bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of School’s Culture and Principal’s Academic Supervision on the Teaching Quality of High School Teachers
Authors: Rachmawati Ririn , Fitria Happy , Rohana Rohana
Published: July 2024

The research aims to analyze the influence of school culture, academic supervision, and school culture on the teaching quality of high school teachers in Banyuasin I District, Banyuasin Regency. This research was conducted at one of the high schools in Banyuasin I District using quantitative methods. The population was 121 teachers, using probability sampling techniques. A sample of 93 people was determined using the Slovin formula. The results of the research show that school culture and principal supervision have a positive effect on the teaching quality of high school teachers in Banyuasin I District. The combination of school culture and academic supervision contributes to the overall quality of teacher teaching.
Integrated Curriculum Management in the Full Day School Program at SDIT Sahabat Quran Koba Central Bangka
Authors: Rahmatika Apryani , Arafat Yasir , Putra Muhammad Juliansyah
Published: July 2024

The research aims to analyze integrated curriculum management in the full-day school program at SDIT Sahabat Quran Koba Central Bangka, which includes planning curriculum activities, organizing curriculum activities, implementing curriculum activities, evaluating curriculum activities, and supporting and inhibiting factors faced in implementing an integrated curriculum. The research carried out was a descriptive qualitative type of research using data collection techniques using interview and field observation methods. The results of this research show: 1) Planning for implementing an integrated curriculum at the Sahabat of the Qur’an Integrated Islamic Elementary School consists of three stages, namely preparation, planning, and structural organization; 2) The implementation of the curriculum is divided into two levels, namely: implementation of the school-level curriculum and the typical content of SD IT Sahabat of the Qur’an; 3) Organizing the curriculum consists of dividing teachers’ teaching duties and dividing study hours; 4) The evaluation carried out includes curriculum evaluation and implementation evaluation. Implementation evaluation consisting of program evaluation, evaluation of social development and student attitudes, evaluation of learning achievements in class, and evaluation of the achievement of the typical content of SD IT Sahabat of the Qur’an; 5) Supporting and inhibiting factors; Supporting factors for integrated curriculum management in the Full Day School program include: good coordination between institutions, commitment to all school components, supportive school atmosphere and activities, and good communication between the school and the parents. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors for curriculum activities include: facilities and infrastructure that are still not neatly arranged, the density of material provided, the density of school programs and teacher changes that often occur in each new school year and the school not yet joining the Integrated Islamic School Network.
Digital Marketing and Competitive Advantage: Moderated by Digital Transformation
Authors: Joko Joko , Riswanto Ari , Kurniawan Dede
Published: July 2024

This study aims to determine the development of competitive advantage studies from a digital marketing perspective as a variable influencing factor, besides that the digital transformation variable is also placed as a moderating variable. The approach used is descriptive quantitative using a questionnaire as a data collection tool which is distributed to 205 SMEs in West Java Province, Indonesia. Structural Equation Modeling with simple moderation is used in analyzing data that has been collected, which has previously been tested for validity by Confirmatory Factor Analysis. This study found that digital transformation variables are able to mediate the effect of digital marketing on the competitive advantage of SMEs in West Java province, Indonesia. This is something new or new, because there has been no previous research that places digital transformation as a moderator variable for the influence of digital marketing on competitive advantage. This research has the opportunity to conduct more in-depth studies on larger units of analysis or in more complex industries, so that more interesting and useful things will be found in scientific development efforts, especially in the field of management science.
Implementation of Post-Pandemic Learning Independence Culture in Elementary Schools
Authors: Zulaika Zulaika , Fitria Happy , Fitriani Yessi
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the Indonesian education system, causing changes in students’ cultural learning patterns and decreased creativity. Schools are restructuring their learning culture to focus on students and adapt to the environment. Indonesian government education system law no. 20 of 2003 mandates cultural values, cultural acculturation, and fostering independent learning. Teachers play an important role in motivating students and implementing a culture of independent learning, which has a positive impact on their learning process. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of implementing a culture of independence in learning at SD Negeri 1 Pangkalan Baru, Central Bangka Regency, Bangka Islands Province. This research uses a phenomenological approach and qualitative methods to collect data and information from informants. The research aims to build a culture of independence, minimize teacher-student understanding and increase effective communication relationships between students. The research was conducted at SD Negeri 1 Pangkalan Baru Central Bangka, Bangka Belitung Islands Province. Data collection in qualitative research includes observation, interviews, and documentation and data can be taken from several sources. The analysis and sharpness of qualitative research is greatly influenced by the strength of the words and sentences used in the literature. The objects of the research were students at SD Negeri 1 Pangkalan Baru, Central Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province. The results of the research show that at SD Negeri 1 Pangkalan Baru, the focus on independent learning is emphasized through emotional intelligence, cultural habituation, and the character education system. The Pancasila learner profile emphasizes six dimensions: faith, piety, noble character, global diversity, and independence. Independent learning involves creating a study schedule, discussing with teachers, and applying critical reasoning skills. Constructivism theory encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving, thereby leading to increased motivation and academics success.
The Influence of Work Motivation and Job Satisfaction on Teacher’s Performance
Authors: Putria Syafwatul , Lian Bukman , Kristiawan Muhammad
Published: July 2024

The aim to be achieved in this research is to determine the level of influence of motivation and job satisfaction on teacher’s performance and to determine the level of influence of work motivation and job satisfaction on teacher’s performance together with teacher teaching performance. This research was conducted at SMP Negeri 12 Palembang, SMP Negeri 25 Palembang, and SMP Negeri 36 Palembang located in Kertapati District, Palembang. This research uses a correlational (cause-and-effect) quantitative research model with a population of 3 schools totaling 151 people and a sample of 60 people. To obtain the data needed in this research, several techniques were used, namely questionnaires, observation, and documentation. Based on the results of the data analysis, the following can be concluded. There is an influence of work motivation on teacher’s performance. This means that the higher the teacher’s work motivation, the more the teacher’s performance will increase. There is an influence of Job Satisfaction on Teacher’s performance. This means that the higher the job satisfaction, the higher the teacher’s performance will be. There is an influence of work motivation and job satisfaction on teacher’s performance. Thus, work motivation and job satisfaction can influence teacher’s performance. Work motivation and job satisfaction can influence teacher’s performance with a contribution of 80.5% while the remaining 19.5% is explained by factors not examined in this research.
Experiences of Parents as Para-Teachers to their Elementary Children
Authors: Salindato Jr Joel P , Gomez Jr Aurelio S
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to describe the experiences of parents as para-teachers of their child’s education at home that would serve as basis to improve the delivery of primary education instruction. The participants were the ten parents of learners enrolled in a public elementary school, utilizing exploratory case study design to explore the experiences of the parents. A semi- structured interview guide was used to gather the data. Ethical considerations were observed in data collection. The themes were extracted using thematic content analysis. The findings were: time constraint, inattentive child, and unskillful parents are the challenges encountered by the participants; their coping mechanisms with the challenges encountered are strong partnerships are established, discipline is strongly implemented, different types of motivation are applied, initiative disposition is developed, and personal attributes are amplified; and strengthening of stakeholders’ partnership, capacitating parent’s basic instructional skills, and improving parental behavior management strategies are the insights derived from the experiences of the parents.
Conducive TLE Laboratory Environment and Learning Process Skills of the Students in Cluster 4 Schools in Davao City
Authors: Ventura Jeandy I.
Published: July 2024

Fundamentally, a conducive TLE laboratory environment was expected to improve the learning process skills of the students. In this study, the researcher selected 200 junior high school students in Cluster 4 Public Secondary Schools in Davao City as the respondents. Stratified random sampling technique was utilized in the selection of the respondents. A non-experimental quantitative research design using a descriptive-correlational method was employed. The data collected were subjected to the following statistical tools: Mean, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis. Findings revealed that the conducive TLE laboratory environment and the learning process skills of the students were described as extensive. Further, correlation analysis demonstrated that there was a significant relationship between a conducive TLE laboratory environment and the learning process skills of the students. Evidently, regression analysis proved that a conducive TLE laboratory environment in terms of open-endedness, rule clarity, and material environment were significant predictors of the learning process skills of the students. In other words, a conducive TLE laboratory environment influenced the learning process skills of the students in Cluster 4 Public Secondary Schools in Davao City.
Instructional Space Management Skills and Learning Autonomy among TECH-VOC Students in Carmen District, Davao Del Norte
Authors: Sanorjo Mark Angelo
Published: July 2024

In this study, instructional space management skills is a measure expected to improve the learning autonomy of the tech-voc students. In this study, the researcher selected the 150 junior high school students in Carmen District, Davao del Norte as the respondents of the study. Findings revealed that teachers’ instructional space management skills was rated as extensive, while, learning autonomy of the tech-voc students in Carmen District in Davao del Norte was described as moderately extensive. Further, correlation analysis demonstrated that there is a significant relationship between teachers’ instructional space management skills and learning autonomy of the tech-voc students in Carmen District in Davao del Norte. Evidently, regression analysis proved that instructional space management skills in terms of engaging and interactive learning; growth mindset; and inclusivity and diversity were significant predictors of learning autonomy of the tech-voc students in Carmen District in Davao del Norte. The study, therefore, conducted for further utilization of findings through publication in reputable research journal.
The Role of School Principals in Improving the Quality of Education through School-Based Management Concepts
Authors: Jhanatri Erinda , Ahyani Nur , Mulyadi Mulyadi
Published: July 2024

This research aims to determine and describe the role of school principals in planning, organizing, moving, supervising, and evaluating the quality of education through the concept of school-based management at SMP Negeri 5 Prabumulih city. This research was carried out at SMP Negeri 5 Prabumulih City, with a total of 8 informants. Data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. The results of this research are that the role of the school principal in planning, organizing, moving, supervising, and evaluating to improve the quality of education through the concept of school-based management has been implemented well.
Social rate of return to plant breeding research in Germany
Authors: Von Witzke Harald , Jechlitschka Kurt , Kirschke Dieter , Lotze-Campen Hermann , Noleppa Steffen
Published: August 2024

This article focuses on the social rate of return to plant breeding investment in Germany between 1980-2000. Starting point of the analysis is the development of total factor productivity which is decomposed into the effects of factor input and research investment. Information on investment in plant breeding have been obtained via questionnaires sent to both private plant breeding companies and public research organizations. The empirical results suggest significant underinvestment in German plant breeding research, as the calculated social rate of return is in the range of 16 to 28%.
The brave new world: imperfect information, segregation costs, and genetically modified organisms
Authors: Moss Charles B. , Schmitz Troy G. , Schmitz Andrew
Published: August 2024

The introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops in the mid 1990s appeared to be the latest in a string of technological innovations in agriculture. However, consumer resistance, particularly in Europe has limited the sector’s enthusiasm. One response to the limited enthusiasm has been the emergence of segregated markets for GM and non-GM products. These separated markets reduce economic welfare because they require additional costs in the marketing system. Offsetting these segregation costs, however, the introduction of GM technologies offers increased economic welfare through reduced commodity prices for consumers who are indifferent to the presence of GM traits and increased profits to producers who adopt GM technologies. This study develops the combinations of segregation costs and increased supplies that leave societal surplus unchanged. Any GM technology that yields a larger increase in supply for any segregation cost depicted in this relationship meets the compensation principle and, thus, improves societal welfare. In this case, market based adoption of these technologies improve economic surplus. On the other hand, technologies that yields less increase in supply for any segregation cost reduces societal welfare. Under this scenario, market based adoption will not be welfare improving and, hence, government regulation may be required.
Vertical coordination with growers in the supermarket fresh fruit and vegetables supply chain in Croatia
Authors: Götz Linde , Njavro Mario , Hanf Jon H. , Pieniadz Agata
Published: August 2024

This paper provides further evidence on vertical coordination as a means of overcoming supply disruptions and improving product quality. In contrast to previous studies, our findings suggest that the leading model of vertical coordination between fruit and vegetables growers and supermarkets in Croatia is restricted to loose, one-year contracts which mainly specify the terms of payment without providing farm assistance. Wholesalers more often provide farm assistance to fruit and vegetables growers. We expect that the wholesalers will drop out of the fresh fruit and vegetables (FFV) supermarket supply chain since supermarkets aim to streamline the procurement system by in-creasing local procurement directly from the farmers. Thus, the amount of farm assistance provided will further decrease. Therefore, for the rather small Croatian growers to integrate in the FFV supermarket supply chain, it is even more important that they organize to meet the supermarkets’ minimum quantity requirements and obtain access to a distribution facility.
The Determinants of Farm Growth, Decline and Exit in Estonia
Authors: Viira Ants-Hannes , Pöder Anne , Värnik Rando
Published: August 2024

The process of structural changes in Estonian agriculture is influenced by both socioeconomic factors that are similar in other western countries and transition-related factors. This current paper aims to investigate the effects of such socioeconomic factors on the probabilities of farm growth, decline and exit relative to retaining the previous farm size. The survey and agricultural registers’ data are used for multinomial logit estimation. The results indicate that the farm growth probability is highest in the 40-49 year age group. The availability of successors significantly reduced farm exit probability, and the level of education of the farm operator increased the farm growth probability. While off-farm work was more probable in smaller farms and in cases of more educated and younger farm managers, it was evident that the off-farm employment of the farm operator significantly increased the probability of farm exit. While the larger farms have a higher probability of remaining in business, and lower probability to exit or decline, they do not have higher growth probability. Participation in a semi-subsistence farming scheme reduces the exit probability. It has been shown that farms founded during the beginning of transition due to restitution have lower decline and growth probabilities, indicating that such farmers are emotionally more inclined to maintain the farms of their forefathers.
The Effect of Heterogeneous Buyers on Agricultural Land Prices: The Case of the Czech Land Market
Authors: Curtiss Jarmila , Jelínek Ladislav , Hruška Martin , Medonos Tomáš , Vilhelm Václav
Published: August 2024

This paper analyses how different types of buyers affect the farmland price. We specify a flexible hedonic land pricing model that allows for non-uniform valuation of land characteristics among buyers. Data on 579 land sale contracts from five districts of the Czech Republic from 2008-2010 are utilised in the study. The results provide strong evidence of buyer-specific valuation of land’s productive and site characteristics as well as systemic differences in land market conditions among groups of buyers, both of which affect the land price. Non-agricultural buyers are observed to significantly overbid agricultural buyers on land location and site characteristics rather than productive qualities. Among agricultural buyers, joint stock companies and cooperatives enjoy major land price discounts, while individual private farms and limited liability companies face land market access constraints that are surmountable only through paying high price premiums. These observations have important implications for future land ownership structure and land use efficiency.
Short Term Prediction of Agricultural Structural Change using Farm Accountancy Data Network and Farm Structure Survey Data
Authors: Storm Hugo , Heckelei Thomas , Espinosa María , Gomez y Paloma Sergio
Published: August 2024

The prediction of farm structural change is of large interest at EU policy level, but available methods are limited regarding the joint and consistent use of available data sources. This paper develops a Bayesian Markov framework for short-term prediction of farm numbers that allows combining two asynchronous data sources in a single estimation. Specifically, the approach allows combining aggregated Farm Structure Survey (FSS) macro data, available every two to three years, with individual farm level Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) micro data, available on a yearly basis. A Bayesian predictive distribution is derived from which point predictions such as mean and other moments are obtained. The proposed approach is evaluated in an out-of-sample prediction exercise of farm numbers in German regions and compared to linear and geometric predic-tion as well as a “no-change” prediction of farm numbers. Results show that the proposed approach outperforms the geometric prediction but does not significantly improve upon the linear prediction and a prediction of no change in this context.
Macroecological correlates of Darwinian shortfalls across terrestrial vertebrates
Authors: Guedes Jhonny J. M.
Published: July 2024

Most described species have not been explicitly included in phylogenetic trees—a problem named the Darwinian shortfall—due to a lack of molecular and/or morphological data, thus hampering the explicit incorporation of evolution into large-scale biodiversity analyses. We investigate potential drivers of the Darwinian shortfall in tetrapods, a group where at least one-third of described species still lack phylogenetic data, thus necessitating the imputation of their evolutionary relationships in fully-sampled phylogenies. We show that the number of preserved specimens in scientific collections is the main driver of phylogenetic knowledge accumulation, highlighting the major role of biological collections in unveiling novel biodiversity data and the importance of continued sampling efforts to reduce knowledge gaps. Additionally, large-bodied and wide-ranged species, as well as terrestrial and aquatic amphibians and reptiles, are phylogenetically better known. Therefore, future efforts should prioritize phylogenetic research on organisms that are narrow-ranged, small-bodied, and underrepresented in scientific collections, such as fossorial species. Addressing the Darwinian shortfall will be imperative for advancing our understanding of evolutionary drivers shaping biodiversity patterns and implementing comprehensive conservation strategies.
From mechanoregulation to inflammation of the osteoarthritic joint
Authors: Lacroix Damien
Published: July 2024

During this seminar I will review some of my early contributions to the mechanobiology field in fracture healing and tissue engineering, in particular on how computational models of scaffolds for tissue engineering can be used to quantify the local mechanical stimuli experienced by cells. This will lead me to discuss the importance of inflammation and biomechanics in osteoarthritis and present the latest development of a mathematical model of inflammation for osteoarthritis.
An insight on the mechanism of the Hoppe-Seyler test for xanthine
Authors: Francisco Sánchez-Viesca  , Reina Gómez
Published: July 2024

Being xanthine an important biomolecule, it has attracted the attention of scholars from different points of view. In the analytical field some tests for identification have been developed. Hoppe-Seyler detected xanthine using calcium chlorohypochlorite and sodium hydroxide since a green ring, changing to brown, is formed. It is a challenge to the theoretical chemist disentangle what is happening at molecular level during the assay. In this communication emphasis is placed in a reactive tri-polar intermediate that arises in a reaction sequence. That is, a carboxylate and a newly formed zwitterion. Reaction with water can eliminate the last dipole (a negatively charged nitrogen and a carbonium ion). However, there is other pair of ions that are connected: the carboxylate and the carbonium ion at β-position. This situation produces immediate decarboxylation, eliminating two electrical charges in a single internal way, and forming a double bond. Neutralization of the negatively charged nitrogen atom gives an ureido. This reaction sequence produces the principal reaction product, imidazo-imidazolone. The observed colours are due to halochromism.
Strategic approaches for successful digital transformation in project management across industries
Authors: Osemeike Gloria Eyieyien  , Courage Idemudia  , Patience Okpeke Paul  , Tochukwu Ignatius Ijomah
Published: July 2024

Digital transformation has become imperative for organizations across industries seeking to enhance operational efficiency, innovate customer experiences, and maintain competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This paper explores strategic approaches that enable successful digital transformation in project management, addressing key challenges and leveraging opportunities for growth and sustainability. In the current business environment, digital transformation in project management encompasses the adoption of advanced technologies, integration of digital tools, and reengineering of processes to optimize project delivery and outcomes. Organizations are increasingly leveraging cloud computing, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT) to streamline project workflows, enhance decision-making capabilities, and facilitate real-time collaboration among stakeholders. Successful digital transformation initiatives in project management are underpinned by strategic planning and leadership commitment. Alignment of digital transformation goals with organizational objectives ensures clarity of purpose and enhances stakeholder engagement throughout the transformation journey. Moreover, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning enables teams to adapt to technological advancements and embrace change effectively. Challenges in achieving successful digital transformation include legacy system integration, data security concerns, skill gaps among team members, and resistance to cultural change. Addressing these challenges requires proactive risk management, investment in training and development programs, and collaboration with technology partners to navigate complexities and ensure seamless implementation. Case studies illustrate diverse approaches to digital transformation in project management, highlighting best practices and lessons learned across various industries. Organizations that successfully navigate digital transformation not only achieve operational efficiencies and cost savings but also create value through enhanced customer experiences and improved competitive positioning. Looking forward, the strategic adoption of emerging technologies and agile methodologies will continue to shape the future of digital transformation in project management. Organizations must remain adaptable and responsive to market dynamics, leveraging digital tools to drive innovation, accelerate time-to-market, and sustain long-term growth in an increasingly digital-first world. In conclusion, strategic approaches to digital transformation in project management empower organizations to harness the full potential of digital technologies, driving efficiencies, fostering innovation, and achieving sustainable success across industries.
Demistifikasi Hambatan, Pemerolehan, dan Perkembangan Bahasa dalam Pembelajaran Bahasa Inggris
Authors: Harefa Afore Tahir , Telaumbanua Yasminar Amaerita , Zega Riswan , Marua’o Nursayani
Published: July 2024

Pemerolehan bahasa merupakan proses yang kompleks dan dipengaruhi oleh berbagai faktor seperti lingkungan, nutrisi, dan interaksi sosial. Pengabdian ini bertujuan untuk menyampaikan penyuluhan tentang hambatan pemerolehan bahasa yang dihadapi oleh anak kelas enam sekolah dasar di masyarakat. Setelah dilaksanakan observasi, wawancara, dan tugas membaca yang dilakukan pada 30 anak, 15 anak diantaranya bekerja paruh waktu sepulang sekolah, dan 15 anak lainnya tidak, penyuluhan selanjutnya dilaksanakan kepada anak-anak tersebut. Kepada anak-anak kelas VI SD, disampaikan bahwa adanya perbedaan yang signifikan dalam penguasaan bahasa antara kedua kelompok tersebut, yang mengarah pada identifikasi delapan faktor yang menghambat perkembangan bahasa. Faktor-faktor ini termasuk kurangnya kegiatan belajar di rumah, fokus yang berlebihan pada pekerjaan atau kegiatan non-akademis, kekurangan gizi, interaksi dua arah yang terbatas, kurangnya perhatian saat berkomunikasi, penggunaan gawai yang berlebihan, dan rendahnya rasa percaya diri. Memahami hambatan-hambatan ini memberikan wawasan bagi anak-anak, orang tua, pendidik dan pembuat kebijakan untuk menciptakan lingkungan yang mendukung yang mendorong perkembangan bahasa yang efektif pada anak-anak.
A Systematic Review of Paradigm Approaches to Research and Modelling of Educational Ecosystems
Authors: Nikolaeva Silvia ,   Sofia University
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the results of a qualitative study based on a systematic scoping review that aimed to identify and analyse approaches to explore and model ecosystem dimensions of education. Seventy-six publications indexed in the Scopus database from the period 1999-2024 were selected and analysed. The results demonstrate that the study of educational ecosystems is based on mixed paradigm approaches combining constructivist and connectivist principles and constructs, and their modelling integrates two sets of characteristics - structural and value-functional - in a leading way. Structurally, the underlying ecosystem centres on school and higher education, lifelong learning and business-oriented learning. In value-functional terms, the guiding priorities are digitalisation, inclusion, good governance, innovation and sustainability.
Comparative Analysis of Approaches for Practical Modelling of Educational Ecosystems
Authors: Nikolova Yordanka ,   Sofia University, Naydenova Maria
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the results of a comparative analysis of approaches for practical modelling of educational ecosystems, understood as integrating autonomous systems and actors in the field of education into unified functional networks. The methodology of the mixed-methods study combines conceptual content analysis of a selected sample of 121 thematically related publications indexed in global databases in the period 2005 – 2024 with case study analysis covering 51 educational practices in the Bulgarian and international context. The implemented comparative analysis allowed to identify the main conditions and factors facilitating the transition from systemic to ecosystemic modelling and functioning in the educational sphere. The results of the content analysis of foreign models and practices allowed to formulate identified potential opportunities for the adaptation of global practical models of educational ecosystems in the conditions of Bulgarian education
Value-Normative Grounds and Practical Dimensions of Social Paradigms towards Education as an Ecosystem Phenomenon
Authors: Boyanova Verjinia ,   Sofia University, Sapundzhiev Simeon
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the value-normative and practical dimensions of social paradigms towards educational ecosystems. For this purpose, a bibliographic review of 21 selected publications (Scopus database for the period 2006 – 2022) was carried out. The results made it possible to identify the basic unified characteristics of education as a social.y determined ecosystem. The derived characteristics are classified into two main groups - the system-structural and the systemic-functional, which in their entirety and interaction presented the ecosystem essence and functioning.
Nowadays Culture of Poverty: Social-Pedagogical Dimensions and Spread in Bulgarian Bondition
Authors: Varbanova Silvia ,   Sofia University, Petkova Maria
Published: July 2024

The article presents the results of the study, part of the research program under the project “Nowadays culture of poverty - dimensions and spread among young people”, within the SUMMIT project of Sofia University. The text discusses the main features of the culture of poverty presented in the scholarly tradition and in the current interpretation that examines the culture through cultural frameworks, repertoires and narratives. An analysis of the results of semistructured interviews conducted with young people aged 20-34 and of focus groups with teachers is presented. The results show that most of the interviewees have a vague vision and vague goals for the future, show the absence of autonomy and initiative, reject the importance of effort in education and work, show low levels of responsibility. The analysis of the results of the focus reveals early characteristics reflecting beliefs, attitudes, characteristic of the culture of poverty, which in the period of youth acquire stability.
Dimensions of the Value Approach in the Academic Training and Practice of Social Workers
Authors: Strakova Lilyana ,   Sofia University, Simeonova Rossitsa , Genchev Atanas
Published: July 2024

This article discusses theoretical and practical dimensions of the value approach in education and practice of social work. Theoretically, the importance of values and human rights in the social sciences and in particular in the training of students in social work and in the professional realization of social workers is justified. The results of an empirical study on human rights as fundamental values in social work are also presented and analyzed. On this basis, conclusions and recommendations for improving the academic training and the continuing qualification of professionals in the field of social work are formulated
Students from the “Non-Formal Education” Studies in the Conditions of the Internship Pre-Graduate Practice – Preparation, Introduction, Defense
Authors: Gospodinov Vladislav ,   Sofia University, Georgieva Galina , Georgieva-Ilieva Rumyana , Slaveikova Miroslava
Published: July 2024

The article focuses the attention of a research team on the internship pre- graduate practice in Non-Formal Education. The importance of the problem, the framework of the practical training in the specialty, its place and importance, the organization and activities in the direction of the preparation, the introduction of the students and the defence of the pre-graduate practice are presented. Accordingly, a study was conducted with students from the specialty Non-Formal Education and its results are presented. A number of successes of the process in its current version of implementation and some possibilities for its refinement are outlined.
The Challenges of Pre-Graduation Field Practice for Students – Future Teachers
Authors: Petkova Iliana ,   Sofia University, Ilieva Mariyana , Stanoeva Vladislava , Chavdarov Georgi
Published: July 2024

The focus of this article is the practical training of the students from the Pedagogy studies of the Faculty of Pedagogy at the Sofia University and the challenges they encounter during their pre-graduation field practice. The survey was conducted among the graduates in the academic year 2022/2023 and reveals the key role of the teacher-mentor in the formation of the functional professional competences of the future teachers. The results show satisfaction with the way the pre-graduation field practice is organized and the students’ academic preparation. The recommendations are in the direction of communication intern – teachermentor and the work between them.
The Pre-Graduate Practical Training of Students from the “Social Activities” Studies – Basis for their Future Professional Realization
Authors: Rasheva Aneta ,   Sofia University, Gadzhanova Russana Gadzhanova, , Hristov Alexander , Bogdanova Monika
Published: July 2024

The present study presents summarized data on the opinion and attitudes of students majoring in “Social Activities” at SU “St. Kliment Ohridski” regarding their pre-diploma practical training. The purpose of the present study is to determine how students evaluate the organization, content and conduct of their pre-graduate practical training as a basis and transition for their future professional realization. The subjects of the study were 29 people (23 women and 6 men), in the age range from 19 to 50 years. These are only students completing their studies in the “Social Activitiesˮ studies at the University of Applied Sciences „St. Kliment Ohridski“. The research was conducted in the period of June to July 2023. The summary analysis of the results shows certain tendencies in the educational process, as only half of the surveyed students in this major make a connection of the theoretical knowledge accumulated during the years of study with practical implementation. A large part of them, despite a positive attitude towards the profession they are studying, declare that they experience a definition of worries and difficulties before the initial start of their pre-graduate practice.
Реєстри судових експертів в країнах Європейського Союзу: Австрії, Чехії, Греції, Франції, Нідерландів, Румунії, Словенії, Латвії, Естонії, Литви та інших 17 країнах - членів ЄС
Authors: Nazarov Oleh
Published: July 2024

This publication contains information on the Registers of Forensic Experts of the European Union - 27 EU Member States. The author has analyzed materials published by the EU's European eJustice Portal and within the framework of the Find an Expert project of the European Expertise Institute (EEEI). This publication is the first in-depth work in Ukraine that describes the state of affairs with the existence of Registers of Forensic Experts in the European Union.
Evaluating the advantages of electronic medical records in nursing
Authors: Alkharji Noura Abdullah , Aldosary Nora Mohammed , Abdullah Wejdan Amein , Alanazi Jehan Khelaif , Albugami Maha Mosleh , Alshammari Amani Abdulmohsen , Almutairi Lila Muteb , Alanazi Mubarak Saud , Alsoulaimi Reham Mohammad , Alkhabbaz Ghadeer Ghazi , Alharbi Abdullah Alhumaidi , Almohesen Sultan Abdullah , Aladwani Mona Awadallah
Published: July 2024

Background: Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) have increasingly transformed healthcare systems worldwide by centralizing patient information and improving accessibility. In Australia, where the healthcare system is publicly funded and largely based on a British model of care, EMRs present a unique opportunity to enhance nursing practices and patient outcomes. Despite their potential, evaluations of EMRs have predominantly focused on economic aspects rather than the quality and safety of nursing care. Aim: This scoping review aims to assess the impact of EMR implementation on nursing work quality and safety in Australian hospitals. It seeks to identify appropriate metrics to evaluate the benefits of EMRs on nursing care and patient outcomes, guiding future assessments and improvements in clinical practice. Methods: The review utilized Arksey and O’Malley’s five-step scoping review framework to explore relevant literature. A comprehensive search was conducted across five healthcare databases and supplemented by grey literature. The review process involved screening papers, data extraction, and analysis based on Donabedian’s quality of care model and frameworks related to nursing care. The studies included were published between 2002 and 2017, encompassing various international perspectives with a focus on nursing.
Ki-67 expression and its correlation with clinicopathological parameters in Iraqi breast cancer patients
Authors: Hussein Ammar A , Baban Rayah S , Mahdi Qahtan A , Hussein Zuhair M , Kamal Areej M
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and the major cause of cancer-related death among women in both developed and developing countries. In Iraq, breast cancer accounted for 37.9% of all malignant cases in 2020 and 15.3% of cancer-related fatalities. Relevant biomarkers play an important role in predicting prognosis and deciding the most effective therapy for each patient to delay metastases and reduce mortality. Objective: This study aimed to assess the significance of Ki-67 expression as a prognostic biomarker in breast cancer patients as well as investigate the correlations between Ki-67 and their clinicopathological features. Methods: The case-control study comprised sixty newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and ten women with benign breast tumors who served as controls. We assessed the tissue expression level of Ki-67 protein using the immunohistochemistry technique. Results: Our results showed that the median immunohistochemical expression scores of Ki-67 in the newly diagnosed breast cancer group were higher than those of the control group; the difference was significant (p < 0.001). The Ki-67 expression score in breast cancer cells increases with tumor size and grade. Ki-67 expression showed a substantial negative correlation with estrogen receptor expression and a significant positive correlation with HER2 expression.
Foundation biology students’ critical thinking ability: Self-efficacy versus actuality
Authors: Rayner Gerry , Papakonstantinou Theo
Published: July 2024

Critical thinking (CT) is a highly valued skill, based on feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, and thus academics have long sought to embed CT into undergraduate curricula. In this study, we investigated foundation biology students’ self-efficacy of their CT skills (including three CT sub-elements), and whether such self-efficacies changed over a year of study. We also assessed students’ actual CT ability, and whether there were differences in self-efficacy and actual ability between male and female students. While students’ self-efficacy of their overall CT ability increased over the course of the year, this value was significantly lower than each of the CT sub-element efficacies, at both commencement and completion of the study. Conversely, students’ actual CT skills did not change over the year, although females scored higher than males in the one of the two units of study. We conclude that (i) there is a disconnect between our students’ self-efficacy of, and actual, CT ability; and (ii) there is a gender-based difference in their self-efficacy and actual CT ability. We recommend interventions to enhance foundation biology students’ understanding of CT and through this, improve the concordance between their self-efficacy of their CT skills and their actual CT ability.
Towards improving peer review: Crowd-sourced insights from Twitter
Authors: Allen Kelly-Ann , Reardon Jonathan , Lu Yumin , Smith David , Rainsford Emily , Walsh Lucas
Published: July 2024

Peer review is an essential part of academic publishing, yet many authors, reviewers, and editors have reportedly encountered problems with the review process. Some scholars view peer-review as a necessary process for the advancement of science, while other scholars argue that for many publishers and journals, both authors and reviewers are being exploited. The aim of this commentary is two-fold. First, to provide a narrative review of current perspectives and available research on the peer-review process to date, and second, to summarise potential solutions elicited from scholars on Twitter. A review of the literature identified several problems with peer-review including publication delays, an over reliance on a narrow pool of reviewers, threats to anonymity, perceived exploitation, as well as overworked editors. Recommendations to redress these issues that emerged from scholars on Twitter suggested publishers, journals, their editors and associate editors, universities, individual academics and their communities all have a role to play towards creating an equitable and fair system. This commentary aims to ignite conversations about improving the peer-review process.
Pedagogies of belonging in an anxious world: A collaborative autoethnography of four practitioners
Authors: Press Nona , Andrew Martin , Percy Alisa , Pollard Vikki
Published: July 2024

The concept of belonging has found prominence in higher education learning environments, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have an unprecedented impact on educational provision. In times of disruption, alienation and isolation, the most basic of our psychological and physiological needs have come to be almost universally recognised as critical factors that must be considered and examined. Experiencing belonging is integral to human existence, and knowing where, with whom, and how we belong, is a salient driver for learning and self-actualisation. We recognise there are a number of ways to frame and approach the idea of belonging in the educational experience. We also recognise that there are multiple understandings of what belonging means and therefore how it is enacted within the curricula and the “classroom” in its varying forms - physical, online, digital, work-based. This Editorial takes a critical perspective to our own intellectual standpoint in relation to pedagogies of belonging. As co-editors, we have outlined our respective conceptions and experiences of belonging as a collaborative autoethnography, capturing our individual views of pedagogies of belonging in a collaborative context. Our collaboration has allowed us to situate ourselves both theoretically and practically, as well as ontologically, and advance our understanding of practices that promote student belonging in all its possible forms within the higher education experience. We suggest that the possibilities for belonging offered by interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches are ripe for inquiry, and the place of non-traditional, Indigenous, iterative and emergent methodologies to examine belonging requires further exploration.
I probably have a closer relationship with my internet provider: Experiences of belonging (or not) among mature-aged regional and remote university students
Authors: Crawford Nicole , Emery Sherridan , Allen Penny , Baird Allen
Published: July 2024

While fostering a sense of belonging among university students is an objective of many universities, the landscape of belonging is complex and multifaceted. It is worthy of deeper interrogation, particularly for “non-traditional” students. This article draws on data from a national mixed-methods study that explored proactive ways of supporting the mental wellbeing of mature-aged students in regional and remote Australia. One of the overarching findings was students feeling invisible, misunderstood and undervalued. While this theme was relevant for many participants, it was also the case that other participants reported feeling visible, known and a sense of belonging. These inconsistencies prompted us to conduct further analyses of the quantitative and qualitative data, which were collected from a cross-sectional online survey of 1,879 mature-aged undergraduate students in regional and remote Australia and 51 interviews. We employed Yuval-Davis’s analytical framework for the study of belonging. In the quantitative analyses, several variables were found to have a significant association with inclusion/connection/belonging. They included: study mode; socio-economic status; having a diagnosed mental health condition; and supports. In the qualitative analysis, we explored students’ experiences in greater depth to gain insights into why some students experience belonging and others do not. Connections and relationships with university staff; familiarity with university systems and places; and feeling included and “part of” a subject/course/campus manifested in students feeling understood, known and a sense of belonging. Due to certain entrenched institutional approaches, in many cases, students’ experiences fell short of the supportive and caring learning communities that pedagogical approaches advocate.