bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multistring seven-level quasi Z-source based asymmetrical inverter
Authors: Jammy Ramesh Rahul , Annamalai Kirubakaran
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a single-phase multistring seven-level Quasi-Z-source based Asymmetrical Inverter suitable for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system is presented. This topology is an upgrade of quasi-Z-source dc-dc (qZs) network and Asymmetrical multilevel inverter (AMLI). The AMLI generates higher number of levels with reduced switch count and number of sources when compared to symmetrical cascaded based MLI. The qZs network acts as an intermediate stage between the low-voltage PV array and AMLI, to enhance the output voltage gain of the inverter. The steady state performance the topology is verified through MATLAB simulation and experimentation. A laboratory prototype model is developed for a capacity of 200W to validate the theoretical studies. Finally, a comparative assessment of the proposed with the existing topologies is presented.
Photovoltaic flyback micro-inverter with power decoupling technique
Authors: Jabr Salam , A. Obed Adel
Published: April 2019

This paper proposes a low-cost single-phase micro-inverter for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system. The lifetime of the conventional flyback micro-inverter is shortened, because lifetime of a large electrolyte capacitor is shortened. For this reason, the need for a large electrolyte capacitor is avoided by proposing power decoupling (PD) circuit. Dual advantages are achieved by proposed circuit, first high-power decoupling with small capacitances and other to protect the main MOSFET from spike voltage stress during turn off time without needing for additional a snubber circuit. Consequently, PD circuit is already used as a snubber circuit to absorb the leakage energy in the transformer which may destroy the switch and thus the voltage spike on the main MOSFET decreased. In addition, operating principle, modes, and control scheme of the proposed micro-inverter are discussed. As the simulation results, the input power ripple of the single-phase power fluctuation is under than 4%, unity power factor (P.F) and the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the proposed inverter output current is less than 5%. PSIM tool box is provided to simulate the proposed system and the simulation results are adequate.
Resolving of optimal fractional PID controller for DC motor drive based on anti-windup by invasive weed optimization technique
Authors: Obaid Badriyah Ahmed , Saleh Ameer Lateef , Kadhim Abbas Kareem
Published: April 2019

This paper exhibits a design procedure for tuning the parameters of Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative (FOPID) P  controller to optimize the DC motor drive operation. The optimization technique is establishing on Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO). This paper also proposes the use of anti-windup aspect to against the saturation which may occur in the FOPID controller. The objective of this design is to improve the performance of the drive subjected to different transient response and loading conditions. A comparative study is carried out with a classical PID controller. The Matlab simulation results show more improvements in the proposed system.
Attitudes of Pre-Service Music Teachers towards Value Education in Turkey
Authors: Egilmez Ozgur , Onuray Egilmez Hatice , Engur Doruk
Published: April 2019

In the music education curriculum, which is implemented from 2017-2018 academic year, the directive for teaching values was prepared for the first time. In this context, the research was conducted by comparing the attitudes of pre-service music teachers towards values education in terms of some variables, which will be included in the courses of value education according to the new music education curriculum. Data collected using the values education attitude scale were analysed using t-test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Spearman's correlation coefficient. Results showed that attitude scores did not change according to gender or level of parents’ education but had a significant difference according to the year students were in. Scale scores were not correlated with the amount of parents' income or students’ GPAs. This study is crucial as it tries to determine the attitudes of pre-service music teachers who are assigned as music teachers in a few years and will conduct music lessons according to the Ministry of National Education music curriculum. Moreover, it aims to shed light on the determination of targets for values education in the training of pre-service music teachers in the institutions that train music teachers with the help of the results that this study offers.
Student Achievement in Turkey, According to Question Types Used in PISA 2003-2012 Mathematic Literacy Tests
Authors: Ozkan Yesim Ozer , Ozaslan Nesrin
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study is to determine the level of achievement of students participating in Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2003 and PISA 2012 tests in Turkey according to questions in the mathematical literacy test. This study is a descriptive survey. Within the scope of the study, the mathematical literacy test items were classified as multiple-choice, complex multiple-choice and constructed response items according to the different question types. The ratio of correct and partially correct and incorrect response given to each question type has been determined. Findings show that the achievements of students differ according to different types of questions. While the question type with the highest success average in the PISA 2003 test was multiple-choice, students got the highest scores from complex multiple-choice questions in the PISA 2012 test. The questionnaire with the lowest success average was found to be complex multiple-choice questions in the PISA 2003 test while students got the lowest scores from constructed response items in the PISA 2012 test. According to the constructivist education approach effectuated in 2005-2006 academic year, it is expected to observe a rise in constructed response question type; however, findings of the study reveal that the success of constructed response questions is decreased according to the application years.
Construct Validity and Reliability of Attitudes towards Chemistry of Science Teacher Candidates
Authors: Sumarni Woro , Susilaningsih Endang , Sutopo Yeri
Published: April 2019

Developing students' positive attitude toward learning is one of the important things, because some researchers mention that attitudes toward the subjects are related to academic achievement. Teachers, in the implementation of learning can evaluate attitudes toward the subjects, in order to know how students' attitude toward learning that is/has been going on. Therefore, an attitude assessment is required for valid, reliable and practical learning. The purpose of this research is to develop a Likert scale type questionnaire that can measure students' attitudes toward chemistry. In this study initially has been compiled as many as 43 items. The items in the present scale were adapted from the Test of Science-Related Attitudes (TOSRA) and Attitudes towards Chemistry Lessons Scale (ATCLS). After the contents validation of the questionnaire by the expert, the questionnaire is tested on 245 college students. Determination of construct validity which is conducted with exploratory factor analysis obtained 32 items valid question. The result of factor analysis shows that the scale has nine factors that explain 62.105% of the total variance. In addition, it shows the finding of 'reliability coefficient (Cronbach' alpha) of 0.91. The results obtained showed that it has obtained valid and reliable questionnaires as a measuring tool that can be used to determine student attitudes toward chemistry in chemistry foodstuffs lectures.
Effect of Integrated Feedback on Classroom Climate of Secondary School Teachers
Authors: Patel Nilesh Kumar
Published: April 2019

This study aimed at finding out the effect of Integrated feedback on Classroom climate of secondary school teachers. This research is experimental in nature. Non-equivalent control group design suggested by Stanley and Campbell (1963) was used for the experiment. Integrated feedback was treatment and independent variable, Classroom climate was dependent variable and pre- Classroom climate, and Intelligence were considered as covariates. The sample of the study comprised of 77 secondary school teachers and 220 students studying in secondary classes from purposively selected four schools of Indore city. The data for Classroom climate, Job satisfaction and Intelligence were collected through standardized tools. One-way ANCOVA and 2X2 factorial design ANCOVA were used for data analysis. Hypotheses were tasted at level of significance with α = 0.05. It was found that the treatment has significant effect over Classroom climate when pre- Classroom climate was taken as covariate. The results also shown that Classroom climate was independent of the treatment when Intelligence and pre- Classroom climate were separately considered as covariates. In addition, classroom climate was also found independent of interaction between feedback and intelligence when pre – Classroom climate was taken as covariate.
Effort of NGO in Promoting Comprehensive Sexuality Education to Improve Quality of Life among Local and Refugee Communities
Authors: Jiar Yeo Kee , Lee Shih Hui , Handayani Lina
Published: April 2019

Federation of Reproductive Health Association, Malaysia (FRHAM) is a pioneer Non-governmental Organization (NGO) in disseminating the knowledge and services of sexual reproductive health in Malaysia. A qualitative case study research design was employed to explore the roles of FRHAM in promoting Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) for the well-being of locals and refugees’ communities. In-depth interviews were conducted with the staffs of FRHAM to inquire about their effort in delivering their services. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded and emergent themes were identified. FRHAM had played a part as educator, service provider, advocate and actively involved in improving the quality of life among the refugee community. The organization had developed modules for CSE and conducted programs for dissemination of knowledge. They also collaborated with local governmental agencies and other NGOs to promote awareness and utilization of services among the communities. Nevertheless, promoting CSE had experienced many challenges in Malaysia. The perceptions of Malaysian viewing sexuality education as taboos, cultural factors, the reluctance of educators in delivering, and the low visibility of FRHAM are the barriers encountered by FRHAM in promoting CSE. FRHAM recommended including parents, teachers and other stakeholders in the promotion of CSE and acknowledging CSE as an official subject to be implemented in schools.  The information from this study may encourage more partnerships between the stakeholders, policy makers and NGOs for providing high quality CSE and sexual reproductive health services.
Student Engagement and Assessment Modes: A Study
Authors: Pathak Anil
Published: April 2019

The aim of this project is to attempt a factorial analysis of the congruence amongst three layers of assessments of Oral Presentation: Expert, Self, and Peer. Participants included graduate and undergraduate students of Asian background studying Research Writing at a technological university. The research instrument consisted of a set of assessment checklists with weighted and specified criteria for Expert, Self and Peer assessment of research presentations. Broader criteria were based on the following four factors: Use of spoken media, Use of visuals, Interrelationships, and Communicative Effect. Participants received training and were involved in a practice session on self and peer assessment before engaging in the assessment tasks. While the pilot study is unable to conclusively establish congruence among the modes of assessment, it is expected that results from a wider database would indicate the nature of well-defined assessment criteria and the ways they can be effectively communicated to assessors. The present study suggests that the differences in ratings given by peers and experts are not due to a lack of capability on the part of students, but due to lack of orientation and training. It is necessary to evolve criteria that are well-documented to enable students to evaluate their own performance as well as the performance of their peers as effectively as done by experts.
Improving Resilience and Self-Esteem among University Students with Entrepreneurship Simulation Board Game
Authors: Prihadi Kususanto , Cheow Damien Z.Y. , Yong Jonathan H.E , Sundrasagran Megaaneesh
Published: April 2019

This study aims to evaluate the effect of the frequency of playing a board game that simulates entrepreneurial experience called “Traders” on the university students’ resilience and self-esteem. Traders Board Game (TBG) was developed in 2015 with an aim to improve several entrepreneurship skills among young adults, and resilience being one of them. Pre and posttests of resilience have been done to 12 participants before they were divided into three groups: the control group, who did not play the game, the experimental group A, who played the game once a week for three weeks, and the experimental group B, who played the game twice a week for three weeks. Resilience was measured by adapting Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, whereas self-esteem was measured by utilizing Mruk two-dimensional Self-esteem scale. There was a statistically significant difference among the the three groups in resilience improvement, where the experimental group A scored the highest, and no significant difference was discovered in terms of self-eteem improvement. The results suggested that playing TBG in certain frequency significantly improves resilience among the participants.
The Impact of Different Missing Data Handling Methods on DINA Model
Authors: Ömür Sünbül Seçil
Published: April 2019

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the impact of different missing data handling methods on DINA model parameter estimation and classification accuracy. In the study, simulated data were used and the data were generated by manipulating the number of items and sample size. In the generated data, two different missing data mechanisms (missing completely at random and missing at random) were created according to three different amounts of missing data. The generated missing data was completed by using methods of treating missing data as incorrect, person mean imputation, two-way imputation, and expectation-maximization algorithm imputation. As a result, it was observed that both s and g parameter estimations and classification accuracies were effected from, missing data rates, missing data handling methods and missing data mechanisms.
An Assessment of Project Teacher Exchange for ASEAN Teachers (TEACH) Program
Authors: Agustin Ma. Lourdes S. , Montebon Darryl Roy
Published: April 2019

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) integration aims to unite the South East Asian countries to promote better opportunities for the member countries in different areas such as economics and education. As a response, Philippine Normal University spearheaded the formation of the Association of Southeast Asian Teacher Education Network to promote collaboration with ASEAN countries and enhance teacher education programs. The formation of AsTEN creates the impetus to explore possibilities for the internationalization of teacher education programs among the ASEAN countries. Thus, the Institute of Teaching and Learning of PNU initiated the Project Teacher Exchange for ASEAN Teachers (TEACH). This paper reports the assessment of the piloting of the Project TEACH as experienced by the Thai participants. Moreover, this research aims to develop a model that can be utilized by other ASEAN communities as they prepare for their own international teacher education programs.
Determination of Secondary School 4th Grade Students’ Mental Models of the Astronomer
Authors: Baybars Meryem Görecek , Kayabas Büşra Tuğçe
Published: April 2019

Teaching astronomy to young generations is of great importance because astronomy education helps us to better understand the world we are living in and to find answers to our questions. In this regard, the current study aimed to determine the secondary school 4th grade students’ mental models of the astronomer. The current research is designed as a descriptive study employing the special case study method. The study was conducted in a city located in the western part of Turkey. The study group is comprised of a total of 77 secondary school 4th grade students attending a state school. In line with the purpose of the study, a data collection tool consisted of 2 open-ended questions was developed. In light of the findings of the study, it can be argued that the mental models possessed by the students about the astronomer are the scientific model, the astronaut model and the celestial bodies model
The Effects of “I Can Problem Solve Program” on Children’s Perspective Taking Abilities
Authors: Aras Ceren Yağmur , Aslan Durmuş
Published: April 2019

This study was conducted to determine the effects of I Can Problem Solve Program on preschool children’s perspective taking skills. Participants were 51 children who were attending two public preschool. In the study, pretest – posttest – permanence test control group desing was used. There were an experimental group and two control groups in the study. As data collection tool, “Perspective Taking Test for Children (PTC)” which was developed by Aslan and Köksal-Akyol [1] were utilized. Firstly, PTC was applied to children as pretest. Then “I Can Problem Solve Program” which was developed by Shure [2] and adapted to Turkish by Öğülmüş [3] was applied to children in experimental group. Children in control groups were attend the regular program. After the completing the program application PTC was implemented to experimental group and control groups as posttest. Finally, PTC was applied to experimental group as permanence test after a month of posttest. At the end of the study, it was determined that I Can Problem Solve Program had a significant impact on children’s perspective taking skills. There was a statistically significant difference between experimental group and control groups in posttest, while there was no difference between the groups in prettest. Children in experimental group performed better than children in control groups in posttest. Moreover, there was no significant difference in experimental group’s scores between posttest and permanence test scores.
Mediation Role of Locus of Control on the Relationship of Learned-helplessness and Academic Procrastination among College Students in Penang, Malaysia.
Authors: Prihadi Kususanto , Tan Christine Y.H. , Tan Reimy T.S. , Yong Poh Ling , Yong Jonathan H.E , Tinagaran Sharvini , Goh Chee Leong , Tee Yu Jin
Published: April 2019

This study aims to study the mediation role of locus of control on the impact of learned helplessness on students’ academic procrastination. Studies reported that more than 70% university students procrastinate, and one of the causes is the perception that one is vulnerable or helpless in finishing the procrastinate tasks. It was hypothesized that internal locus of control iLOC can reduce the effect if the learned helplessness (LH) on academic procrastination. Data was collected from 60 university students by utilizing instruments such as Duttweiller’s Internal Control Scale, Pure Procrastination Scale (adapted for academic setting) and Learned Helplessness Scale. Multiple regression with Process add-on showed that full mediation occurred; the prediction of LH on procrastination became insignificant when iLOC is controlled. In other words, when students believe that they are in control of their events, the less likely they will procrastinate doing their tasks due to helpless feeling.
Item Response Theory: An Introduction to Latent Trait Models to Test and Item Development
Authors: Bichi Ado Abdu , Talib Rohaya
Published: April 2019

Testing in educational system perform a number of functions, the results from a test can be used to make a number of decisions in education. It is therefore well accepted in the education literature that, testing is an important element of education. To effectively utilize the tests in educational policies and quality assurance its validity and reliability estimates are necessary. There are two generally acceptable frameworks used in evaluating the quality of test in educational and psychological measurements, these are; Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Item Response Theory (IRT). The estimates of test items validity and reliability depend on a particular measurement model used. It is vital for a test developer to be familiar with the different test development and item analysis methods in order to facilitate the development of a new test. The CTT is a traditional approach which was widely criticise in the measurement community for its shortcomings such as sample dependency of coefficient measures and estimates of measurement error. However, the IRT is a modern approach which provides solutions to most of the CTT’s identified shortcomings. This paper therefore, provides a comprehensive overview of the IRT and its procedures as applied to test item development and analysis. The paper concludes with some suggestions for test developers and test specialists at all levels to adopt IRT for its identified crucial theoretical and empirical gains over CTT. IRT based parameter estimates should be superior and reliable than CTT based parameter estimates. With these features, IRT can help resolve the problems associated with test design based on CTT.
Anxiety in Visually Impaired Students about the Future
Authors: Kızılaslan Aydın , Kızılaslan M. Meral
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study is to determine the anxiety level that visually impaired students may have for the future when planning their profession. Anxiety is defined as excessive level fear and worry about real or imaginary situations. So the excessive worry can affect the ability to act to solve a problem. This study is a case study based on the semi-structured interviews. The study group consists of six 8th grade students with visual impairment. The aim of selecting students with visual impairment as a sample group is to determine the individuals who are aware that education is an important for their future plans but at the same time aware that the barriers created by society have greater impact on their the socialization. As a result, visually impaired individuals are willing to be part of the society, but the created obstacles cause anxiety in many different ways as they constitute their futures. This situation negatively affects their motivation and academic performance, and diminishes the importance of education for them as well.
Elementary School Third Grade Students’ Expectations of Their Teachers in The Course of Language Education
Authors: Sidekli Sabri , Cura Zeliha , Yorulmaz Alper
Published: April 2019

The purpose of the study is to determine the elementary school third grade students’ expectations of their classroom teachers within the context of the course of language education. The sampling of the study is comprised of 200 elementary school third grade students attending elementary schools in the Milas Province of the city of Muğla. The data were gathered by means of the questionnaire, which had six sub-categories, in order to identify students’ expectations of their teachers. The findings of the study revealed that the students have high expectations of their teachers in terms of the sub-dimensions of active participation, verbal participation, written participation, participating in reading, inclusion of the topics and measurement and evaluation. The students’ expectations of their teachers in relation to the sub-dimension of measurement and evaluation were found to be varying significantly depending on the gender variable. This difference is in favor of boys.
Understanding Faculty Engagement in Assessment through Feedback and Dialogues: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Elliott Robert W.
Published: April 2019

The literature indicates faculty members' beliefs and attitudes toward assessment are crucial to the successful implementation of assessment.  However, few empirical studies have examined the culture of assessment among faculty members.  The intent of this single-level mixed methods case study is to identify the factors and examine how these factors influence faculty members' perceptions, attitudes, and their engagement in assessment activities by studying the case of a public teaching intensive university in the Southwest region of the U.S.  An online survey and asynchronous focus group interviews are used.  The implications for institutional policy making and professional development are discussed, based on the findings.
Do Mobile Technology in the Classroom Really Improve Learning Outcomes?
Authors: Zaheer Shazia , Butt Saad Masood , Anatolyevna Gnevasheva Vera , Salmani Hosna
Published: April 2019

This article aims to outline different pedagogical strategies with applications (apps) in the classroom. Every year the use of mobile devices like tablets and smartphones increases. At the same time, applications are being developed to meet this demand. It is therefore essential that educators investigate their use as an motivational technological medium that can possibly be used in the classroom. Apps can be used both as a source of information as well as a tool for creating material. Thus, this article will present the results of a study applying teaching strategies in different contexts. It therefore highlights the importance of mobile learning as a viable alternative in the classroom. In order to do so, there was a multiple case study in the undergraduate pedagogy program and a digital inclusion course for seniors, both offered in the first semester of 2017 at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). Educational applications and examples of teaching strategies using apps were created in these classes. Educational applications offer the possibility to bring innovations to teaching practices, as well as new forms of communication, interaction and authorship, thus contributing to the process of teaching and learning.
Logo Counseling for Low Spiritual Self-Esteem Among College Students
Authors: Engel Jacob Daan , Loekmono Lobby
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this research was to examine logo counseling model in improving low spiritual self-esteem problem for college students. This research used descriptive method and quasi-experiment method with a non-equivalent pre-test-post-test control group design. The results then analyzed from the statistical significance and the practical significance. The result showed that logo counseling model could improve low spiritual self-esteem among college students, indicated by statistical significance of tcount (43.851) > ttable (2.144) and N-gain of the experimental group (0.75) > N-gain of the control group (0.15) and practical significance of positive attitude, behavior and value changes. Recommendation also given for related agencies to implement logo counseling model in training program and for further research by related experts in the field.
Investigation of The Effect of Pre-Service Classroom Teachers’ Critical Thinking Disposition on Their Media Literacy
Authors: Çelik Özkan , Çokçalişkan Halil , Yorulmaz Alper
Published: April 2019

It is important to develop a critical perspective in terms of interpreting the messages to be given to the individuals through media and questioning the authenticity and content of these messages. It is therefore necessary to train the individuals called media literate who can critically perceive and evaluate the information conveyed through the media to increase the positive effects of the media and to reduce their negative effects as much as possible. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the effect of the pre-service teachers’ critical thinking disposition on their media literacy. The study employed the relational survey model, one of the quantitative research methods. In order to collect data, a personal information form, the Critical Thinking Disposition Scale, and the Media Literacy Level Determination Scale were used as the data collection tools. As a result of the study, the critical thinking disposition of the pre-service teachers was found to be medium and their media literacy was found to be high. The critical thinking disposition was found to be varying significantly depending on their gender and grade level; their media literacy was found to be varying depending on grade level but not on gender. There is a positive but low relationship between critical thinking disposition and media literacy and critical thinking is a significant predictor of media literacy.
Predictors of Educational Outcomes of Students with Multiple Disabilities: Results from a National Study
Authors: Bowlen Kymberly , Osiniak Kristen , Syms Tyler , Larwin Karen H
Published: April 2019

Parents, siblings, and peers have an immeasurable effect on shaping children into who they become as individuals. Many factors, such as one’s relationships with these individuals, may have lasting effects on the educational and vocational outcomes of children who have multiple disabilities. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the relationships of children with multiple disabilities, as well as their perceptions regarding their educational experiences to determine the effects these factors may have on their future outcomes. The goal of the present study is to determine how potential correlations may influence children with multiple disabilities during transition and vocational programs, as well as their outcomes in life beyond formal schooling.
Integration of Syrian Refugees and Turkish Students by Non Formal Education Activities
Authors: Küçüksüleymanoğlu Rüyam
Published: April 2019

While 80 percent of Syrian refugee children living in camps have chance to attend formal education, only small number of children are attending Turkish schools. The purpose of this research is to investigate the opinions of the Syrian refugee children before and after non formal education (NFE) activities about refugees’ integration at school. For this purpose, certain activities were created and organized by the researcher. The research was conducted in the selected public school with 73 Syrian children and lasted for 28 weeks. Semi-structured interview and observation methods were used in this study. The data were analysed using content analysis. The findings obtained from the study have been organized into 3 main themes. These themes are “language”, “coping and resolving conflict” and “joining a group and sustaining friendship”. As a result of the study, it has been determined that Syrian children can cope with the problems they are experiencing and integrate into the school life and Turkish students being more helpful and tolerant towards the refugees are influenced by non formal education activities conducted in school. It is hoped that it will be a good example for each school in designing educational programs for Syrian refugee children with NFE activities.
Investigation of the Learning Styles of Pre-Service Sports Teachers Enrolled at a Pedagogical Formation Program
Authors: DENİZ Sabahattin , CAN Süleyman
Published: April 2019

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the learning styles of the students from the Faculty of Sports Sciences. These students are enrolled at the pedagogical formation program and attending different departments of the Faculty of Physical Education and Sports. The study is a descriptive study employing the general survey model. As the data collection tool, “Vermunt Learning Styles Scales (VLSS)” was used. The study group of the current research is comprised of Sports Sciences Faculty students enrolled at the pedagogical formation program at the Education Faculty of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University in 2016-2017 academic year. The findings of the study revealed that while the re-service sports sciences teachers’ study activities (information processing and organization) and study motives (mental model of learning and learning orientation) do not vary significantly depending on gender, age, branch, the state of having a coaching license or not and the state of working in a job or not, they vary significantly depending on department (coaching, sports management, recreation, physical education and sports teaching) and general academic achievement
Activities Written by Prospective Primary Teachers on Realistic Mathematics Education
Authors: Güler Hatice Kübra
Published: April 2019

It is important for students to connect with real life in mathematics courses. The aim of this study is to investigate the activities which are written by prospective primary school teachers in the context of Realistic Mathematics Education. This research is a case study of which data were collected by qualitative methods. The participants of the research included 81 prospective primary teachers who are junior students attended primary teacher department. It was asked them to write an activity suitable for primary mathematics curriculum by considering Realistic Mathematics Education principles. They were given one month to write the activities. The activities written by prospective teachers analyzed by descriptive methods in terms of learning domains, types of context and principles of Realistic Mathematics Education. Totally 36 activities were written by prospective teachers. Based on the analysis, it was observed that not all the contexts were exactly real life contexts. It was determined that prospective teacher could not distinguish routine word problems from real life problems. It can be said that theoretical knowledge of Realistic Mathematics Education is inadequate for writing activities and prospective primary teachers need to practice on writing activities regarding the mentioned theory.
The Influence of Powtoon-Assisted Group to Group Exchange and Powtoon-Assisted Talking Chips Learning Models in Primary Schools
Authors: Buchori Achmad , Cintang Nyai
Published: April 2019

The element of creativity in learning mathematics in elementary school is lack of attention. Whereas, in solving the mathematic problem, creative thinking and ideas are needed in formulating and solving mathematical models of mathematic problems. Creative thoughts and ideas will emerge and develop if the process of learning mathematics in the classroom uses appropriate learning approach. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of students' mathematical creative thinking ability on Powtoon-Assisted Group to Group Exchange and Talking Chips learning models to students' creative thinking ability. This research is a correlative quantitative research. The population was all the sixth grade students of Pedurungan Tengah 1 State Primary School in Semarang. The samples were class VI C (experiment 1), VI D (experiment 2), and VI B (control). The data were obtained from a post-test with open-ended answers. The analysis result of Anava test indicated that there was a difference on the mean of students' creative thinking ability in those three classes. Based on the Scheffe Test calculation, students' mathematical creative thinking ability with GGE model was better than the class with conventional learning model. Another result of Scheffe Test calculation indicated that students' mathematical creative thinking ability with Talking Chips model was better than the class with conventional learning. In addition, the Simple Linear Regression equation in both classes with GGE and Talking Chips models resulted in positive value equation. It could be concluded that Powtoon-Assisted Group to Group Exchange and Talking Chips learning models have a positive influence on students' creative thinking ability.
Dental and Oral Health Education for Elemetary School Students through Patient Hygiene Performance Index Indicator
Authors: Jatmika Septian Emma Dwi , Maulana Muchsin
Published: April 2019

Caries is a problem that often occurs in school-age children. Special Region of Yogyakarta is a province that has a high DMF-T index by 5.9 and exceeds the national DMF-T index. One of the efforts to improve dental and oral health of school-age children is the health education method using simulation methods, as well as simple techniques that may attract children's attention and be understood. The aim of the current study is to knowing the influence of oral and dental hygiene education intervention on dental and oral hygiene level at SD Negeri 3 Sleman students. This research used a kind of quasi experimental research with one group pretest posttest design. The research was done in SD Negeri 3 Sleman, the sample used was the 3rd graders from 57 students in 2017. The intervention was done by dental and oral hygiene education. Respondents were examined related to their dental and oral hygiene levels. It was measured by the PHP Index (Patient Hygiene Perfomance) before and after the intervention. According to results, The average score of respondents’dental and oral hygine pre test was 0.0823 and the average post test score of respondents’dental and oral hygiene was 1.4830. There is the difference of 1.4007. This shows an increament in oral hygiene of the respondent before and after the education. The results of statistical analysis show that there is an influence of oral and dental hygiene which pvalue 0,000 <0.05. Thus, there is a need for dental and mouth hygiene education to be conducted regularly and delivered with an interesting method.
Parents’ Roles in Overcoming Elementary Students’ Learning Difficulties
Authors: Maryani Ika , Kusainun Noven , Fatmawati Laila , Erviana Vera Yuli , Wangid Muhammad Nur , Mustadi Ali
Published: April 2019

This research aims to identify learning problems and the parents’roles in overcoming learning difficulties of 5th-grade students of Muhammadiyah Karangturi Elementary School, Bantul, Yogyakarta. Research participants were six students with learning difficulties, six parents, and four teachers. Selection of subjects used purposive sampling technique. Research object was the parents’ roles in overcoming students’ learning difficulties. This research was a qualitative research with data collection techniques in the form of observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis technique was the interactive model (data collection, data reduction, data models, and drawing conclusions). The results showed that the problems experienced by students with learning difficulties in Muhammadiyah Karangturi Elementary School were lower than average learning outcomes, slow understanding, and lack of reasonable attitudes, behavior, and emotional symptoms during the learning process. The parents’ roles in overcoming students’ learning difficulties are finding tutoring institutions for children, accompanying children when coming and going home from school, being good listeners, accompanying learning activities at home, taking children on the first day of school, meeting with teachers through parents association, and present at the distribution of learning outcomes report card.
Using Partial Credit Model to Improve the Quality of an Instrument
Authors: Krishnan Saras , Idris Noraini
Published: April 2019

In using the Rasch model to improve the quality of an instrument, analysis purports to determine if the sample collaborates well with the items in the instrument such that the results are measuring a single underlying variable. The relevant properties of Rasch analysis are reliability and validity which are key indicators of the quality of a measurement instrument. This paper discusses the use of one type of Rasch model that is the Partial Credit Model to investigate reliability and validity of an instrument. By removing or changing items in the instrument when conditions of reliability and validity are not met, the quality of the instrument is improved.
Item Analysis for the Adapted Motivation Scale Using Rasch Model
Authors: Ng Sar Ee , Yeo Kee Jiar , Mohd Kosnin Azlina Bt
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to measure the validity and reliability of an adapted motivation scale used in second language learning.  The Integrative and Instrumental motivation (IIM)  was developed based on two orientations of motivation, which were integrative motivation and instrumental motivation.  IIM was used to identify students’ level of motivation towards learning Chinese language as a second language (CLSL) in national school.  The study presented empirical evidence of validity and reliability using the Rasch Model.   Pilot study was conducted in a national school which has students enrolled for the CLSL class.   There were 29 students in this pilot study.  Data was  analyzed using WINSTEPS version 3.72.3.  The result showed the reliability of the motivation scale is 0.87 based on Cronbach’s alpha.  The construct validity was determined by PT-measure correlation value (PMC) range from 0.71 to 0.86, infit and outfit MNSQ  between 0.53 to 1.43 and ZSTD range from -1.1 to 1.2. In unidimensional measure, raw variance explained was at 66.4%  with the unexplanined variance in the first factor was at 13.6%.  Finally the fit statistics showed that person separation index, 2.79 was considered good and item separation index, 1.81was in acceptable range (Linacre,2012).  Person and item reliability were at 0.89 and 0.77 respectively.  The result indicated that the new instrument with 15 items-IIM after eliminated unfit items was a reliable and valid instrument to measure the motivation in learning CLSL in the context of national school.
Orientation to Happiness as a Predictor of University Students’ Engagement
Authors: Durón-Ramos Maria Fernanda , Vázquez Fernanda García
Published: April 2019

There is empirical evidence for a close link between positive personal components and students' engagement in academic activities. Personal well-being is a construct that can be studied from a variety of angles. Recent studies point to the relevance of orientation to happiness examining three types of well-being. The main objective of this study is to test the relationship that orientation to happiness has with university students' engagement at a public institution in northern Mexico. A stratified probabilistic sample of 266 students was used. The internal consistency of the scales was analyzed using the SPSS package and a model of structural equations in the EQS program. Results indicate is a direct and significant relationship between the orientation to happiness and the students' engagement. This supports the importance of promoting positive factors in students to improve their academic and personal development.
Mediation Effect of Resilience on The Relationship Between Self-Efficacy and Competitiveness Among University Students
Authors: Moke Kingston K.F. , Chang Calvin K.W. , Prihadi Kususanto , Goh Chee Leong
Published: April 2019

This study aims to evaluate the mediation role of resilience on the link between self-efficacy and competitiveness among university students in Malaysia. One hundred and thirty-six participants from several universities in Malaysia were recruited to respond to an online form consisted of the following scales: adapted versions of brief resilience scale from Smith et al, self-efficacy scale from Biemann, Kearney and Marggraf, and Personal Development Competitive Attitude Scale  from Ryckman, Hammer, Kaczor and Gold. Data was analyzed by using SPSS with PROCESS Macro and full mediation has been observed. Bias-corrected bootstrap confidence interval test indicated that the indirect effect of self-efficacy on competitiveness was significant and the Sobel test had confirmed the significance of the mediation. Further discussion, limitation and suggestion are discussed in the end of the paper.
The Effects of Pre-service Teachers’ Cognitive Styles on Learning Approaches
Authors: Altıntaş Sedat , Görgen İzzet
Published: April 2019

The main purpose of the study is to investigate the effects of prospective teachers’ cognitive styles on learning approaches. It is aimed to define whether exist significance differences between defining prospective teachers’ cognitive styles and learning approaches and demographic variables within the scope of the mean purpose. The study, designed according to correlational survey model, was conducted at Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Faculty of Education in the 2014-2015 academic year spring semester. As data collection instruments, “The Group Embedded Figures Test” was administered to define prospective teachers’ cognitive style in the study. On the other hand “The Revised Two Factor Study Process Questionnaire” was used to reveal prospective teachers’ learning approaches. According to the findings, prospective teachers generally have field dependent cognitive style. It is determined that between with prospective teachers’ gender and academic success and cognitive style scores there isn’t any significant difference revealed. However, there is significant difference between branches and cognitive style scores. It has been viewed that prospective teachers prefer deep learning approach generally. There isn’t significant difference between gender and learning approaches yet there is significant difference between learning approaches-branches and academic success. It is also concluded that as prospective teachers’ cognitive styles approaches to field independent, deep learning approach preference of prospective teachers has diminished.
Views towards the revolution history course of foreign students in Turkey
Authors: Tangülü Zafer , Kaya Beytullah
Published: April 2019

Studying history in accordance with gaining the legitimacy of the official ideology and reaching the historical bases that will open the way for the national identity for all teaching stages starting from primary education to tertiary education has made the national history subjects and naturally the topics of the Principles of Atatürk and History of the Turkish Revolution course both important and valuable. Although the teaching of Principles of Atatürk and History of the Turkish Revolution course has a role in the realization of national goals in higher education, the universal messages the program contains clearly demonstrate that the course has also a universal role beside the national identity of it. The purpose of this study is to investigate the opinions of foreign students studying in Turkey towards Principles of Atatürk and History of the Turkish Revolution course. To this end, this research is a case study in the qualitative research design. 12 foreign students studying at Istanbul Sebahattin Zaim University participated the study. The participants of the study were selected by purposive sampling method among criterion sampling methods. The criterion to pick these students was that they were accepted on the condition that they did Principles of Atatürk and History of the Turkish Revolution course for at least one semester at university. 6 female and 6 male students participated the study. Semi-structured interview form with 5 questions was prepared in order to determine the opinions of students participating in the research and content analysis was utilized to analyze the data obtained from the research and discourse analysis methods were employed to present the data. The opinions of the participants were transcribed and similar responses were categorized under certain headings. Research findings show that students are of the opinion that the course is very necessary for them and that it helps them to get scholar knowledge on Turkish history and it also helps them to get accurate history knowledge.