEHATAN MENTAL SANTRI
Authors: Nurhidayati Istianna , Murtana Agus , Mawardi Mawardi , Nurhudaf Muklis
Published: January 2024

Santri have low self-concept, which is characterized by lack of confidence, low self-esteem, and negative self-assessment. Lack of adequate social support from family, friends, and teachers puts santri at risk of experiencing mental health problems. This study aims to identify the self-concept and mental health of santri. The research design used an analytical descriptive research method with a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of 350 male santri. The sample used in this study was 77 respondents consisting of male santri in grades 6 and 7. The sampling technique used cluster random sampling method. The research instrument used the Self-Concept instrument created by Prastiwi and the Mental Health Instrument using MHI-38 used by Diyah, both of which were re-validated and reliable. Data analysis used Kendall’s Tau correlation. The average age of santri was 13.7 years. Positive self-concept 83.1% of santri, good mental health 46.8% and very good mental health 44.2% of santri. Correlation analysis shows a positive relationship between santri’s self-concept and mental health with alpha 0.000. Santri’s self-concept is positive and mental health is good. There is a positive correlation between self-concept and santri’s mental health. Positive self-concept improves santri’s mental health.