bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Service Learning Enhances Conceptual Learning in a RN to BSN Program
Authors: Breen Henny , Robinson Melissa
Published: February 2021

A qualitative study using transcript analysis was conducted to examine the effectiveness of service learning in enhancing conceptual learning in RN to BSN students. As part of their capstone course in an on line program, students engaged in 64 hours of service learning in their local community. The transcripts of asynchronous discussions and journal entries formed the data for analysis. The findings illustrated that the student’s conceptual understanding was enhanced from the service learning experience. Further, the students demonstrated higher level thinking by linking concepts that could beapplied to nursing practice. Service learning reinforced the community based philosophy of the School of Nursing, and strengthened their abilities in leadership, teamwork, and collaboration with a greater orientation to community, vulnerable populations, and health promotion. Service learning was found to be an effective way to use the skills of the registered nurse for health related service in the community while also meeting their academic and individual learning needs.
Explores of the Urban and Architectural Cognitive Practice Course under the "Three-three System" Education Model Innovation
Authors: Yu Tao
Published: February 2021

With China’s industrial restructuring and the increasing important role of information and knowledge industry in recent years, talents nurtured under the traditional educational mode are not able to meet the needs of the society. Nanjing University has began to implement the ‘three-three system’ education model featured with ‘three phases’ and ‘three paths’. The new model proposes to fulfill the requirements of the new standards through innovative education. The first two stages are able to develop a student’s general knowledge of a topic and provide a base for choosing a professional field that they are interested in. Then in the final stage the students are able to cultivate their knowledge and apply it through, academic research, an interdisciplinary lens and finally an employment lens. Based on this model, the undergraduate teaching curriculum of urban and rural planning at Nanjing University has conducted a ‘discipline-oriented to student-oriented shift’ reform including the course, urban and architectural cognitive practice. Within this course students apply their understanding of architecture and urban form to real world situations by visiting sites throughout China, and meeting professionals in the field. This paper systematically reviews and analyzes the new teaching philosophy, constructive goals and practical content of this newly designed course. Students in this class are motivated to seek out their interest through, writing research papers, drawing and learning how it applies to an actual career in urban architecture. Through the newly created ‘three-three’ cultivating course on architectural cognitive practice the three new features of this course are effectively building a student’s professional academic ability, interdisciplinary capacity and the entrepreneurial ability--thus providing a useful reference to the teaching reform of the urban planning curriculum.
Targeted Killings
Authors: NDUMBARO DAMAS DANIEL
Published: February 2021

Though International Criminal Law evolves, its evolution needs a careful, considered and consensus among its members through either customs, treaty or other recognized source of international law. The emergence of targeted killings is not clear whether it is a legally accepted counter terrorism policy or a form of extra-judicial killing, thus leaving the jurists undecided; either to criminalize or embrace it as a defence in international criminal law. In a bid to protect national security, many governments have intensified the efforts to counter the terrorists’ threats and attacks. Resorting to employing target killings is one of such attempts of counterterrorism that has created a sharp divide between those who support and those who oppose targeted killings by contending that it is resplendent with numerous human rights abuses. This paper discusses the extent to which targeted killing has been applied in the contemporary society, the arguments for and against, as well as its legality and legitimacy under international law.
EFFECT OF USER INTERFACE ON THE UTILIZATION AND EFFICACY OF EDUCATIONAL DIGITAL CONTENT AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KENYA
Authors: Jesse Samuel Nyaga , Jesse Joseph Murithi , Omariba Alice
Published: February 2021

The quality of educational support materials utilized in schools contributes greatly to the quality of education that is delivered during an instructional process. In recent years, there has been rapid expansion in digital content development, dissemination and access in schools. Many initiatives geared towards development and provisions of digital content to schools in Kenya have been witnessed. However, little has been done to ensure that the educational digital content design aspect such as user interface is appropriate for the instructional process. This study therefore investigated the effect of the user interface on the utilization and efficacy of educational digital content among secondary schools in Kenya. The study was guided by three specific objectives including to: analyze the layout of the various components of educational digital content in secondary schools; examine the navigational tools in the educational digital content and assess the effect of user interfaces on the utilization of educational digital content in secondary school. A descriptive survey design was used for the study which involved fifteen Economic Stimulus Programme phase 1 secondary schools in Nairobi County. Three research instruments, that is, teacher questionnaire, learners’ focus group discussion guide and digital content analysis sheet were used to collect the required data. The collected data was analyzed through descriptive statistics and presented in form of notes, tables, and figures. The study established that there were issues with interface and navigational tools in educational digital content user interface which affected content utilisation and consequently its efficacy. To address the design issues of the content, the study recommended that developers design appropriate user interfaces with adequate and standard navigational tools that will make educational digital content navigation and utilization easy for users.
Deploying Nonstandard Workers
Authors: Dissanayake Kumudinei
Published: February 2021

Ample writings on organizational structure have devoted to theorization and empiricism-based discussions of structural arrangements for standard (or regular) workers in organizations.However, theorizations, debates and discussions on organizational structural arrangements for nonstandard (or non-regular) workers seem to be rare. Aim of this study is to bring out structural possibilities for deploying nonstandard workers while reviewing the literature on newly emerging organizational structures and with the support of empirical evidence in the Japanese workplace. Present study recognizes that the nonstandard work arrangements can be facilitated by the emerging new structures of work organizations. Such arrangements predict the possibility of deploying nonstandard workers in numerous ways still allowing them the freedom to adapt a flexible and agile career of their own. Thus, the structures alike virtual, networked, process-based, team-based etc. would provide the stage for both workers and the organizations to fulfill their expectations.
What Do Millennials Want in the Perfect Workplace Environment?
Authors: Hardy Marcia McLure , Upshaw Danny
Published: February 2021

Twenty-two variables were identified and selected by millennial students as the most important factors contributing to the millennial employee’s ideal workplace environment. These students were attending a small, southern university School of Business in the United States. On a 5-point Ranking Scale, fifty-two college students responded to a student-designed survey ranking the importance of twenty-two workplace environment variables. It was determined that motivation by “being involved in the company’s decisions” and “working with positive-like-minded people” were the two most important factors. These were followed by “having modern equipment” and “liking the company I work for”. The most significant factors impacting job position selection are “great working conditions including good equipment, good work environment and low stress”.
Innovation in Teaching Work: A Study of School Thomas Deacon Academy
Authors: Pelaes Maria Lúcia Wochler , Filho Oswaldo Pelaes
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a study of related innovation strategies and teaching methods, in principle, based on the conception of creativity and then focusing, as elucidator aspect of the proposed analysis, a case study of the English school Thomas Deacon Academy. This institution of the Basic Education presents innovative processes in education, related to its teaching methods and its architectural infrastructure, and other aspects of similar relevance to this study, giving teachers and students a different educational environment. The present study aims to investigate the components of the pedagogical work organization context that act as facilitators or as inhibitors of innovation processes in education related to teaching methods based on active teaching methods. The methodology used for this study was the literature and the case study. Bibliographical sources are based on the scientific analysis of books and articles and the case study of institution Thomas Deacon Academy, was based on research developed by digital sources.
Establishing a Process Utilizing Community Leaders as Mentors to Undergraduate Students
Authors: Adrian Mitchell
Published: February 2021

Mentoring has long been a method for passing experience from one generation to the next. This report outlines the creation, development, and application of a mentoring program linking undergraduate business students with community professionals. The goal of the program is to enhance career opportunities of students and to garner community support for the university. In addition, with the increased need from accrediting bodies to show impact of the educational processes, mentoring may be a useful tool for assessment of program impact as well as a tool for enhancing alumni and community relations and financial support.
Innovating in the Educational Development of Collective and Individual Potential through Freinetian Thought Concepts in Digital Culture
Authors: FERRARI HELIO OLIVEIRA , LIMA LUCIANO VIEIRA
Published: February 2021

Innovative methodologies are necessary in education in order to overcome learning difficulties. Some of these difficulties are caused through the disassociation between the educational methods of the current generation. In a society deeply immersed into the digital culture, it becomes necessary that the pedagogical methodologies are themselves associated with digital technologies to evoke the development of student potential. This study demonstrates that through Freinet pedagogy, which is based on a work pedagogy principal and a pedagogical use of technologies, one obtains important results for an innovative education.
Media coverage of major infrastructural projects
Authors: Mogambi Hezron
Published: February 2021

This paper examines the role of the media in portraying infrastructure projects in Kenya. The paper analyses print media and more specifically the main newspapers in Kenya- The Nation newspapers and The Standard newspapers published in a period of one calendar year; between January 1st 2014 and December 31st 2014.To establish which stories fall into infrastructure and related categories, the researchers identified keywords that were found in the story. These were transport, power, building and construction, telecommunication and water and sanitation. In order to understand how The Nation and The Standard newspapers primed infrastructure information. The paper looked at article placement, type of story, tone, article size, theme of article, focus, function and article prominence. It also looked at captions and graphics use. The research found that both newspapers had most of articles on infrastructure published in the inner pages leaving prime pages for other news, especially politics. Major infrastructure stories found their space on the cover page only when the President made a public address especially during Kenya’s public holidays. The study also found out that that infrastructure theme that was mostly covered was transport even as most of issues came from the government and the media only reported events as they unfolded-reactive reporting. In-depth analysis of infrastructure issues was not given emphasis. The reporters tended to only answer the elements of news; the 5Ws and H only. The impacts of the stories were not stressed nor were there investigative pieces on the subject. More space of prominence needs to be allocated to infrastructural development issues.
Study on the Application of Group Cooperative Learning in English Process Writing Teaching in Junior High School
Authors: Ma Yu
Published: February 2021

Based on the study on cooperative learning in the writing class and the analysis of the results of the mid term and final writing exams of the second year junior students in the Dazhou Middle School, this thesis focuses on the effectiveness of group work i n the development of junior middle school students’ ability of process writing. The research is conducted with the goal to find out more effective ways for teachers to enhance junior high school students’ process writing ability the ability of analyzing and handling learning materials, cooperating with group members, creating new ideas and summarizing the ideas of the group.
Synthesis of 2,3-dimethoxy-8,10-methylenedioxy benzo[c]cinnoline 7 As Potential Topoisomerase I Inhibitor
Authors: Mandouma Ghislain R , Nembhard Tahera , Bender Brittney
Published: February 2021

A novel and green synthesis of 2,3-dimethoxy-8,10-methylenedioxy benzo[c]cinnoline 7 is herein described. This compound is structurally related to benzo[i]phenanthridine, a class of potent topoisomerase I inhibitors such as nitidine. While nitidine was found to be toxic, the benzo[c]cinnoline derivative 7 may circumvent that by not being a Schiff base. A conveniently short synthetic plan was implemented involving a novel solvent- and catalyst-free cross-coupling biarylation of halogenated nitroarenes 2 and 5 using a high speed ball milling (HSBM) procedure. Indeed, using a copper vial as reaction vessel, and a copper ball as a collider in a shaker, we observed clean cross-coupling reactions of 2, and 5 leading up to substituted biphenyl 6 in quantitative yield. Reductive diazotization of 6 with lithium aluminum hydride produced 2,3-dimethoxy-8,10-methylenedioxybenzo[c]cinnoline 7 in good yield.
Determinants of Competence and Self-Regulation among Secondary Physical Education Students in Ghana
Authors: Sofo Seidu , Kanton Tontie Lurimua
Published: February 2021

The satisfaction of the needs for both competence and self-regulation influence student motivation. Guided by Self-Determination Theory (SDT), this study examined the influence of gender, grade level, program type, and school sport participation (SSP) on perceived competence and self-regulation among secondary physical education students. Participants included 158 students (109 males and 49 females) aged 14 to 24 years old (M = 18.91; SD = 1.48) enrolled in compulsory second and third year (Grades 11-12) PE at one high school in Ghana. The students completed the Perceived Competence Scale (PCS) and the Self-Regulation Questionnaire-Learning (SRQ-L). The PCS and SRQ-L were reworded to pertain to the PE context. The SRQ-L had two subscales: autonomy regulation (AUT) and controlled regulation (CTR). The percentage of students with high levels of PCS, AUT, and CTR were 46.20%, 49.37%, and 18.99% respectively. PCS had a significant positive correlation with AUT, CTR, and grade level. In addition, PCS, AUT, and CTR all had significant positive correlations with grade level. The mean differences for PCS, AUT, and CTR differed by grade level and program type, but not gender or SSP. Differences in grade level and program type should be considered in helping students enhance their perceived competence and self-determination in PE.
Conceptual Design of E-Voting System for Academic Institution
Authors: Quist Samuel Chris , AMEGATSE LEONARD KWASHIE , Dickson Dilys
Published: February 2021

Voting or casting of lots has become the main method of selecting individuals for a vacant position. There have been several methods of voting practiced over the years, ranging from raising of hand, using ballot papers, and even using pebbles as in the typical case of the Republic of Gambia. It is on this premise that this study was embarked upon to design and implement an effective Online Voting System for Academic Institutions. The concept has been implemented for the Regent University College of Science and Technology in Ghana. The results showed that the online system was outstanding with real-time results of the voting process and easy administrative management. The users of the system which involved students as well as some electoral supervisors realized the online voting system was a better, effective and more efficient way of voting in the school as compared to the paper balloting method of voting. The concept could be extended to all Institutions or organization’s election once the electorates can be identified with unique Identification Numbers. It is recommended that further research and implementation should be conducted to include functionalities or features to enable the visually impaired individuals vote.
enhancement of Interactive Whiteboard Integration in Preschool
Authors: El Rouadi Naim , Al Hassan Souraya Hazim
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study is to verify the importance of using the interactive whiteboard (IWB) in the teaching process especially in Mathematics at the preschool level. Although the IWB software offers a huge number of tools and features, teachers are not benefiting from them efficiently. Instead, they are using the IWB as a projector most of the time. At AZM school, A study took place on 40 KG2 students aged between four and five; They were divided into two groups of 20, where only one of the two groups was exposed to activities on the IWB about number seven called the study group and the other the control group. The activities varied between recognizing, counting, sorting and tracing the number 7. All 40 students were assessed in the same manner. Results showed that the group of students that did the designed activities and used the IWB achieved higher scores on their assessments than those who did not participate in the activities. Results also showed that students got motivated, engaged and more encouraged when using the IWB.
Corrupt behaviors of agents and users of public service in Cotonou in the face of representation of money and ethno-linguistic affiliations
Authors: De CHACUS Sylvie
Published: February 2021

The present study aimed to measure the link between representations of money, ethnolinguistics affiliations and the nature of corruption among agents and users of public services. The numerous legal mechanisms put in place have produced limited results without big effects. Thus, this survey raises the problem of the persistence (obstinacy) of corruption in spite of the multiple efforts taken various levels (institutional, national, and international). The sample of the study consists, on the one hand, of 100 users of public services chosen at random at the Directorate of Treasure and Public Accounting (DGTCP) and at the General Directorate of Taxes and Domains (DGID) in Benin. And on the other hand, of 50 agents in public service; identified in the two directorates according to their contact with the users in the exercise of their functions. Two different questionnaires were used to collect data on the two targets (of agents). The results from the correlation and regression analysis confirm the existence of a significant link between the representation of money, ethnolinguistics affiliations of the agents and users of public services and the behavior of corruption. The results of this research will allow authorities at various levels to better understand the behavior of corruption of the agents and users of public service and it will also be of use in the drafting of measures that aim at changing people’s behavior for an effective and productive fight against corruption.
Managerial Perception of Intellectual Capital Disclosure Practices of Listed Companies in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasooriya S D , Gunawardana K D
Published: February 2021

There is no any common method available in the financial reporting practices to disclose the intellectual capital in the financial statements. In this study it was aimed to examine the managerial perception of intellectual capital disclosure practices in the listed companies in Sri Lanka. The main problem was to find out the issues of existing intellectual capital disclosure practices and how managerial perceptions affecting to the disclosure practices of intellectual capital in listed companies of Colombo Stock Exchange. The sample was taken as 20% from the total companies covering all the sectors. It was found that the neediness of disclosing the intellectual capital to get the clear picture of the organizations wealth and success. According to the managerial perception, at the initial stage, it is fair to produce a common method to disclose intellectual capital rather going to value them. Further, it is a must to investigate the total scope of intellectual capital to identify the common variables.
Countermeasure Research on the Effective Promotion of Ideological Education of College Students in the Context of Internet Age
Authors: Weili Li Weili
Published: February 2021

Since the 90s of last century, due to the rapid development of network technology, human society has entered the network era. At present, the Internet has basically achieved the full coverage and full integration of college students, network life has become a basic li festyle for college students. The network, as a “double edged sword”, not only opens up a new era and a new space of ideological education of college students, but also has brought great challenges to the ideological education in colleges and universities. This paper focuses on the impacts and causes of the network on the ideological education of college students in order to put forward effective and feasible countermeasures aiming to promote the ideological education of college students.
Application of self-reflection in education of pre-service teachers
Authors: Popovičová Barbora
Published: February 2021

Reflection, especially, self-reflection is in education considered as thinking about one’s own acting and looking back to one’s own performance. It is an essential factor in teachers’ professional development. However, self-reflection may be used also when preparing future teachers. It is beneficial for pre-service teachers to see their own teaching and to reflect on it. One of the ways how to use self-reflection as a teaching tool in teacher training programmes is videotaping of microteaching. Videotaping may reveal not only the mistakes but also inadvertent gestures, movements or frequently used words. The students of teaching training programmes at University of Prešov use videotaping of their microteaching and their reactions are rather positive. Majority of them commented that watching themselves in action is helpful and useful for their improvement in teaching practice.
Survey of Apartheid and Problems of Creative Writing in South Africa on Tell Freedom and Mine Boy By Peter Abrahams
Authors: O.J ZACCHEAUS
Published: February 2021

Literarily, Peter Abrahams’ endeavours to capture the dilemma of Black man in South Africa as a critical problem. From the context of corruption, deceit, injustice, insecurity, insincerity, indiscipline and cheap popularity, the novelist portrays how the economic, social, political and host of other state systems have been bastardized. Most African leaders oppress and rule through the force of arms; instances could be seen in Empror Bukasa of Central African Republic (CAR), Sese-Seko of Congo, Abacha of Nigeria, Samuel Doe of Liberia, Gaddafi of Libya just to mention a few. These people became oppressive in their different countries. Moreso, this paper attempts to analyze and critically examine the two texts in view of the above topic: TELL FREEDOM AND MINE BOY would be examined from two approaches that is, empirical and descriptive. Finally, this paper concludes that Black man in South Africa has lost his essence (then) from his groaning under the cobweb of the white man. In view of this, the way out would be critically examined.
Effect of priming and different initial soil moisture on desi chickpea ICCV 95107 (Cicer arietinum L.) dry matter production (kg/ha)
Authors: K.D Kamithi , A. M. Kibe , F. Wachira
Published: February 2021

Technologies such as seed priming have been reported to result in early and uniform crop germination, enhancing optimum crop stand and establishment, eventually leading to optimal crop yields in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). This study, therefore, was initiated to evaluate the dry matter production of chickpea under different priming methods, varying priming durations and different initial soil moisture levels. Field experiments were carried out at Mwea Irrigation Agricultural Development Centre (MIAD) farm Kirinyaga County, Kenya during 2012/2013 seasons. A split plot experimental design was used to test effects of no priming, hydro priming and halo priming at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 % NaCl2 concentration) and at 8, 10 and 12 hours priming duration on germination and growth of desi chickpea ICCV 95107. Altogether, the trial comprised 13 treatment combinations replicated three times with pre-sowing irrigation to soils at field capacity (FC) (100%), 75 %, 50 % and 25 %. Data was collected at growth stages of 25,50,75,90 and 105 days after sowing (DAS). The highest dry matter (DM) yields of 5001.1 and 3973.0 kg/ha was realized under 100 % FC at 105 DAS in season I and II, respectively. Dry matter accumulation (kg/ha) increased from 25 DAS to 105 DAS in both season under all pre sowing irrigation conditions, which correlates to growth stages. Dry matter also increased with increased pre sowing irrigation from 25% FC to 100% FC, and at every stage of growth. Halo priming for 8 hours with 0.2% NaCl2 distilled water solution gave the highest DM at all stages of growth (P ≤ 0.05). Significantly higher DM yields (P ≤ 0.05) were produced at 25% FC pre sowing irrigation with no priming (6500.0 kg/ha) and 0.2% NaCl2 for 12 hours (5900.0 kg/ha) by 90 DAS D during the wet season (SI). Dry matter ranged from 6440.0kg/ha at 50% FC- 0.2% NaCl2 for 8 hours to 6713.0kg/ha at 75% FC- 0.1% NaCl2 for 10 hours 6970.0 kg/ha at 0.2% NaCl2 for 8 hours. During the drier season (SII), the highest DM yields of 5017.0 and 4285.0 kg/ha were realized from 100% FC pre-sowing irrigation and priming of 0.2% NaCl2 for 12 hours and 0.2% NaCl2 for 10 hours, respectively. Therefore, adequate soil moisture of over 75% FC is necessary if effectiveness of priming 0.1 to 0.2% NaCl2 for 8 to 12 hours is to be realized under clay ASALs sandy loam soils of Mwea where droughts lead to prolonged seed emergence period, leading to deterioration of the seedbed and increased soil compaction, that eventually result in poor crop emergence, establishment and poor crop yields.
Adult Learners’ Perceptions Of Using Social Networking Tools In Their Learning Processes
Authors: Ochola Elizabeth Auma , Omollo Dorothy , Basweti Norbert
Published: February 2021

Social networks are increasingly gaining importance in higher education by offering learners opportunity to virtually interact with colleagues and lecturers. The ability to leverage Social Networking Sites (SNS) for meaningful learning activities has the potential to benefit the modern adult learner who has to balance a career, family obligations, and the goals of attending college. This paper is a case study that highlights the use of Google Plus and Whatsup in the learning processes of MBA students at the University of Nairobi. The participants of this study were drawn from the MBA evening class of 500 students between ages 19 and49 years. The research used a single quantitative and qualitative case study approach to explore the benefits associated with incorporating social networking functionalities within an adult’s learning experience; the preferred social networking sites and why? Adult learners experiences in utilizing social networking services; the pros and cons of using the social networks in learning. The findings reveal positive uptake with a few challenges including: computer illiteracy, resistance to new technology, concerns for privacy and information overload from lecturers’ posts.
Benefits and Implementation Challenges of Task-Based Language Teaching in the Chinese EFL Context
Authors: Tan Zhuxiu
Published: February 2021

With the recent high profile and frequent use of tasks in language teaching, there exists a trend in the English as foreign language (EFL) classrooms in China that the long established traditional teaching methods b ased on the presentation practice production (PPP) model are now being replaced by task based language teaching (TBLT). Much research has been done concerning the application of TBLT, but less is known about its challenges for implementing TBLT in Chinese EFL context. Based on the analysis of the existing pedagogical problems caused by the traditional English teaching methods, this paper aims to identity benefits and challenges in TBLT implementation in Chinese EFL context context. It concludes by suggesting that a contextual adaptation to TBLT in Chinese EFL setting should be made and TBLT can be best feasible and useful if a context-sensitive TBLT approach in which Chinese traditional values, examination demands, teachers’ teaching beliefs and practices interact best with the principles of TBLT.
Service Learning in Human Service Classes
Authors: Zhao Baomei
Published: February 2021

Service Learning is a form of application learning that applies what the students learned in the classroom to the real world in the context of a community service project. In recent years, Service Learning has been included in many academic disciplines throughout the United States. Most often these service-learning activities need students to use more than what they learned in the classroom to apply critical thinking on the real world cases. This requires the faculty to work on establishing community relationships to develop service-learning projects for relevant courses, site deputies to work closely with the professor and students, and students’ passion to apply theory to practice. This paper used the Ecological Model and demonstrates Service Learning designs for four human service classes at The University of Akron to help students’ success.
Performance Analysis of E-Band 70/80 GHz Frequency Segment for Point to Point Gigabit Connectivity
Authors: Sewe Stephen Arato , Oduol Vitalice Kalecha
Published: February 2021

The commercial viability for E-Band spectrum has attracted a lot of research for the last decade in order to find economic wireless gigabit connectivity that can complement fiber optic cable. This paper has analyzed the usefulness of E-Band point-to-point microwave link in providing wireless backhaul capacities comparable to that of fiber optic cable. In particular, microwave links that utilize the E-band frequencies were set up in three different cities in Kenya i.e. Mombasa (Latitude 04 01 24.10 S, Longitude 039 37 35.10 E) and validated the acceptable propagation and performance of millimeter wave links at E-Band frequencies for distances within and well above the promised limits in the existing literature. Daily occurrences of signal losses closely match the rainfall pattern, and this has been used to further validate the practicality of the experiments. These experiments were successful in verifying that E-Band can be used in Kenya for short range backhaul connectivity and in slightly over stretched path lengths of 3-6 km under clear atmospheric conditions.
Task-based Language Teaching in Chinese EFL Context
Authors: Tan Zhuxiu
Published: February 2021

The attitudes and perceptions on Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) have recently received sustained academic attention. But most of these studies were done from teachers’ perspective. Despite learners’ central role and the great influence their attitudes and perceptions can have on their learning results in TBLT class, learners' attitudes and perceptions about TBLT have not received the due attention. LLittle has been done to investigate how language learners respond to TBLT in this respect, which is especially true in China. This paper aims to explore the attitudes and perceptions among a group of English as foreign language (EFL) learners in China. A sample of 166 learners at the tertiary level participated in the study. A task-based questionnaire was introduced to examine the attitudes and perceptions of these participants. The data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results suggested a high level of understanding about task and TBLT properties among the majority of respondents. They generally hold positive attitudes and perceptions towards TBLT and therefore, most of the learners like to carry out TBLT in their English class teaching. Some important problems revealed by the findings are discussed and implications also offered.
Universal Grammar
Authors: Pinheiro Marcia R
Published: February 2021

We are interested in creating a universal grammar structure, so that learning languages becomes a much easier task than it is now. We obviously cannot dream of having all languages on earth adopting this universal grammar, so that this is at most for those languages that are associated with our occidental style of writing. The Brazilian and Portuguese peoples decided to unify their language once and then reached several agreements which formed the new language, basically. With this, Brazilian Portuguese and Portuguese Portuguese became almost the same thing. In the same way, we could have all languages that adopt the occidental style of writing sharing the same grammar structure. This paper is then about a dream, but, because of the experience with the Portuguese language, we know that this is an achievable dream.
Research on the pragmatic failures in the EFL writing of Chinese students
Authors: Dan He
Published: February 2021

Writing is an instrument of communication; the Chinese students English writing belongs to intercultura l communication. P ragmatic failure occurs mainly because the lack of the cultural awareness and knowledge, and it offers an angle for the discussion in the thesis. T his thesis is intended to probe into how to develop Chinese students English writing from the perspective of pragmatic failure. T here is an experimental study with a questionnaire is analyzed to infer the students opinions and habits in English writing and culture learning and teaching. All the data and results of the research are analyzed to infer the causes of pragmatic failures in students English writing.
Study on Knowledge Innovation Approaches of Local Universities in China
Authors: Zhang Lian , Li Chunlin , Wu Yue
Published: February 2021

Local universities play a guiding and supporting role in regional innovation systems. External environment is an important factor of university knowledge innovation, but university organization is the basic reason of knowledge innovation. University organizational transformation makes its core task and deep structure changed and then promotes the ability of knowledge innovation in universities. Knowledge innovation in American entrepreneurial university is to play a better role of the research university in a knowledge-based society, but knowledge innovation in European entrepreneurial university is to solve social problems. Based on the analysis of university organizational transformation about American model and European model, the research shows that the main approach of knowledge innovation in local universities is to build the knowledge-based entrepreneurial area, insist on problem-oriented knowledge innovation logic and build double-centered entrepreneurial university of academic and entrepreneur.
STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT OF MENTAL DISORDERS IN CENTRAL HOSPITAL, WARRI
Authors: DANIEL OGHIAGBEPAN A.
Published: February 2021

This paper clinically analysizes the cases of mental disorder in Warri and its ‘environs as recorded in the central hospital Warri and its environs. A population of 159 recorded cases including adult males, females and children were used for the study. Two research hypothesis and three research question were formulated and the instruments of data collection were interview and observation. The result shows that there is an increase in the prevalence of mental disorders in Warri and its environs with women experiencing more mental disorders than men. Similarly, same types of mental disorder are more prevalent than others in Warri and its environs. Strategies such as a holistic approach by mental health professionals, government adequate intervention in mental health care are recommended as improvement strategies in the mental health care delivery system in Nigeria.
Critical Analysis of Anti-Islamisation and Anti-immigration Discourse
Authors: Kader Noha
Published: February 2021

This paper examines the discursive strategies employed by two of the far-right movements in the UK, specifically in the English Defence League (EDL) and Britain First, when dealing with immigration and what they term as the “Islamisation of Britain”. The paper will demonstrate how these movements frame their arguments by employing strategies of positive-self and negative-other representation. The analysis will rely on the Discourse Historical Approach (DHA) as a framework for examining the mission statements of both movements in relation to three discursive strategies, namely nomination, predication and argumentation. The analysis will reveal how both movements put themselves forward as defenders of British society and basic liberal values, while negatively portraying “the other” either as a threat to such values or as a burden on Britain’s resources.
Higher Education Quality Assurance System in New Zealand and Its Implications for China
Authors: Shi Guang
Published: February 2021

With the popularization of higher education, its quality assurance and enhancement have gained top priority in the work of governments and higher education institutions across the world. In order to meet the needs of society for the booming economy and globalization, The New Zealand government has taken effective measures to develop and improve its higher education quality assurance system to maintain its international reputation. This paper first introduces the background of New Zealand higher education quality assurance system, and then examines the structure, function and operation of its internal and external quality assurance systems. Based on a comparative analysis of the quality assurance systems in New Zealand and China, useful recommendations such as diversified standards and multi-engagement, etc., are given, which aims to contribute to the progress of the quality assurance system of Chinese higher education.
Effect of Schema Based Instructions on Senior High School Students’ Vocabulary Learning Strategies
Authors: Cui Lin
Published: February 2021

Vocabulary is the basic element in language and the containment of form, semantic and phonetic.However, most teachers and students neglect the importance of vocabulary learning. Many students only acquire a small amount of v ocabulary and can not apply those words flexibly in writing or speaking. In view of this, teachers should help students to have a good command of vocabulary learning strategies. Schema theory originated from Kant's observation. Based on psychological model of a learner’s background knowledge, schema theory is used by the psychologists to explain the understanding process. It guides the students to motivate their background knowledge in the mind and ultimately to understand the current knowledge, constructed in the vocabulary teaching. Schema theory based instructions have positive influence on students' vocabulary learning strategies.
Dichotomy of Servant Leadership and Its practicality on the African Continent
Authors: Mutia Peter Mutua , MUTHAMIA SOLOMON
Published: February 2021

To many outsiders, Africa is a continent rife with famines, droughts, militia groups, and emaciated children. As far as leadership is concerned, Africa comes across as a continent whose nations are led by incompetent and arrogant, as well as economically ineffective and politically suspicious leaders who undermine their own democracies. As if to give credence to this observation, in 2012, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation failed to award its annual leadership prize, normally reserved for extraordinary performance in delivery of human rights, integrity, transparency in office and building social cohesion by an African head of state who has left power in the last three years. This leaves one wondering whether there is any chance for the emergence of a leader who truly believes and dedicates himself to the welfare of his people. A servant leader. It is important to understand the intricate details in the servant leadership theory and compare it to other leadership theories, as such an understanding helps leaders in adopting this leadership theory. This note examines the servant leadership theory, its dimensions, the behaviors of servant leaders, the strengths in the theory, criticisms against the theory, expected outcomes and goes on to compare the theory to other theories, before consequently drawing conclusions, thus setting an agenda for future research
From Clinical Practice to Nursing Education
Authors: Parris Kaitrin , Moss Jacqueline Ann
Published: February 2021

Transitioning from an expert clinical nurse to a novice nurse educator can be challenging. Skills used in both positions are not always apparent. Skills that were transferable were identified using Benner’s (1984) competency themes and seven domains of an expert clinical nurse. Identifying skills that the expert clinical nurse is already comfortable with assists in the ease of transitioning to the novice nursing educator role. Realizing that the skills that the expert nurse has been using and is confident with allows for the application of these skills to the new realm of teaching. This knowledge will foster confidence and lay the foundation for a successful transition into the novice educator role. Identifying ways to assist in this transition will promote retention of new educators as well as satisfaction with the role change. Finding ways to assist the expert clinical nurse will allow for a faster progression to expert nurse educator.
Effect of Simulation based Training on Medical Students’ Perceptions, Knowledge, and Skill at Baseline and 6 month Follow up
Authors: Shultz Cameron Garth , Cooke James M , Denay Keri L , Llanes Mikel , Zazove Philip , Kelley Scott A
Published: February 2021

The principal goal of most simulation-based learning is enhanced clinical skill, with the desired outcome being skill retention and improved performance over time. While evide nce supports simulation based training at the clerkship, graduate, and post graduate level, the evidence supporting its long term benefit at the pre clerkship level is less well established. Using quantitative methods, this research assessed the effect of skill based clinical simulation training on all second year medical students’ enrolled in two simulation courses at the University of Michigan during the 2013 2014 academic year (n=39). Pre course, post course, and 6 month follow up questionnaires were adm inistered, and analysis of variance was used to assess change in students' knowledge, self reported confidence, and competency. Students in Course 1 (n=12) completed a post course and 6 month follow up skills test, and results were compared to faculty cont rols. Differences between groups were assessed using t tests. Odds ratios were calculated.Knowledge improved from pre course to post course; the gain was retained at follow up only for students in Course 1. Students perceived the courses as improving know ledge, confidence, and skill, though scores were significantly lower at follow up. For the subset of students participating in the skills test, the time to complete central line and thoracentesis at follow up did not significantly differ from post course; however, an increase was observed for lumbar puncture. Compared to faculty, students took significantly more time to complete the central line procedure. Outcomes for needle redirects and correct sequencing were mixed, with most procedures showing no signi ficant difference between measurement periods. Assessing students’ skill and the maintenance of that skill over time using objective and empirically derived measures can be challenging. The evaluation strategy described herein could be adapted to many proc edures commonly practiced within primary care and other medical specialties. Brief exposure to clinical simulation early in medical training and prior to clerkships can have a positive and lasting effecton medical students’ knowledge, confidence, and skil l for selected procedures.
African Adaptation Processes in English
Authors: Kaviti Lillian Katunge , Oladipo Rebecca , Mwaniki Isaiah Ndung’u
Published: February 2021

The multilingual situation in Africa has led to the development of ‘hybrid’ languages in multi-lingual and multi-cultural situations. These hybrid languages are sometimes associated with urban youth born and bred in multicultural environments. In this category we place the Kenyan variety referred to as ‘Engsh’. We compared this hybrid urban language with Nigerian Pidgin English to establish whether there are any sociolinguistic similarities between the two African indigenized varieties of English. This entailed analyzing the grammar of the two varieties then scrutinizing the semantic shift processes to assess whether the languages express any African world view in terms of semantic interpretation. The significance of this study is to demonstrate the extent to which African speakers have adapted the grammar and lexicon of English (a former colonial language) to reflect their unique African speech styles and cultural experiences
Motivational Strategies Provided for Facilitators in Adult Literacy Centres in Enugu North Senatorial Zone, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Authors: Nnadi Ewelum Johnson
Published: February 2021

The focus of this study was to determine the motivational strategies provided for facilitators in adult literacy centres in Enugu-North Senatorial zone, Enugu State, Nigeria. Five research questions guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population of the study comprised all the facilitators in adult literacy centres in Enugu-North senatorial zone of Enugu-State. The sample of the study was 160 facilitators selected through simple random sampling technique. Questionnaire which was duly validated by two experts in Adult Education and one expert in Measurement and Evaluation was used for data collection. The reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alpha Coefficient and 0.81 was obtained and taken as reliable. Data collected were analyzed with Mean. The findings of the study include that the facilitators were not provided with conducive physical learning environment, given appropriate reward systems, in service training programmes, adequate teaching resources and not fully involved in school decision making process. One of the recommendations is that the government should make adequate provision for conducive physical learning environment in the literacy centres.