bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
JOB-RELATED CONSTRAINTS FACED BY WORKING WOMEN IN RURAL AREAS: A CASE STUDY OF AKBAR PURA DISTRICT NOWSHERA, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN
Authors: Aman Laila , Naz Saira , Dilzak Saifullah Khan
Published: September 2023

The study was conducted in Akbar Pura village, located in the Nowshera district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, with the objective of examining the job-related constraints faced by working women. The study aimed to identify the types and nature of jobs undertaken by these women and investigate the challenges they encountered both in the workplace and at home due to family responsibilities. A sample of households with working women was selected using simple random sampling, representing twenty-five percent of the total households. The findings of the study indicated that most of the respondents were literate, belonged to the young age group, and were unmarried; the majority of the working women were involved in teaching professions. The practice of pardah (veiling) was common among the respondents, and it was perceived as both a cultural and Islamic practice. The study identified several constraints and difficulties faced by working women, these included problems related to transportation, instances of men staring at women, time constraints, managing household responsibilities, lack of respect for female workers, and the expectation to return home early. The majority of the women shared these problems with their family members. Based on the findings, the study recommended the provision of a conducive and secure environment for working women so that they can perform their jobs effectively and support their families. It also emphasized the importance of prioritizing women's education to enable them to shoulder the economic burdens of their families. In summary, the study conducted in Akbar Pura village highlighted the job-related constraints faced by working women. The findings emphasized the need for a supportive environment and increased education for women to empower them economically and address the challenges they face in both the workplace and their homes.
 

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MOBILE LEARNING INTEGRATION AMONG TEACHERS OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Authors: Jukić Renata , Svalina Vlasta , Gradečak Tanja
Published: September 2023

Unstoppable and constant advances in technology affect the inevitable changes in the ways and methods of teaching, but also changes in different students’ learning needs. New generations of students are characterized by mobility and because of that the information is very easily accessible, which requires the implementation of new trends in the educational process. One of these trends is mobile learning, which is available to young people everywhere and at any time 24/7. Therefore, it is scientifically and pedagogically justified to research the implementation and evaluation of such a new useful education tool in facilitating foreign language teaching. Mobile learning combines all forms of learning which refer to mobile devices and wireless internet. Such learning with the help of modern technologies would make it easier for students to acquire new knowledge, and at the same time to improve and to accelerate their personal and social development. Due to the various opportunities provided by mobile learning, the complexity of its implementation and implementation in teaching English as a foreign language increased almost exponentially. It has become particularly obvious in times of uncertainty such as the implementation of distance learning instead of traditional classroom teaching due to a sudden pandemic around the world. Although mobile learning is very often taken for granted because it is considered a disruptive factor in foreign language teaching (Aldrich, 2017), the affirmative attitude about mobile foreign language learning (MALL) (Zhang, Cristol, 2017) has become increasingly prevalent. The paper analyzes the results of a survey of English language teachers in primary and secondary schools in Osijek-Baranja County, which is one of the 21 counties in the Republic of Croatia, on attitudes toward mobile learning obtained from a sample of 121 participants. They point that the use of digital media in teaching is changing didactic and methodological methods and approaches to learning English, especially in secondary education. There is a lack of research on multimedia-didactic structuring of mobile learning in foreign language teaching in Croatia, this research will contribute to a better understanding of this issue but also offer possible solutions for designing innovative methods in teaching English from the aspect of mobile learning.

 

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THE EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GIVEN BY CREATIVE DRAMA METHOD ON ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Tümer N. Bilge Koçak , Kaya Yıldız
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study is to examine the effects of environmental education given by creative drama method on 5-6 year old children on environmental awareness of children. The study, which has a mixed model in which qualitative and quantitative methods are used, has a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test control group. The study was carried out with a total of 26 children. The data were collected by using “Environmental Scale for Children” and by drawing pictures. As a result of the analyses of t-test, a significant difference in favour of the experimental group was found between the two groups (t= -7,676, p<.05). It has been determined that environmental education given by drama method has a positive effect on children's environmental awareness. The content analysis method was used for the analysis of pictures drawn by children at the end of the sessions. It was found that children reflected the importance of trees/forests, living things relation, importance of air and water in their pictures.
 

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AN APPROACH TO TEACHING MODES
Authors: Soycan Merve
Published: September 2023

Modes have historically been at the centre of music until the end of the Renaissance period, and were ignored for a while with the tonal system in the Baroque period and afterwards. However, in the contemporary period, with the search for new music, they started to gain popularity again and continued to be used as major and minor tonalities. Modes, which have their own unique interval structure, have a different sound scale and feeling compared to major and minor tonalities. For this reason, it takes some time for students who have tonal sensation and practice habits to learn and understand the modes. In many written sources, the concept of mode is explained by associating it with the major scale degrees. This way of expression increases the possibility of making mistakes because it is an indirect way. In this study, it is aimed to present a different approach to the teaching of modes, and examples of the way to be followed are given.
 

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"BALANCE" ... IN PRESCHOOL: A PROPOSAL ON HOW TO TEACH NATURAL SCIENCES USING EDUCATIONAL ROBOTICS
Authors: Angelopoulos Georgios , Stamatopoulos Savvas
Published: September 2023

This current study is a teaching proposal that approaches the concept of balance in an interdisciplinary way in kindergarten. Based on the Greek Kindergarten Curriculum, an educational intervention is proposed in the context of the thematic unit: "Child and Environment" and falls under the second axis: "Natural Environment and Interaction". When the infants build a simple seesaw machine ("robotic" seesaw) using the LEGO® Education Early Simple Machines Set, they start wondering about how it works. Acting collaboratively, the infants’ experiment with simple machines and make assumptions, each time experimenting according to the given instructions. Throughout the learning process, the teacher provides clear instructions and completes the findings of the infants, in order to draw the final conclusions that will lead to the solution of the problem. In this way, the infants are given the opportunity to develop computational thinking skills that can potentially open up new professional horizons in the future.
 

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THE SCHOOL DROPOUT OF ROMA STUDENTS: A RESEARCH EFFORT ON THE CAUSES OF THE PHENOMENON
Authors: Papachristou Maria
Published: September 2023

The group of Roma, who live and work in Greece, has failed to face the social prejudice regarding their social integration so far. The school dropout rate of Roma students, which in many cases confirms the inability of their school integration, also contributes to this. In addition, school integration is a prerequisite for the smooth social integration of students with social, cultural, economic, or learning difficulties. The purpose of this research is to investigate and identify the reasons that reinforce the phenomenon of school dropout of Roma students. Specifically, it investigates the views of 10 current Primary School Principals, which Roma students also attend, through semi-structured interviews. The conclusion drawn is that the cultural-socioeconomic background of the Roma is a deterrent to their normal schooling.
 

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THE STUDY OF PAST EMOTIONS AS A BASIS FOR EMOTIONAL EDUCATION IN MUSIC EDUCATION TODAY
Authors: Raptis Theocharis
Published: September 2023

The two main areas of focus in this paper are (a) the intense relationship between music and emotions and (b) the increasing interest in emotions in education and in many fields of social life over recent years. It is suggested that music could be used in music education and in general education in relation to emotional education. This is not a new idea but should be critically rethought in relation to the aims of emotional education as well as reflecting on the main way in which it conceals the social roots and power relations in the experience and expression of emotions. The basis of this consideration is a brief review of the study of the history of emotions so that emphasis is given to the fact that emotions are also a social product. It is the hope that by at least moving into the field of music education and making some proposals, teachers and students will be able to gain more free space to experience and express emotions.
 

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INDONESIAN EFL LEARNERS’ ERRORS IN IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS: TEACHERS’ & STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Listyani L. , Thren Andrew T.
Published: September 2023

In an Indonesian setting, writing proper idiomatic expressions poses significant challenges for the majority of EFL students. Oftentimes, the idiomatic meanings deviate from the literal meanings and students are affected by their own first language and cultural contexts in usage. Therefore, this study explores the erroneous mistakes made by Indonesian EFL students and offers insights into teachers’ and students’ perspectives. This research will primarily examine the factors that influence university-level Academic Writing class students in incorrectly translating idiomatic expressions from the source language to the target language. The data for analysis was retrieved from students of Academic Writing classes from two different universities in West Java and Central Java to provide a comparative context in analyzing their mistakes. A comparative descriptive approach was applied, as this was deemed more appropriate for a study on semantic and translation strategies. The research results revealed that the study participants primarily experienced L1 interference, insufficient linguistic and grammatical knowledge, and a lack of lexical knowledge. Another obstacle was the students’ tendency to not heed cultural aspects in their writing and translating. Consequently, it is essential for EFL learners to be able to properly understand and translate idiomatic expressions in their writing to improve their target-language proficiency. Thus, instructors and students play crucial roles in successfully traversing this linguistic endeavor. Through proper instruction and active engagement, EFL learners can improve their linguistic mastery and cultural fluency, facilitating them to write more naturally in English.

 

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INTERACTION BEHAVIORS OF STUDENTS FROM THAI NGUYEN UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION WITH CHATGPT: BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES / HÀNH VI TƯƠNG TÁC CỦA SINH VIÊN TRƯỜNG ĐHSP – ĐH THÁI NGUYÊN VỚI CHATGPT: LỢI ÍCH VÀ THÁCH THỨC
Authors: Loan Nguyen Thi Phuong , Khoa Cao Tien , Khanh Kieu Thi , Linh Nguyen Quang
Published: September 2023

This study was conducted against the backdrop of the robust growth in the use of technology in education, specifically the application of ChatGPT. The primary objective of the research was to examine the interaction behaviors and evaluations of students from the Thai Nguyen University of Education when approaching and utilizing ChatGPT for learning. Employing a survey method based on both closed and open-ended questions, we gathered information regarding usage objectives, benefits, and challenges faced by students. The results revealed that students predominantly use ChatGPT to address personal queries, practice communication skills, and seek academic information. To leverage this tool more effectively, there is a desire among students for the institution to provide paid accounts and organize training sessions. Alongside, there are concerns about managing and using this tool in the learning process. The study emphasizes the significance of integrating ChatGPT into the learning journey, aiding students in enhancing their skills and knowledge.

Nghiên cứu này được thực hiện trong bối cảnh tăng trưởng mạnh mẽ của việc sử dụng công nghệ trong giáo dục, đặc biệt là ứng dụng của ChatGPT. Mục tiêu chính của nghiên cứu là khảo sát hành vi tương tác và đánh giá của sinh viên Trường ĐHSP - ĐH Thái Nguyên khi tiếp cận và sử dụng ChatGPT trong việc học. Sử dụng phương pháp khảo sát dựa trên câu hỏi đóng và mở, chúng tôi thu thập thông tin về mục tiêu sử dụng, lợi ích và thách thức mà sinh viên gặp phải. Kết quả cho thấy sinh viên chủ yếu sử dụng ChatGPT để giải đáp thắc mắc cá nhân, luyện tập kỹ năng giao tiếp và tìm kiếm thông tin học thuật. Để sử dụng hiệu quả hơn công cụ này, sinh viên có mong muốn nhà trường cung cấp tài khoản trả phí và tổ chức các buổi tập huấn. Bên cạnh đó cũng có những lo ngại về việc quản lý và sử dụng công cụ này trong học tập. Nghiên cứu nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của việc sử dụng ChatGPT vào quá trình học tập, giúp sinh viên nâng cao kỹ năng và kiến thức của mình.

 

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REPERCUSSIONS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION ON RELATIONSHIP CLOSENESS AND RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION AMONGST CHINESE UNDERGRADUATES
Authors: Wei Li-Wei
Published: September 2023

In the current socio-digital epoch, the intricate interplay between social media addiction and its potential ramifications on romantic relationships remains largely enigmatic, especially within specific demographic subsets. This study aims to elucidate the repercussions of social media addiction on love relationship closeness and satisfaction among Chinese undergraduates. A cohort of 583 Chinese undergraduates was meticulously analyzed, encompassing an almost equal gender distribution and spanning across diverse academic ranks and relationship durations. Utilizing the "Social Media Addiction Scale - Adult Form (SMAS-AF)" and validated scales for assessing relationship intimacy and satisfaction, the research painted a multifaceted picture. Findings revealed a high inclination towards social media addiction (X=4.20), with specific aspects of engagement demonstrating profound agreement among participants. An analytic exploration of the addiction demonstrated a pronounced influence on cognitive faculties and emotional regulation while revealing less consistent challenges in curtailing usage. In the romantic realm, while relationship closeness yielded a moderate mean score of 3.38, love relationship satisfaction signaled a moderate-to-high satisfaction degree (X=3.83). Interestingly, while gender and academic progression remained non-determinants for addiction levels, relationship length emerged as a significant variable. Correlational analyses showcased a stark negative association between social media addiction and relationship closeness (r= -.491) but, surprisingly, a positive correlation with relationship satisfaction (r= .129). Such dichotomous outcomes advocate for deeper investigation, perhaps suggesting a paradigm wherein intensified digital engagement might enhance superficial relationship contentment at the potential cost of depth and closeness.
 

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INVESTIGATION OF WETLAND AWARENESS OF GIFTED STUDENTS
Authors: Sönmez Derya
Published: September 2023

Wetlands such as lakes, reeds, marshes and deltas are in danger of extinction in the world and in Turkey. The aim of this study is to examine the wetland awareness of gifted students. Wetland awareness of gifted students was examined according to gender and grade level variables. The research was carried out with 120 secondary school students studying in a science and art center in the eastern Mediterranean region of Turkey in the 2022-2023 academic year. In the study, the survey model, which is one of the quantitative research methods, was used. “Children's Wetland Awareness Scale” was used to collect data. The scale includes two sub-dimensions: awareness of the importance of wetlands and the problems experienced, and awareness of wetlands in terms of bird species diversity. As a result of the research, it was concluded that the wetland awareness of the gifted students was at a high level. It was determined that there was no statistically significant difference according to gender and class level in the wetland awareness scale from the eyes of the children, the importance of wetlands and the awareness of the problems experienced, and the wetland awareness dimensions in terms of bird species.
 

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PRINCIPALS’ EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND TEACHERS’ JOB PERFORMANCE IN PRIVATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ayoro Raphael Aruoture , Onyeike Victoria C. , Ihechi F. Jack
Published: September 2023

The paper investigated principals’ educational resource management and teachers’ job performance in private secondary schools in Delta State. Two research questions were raised and two corresponding hypotheses were tested in the study. A correlation survey design was adopted in the study. The population of the study was 15,951 (1,177 principals and 14,774 teachers) out of which 390 respondents (29 principals and 361 teachers) were sampled for the study using a stratified random sampling technique after applying the Taro Yamane minimum sample size determination formula. Two questionnaires titled “Principals Educational Resource Management Scale “PERMS” with 20 items and “Teachers Job Performance Scale” (TJPS) with 20 items were used to collect data on the independent and dependent variables of the study. The instruments were face and content validated by three experts in Measurement and Evaluation from the Department of Educational Psychology, Guidance and Counselling, University of Port Harcourt while Cronbach alpha was used to estimate the reliability of the questionnaires. Out of the 390 copies of the questionnaire administered, 352 copies (90.3%) were retrieved. The research questions were answered using simple regression while the hypotheses were tested using a t-test associated with simple regression at a 0.05 level of significance. The result of the study showed that financial and material resource management had a strong positive relationship of 0.630 and 0.728 with teachers’ job performance and contributed 39.8% and 53.1% respectively to teachers’ job performance. The relationship between both variables was also significant. The regular financial audit was recommended so that school funds can be judiciously used to promteachers’hers job performance.
 

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POWER AND RESISTANCE IN TONI MORRISON'S SULA AND PARADISE: A FOUCAULDIAN STUDY
Authors: Sharmin Rafia
Published: September 2023

Michel Foucault's notions of power and resistance are evocative as one attempt to explain the hitherto unexplained meaning of women's subjugation and resistance as represented in the patriarchal society in Toni Morrison's Sula and Paradise. The patriarchal agents in these novels enforce white beauty standards, dictate women's roles and behaviors, emphasize marriage and motherhood, and use sexual exploitation to control women. Research has shown that both novels have received widespread critical attention, exploring themes including the politics of maternal violence, counter-memory, biopower, internal racism, and colonialism. However, a comparative study of Sula and Paradise through Foucault's concepts of disciplinary power and constant surveillance may reveal the subtle ways power operates in patriarchal societies, and by analyzing the female characters' resistance strategies, the study may uncover how women challenge and resist patriarchal norms. Employing the textual analysis method and Foucault's ideas of power and resistance, this research aims to determine how the women of Morrison's Sula and Paradise suffer oppression due to patriarchal disciplinary power and constant surveillance in their community, which ultimately triggers their resistance.

 

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TEACHER-EVALUATORS’ NARRATIVE ACCOUNTS IN ASSESSING SELF-LEARNING MODULES (SLM)
Authors: Loria Angelie C. , Espinosa Francisco M.
Published: September 2023

This study aims to describe the narrative accounts of teacher-evaluators in assessing the quality of SLMs. This study uses a narrative research approach to examine five teacher-evaluators from the Koronadal City Division. As part of Bruner's theoretical framework, individuals produce new ideas or concepts based on prior information. Their expertise is needed to choose and process data. This study applies this approach because the cognitive structure organizes perceptions and helps individuals go beyond knowledge because evaluating self-learning material quality teaches teachers new concepts (SLMs). The finding reveals that participants feel honored and pressured, some are ready to carry out any assignment, and some are happy and excited. Participants indicated the advantage indicated learning new things and meaningful experiences, while the disadvantage indicated adding workloads. This research may support and motivate teacher-evaluators to tailor instruction to meet individual needs. Whether they differentiate content, process, products, or the learning environment, ongoing assessment and flexible grouping make this a successful approach to assessing students' SLMs quality. This study would provide a framework to build certain tasks, activities, or modules to motivate teachers and help them focus attention, organize information for understanding and remembering, monitor and assess learning, encourage self-monitoring, and self-correct tools for reflecting on and assessing their own learning in evaluating the quality assurance of SLM's.
 

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JOB SATISFACTION, ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE: STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODEL OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT AMONG PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS
Authors: Quines Lyndon A. , Arendain Editha I.
Published: September 2023

The desire of teachers to support students and assume responsibility for their education is embraced by the concept of teacher’s organizational commitment. The idea of teachers' organizational commitment embraces teachers' desire to assist students and take ownership of their education. To determine how happy they were with their positions, how they felt about the business culture, how balanced work and family life were, and how devoted they were to the organization, this study looked at 420 public school teachers in the Davao Region. Furthermore, it analyzed the associations between the factors. A structure-equation model was used to determine work-life balance, job satisfaction, and organizational culture that matched teachers' organizational commitment. The discoveries uncovered high degrees of hierarchical commitment, the balance between serious and fun activities, authoritative culture, and occupation fulfillment. Important relationships were between work-life balance, organizational commitment, and job satisfaction. Organizational culture and organizational commitment were also important relationships. Lastly, there was a good fit for the teachers' organizational commitment regarding work-life balance, organizational support, and professional pride. These factors included organizational culture, employee management, and strategic emphasis. Therefore, job satisfaction, organizational commitment and work life balance were strong predictors of organizational commitment. In order to prevent teacher turnover in this profession, it was advised that schools always support teachers' ongoing professional development, which can be done through seminars and training.
 

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THE EFFECT OF DROPOUT PREVENTION PROGRAM OF 9th GRADE RETENTIONS STUDENTS ON DROPOUT RISK, SELF-EFFICACY BELIEF AND LEARNING MOTIVATION STRATEGIES
Authors: Ertekin Gülşah , Gazioğlu Ayşe Esra İşmen
Published: September 2023

High school dropout is a common problem in many countries and governments are trying to solve this problem for years. School counsellors can play an important role in dropout prevention by implementing school-based interventions. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the Social-Cognitive Learning theory-based dropout prevention program which is applied to 9th grade retention students of the Anatolian and vocational high school students who were at risk for dropout. The dropout prevention program was aimed at reducing dropout risk, enhancing self-efficacy belief, and learning motivation strategies of students. The program was implemented in 11 sessions for the experimental students. For the data analysis, ‘ANOVA’ for the repeated measures and ‘Bonferroni test were used to evaluate the effect of the program on students. The result of the study showed that the dropout prevention program is effective in reducing participants’ dropout risk, enhancing learning motivation strategies, and moderating self-efficacy beliefs. In conclusion, it can be said that Social-Cognitive Learning theory-based psychoeducation program is effective to reduce the dropout risk at high schools.
 

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ENHANCING COMPREHENSION AND MOTIVATION IN LOWER LEVEL ECUADOR EFL STUDENTS: AN ACTION RESEARCH STUDY OF THREE READING STRATEGIES AT UNAE
Authors: Sevy-Biloon Julia , Cajamarca Alvear Tania , Avila Mendez Andrea
Published: September 2023

It has been observed that EFL students at the National University of Education (UNAE) struggle with acquiring basic vocabulary, reading comprehension skills, and intrinsic motivation to promote reading in English. To address this issue, a qualitative exploratory action research was conducted aimed at improving these areas through the use of three reading strategies—extensive reading, language experience approach (LEA), and literacy circles—on the reading and motivation of 89 lower-level EFL students in UNAE within three different courses which were conducted over a six-month period. Qualitative and quantitative tools such as diagnostic and summative exams, questionnaires, observations, and reflective journals were used to understand and identify students' improvement and progress throughout the exploratory, intervention, and reflection phases of the study. Throughout this period the teachers regularly observed the strategies being utilized in the classes and reflected on their experiences. The findings from these tools suggest that the implementation of the different reading strategies together had a positive impact on students' reading abilities, writing abilities, vocabulary, comprehension, engagement, and motivation. Additionally, students were more motivated to read not only in class but also for pleasure, which promoted increased reading in English. The study provides insights into the potential benefits of using these strategies to facilitate autonomous reading, improve overall language competencies and may support EFL teachers in the development of reading programs that foster autonomous learning, increase motivation, and promote language development among EFL learners.
 

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A COME-BACK TO LISTENING IN THE EFLT: THE SOLICITED BUT NEGLECTED SKILL
Authors: Slimani Najib , Moubtassim Nada El Idrissi
Published: September 2023

By scholarly consensus, listening is a fundamental language-related skill. It is closely linked to and affected by other language skills, such as speaking, reading, and writing. The focus of language learning was initially on written communication. Slowly but surely, listening started to gain ground as a solicited skill for learners. Several theories and methods have cropped up to suggest new techniques and strategies geared toward fostering learners’ listening efficacy. However, the applicability of these methods to listening is far from being a challenge-free endeavour. Morocco-wise, there seems to be less focus on listening, and this is ascribed to various factors. Within this vein, this paper addresses listening-bound challenges liable to thwart the implementation of this important skill. The paper connects the dots around listening in the EFL context. The outcome of this review paper indicates that listening goes uncatered for in the Moroccan EFL settings. The fact of overlooking this skill is motivated by subjective and objective opinions.
 

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TRANSLATION IN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING: FROM A SUB ROSA PRACTICE INTO A BEDROCK OF GLOBAL EDUCATION POLICY
Authors: Moqadem Anwar Ben , Koumachi Bani
Published: September 2023

Ever since the Grammar Translation Method has been outlawed in mainstream language education policy, translation as a tool for language learning and teaching has been ostracized for a variety of reasons other than pedagogical. However, with the currently growing multilingualism and multiculturalism, there is an ideal opportunity to engage in true cultural dialog and democratic citizenship. The translation is justifiably an essential step in the process of global identity construction. Today, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages with its Companion Volume with New Descriptors for Mediation provides a blueprint for installing mediation as a proxy for translation in the learning and teaching of English as a foreign language. In this regard, mediation is conceived of as a set of translatorial skills that are highly required by today's world citizens in day-to-day life situations. Therefore, the foreign language classroom has to provide for the development of language learners as social agents whose mission is to establish and maintain communication across linguistic and cultural barriers. Within this perspective, this paper joins the initiative to close the conceptual, theoretical, and methodological divide between translation studies and foreign language learning and teaching methodologies. In doing so, it purports to reassess the validity of translation as a pedagogical activity in the foreign language classroom in light of the mediation descriptors provided by the Council of Europe in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL).
 

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EFL ADOLESCENT LEARNERS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS APPLYING DYNAMIC ASSESSMENT TO ENHANCE THEIR SPEAKING PERFORMANCE
Authors: Nang Tran Thi Cam
Published: September 2023

Dynamic assessment (DA) has been broadly applied in educational settings over the past few decades. It not only helps evaluate students’ learning ability but also helps predict their potential future development at the same time. This study aims to investigate EFL adolescent learners’ attitudes toward applying DA to enhance their speaking performance. The data were gathered through a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. 14 participants who had experienced DA were invited to do a questionnaire expressing their attitudes including three aspects, namely behavioural, cognitive, and emotional. Then six of them were selected to enter semi-structured interviews. The result of the questionnaire revealed that EFL adolescent learners possessed positive attitudes in three domains- behavioural, cognitive, and emotional. The data from the interviews showed that classroom anxiety was not a big problem for students. Eagerness, concentration, confidence, and motivation were what they gained after getting used to DA. Besides, DA was reported to enhance their speaking performance in terms of accuracy and fluency.
 

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READING HABITS OF STUDENTS OF THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, ECUADOR, AND ITS EFFECTS ON THEIR PERFORMANCE IN READING IN THE TARGET LANGUAGE
Authors: Cajamarca Tania , Gonzalez Diana
Published: September 2023

The study aims to assess the impact of students' reading habits in their first language (L1) on their English acquisition at the National University of Education. It found that students who do not frequently read in their first language negatively influence their second language reading habits, resulting in a lack of vocabulary acquisition and fundamental grammatical structure management. As English professors, we were concerned about the underperformance in reading abilities of our students. This was further evidenced by the poor scores of learners who took the B1 test, particularly in the reading section. As a result, we began investigating the reading habits of students and the possible factors that contribute to their low reading proficiency. In the study, we administered a survey and a diagnostic test to 70 students from level five and 29 students from level six. The results showed that an extensive number of students read scarcely. A considerable number of students did not read at all. Only a minority of the assessed students read routinely. We compared the results from the survey with the data collected by the diagnostic test. We observed that students who barely read in L1 did not reach a high-performance score in their diagnostic. Furthermore, we concluded that reading in their mother tongue influences their reading performance in the target language. Therefore, it is necessary to motivate students to enhance their reading skills in the first and second language to acquire the vocabulary and grammar knowledge needed to improve their level of English.
 

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FAIRNESS AND AUTHENTICITY OF ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES USED AT THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF LESOTHO AMID COVID-19: A CASE OF B.ED PRIMARY PROGRAMME
Authors: Malebohang Catherine Morena , Mokhets’engoane Setho John
Published: September 2023

During the Covid-19 pandemic, different institutions globally introduced alternative methods such as Online Teaching and Learning (OTL) or home-based learning and testing. Despite the upsurge of Covid-19 and a shift in modality, students’ progress needed to be assessed as it determines how much students have learned. Drawing from critical pedagogy, this paper, therefore, explored the fairness and the authenticity of assessment strategies that were employed by one university in Lesotho during the Covid era. The qualitative case study research design was deployed in order to understand the views of students regarding the topic under investigation. The data were collected through a semi–structured interviews telephonically. Our sample was composed of 8 students (n=8) that were selected based on purpose. Overall, it appears that opinions are divided regarding the fairness and authenticity of assessment strategies used by NUL during the Covid-19 pandemic. While some participants did not express concern about being taught online and assessed offline, others maintained that if they were taught online, they expected to be assessed online in order to maintain fairness and authenticity. Considering these findings and the evidence currently attested by the participants of this study, one of the recommendations is that assessment expectations should be clearly communicated to the students in advance.
 

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INFLUENCE OF DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DELTA STATE SKILLS TRAINING AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMME (STEP)
Authors: Ajaino A. E. , Odili J. N. , Ossai P. A. U.
Published: September 2023

This study evaluated the influence of Demographic factors on the implementation of the Delta State Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP). The population of the study comprised 4,559 beneficiaries. A sample size of 1,000 beneficiaries was selected through proportionate stratified and convenience sampling techniques. The questionnaire was used to collect data. Experts’ judgement was used to validate the instrument. The test-retest method of reliability was used to determine the reliability of the instrument, with a coefficient of 0.82. Frequency and percentage were used to analyse the data. The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant difference between male and female beneficiaries of the STEP on the establishment of their own enterprises after graduating from the programme; that there is a significant difference between male and female beneficiaries of the STEP on their employment of other youths after graduating from the programme; and that there is no significant difference among beneficiaries of the STEP on the establishment of their own enterprises on the basis of their marital status after graduating from the programme. The study further showed that there is no significant difference among beneficiaries of the STEP on the employment of other youths on the basis of their marital status after graduating from the programme; that there is a significant difference among beneficiaries of the STEP on the establishment of their own enterprises on the basis of their educational qualification after graduating from the programme; and that there is no significant difference among beneficiaries of the STEP on their employment of other youths on the basis of their educational qualification after graduating from the programme. The study recommended amongst others that the program be expanded to accommodate more economically viable skills and vocations, including commerce/trade apprenticeship.
 

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PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF GREEK SOCCER REFEREES OF PROFESSIONAL AND AMATEUR CATEGORIES
Authors: Chatzigiannis K. , Zacharogiannis E.
Published: September 2023

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the physiological characteristics of Greek soccer referees in professional and amateur categories. Material and methods: Twenty Greek soccer referees (10 amateur, 10 professional level) underwent laboratory evaluation to determine anthropometrical characteristics, cardiorespiratory endurance parameters, anaerobic alactic power, maximal power for the knee extensors and flexors, leg explosive power and optical stimulus reaction time. Results: Mean values of body weight (78,22 ± 6.87 v 90,5 ± 15,66), relative lower limb power (10,3 ± 0,85 v 9,47 ± 1), peak oxygen intake (54,96 ± 4,88 v 45,79 ± 4,58), speed of peak oxygen intake (16,54 ± 0,88 v 14,06 ± 1,55), speed of anaerobic threshold (12,4 ± 0,81 v 10,6 ± 1,13), maximum power of right leg knee extensors (356,2 ± 62,7 v 421,3 ± 84,4)  and left leg knee flexors were different (276,8 ± 39,48 v 308,1 ± 37,51) (p < 0.05) between professional and amateur referees. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed for mean age (31,4 ± 3,66 26,7 ± 6,11), height (179,8 ± 4,96 v 181,00 ± 4,50),  % fat (17,51 ± 2,36 v 20,39 ± 5,4), flexibility (18,6 ± 5,82 v 13,4 ± 9,96), anaerobic alactic power (804,8 ± 93,4 v 846 ± 97,8), maximal leg frequency (181,3 ± 20,65 v 180,7 ± 11,59), leg explosive force (31,4 ± 4,33 v 30,48 ± 2,68), reaction time (0,24 ± 0,03 v 0,24 ± 0,03), maximum heart rate (184,4 ± 11,44 v 188,2 ± 10,11) maximal blood lactate concentration (9,62 ± 2,71 v 9,47 ± 2,65) maximum left leg knee extending power (369,3 ± 74,34 v 422,7 ± 97,24) as well as right leg flexors (274,9 ± 26,13 v 298,1 ± 51) and the relative power of left and right lower limb extensors and flexors(4,55 ± 0,70 v 4,66 ± 0,63), (4,73 ± 0,84 v 4,67 ± 0,77), (3,52 ± 0,29 v 3,32 ± 0,48), (3,55 ± 0,49 v 3,47 ± 0,53) respectively. Conclusions: Professional-level referees compared to referees who manage games in amateur categories, mainly present increased cardiorespiratory endurance parameters. This difference can be attributed to the long-term systematic preparation and their frequent periodic fitness level examinations by the federation with fitness tests that are also a criterion of failure from this level of refereeing.
 

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SOLUTIONS TO IMPROVE STUDENTS' SATISFACTION IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES
Authors: Son Nguyen Do Minh , Khai Huynh Trong
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to find out the solutions to improve students' satisfaction in physical education courses at Saigon University. 1378 students participated in physical education courses (such as football, volleyball, table tennis, basketball, and badminton) in the academic year 2021-2022 has been conducted by using questionnaires to survey. Through the steps of the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats in teaching process, expert consultation, combined with experimental process based on 7 factors, i.e. facilities, lecturers, training program, the implementation, support process, problem responsiveness and expected results. Results had selected and applied 08 solutions to improve the satisfaction level of students at Saigon University after participating in physical education courses. In short, the application of the solutions has contributed to improving the satisfaction level of students after participating in the physical education courses.
 

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ASSESSMENT OF THE ACTUAL SITUATION OF MEETING THE NEEDS OF KARATE-DO TRAINING PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS OF THE PEOPLE’S SECURITY ACADEMY
Authors: Linh Nguyen Trac
Published: September 2023

Use the method of document reference, interview, sociological investigation and mathematical statistics methods to assess the actual situation of the extracurricular Karate-do training program for students of the People’s Security Academy, and at the same time select criteria to assess the needs of the extracurricular Karate-do training program, on that basis, assess actual situation of meeting the needs of the extracurricular Karate-do training program for students of the People’s Security Academy. As a result, the extracurricular Karate-do training program currently being used at the People's Security Academy is only satisfied in a moderate manner. Therefore, building an extracurricular Karate-do training program in the direction of meeting needs is a necessary and urgent matter.
 

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CURRENT STATUS OF STUDENTS’ ENGAGEMENT IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT LY TU TRONG COLLEGE, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
Authors: Phuong Nguyen Manh
Published: September 2023

Background: Engagement is an important factor in developing a student's performance. Engagement in physical education (PE) studies is a critical element contributing to the training quality of PE, helping students achieve comprehensive physical and mental development. Methods: The study targeted 400 first-year students at Ly Tu Trong College in Ho Chi Minh City who were born in 2004 (18 years old). The article constructed an assessment scale to evaluate the current status of engagement during PE classes, thereby conducting a survey to assess the current situation. Results: The study followed three steps: drafting a preliminary questionnaire, seeking the opinions of experts and specialists to refine the initial questionnaire, and checking the reliability of the final questionnaire (Cronbach Alpha). This process identified 17 questionnaire items to assess the current status of engagement during PE classes among students at Ly Tu Trong College in Ho Chi Minh City. These items represented Intellectual Engagement (5 questions), Cognitive Engagement (5 questions), and Learning Engagement (7 questions). The survey results from 400 students indicated that the current status of engagement (intellectual engagement and learning engagement) was at a normal level, and cognitive engagement was at a positive level. Many aspects, as assessed by the students, were not positively perceived. Conclusion: The thoroughly designed questionnaire consisting of 17 items, developed based on scientific principles, evaluates the present level of engagement in PE sessions at Ly Tu Trong College in Ho Chi Minh City. Findings indicate that intellectual and learning engagement are at an average level, whereas cognitive engagement is rated positively. However, students' responses suggest that several aspects are not viewed favorably.

 

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CHILD PROTECTION MEASURES ON BULLYING IN SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOOLS
Authors: Chisala Moses , Ndhlovu Daniel , Mandyata Joseph M.
Published: September 2023

Bullying is a destructive social problem in schools that needs attention. Schools have the responsibility to create a safe place where students can learn without fear of being bullied. The purpose of the study was to explore child protection measures against bullying in selected special education schools in Luapula province. This study was guided by a Constructivist Paradigm, in keeping with the research paradigm, a qualitative intrinsic case study design was employed because the case study outcomes were intended to tell the researcher something that is solely about the case itself. In this case, the child with disability and special education school was of primary interest in the study. The sample size comprised of 38 participants consisting of 2 head teachers, 12 teachers, 12 parents and 12 learners from the two selected special education schools. Purposive critical case sampling was used to select head teachers, expert sampling was used on teachers and criterion sampling was used to select learners and parents. Data from head teachers and teachers were collected using a semi-structured interview guide and focus group discussions guide (FGD) were used on learners and parents. Data were analysed by thematic analysis. The study revealed that children with disabilities were protected from bullying in special education schools using the 3R’s (Recognizing, Responding and Reporting) bullying prevention strategies for learners with special educational needs. The findings established that Recognizing bullying prevention strategies included recognizing the statistics or acts of bullying in the school, recognizing the warning signs of victims and stereotypes of bullies and routine checking to stop harassment and bullying acts. The study also revealed that Responding bullying prevention strategies included holding meetings that reinforce positive behaviour expectations, providing guidance and counselling on how to respond to bullying, punishing learners using discriminatory language or derogatory remarks, formulation of anti-bullying programs, formation of support groups to sensitize learners, training staff members on how to recognizing incidents of bullying and teach anti-bullying social skills. Other strategies identified include the Reporting bullying prevention strategies which included reporting all forms of ill-treatment, reporting bullying incidence in school settings, reporting any form of harassment, and bullying acts. These bullying prevention strategies enabled the teachers in the school to protect learners with disabilities in schools. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the school should be on the lookout for incidences of bullying, respond to bullying quickly and effectively and document and report all actions taken when recognizing and responding to bullying.
 

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