bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TECHNOLOGICALLY ENHANCED LEARNING - HIGHLIGHTING THE GENERALITY AND TRANSFERABILITY OF MATHEMATICAL MODELS
Authors: Marciuc Daly , Miron Cristina
Published: February 2023

Modelling plays a major role in the evolution of scientific knowledge and is an objective for students' literacy in science. The emergence of accessible and powerful computational technologies imposes the development of a specific curriculum focusing on the study of science by computer modelling. This paper presents the results of investigating the possibilities of integration of computational modelling activities in Physics lessons, at high school level. Through the activities we propose here we will highlight the generality and transferability of models, by applying a unique mathematical model to solve problems that, at first sight, have nothing in common. The simulations we built with GeoGebra software and VPython programming language can be tailored both to the study of optical phenomena such as inferior or higher mirage, and to solving the famous problem of the brachistochrone. The interdisciplinary learning context, based on problem solving, calls for the application of knowledge from various fields: trigonometric and algebraic calculus, Euclidian geometry elements, Snell's law of refraction, energy conservation law, knowledge of programming and use a graphical software in modelling. The problem which students start from when investigating requires determining the fastest path between two points, separated by strips in which the propagation speeds are different. Using the achieved models, students can infer that in the case of the non-friction sliding motion, the cycloid is the fastest path. The simulations of motions were performed with GeoGebra, based on the kinematic equations, and with the VPython programming language, using the dynamic equations. The proposed modelling activities foster the development of students' transversal and transferable skills in mathematics, physics and computational technology.
VISUAL MEMORY, AN INTEGRATED MECHANISM IN THE INFORMATION TRANSFER FROM THE VISION PROCESS TO CONSTRUCTIVE PERCEPTION, USING SERIOUS GAMES
Authors: Baritz Mihaela ioana
Published: February 2023

The visual function through its complexity determines the development of a cognitive and participatory process sequenced on several levels. The visual process begins with the formation of the image on the retina of the eyeball. It continues with information transfer to the central nervous system and then completes with the complex process of perception and feed-back reactions. This whole process includes a layer of memory (archiving) based on associations of shapes, colors, movement, dimensions and inter-action connections that constitute visual memory. Visual memory can be developed, information at this level can be "archived" and reused when "access passwords" are required or when combined with other levels of sensory memory. In the first part of the paper there are presented some aspects regarding the ways of creating and working with the elements of visual memory. In the second part of the paper are presented a series of experiments, based on serious games, designed to evaluate and train the visual memory in pre-school children. All the exercises proposed are based on the visual and auditory function of the children, which were previously evaluated and the possible dysfunctions were highlighted. The final part of the paper presents and analyzes the results obtained by the procedures mentioned in the paper. The analysis of these results revealed the interest and effective participation of children during the applications, the increase of the concentration power and the degree of understanding of abstract images or actions. These aspects form and train visual memory through all its components, allowing the child to evolve more dynamically in an interactive environment.
MODEL CHECKING THE PROPERTIES OF AN ELECTRONIC HEALTHCARE SYSTEM TO FACILITATE THE DETECTION OF PREECLAMPSIA THROUGH A SMART BRACELET
Authors: Marin Iuliana , Goga Nicolae
Published: February 2023

Electronic healthcare systems sustain a lifelong observation and treatment of population health and diseases. Through the collaborative communities of doctors the medical staff, along with their students, improve their knowledge regarding their activity field. The current paper proposes an electronic healthcare system that monitors and treats pregnant women who suffer from preeclampsia. Such a system is valuable, because it allows the prediction of emergency situations through the use of a decision support system. The blood pressure of pregnant women will be continuously monitored through a smart bracelet and the information about them is available for the doctors who can monitor their patients, give a diagnosis and treatment, as well as to update it. Doctors can discuss between them through a collaborative virtual environment. Furthermore, medical students can benefit from this and enrich their knowledge. Alerts are sent when critical situations are noticed by the system. Healthcare systems are complex, because they imply computer science, electronics, telecommunication and medicine. Models are created based on how the devices communicate between them, how health data is measured and from it how information is stored and retrieved. The reason behind the creation and test of such models is to determine the issues which might leads to the occurrence of deadlocks. The formal model for the preeclampsia healthcare system was created with Promela and tested automatically using the Spin tool. According to the test, the normal flow was designed in a proper manner, without leading to exceptional behaviors. The formal model will be implemented and integrated in the preeclampsia electronic healthcare system.
LEARNING ANALYTICS IN AN E-TESTING APPLICATION: PREMISES AND CONCEPTUAL MODELING
Authors: Nitu Melania , Dascalu Mariaiuliana , Bodea Constantanicoleta , Lazarou Elisabeth , Trifan Elena laura
Published: February 2023

Learning analytics in online instruction is recognized as an emergent research field that continuously grows, taking the data generated in virtual learning environments and transforming it into information to improve teaching and learning processes. The main purpose of a learning analytics system is to offer customizable metrics that can be used to track specific features, e.g. the effectiveness of certain formative assessment tools, the correlation between virtual participation and final grades, that supports user’s goals and objectives. One of the most significant benefits of learning analytics is being able to offer support for eLearning experience personalization. The current paper presents a web based application that implements data analytics in a virtual learning environment, to validate the new paradigms of learning (social / collaborative, user-centred) and relies on the current technologies. The system is described as a useful tool for personalized feedback, allowing to track individual online learner progress throughout the assessment process, by comparing the results in the learning management system, using charts and tables to analyse each online learner’s performance and the user’s progress. This information allows us to recommend supplemental courses or modules to fill performance gaps and improve the comprehension. This tool builds the learner profile, by grouping the user's data from different sources, by analysing them and providing a complex result on four levels of the virtual behaviour of the student: the descriptive level (what has happened), the diagnosis level (why it happened), the predictive level (what will happen, for example signalling the lack of performance and the risk of failure) and the prescription level (what should be done, for example the recommendation of educational resources). The beneficiaries of the analytics module are the students who will become aware of the involvement or lack of involvement in their educational activities, and the quality of this participation and its effects on their lives (for example, finding a job), teachers / trainers who will be able to improve teaching to fulfil students’ needs, and universities that will be able to analyse the effectiveness of their educational offer.
USING TECHNOLOGY TO TEACH CHEMISTRY. A THEORETICAL APPROACH
Authors: Ianos Maria gratiela , Oproiu Gabriela carmen
Published: February 2023

The increasing tendency of digitalization, present in today's society, have an impact on education, as well. The benefits of using technology in the classroom have been mentioned in various studies. The internet offers many educational resources that can be used both offline and online and can be the proper instruments to support the instructional process. However, many studies on technology-assisted instruction highlight several factors that require a permanent restructuring and updating of contents, and also the adaptation of the applied didactic strategies. Among these factors there are: the particularities of new generations of students, the rapid evolution of technology, many existing web resources, the variety of instructional strategies, the diversity and complexity of studied disciplines etc. To facilitate the learning of various disciplines, and especially the basic scientific disciplines such as chemistry, it is necessary for teachers to be able to easily identify educational technology resources, and integrate them effectively in the didactic activity. Chemistry is an important discipline in preparing students and is one of the essential branches of science. Difficulties encountered by students in learning this discipline have been highlighted in various studies, and requires identifying the best strategies for teaching-learning of chemistry. Thus, the use of technology in teaching supports students in the learning process, can contribute to a better understanding of abstract concepts of chemistry and play an important role in reducing learning difficulties. Both theoretical and empirical research studies can provide useful information to practitioners and theorists in the field. The present paper represents a theoretical study on the implications of using technology in teaching chemistry. The study was performed by analysing of some scientific works, which aim at teaching chemistry assisted by technology. The main objective of the paper was to identify the most commonly used resources / tools and best practices for their use in teaching chemistry.
E-LEARNING TRAINING PROGRAM FRAMEWORK ON FRACTAL DESIGN - THE ULTIMATE STATE TO IMPROVE EMS INTEGRATION
Authors: Herghiligiu Ionut viorel , Pislaru Marius
Published: February 2023

Sustainability represents currently the main issue for "today world and for the future of tomorrow". Therefore the sustainability issue can be considered as a consensual solution of organizational stakeholders who are involved in business decision-making process (Mukherjee et al., 2016), taking into account the synergy between enhancing ecological resilience (A), people (B), and profit (C). The issue of organizational sustainable development involves the integration of various management tools. Environmental management system (EMS - ISO 14001/ EMAS) is a management tool considered to be an effective an efficient managerial instrument associated to sustainable development and value creation (Sebhatu and Enquist, 2007; Wijesooriya et al., 2011). Businesses which have implemented the EMS and analyzed the consequences/ effects of the environmental management activities found that the ISO 14001 EMS brings multiple benefits (Herghiligiu, 2017). However taking into account the facts that "(a) the current literature on ISO 14001 EMS has largely neglected this phenomenon of integration (internalization) (Yin and Schmeidler, 2009; Tari et al. 2012), (b) it exists contradictions between IS0 14001 EMS and modern management trends (Boiral and Sala, 1998), (c) the EMS can be considered as a hierarchical management system - that is , having in view the explosive modifications that define the current reality", and various current research (Herghiligiu et al., 2017; Herghiligiu, 2017), it could be stated that it's absolutely necessary to "unpack" this organizational management system, consider by Feng and Wang (2016) to be as a "black box", in order that organizations can really profit from EMSs and not consider' it as a "necessary burden". Consequently a new effective approach of EMS organizational integration is needed in order that these types of management system to be a success (Herghiligiu, 2013). Therefore training programs on this topic is needed in order to be correct and fully understood this new approach - Fractal design regarding the EMS organizational integration. Concluding, this paper sets the foundation for an e-learning training program framework associated to EMS integration - based on fractal principles, because e-Learning is the most performant way to implement inside organizations various training programs.
STATISTIC CORRELATION ALGORITHM FOR RELIABILITY IN OPERATION: CASE STUDY FOR A TEXTILE PROCESS
Authors: Vilcu Adrian , Verzea Ion , Herghiligiu Ionut viorel , Pislaru Marius
Published: February 2023

Reliability in operation (RO) of the technical device is logically ensured through a design scheme in device construction stages, through a rightfully elaborated technology accomplished through an adequately organized exploitation system. That is why one cannot separate the task of providing a reliable operation, from the problems of designing the device, organizing the production and its exploitation. The RO estimation requires objective precise criteria and with this purpose in mind, one resorted to a probabilistic approach of the RO problem applied to a quantitative investigation of the technical systems. This approach resulted from the classical definition of RO, its meaning being the probability of operation within a time interval. Complementary to this definition, one defines another element of RO, namely devices shutdown, characteristic that can be examined as a series of random events. The random character of the breakdown event is related to the insufficient or erroneous character of the real known information about the events that generate it. The researches carried out until now about the statistic evaluations of experimental data led to the conclusion that the stage that correlates statistically the experimental data with theoretical distributions was slipped over, because there is no generally applicable algorithm for this stage of the analysis of reliability in operation. This leads to the necessity of a new algorithmic approach for the solution of this problem. The general objective of our research consists in designing a statistical procedure for the correlation of the two distributions: experimental and theoretic. In this connection, we propose an integrated software application that determines, based on statistic coefficients, the type of experimental distribution of a series of values, quantitatively determined from the study of a technical textile system. The work one defines the problem of reliable operation management, applies the quantitative study to a system belonging to the field of textile spinning (one determines the time of reliable operation and the mean intensity of the technical system failures during a prescribed time horizon). The work also proposes the correlation algorithm, determines mathematically the statistic test coefficients and draws the conclusions.
MOVEN SYSTEM - A RESOURCEFUL TOOL IN KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF STRIKING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Baitel Irina , Deliu Dan
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this paper is to present accurate, objective information about the kinematic characteristics of three of the punches used in striking combat sports: cross, swing and uppercut. The use of MOVEN equipment and a computational methodology that have been presented in other studies have made it possible to present a highly accurate analysis. The kinematic parameters chosen for the comparative analysis of these striking techniques are the fist's speed, the minimum fist's acceleration value (recorded after impact as a measure of the impact force), the length of the fist's trajectory and the distance measured from the point where the arm movement begins to the point where the target impact occurs. The subject of the study is a multi-national champion in the 81 kg weight category in full-contact, low-kick and light-kick styles and the data acquisitions were made within the Ciprian Sora Sports Club in Bucharest. The subject executed 10 cross punches, 10 swings and 10 uppercuts in a 40- kg box bag, having MOVEN equipment mounted on it. After calculating the parameters of each stroke we calculated the average values for each type of stroke and compared the variance of these averages over time, referring to the maximum and minimum values for each parameter taken into account. We also have a series of graphical representations to create a clearer picture of the differences we want to highlight. The usefulness of this approach is more than simply informative, such a method of analysis can be useful in drawing up the tactical plans of the fighters and especially in the formation and optimization of the patterns of motion used for each technique and much more, for as many combinations as possible.
TASK-BASED APPROACH IN ESP TEACHING: A CASE STUDY IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS SCIENCES
Authors: Fazio Alessandra , Salvador garcia Celina , Chiva bartoll Oscar , Isidori Emanuele , Barbatbun Susanna
Published: February 2023

There has been a trend toward incorporating elements of ICT and e-learning from primary school to higher education (Huang et al., 2009). It has been successfully used in many different contexts, subjects and with different purposes. The aim of this paper is to highlight the use of these pedagogical tools as a support in teaching/learning Physical Education (PE) through English in the CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) approach. It has been demonstrated that the use of technology has a high positive impact on the teaching and learning processes (Gimeno Sanz, 2009; Qi & Zou, 2016). In fact, it has been claimed that educational approaches based on e-learning and ICT represent an excellent vehicle for success (Bodea, 2016). First, this paper will review the literature on the use of e-learning, multimedia technology, exergames, virtual learning and multimedia in Physical Education courses. This will be followed by a discussion of integrating ICT and CLIL methodology in PE. Next the paper will propose ways to blend these three elements (ICT – Physical Education - CLIL) and show the advantages of integrating them in a given educational scenario. Finally, options and examples of using ICT in PE through CLIL at different educational levels will be discussed (Marsh D., Mehisto P., Wolff D., Frigols Martín M.J., European Framework for CLIL Teacher Education). As a conclusion, ICT and e-learning may be successful tools to overcome difficulties and improve the teaching and learning practices of Physical Education using English medium instruction with the CLIL approach.
THE USE OF THE INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR MONITORING HEART RATE IN BODYBUILDING WORKOUT WITH STUDENTS
Authors: Leuciuc Florin valentin
Published: February 2023

For noncompetitive young males, bodybuilding could be an interesting option due to the physical (armonious body development), aesthetic, physiological and psychological benefits. The aim of the research is to monitor the heart rate during bodybuilding workouts with students for 10 weeks. The research subjects are students (male) at the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, in a number of 30 (age 22,20±5,32 years; min-19, max-39). The period of the research was: October 2016 to January 2017. During this period, at every workout session, we measured five times the heart rates levels: before warm-up, after warm-up, in main part of the workout, after cool down and 5 minutes after cool down. In the research we used a pulse oximeter (Heal Force, PC-60 model). ANOVA analysis for all 5 measurement indicates a significant value for p<0,001. Significant relationships between heart rate values for each analyzed part of the workout sessions show a good implication of the subject in this physical activity, but another studies need to confirm or infirm the values of the heart rate in the main part of the workout. Current data confirm that bodybuilding workout is a moderate activity, but in some individual situations the intensity was vigourous to hard. The values of the pulse 5 minutes after cool down indicate a good recovery rate for the subjects. The limitations of the study are given by the number of participants (30), but open the way to make other such studies involving more subjects, to be conducted during a longer period, in order to determine heart rate values in bodybuilding workouts for students.
STUDY REGARDING THE SPECIFIC OF BADMINTON FOOTWORK, ON DIFFERENT LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE
Authors: Maftei Stefan , Rata Gloria
Published: February 2023

Abstract. Achieving performance in badminton without developing an efficient footwork is Utopian, considering the dynamics of the game. The hypothesis of the study: we believe that badminton footwork is substantially different between each level of players' performance. The purpose of the study is to determinate the time required for players to move from the center of the court to the key points of defense in order to cover the full court and also to identify the main differences of how players move on the court regarding each level of performance. The main research methods used in the study are: bibliographical method, measurement and evaluation method, mathematical-statistical method and the graphical method. The study is realized with participation of 24 players, spanning 3 age groups and different performance levels in the national championship. The results of the study will help to research the construction of an innovative electronic device, designed to improve reaction times, speed and to help players learn the specific paths of the badminton court. The electronic device uses eight motion sensors in order to detect the players when they reach their action areas. Four sensors are placed in the corners of the half court (in badminton each player moves in his half court) and other four are placed in the middle of the courts' lines. Each sensor has a visual signal (a colored led) which is turned off when an obstacle (the players' body) reaches its action area. The device uses a microcontroller which commands the visual signals according to the difficulty of the selected program.
USING THE BACKFIX METHOD FOR REHABILITATION AND POSTURAL CORRECTION
Authors: Schor Vladimir , Schor Daniela , Stanescu Monica
Published: February 2023

In this paper we aim to investigate the effectiveness of the rehabilitation and postural correction method called Backfix on a group of 20 office workers in a high-tech company, who perform their work in sitting positions over 8 hours per day. The Backfix method, which is currently the European trademark registered by MediSport SRL, has two components: the evaluation part, which measures the muscle imbalances - agonist-antagonist chains (with two coefficients) and the level of mechanical work where the balance can be achieved; and the correction part, which uses highly effective learning software to control the muscular rebalancing trajectory. All subjects have been evaluated in terms of the groups of muscles involved in maintaining the posture of the trunk, and subsequently subjected to a correction program with the following objectives: restoring the right co-operation of antagonists - agonists across the entire range of motion; making the transition from the motion programs of the articulation to the motion of the joint; improving proportional coefficient values that describe the steady state muscles of the spine; increasing the level of force and amplitude, that is, mechanical work, in which the balance of the muscles that stabilize the spine can be maintained. The results were evaluated by comparing the set of biomechanical parameters characteristic of the method (motion amplitude, mean force, maximum force, and mechanical work). The level of achievement of the motor reinforcement parameters was appreciated by a computerized scoring system. After 10 sessions of physical exercise, the subjects have been re-assessed. The result analysis indicates a positively significant evolution of the whole group for all parameters demonstrating the ability of the method to efficiently cover a very wide range of variables as age, gender, personal history, etc., which are normal in a functional group of people with office work.
SATISFACTION ASSESSMENT FOR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING STUDENTS USING STACKED NEURAL NETWORKS
Authors: Corciova Calin , Arotaritei Dragos , Fuior Robert , Ilea Mihai
Published: February 2023

In literature, there can be found many studies that measure the level of satisfaction in the academic level (University), in all university all over the world. The method of collecting information is based on forms and usually include issues related both to the quality of the education act in itself, but also to the aspects related to the material base of the University, psychological and social aspects, the social perception of the University and sometimes to the further insertion in the labour market. Most studies use mathematical regression as a tool, but there are also works that go for fuzzy or neuro-fuzzy systems. The last two have proved to be very efficient and this suggests the possibility that the merger of nonlinear data can sometimes be a better indicator of the level of satisfaction than the one given by linear regression. We must take note of the fact that, sometimes, a high level of student satisfaction does not necessarily involve a high level of that student’s performance. As a result, we will treat these two goals separately and this paper will focus only on the evaluation of students at the Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, using a tool for measurement and data fusion of stacked neural networks. Bioengineering represents a confluence area of engineering, medical and fundamental sciences. It is difficult to deal with the evaluation technique as a unitary field, since in the students’ curriculum there can also be found, for example, the electric and bio-chemistry fields. As a result, we propose the use of the questionnaire methodology, based on 5 levels of satisfaction, and 4 chapters of interest (Engineering Sciences, Medical Sciences, Fundamental Sciences, and Social Issues) that are weighted in four multilayer neural networks. The results of these neural networks merge into a function of regression, creating stacked neural networks which produce a global assessment of student’s level of satisfaction. The evaluation group was comprised of a number of 127 students in their final year, from three successive generations, about 90% of graduate students every year. Results were employed in the statistical percentage of confidence level of 95%, considered to be acceptable, taking into account the diversity of perceptions on the level of an interdisciplinary faculty.
THE ADVANTAGES OF USING VIRTUAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS FOR STUDY BIOMEDICAL INSTRUMENTATION BASIC CIRCUITS
Authors: Andritoi Doru , Luca Catalina , Ciorap Radu
Published: February 2023

Often, computer-based education is associated with distance learning in contrast to face-to-face education. The differences between the two educational solutions tend to fade away, influenced by the new forms and educational solutions that are born with technological developments. Although the use of software elements in the study of electronic circuits has been introduced for some time, most applications are limited to providing useful information, formulas or making virtual simulated electrical circuit in ideal conditions. The concept of interfacing elements from classical electronics by making electronic circuits on a breadboard using real components with virtual tools creates a new learning environment with many advantages. A virtual learning environment is a specially designed information space that facilitates the learning process in a traditional way that includes a set of teaching tools designed to improve the learner's educational experience. Learning to use a tool like Educational Laboratory Virtual Instrumentation Suite from National Instruments eliminates the need for bulky equipment in the lab and also allows for the design of customized tools that can be used and reused for specific projects regarding biomedical instrumentation. The active role of the teacher is manifested, in this case, in a different way from the lessons done without computer support. Its presence is discreet, but important; it is the one that sets the time and methods of applying the method as an alternative to classical methods. What is characteristic and very important for these learning environments virtual refers to the active, creative role of learners.
ERGO-VISUAL ANALYSIS OF THE EDUCATIONAL SPACE FOR SMALL PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Baritz Mihaela ioana
Published: February 2023

Always, in the educational process, it has been attempted to create a comfortable environment for transmitting information to small preschoolers so that the process itself is not vitiated by various interferences or sources of discomfort. Most research has focused on identifying and removing noise sources, improving air circulation and thermal comfort, and perhaps less on the chromatic analysis of the educational environment. These aspects, whether they are in the educational space of the educational unit, or whether they are in the personal home, can influence the capacity for memorizing, concentrating and assimilation of knowledge by children that will lead, in the long run, to the drop in training capacity of children and, last but not least, of lowering the performances of the educational act. In the first part of the paper are analyzed the aspects related to determining the influence of the state of comfort on the behavioral parameters and in the second part of the paper are emphasized the specific aspects of the educational environment for pre-school children. In the third part of the paper are presented three specific situations of work areas in the educational system and the ergo-vision levels with implications on the children's visual system are determined. The final part of the paper presents and analyzes the results obtained by the procedures mentioned in the paper. Thus, a series of conclusions emerge from these studies that highlight the need to build an educational space on ergo-visual principles in order to create an interactive environment, a developer for children. Choosing the most suitable combination of color/light for each learning space is the biggest challenge but also the most effective solution for improving performance and increasing the degree of assimilation of children's knowledge during educational training.
MODELING AND SIMULATION OF STATIC DEMANDS OF THE VERTEBRAL COLUMN IN THE SAGITTAL PLANE
Authors: Rotariu Mariana , Ionite Catalin , Turnea Marius
Published: February 2023

Studies show an exponential increase of cases of spine deformation in recent years. In the 21st century, there has been recorded an increase in spine deformity in the sagittal plan due to the lack of activity of the individual, his vicious attitude (sitting in the office, at the computer, telephone, etc.), shoes etc. All the physiological changes of the spine are reflected on the diagram of its solicitation. The recorded requests in the spine are greater if one of the three curves gets eliminated or if the spine curves show accentuations. Physiological curves offer flexibility, mobility and appropriate mechanical solicitations to each segment separately. Pathological cases show an accentuation of curvature in the foreground, but also transversal changes at different vertebral levels, and so the 2D static loading approach has to be extended to 3D to model all aspects of deformation. The shape of the spine gets modified once with the position; as a result, the experimental curve through plotting points on the x-rays may lead to a rougher or finer approximation depending on the accuracy of the model. The proposed software application molds the forces acting at intercervical level for the entire spine in neutral position. Properties of spine arc and dashpot are evaluated and modelled on the basis of experimental data. The simulation parameters are based on an existing algorithm, but with original improvements regarding the optimizing and correlation of deformation parameters acting at the level of the vertebrae. The GUI accomplished on the basis of a mathematical considered model will help therapists to assess different situations "in vivo" based on information from x-rays, measurements, etc., but also to observe the distribution of forces acting upon the spine. A better understanding and representation of these pathologies, will help therapists in devising a more accurate treatment plan and thus decrease the number of cases.
BOOSTING CYBER SECURITY INNOVATION AND CULTURE THROUGH PUBLIC-PRIVATE RESEARCH PROJECTS
Authors: Dansuteu Stefanantonio
Published: February 2023

Observation suggests that currently almost all the aspects of human live are infused with a cyber component. In the context of fast-paced implementation of smart mobile terminals, new cyber security solutions, tools and mechanisms must be created in order to protect personal and organizations information assets. Trend analysis points out toward an increase in number and complexity of malware attacks launched against the expanding mobile communication networks and terminals. Mobile devices are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, mostly in relation with their insecure access to different digital resources, and consequently taxonomies for cyber attacks would improve the analysis and assessment of malware impact over the functionality of mobile terminals and networks. Malevolent actors can disseminate mobile malware through various techniques and subsequently the infected devices can be used as a launch pad for further cyber attacks. Since the smart mobile terminal store a great amount of private data the malware attacks against this type of device are inherently complex. In order to distinguish between the behaviour of legitimate and malevolent, there are sustained efforts within the cyber security community to analyse the modus-operandi of relevant malware. In this general operational context, the “Integrated Software Platform for Malware Analysis on Mobile Terminals” project, funded by UEFISCDI / Romanian Ministry of National Education, provides an innovative solution for an emergent cyber threat vector. This paper summarizes some of the project team’s findings.
NEW DATA PROTECTION REGULATIONS AND THEIR IMPACT ON UNIVERSITIES
Authors: Dinu Mihaistefan
Published: February 2023

Contemporary technological progress was possible on the background of rapid internet access, geographical spreading which has facilitating not only the rapid transmission of vast amount of data but also not so honest storage, use and transmission of this big amount of data. Internet access needs credentials, and frequently credentials are linked to personal data that nowadays can be considered priceless. That is why the protection of personal data must be a priority for the universities. Why new data protection regulation? Why students and employee data are so important? Why and how to protect all these big amounts of data? How to implement new data protection regulations in universities? From all these questions, we start to analyze the actual and future legal environment regarding data protection in order to identify the best practical cyber security solutions. The analysis will start from the replacement of Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC and national regulation with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Intention is to identify the way universities will approach data privacy in order to collect, store and transmit data on students or teachers and in what measure the selected approach will affect educational and research processes. Role of human factor have also been considering in the framework of new regulations, with the focus on necessary relations grid around Data Protection Officer. The analysis will go further with the considerations regarding the place of cyber insurance process in the institutional grid, which is involved in the data protection process, on the one hand, and the necessary resources for implementing the new regulations.
PROPOSING A SECURE ELEARNING SYSTEM BASED ON BIOMETRIC AUTHENTICATION AND HOMOMORPHIC ENCRYPTION
Authors: Nita Stefania loredana , Mihailescu Marius iulian
Published: February 2023

As the technology advances fast, the educational and learning environments need to keep up with the trends. Cloud computing is adopted more and more by companies due to its benefits, like availability, cost reduction, on-demand self-service etc. This is also the case of learning environments, because it has been proposed many cloud-based eLearning systems. Still, there are some concerns within such systems, regarding two perspectives: user’s perspective and learning provider’s perspective. A user needs to be sure that its progress or grades or other personal data is accessed by himself or another authorized users (like teachers/instructors). A helpful tool for the user would be a tool that predicts if he/she would pass a final exam, based on past data of user’s behaviour. On the other way, the learning provider needs to be sure that exams are taken by the real user, not by another person on behalf of the real user. In this paper we propose an eLearning system dedicated to mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, provided as service, which will focus on analysis of user’s behaviour (based on biometric data, as pulse) in order to determine if he/she is prepared for the course final exam. In this system, the confidentiality of data is assured by homomorphic encryption, in which analysis is done over encrypted data, such that the output will be decrypted only by the user. An additional level of security is represented by authentication method, in which the user’s fingerprint will be used. Also, fingerprint authentication will avoid fraud for situations when the final exam will not be held by the real user. Our proposed system could be used in many areas, like governmental institutions or educational systems.
PROBLEMATICS OF THE EMIGRANTS' ACCOMODATION IN A NEW EDUCATIONAL CONTEXT. THE PERSPECTIVE OF TEACHERS
Authors: Vieriu Aniellamihaela
Published: February 2023

This research has focused on the adjustment of Romanian migrant pupils learning in host country schools. The research group was composed of 72 subjects, teachers within the Romanian Language Institute within the Ministry of National Education, teachers teaching the course on "Romanian language, culture and civilization" to Romanian migrant pupils in Italy, Spain and Belgium. Pupils' adjustment was investigated by means of a questionnaire applied to the teachers, consisting of four subscales: linguistic adaptation, cultural adaptation, school adjustment and teacher-student relationship. Results indicate that while migrant pupils have a satisfactory level of educational and linguistic adjustment, the social adjustment is less satisfactory. We obtained correlations between linguistic adaptation and teacher-student relationship, linguistic adaptation and social adaptation, linguistic adaptation and school adjustment, school adjustment and social adaptation, social adaptation and teacher-student relationship, school adjustment and teacher-student relationship. We also obtained correlations between school adjustment and teacher-student relationship and between the number of years that Romanian migrant pupils spent in the host country and linguistic adaptation. This study is a part of a larger research in which the empirical studies are interrelated. The first one investigates the adaptation of Romanian migrant pupils to the schools abroad, through the teachers in the respective schools. The second study researches several dimensions of the Pupils' effective real, situational adaptation to a new educational context. Whereas the former study highlights the Teachers' perceptions, the latter holds a diagnostic value. This research resulted in a corpus of useful knowledge, most of which confirm the validity of the initial hypotheses and may become a supporting material for all the players involved in the proposed issue - pupils, their parents, teachers, and the school in the host-country. The study can be an amply x-ray of the concerned phenomenon, a necessary example of "stage of art" in the field, useful to both decision-makers, and practitioners.
INFORMATION SECURITY ISSUES IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Mantykangas Arja
Published: February 2023

We live in an information society in which development occurs rapidly. Digitalization affects all aspects of society, cutting through all societal functions. Digital platforms make it possible to match demands on things and services and deliver them at a lower cost. Automatization and robotics affect demand for manual operations and workers. Moreover, working life is changing, as it increasingly utilizes an emerging complementary relationship between machines and people. Needs for more knowledge and skills also arise. This article provides a preliminary plan as to how and in what respects the issue of information security might be incorporated into university teachers’ expertise. For example, in distance learning—a form of education distribution requiring computer equipment that is to be provided by the student—information security is crucial. From the educator’s point of view, student identification—in connection with exams, for example—is obviously critical. Digital on-campus exams are another pertinent theme, entailing many opportunities for doing things in new or better ways in comparison with paper exams and the time-consuming administration they involve. New questions arise, however. Certain aspects of information and communication technology entail risks—such as Distributed Denial-of-Service attacks, cybercrime, and sabotage in general. This article will discuss the need for university teachers to be prepared to respond adequately and effectively to information security issues. Examples are given showing how the University of Borås approaches security considerations. A preliminary analysis of the need to include information security in the general knowledge required of all university teachers in the era of eLearning is given.
CURRENT TRENDS IN THE USE OF INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION SOURCES BY STUDENTS
Authors: Oprisan Emilia , Vartic Valentina
Published: February 2023

In the context of increasing the amount of information and documentation structures, we notice a change in students' orientation to information obtained from on-line sources. In the education and documentation activity of the students are used various information as format: printed (books, courses, journals), digital, audio, multimedia. The recommendations for the individual study refer to thematic bibliographies, scientific reference works in the field, doctoral theses, official reports, etc., but also to electronic information sources: cd/dvd, video recordings, electronic books, databases, motors search, platforms and portals. A study conducted in University of Bucharest, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, reveals an increase in the past years of the preference and use by students of electronic documentary sources, to the detriment of the printed ones. Frequently, this focus on online sources can cause a number of impediments that students encounter in identifying relevant information for a domain. There is a real difficulty in dealing with the avalanche of information and studies on a chosen topic and poor education in the use of on-line scientific documentation structures. The negative effects of this trend could be, among other things, the loss of relevant information for the field, the tendency to form a distorted image of a subject, to use information from unverified sources, and the increase in plagiarism, and rather the orientation towards conclusions already drawn to the detriment of training of critical scientific thinking. This shift in interest in the use of electronic resources determines the need for increased accountability in online publishing and a better adaptation of teaching and learning methods and resources in university education. The paper aims to investigate students' current trends in online documentation and information in order to improve the quality of education in documentation and information, to facilitate access to relevant information in the scientific field, and to improve the teaching-learning process.
THE RELEVANCE OF CRITICAL THINKING FOR THE ONLINE SEARCH IN EDUCATIONAL CONTEXTS
Authors: Lucinescu Alexandru
Published: February 2023

Originally a philosophical preoccupation intensively practiced since classical antiquity, critical thinking is now a fundamental aim of formal education and the exploration of its connections with information literacy represents today a well established topic of research in educational sciences. This paper briefly contrasts the philosophical with the educational understanding of critical thinking, provides an overview of the social context which gave prominence to critical thinking in the sphere of education and describes the competencies associated with information literacy. The main features of the concept of critical thinking are established by conducting a comparative analysis of various definitions for critical thinking elaborated by renowned authors, including John Dewey’s account of reflective thinking and Benjamin S. Bloom’s description of analysis, synthesis and evaluation as educational goals, as well as of opinions on critical thinking held by academics belonging to different fields of study. Also, the online search in an educational environment is discussed from the perspective of the so called “pathologies of information”, whose most severe forms are depicted, and a set of criteria for conducting high quality online search for educational purposes is presented. The interplay between the resulting definition of critical thinking and excellence in online search as an educational instrument is explored and suggestions for using critical thinking in this area are advanced. The paper concludes that critical thinking significantly contributes to conducting high quality online search in educational contexts and also that, at a more general level, proficiency in critical thinking is indispensable for acquiring the competences pertaining to information literacy.