bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BLOG AS A PLATFORM FOR LEARNER-CENTERED APPROACH IN TEACHING BILINGUALS
Authors: Rezepova Anastassia , Tshuikina Natalia
Published: December 2021

The article presents grounds for necessity for implying a learner-oriented course for bilinguals studying in modern Estonian school. Such a course is caused by changes in the State Curriculum. The second supposition is the need in teaching Russian to bilinguals not as a foreign language but as one of native ones, which is not provided by curricula of Estonian-speaking educational institutions, although many of them count more than 10% of students from Russian-speaking families. As a result, bilingual students fairly and without accent speak Russian, however experiencing difficulties in reading and writing texts.
The realization of learner-centered approach for bilinguals via web blogs solves a vast number of organization problems, starting with the timetable settings for students from different classes and ending with individual approach to students’ personal achivements assessment. The article also decribes the course’s structure, which is organized in four cycles with eight lessons in each; contact classes are to be held in the beginning of the course and between the cycles for interim results, as well as in the end of the course for conclusion.
Key words: bilingualism, bilinguals, learner-centered approach, competence of text production, web blog.
MOTHER TONGUE LEARNING IN THE ESTONIAN NEW HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM
Authors: Zamkovaja Natalia , Moissejenko Irina
Published: December 2021

This article considers the content and structure of the new State Curriculum for high schools in Estonia, in which drafting the authors participated. The curriculum was applied in 2011/2012 academic year, and has being put into action gradually, starting from the 10th form. It is totally separated from the curriculum for middle schools.
The main objective of teaching and education in high schools is that students are to find a field of activity of their interest and ability, which will be included in their further training. They are formative assessment and feedback that are of great attention in the new curriculum, as well as the need for conducting researches is emphasized, including mother tongue. Under the requirements of the new curriculum, studies in every subject are student-centred, i.e. they are brought in accord with students’ interests and everyday needs, e.g. in mother tongue courses the need of text-centred approach is highlighted. The number of required courses is reduced; there are more opportunities for options. In comparison with the previous curriculum, the courses on mother tongues (Estonian and Russian) are unified. Before, only 3 courses on Russian as a mother tongue were set-out, now 6 compulsory courses and 1 elective course are scheduled (like Estonian). While developing curriculum for the Russian (native) language, cross-cutting topics were taken into account.
The article thoroughly describes the structure and content of the subject; it is shown how the new curriculum is being implemented in teaching practice; the realization of new text-centered courses “The Perception and Creation of an Oral Text” and “The Perception and Creation of a Written Text” as an implementation for the basic concept is instantiated.
Key words: curriculum, teaching at high school level, mother tongue, text-centered approach, students’ needs.
USAGE OF CRITICAL THINKING STRATEGIES IN THE CHEMISTRY COURSE FOR A FUTURE DOCTOR
Authors: Kazuša Irina
Published: December 2021

The goal of general chemistry and biochemistry – teach students to use their knowledge about chemical structure of organism and molecular processes. To better understand explanations and to prognosticate processes students are given, information presented on other courses. As time dedicated for chemistry course for first year students of RSU is reduced, use of critical thinking strategies in starting period of study process increases probability of achieving positive results. By organizing study process at the beginning of semester, students are introduced to detailed plan thus giving an opportunity to organize their own time according to previous learning experience. Students are provided with thorough study material both in printed and electronic form thus allowing them to find more time for fact analysis, problem solving and relation finding. By stepping away from the traditional routine, the proportion between lectures and practical lessons was changed in favour of practical lessons. Gained experience allows concluding that intensive work with small groups, by introducing students to different approaches to information analysis, graphical systematization of information, development of dialog skills and other methods is effective and worth developing.
Key words: critical thinking, study process modification, study planning.
PRESERVICE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TEACHERS’ INTERNET USAGE PROBLEMATIC: INTERNET INFORMATION POLLUTION
Authors: Kurt Adile Aşkım , Firat Mehmet
Published: December 2021

The main purpose of this study is to determine the views of preservice teachers of Information Technologies and investigate the effect of information pollution on internet use. Semi-structured interview and questionnaire methods were used in this mixed methods study. 12 preservice teachers participated in the interview part and 67 4th, 3rd and 2nd course students participated in the questionnaire on voluntary basis, from Computer Education and Instructional Technologies Department. As a result of the analysis of the data obtained, it was found out that the preservice teachers consider information pollution unnecessary, incorrect and out-of-date information found disorganized in an environment; the preservice teachers regard the most important factor causing information pollution on the internet is the fact that everybody can write about anything. Also preservice teachers denoted that the most important effect of internet information pollution is waste of time.
Key words: Internet, information access, information overload, information pollution.
SCHOOL CREATIVE LESSONS FROM 13-14 YEAR OLD PUPILS’ PERSPECTIVE AND ITS RELEVANCE TO TEACHERS
Authors: Mõistlik Marit , Liiväär Lilian , Rüütel Eha
Published: December 2021

The focus of this article is to analyse what associations are related with school's creative lessons (music, art, craft, physical education) and how should teachers interpret those associations. In addition there is a comparison across all creative lessons about the feeling which is felt by pupils before entering the lesson (response alternatives: “I’m looking forward to this lesson, I’m happy to go there”; “It’s like any other lesson, nothing special”; “I’m anxious, I feel frustrated about going there”). The sample (N = 227) consisted of seventh form pupils of seven upper secondary schools of Tallinn (the largest city of Estonia with 420,000 inhabitants) aged 13–14 (47% of them were boys, N = 107, and 53% girls, N = 120). Pupils’ associations formed six thematic categories describing the most prevalent themes: (1) Teacher, (2) Activities, (3) Emotions, (4) Objects, (5) Classroom environment, and (6) Schoolwork load. Results show that music lesson stands out from other creative lessons both with negative associations and more negative entering feeling. That outcome is discussed from the music teacher's point of view – how it could be interpreted and what it reflects from current educational situation.
Key words: adolescents, associations, creative lessons.
THE ROLE OF CAPACITY- BUILDING FOR SCHOOL DECENTRALIZATION IN KOSOVO
Authors: Nikoçeviq Elmedina
Published: December 2021

After the war in Kosovo (1999) many powers concentrated in school were drawn out the former Department of Education, led by UNMIK. Many responsibilities were transferred from central to local level in the period from 2003 until 2010, but there was no assignment at school. Obviously, the return of powers to schools is having many difficulties. The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in Republic of Kosovo has still no clear strategy on how to make the decentralization of educational system.
This paperwork deals with analysis of the existence of capacities for successful implementation of decentralization process of school system. It also identifies the challenges and difficulties faced by principals and teachers in meeting the school needs because of a lack of competencies in school management.
The study uses survey data generated from 29 primary and secondary school principals and 172 primary and secondary school teachers in Republic of Kosovo. According to the survey and interview results, schools in Kosovo do not enjoy autonomy. Their needs are addressed at the municipal level.
Key words: decentralization, capacities, roles, legal infrastructure, pre- university education.
THE RELEVANCE OF EVOCATION AND REFLECTION CARDS IN THE LEARNING PROCESS
Authors: Piht Sirje , Lehiste Piret , Raus Rea , Lazarev Mariliis
Published: December 2021

When starting school, most students have a desire to learn and are motivated to participate actively in the learning process. Lack of interest is what undermines learning. Research on children's well-being in the European Union (EU), conducted at York University in 2006, indicated that Estonia stands out among 25 EU countries with the lowest level of students who enjoy school and have a feeling of well-being. However, the results of 2006 and 2009 PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) research indicate that Estonian students do have good subject knowledge and study skills.
The Estonian Human Development Report 2009 states that 70% of Estonian students consider their study load too heavy, 67% feel fatigue and 33% do not want to go to school at all. The report indicates that schools do not pay enough attention to personality development, analysis and discussion (Eesti Koostöö Kogu, 2010). Based on the results of the above-mentioned research, it can be said that Estonian students have good subject knowledge, but learning offers them neither pleasure nor interest (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development [OECD], 2007; Puksand, Lepmann & Henno, 2010).
The key question for this research was how learner-centered goal setting and reflection support the learners´ skills to set their own goals for the learning process and to analyze it. Learners are interested in the learning process in case they understand the goals, are actively involved, and take responsibility for their actions. Learners should experience success and get immediate feedback on their activities.
Ninety-six different evocation and reflection cards were tested by 24 Estonian teachers in the spring of 2011. The purpose of testing was to clarify how effective the usage of evocation and reflection cards is in supporting students in setting goals and analysing their activities. The quantitative research method (in the form of a questionnaire) was used in order to discover teachers` personal opinions, attitudes and approach to the cards and make conclusions about the relevance of the cards in supporting students` involvement in the evocation and reflection phase of learning.
The research results showed that giving and receiving feedback develop students´ self-image, motivate them to participate in the learning process and develop their study skills. The relevance of evocation and reflection cards depends greatly on a teacher's opinion and will to use them. If a teacher does not possess enough knowledge about how to involve students in goal setting and analysis of the lesson, the efficiency of these cards is not evident.
Key words: evocation, learning motivation, reflection.
LEARNING ATTAINMENTS AS A RESULT OF STUDENT ACTIVITY, COGNITION AND THE CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Pitkäniemi Harri , Vanninen Petteri
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the study was to construct a model to comprehensively describe the relationships between the classroom learning environment, student’s cognition (student mediation) and learning outcomes. In studies of the learning environment, mostly direct (distal) connections have been in-vestigated in relationships between psycho-social properties and learning outcomes. Aspects of student mediation (proximal), such as student’s self-efficacy and metacognition, have also often been overlooked in traditional teacher effectiveness research. Using a model that includes mediation vari-ables and that allows for indirect connections between variables increases understanding of how these mechanisms interact. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 218 fifth- and sixth-grade students in Finnish comprehensive schools (girls, N = 116; boys, N = 102). Drawing on prior research findings, a conceptual model was first developed to identify the range of statistically significant relationships between the learning environment, student’s cognition and learning attainment. To further develop the model, a number of modification indices of the AMOS program were employed and then the revised model was tested. The goodness of fit indices for the re-specified model provided evidence for an adequate fit to the data. It was concluded that qualities of classroom learning, including metacognitive orientation, student-teacher relationships and conditions for studying, will have both indirect and direct effects on student’s cognition and participation and enhance student’s learning. Key words: classroom learning environment, instructional quality, structural equation models, student learning, student mediation.
WEB GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS AS AN ADVANCED STRATEGY FOR TEACHING SCIENCE TEXTBOOK READING COMPREHENSION
Authors: Ropič Marija , Kordigel Aberšek Metka
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the results of the 5 months experiment in which the influence of using a web graphic organizer in the science literacy curriculum was observed. The interest of the study was focused on the quality and quantity of learning/understanding the explicatory text description from the science textbook. The experiment included students at the age of 8-9 years. Science and L1 class were integrated for this purpose: teachers were instructed to use web graphic organizer as a tool for visualizing the text structure on the level of concrete cognitive operations. The results show the effect of using the web graphic organizer on students’ competence to find out what in the science textbook text is important, on the level of text comprehension and on the competence of comparing new information with the previous knowledge.
Key words: Web graphic organizer, pre knowledge, categorization of concepts, reading comprehension, description, science textbooks.
VISUALISATION-ASSISTED TEACHING: CAN VIRTUAL GIVE RISE TO REAL KNOWLEDGE?
Authors: Lakhvich Todar
Published: December 2021

There are two main different ways of reasoning (Harnad, 1987). For most people it’s natural to do their reasoning on the semantic level. Graphic tools have always played an important part in this reasoning style. When using a formal and abstract language and exact rules governing the creation and transformation of statements in this language, one reveals the ability to work on the syntactic level. And this can be postulated as a quite different way of reasoning, which is based almost exclusively by the logicians. The use of graphic forms in this case is also possible, though it requires more time and technological complexity. For exact sciences, primarily mathematics based, the use of computers can raise the efficiency of the method. Still for Sciences, e.g. Chemistry, even before the informational revolution the special interconversion tools between empirical knowledge and different types of reasoning had been developed, the latter originates from the very core of Science knowledge. Based on the experiment (the initial stage was almost completely empirical) the Science gained the new paradigm which rather formal by nature and fundamental in methodological meaning. Interconversion between empiric and theoretical moieties seems to be the core point of the consideration.
PRE-SERVICE TEACHER EDUCATION AND COMPREHENSION OF DIDACTIC CONCEPTS. AN EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE MASTER OF SECONDARY EDUCATION TEACHERS
Authors: Carrasco-Embuena Vicente , Hernández-Amorós Maria
Published: December 2021

The main purpose of the research was to figure out which was the level of comprehension of the didactic concepts that the students of the Secondary Education Master of the University of Alicante of the academic year 2011/12 had. With this purpose, we have collected the information provided by the answers of 227 students to an ad-hoc-elaborated semi-structured questionnaire whose data have been treated with a quantitative methodology using the SPSS.19 device. The statistic techniques were descriptive, differential and correlational. In this analysis, we take into account the scores obtained by students in variables related to their learning process and their attitudes towards it. The most interesting results prove that the students don’t master the basic didactic concepts in a satisfactory way, there are differences between the levels of comprehension and other variables related to the learning of the concepts and with attitudinal variables of this learning. The research based on these results indicates the need to focus the teaching and learning processes of the Master from a different point of view and combining the strategies which enhance the understanding of these concepts by the students.
Key words: concept comprehension, didactic training, pre-service teacher education, Secondary Education Master.
STUDENTS' RESEARCH SOCIETIES AS TOOLS OF TALENT MANAGEMENT
Authors: Takács-György Katalin , Takács István
Published: December 2021

Role of talent management in higher education has improved in the first years of the21st century all over the word.
Prior to the social-economic transformation, the Hungarian higher education was characterized by special elite education. Only 10-15% of students with GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) were admitted to the universities or colleges. Due to the stricter selection system the eminence was sort of precondition of continuing the studies at higher levels. At the same time the students’ scientific activity was introduced more than sixty years ago, and developed at higher educational institutions as a further screen: the ambitious students could take part in special activities in addition to their compulsory curriculum studies, they could carry out research works independently or within the frame of teamwork.
Following the post-socialist transition the number of students in higher education swelled significantly: almost 50% of high school graduate students were admitted to universities or colleges. The increased number of students in higher education and the three-cycle transformation of training also urged the reconstruction of the framework of former talent management.
In the paper we give a short outlook of the popular forms of talent management, their experimental results, as well as the related problems. We examine the questions that need to be answered in the transformed higher education. These could lead back to the problems induced by the Bologna-system (multi-cycle training). They are the followings: problems of selection of talents in the shortened training time, respectively the shortened time available for those students’ research works which lasted for several years previously, problems of changing tutorial and student scales of values and attitudes, questions of requirements of continuity in the training chain of bachelor – master – PhD level etc.
The situation of the students’ scientific research work– a unique movement in Europe – was the focus of the study, furthermore its results and connection with the third level (Ph.D.) of the Bologna-system higher education.
Key words: competition, eminence, mass education, students’ scientific activity.
SENSORY MOTOR INTERACTION IN VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT TO PROMOTE TEACHING-LEARNING PROCESS
Authors: Di Tore Stefano , Aiello Paola , Palumbo Carmen , Vastola Rodolfo , Raiola Gaetano , D’Elia Francesca , Carlomagno Nadia , Sibilio Maurizio
Published: December 2021

"So far the school has been structured on the book, on the laborious acquisition of knowledge formulated in verbal language. Nowadays, thanks to the computer and its ability to simulate reality, it is possible to learn more naturally and without effort using our faculties of perception" (Antinucci, 2011). The statement by Antinucci, as well as the studies on many scientific domains supporting the idea of the involvement of sensory-motor integration in the development of intelligence and learning (Piaget, 1952; Vereecken, 1961), suggest to investigate in the didactics methodologies and instruments able to foster this integration ability. These studies also justify the current full attention in the field of movement teaching for new technologies, therefore the present research aims at testing a “shapes game” module that uses Microsoft Kinect System as an input device for the acquisition of data related to the movement of the body segments of the user. The possibility to identify the movement of specific body segments allows to develop teaching methodologies designed to foster the achievement of visual-motor abilities useful to the process of learning in school, through immersive modes of interaction, typical of “exergames” based on a full body involvement (Coshott, 2009). The present study shows the results of the pre-test software, built on a sample of pupils (aged 8 to 10) attending the fifth year of Italian primary school.
Key words: edutainment, exergame, kinect, sensory-motor coordination, videogame.
IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION BY STRENGTHENING THE COOPERATION BETWEEN SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES
Authors: Hafizi Alma , Papa Mirela
Published: December 2021

Different groups of teachers understand and interpret the issue of quality in education in different ways, but they all converge on the same key words which are reciprocal influence, school-family, interaction, synchrony, and cooperation. The studies conducted so far show that civic education is an ongoing general and multidimensional process. The school-family partnership is an important link in the educational process, but in everyday life the interaction is more spontaneous than motivated.
This study focuses on discovering the underlying reasons for the barriers faced by the school-family partnership, which shall help solve the problems which hinder the normal process of cooperation between school and family. To find out the extent and reasons for parental involvement/non-involvement in the issues related to children’s education it was used the surveying method to conduct an analysis involving 27 schools, 365 teachers and school principals, 1086 pupils and 924 parents. The data processing will indicate the degree of integration and the different forms of integration of modern elements into the Albanian educational system as well as the causes of the present state of affairs. The study reaches in some findings and proposes some recommendations for improving and reinforcing communication between families and schools.
Key words: communication and interaction, cooperation, interests and opportunities, school-family, technology.
DIFFICULTIES OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN THE ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY
Authors: Lorenzo Maria Gabriela , Reverdito Ana Maria , Blanco Mercedes , Salerno Alejandra
Published: December 2021

Experimental work supposes a unique opportunity to learn procedural contents. However, the conditions and constraints to learn procedures have not been sufficiently discussed or investigated in a laboratory environment. Students` difficulties in organic chemistry laboratory at university are described and explained. A case study (n=15 undergraduate students) was performed. The study was carried out in an actual laboratory class, using different ways for data gathering: 1) A comparison between declarative knowledge of students about experimental work and observations of procedures in class. 2) An evaluation of the effect of laboratory work on the knowledge of students related with the assembly of the apparatus. This research suggests that students’ difficulties in performing experimental work are deeply related to a deficient interrelationship between conceptual and methodological frameworks.
Key words: experimental work, learning difficulties, organic chemistry laboratory, procedural contents, university.
THE CHALLENGES FACED BY EDUCATION IN SOLVING THE UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: Nieuwenhuis Jan
Published: December 2021

This study is based on a meta-interpretive research design aimed at finding possible answers to an enduring dilemma facing South Africa. South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, higher even than those of most of the emerging economies. The structural analysis of unemployment in South Africa presented in this article suggests the existence of an extremely high incidence of youth unemployment, in an environment where certain high level skills are in short supply. The author first analyses the structural nature of the unemployment problem in South Africa and then posit the conundrum of unemployment amidst a serious skills shortage. The skill shortage is discussed in terms of some of the current and projected needs of the economy. The question arises as to why education cannot produce the type of skills needed in the quantity and quality expected to satisfy the needs of the economy and thereby aid economic growth and development. To answer this question, the author analyses the education system pointing out certain systemic problems that work against the production of the kind of skilled workers of the quality and quantity needed. He starts by showing the poor literacy and numeracy levels of primary school children compared to children in other countries. Secondly, the author shows how large numbers of learners drop out of the school system and how those who complete the twelve years of schooling end up with low achievement levels in the subject areas that could have offered them the skills and knowledge to capitalize on the skills shortage. Finally, he looks at the post-school system and its failure to produce the required high level skills. Based on the analysis presented, the author comes to the conclusion that education in its current shape and form will not solve the unemployment problem in South Africa.
Key words: education, human resource development, quality education, skills shortage, unemployment.
HOW DO TEACHERS OF PHYSICAL SCIENCES WITH DIFFERENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES USE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS WITH EPISTEMIC FUNCTIONS IN THE CLASSROOM
Authors: Saraiva Elisa , Bernardino Lopes J. , Cravino J. Paulo , Santos Carla A.
Published: December 2021

This study aims to clarify the role of visual representations (VR) on the promotion and development of students’ epistemic practices (EP) in the physical sciences (PS) classroom. The use of VR is crucial for supporting and developing students’ EP (student work in inquiry context). Research questions: (a) how do teachers trigger the use of VR by students in the classroom? (b) What functions can be attributed to VR in PS classrooms? (c) What is the impact of VR on students’ EP? In all questions the dependence on the context and teacher experience will be analyzed. This is a multicase study with five PS teachers, with different teaching experience, from Portuguese basic schools (students aged 13-15 years). Multimodal narratives were used (a description of what happens in the classroom, using several types of data collected). Using open coding analysis, categories were found and then cluster analysis was used to find patterns. Main findings: (a) teacher’s efforts are the triggers for the use of VR by students, especially the task proposal; (b) VR can be used as an illustration (does not increase students’ EP) or as epistemic mediator (increases students’ EP); (c) all these aspects are dependent on teacher experience. Key words: Epistemic mediators, students’ epistemic practices, teacher mediation, visual representations.
UNDERSTANDING RESEARCH PARADIGMS: TRENDS IN SCIENCE EDUCATION RESEARCH
Authors: Szyjka Sebastian
Published: December 2021

This essay offers several insights regarding the principles of qualitative and quantitative methods, defining how they shape the empirical process as well as knowledge acquisition in social science research. A comprehensive discussion includes comparing the assumptions and techniques of each paradigm, as well as a description of their respective strengths and weaknesses in research. These paradigms are examined in terms of past trends in science education research, indicating that over the last several decades a shift in approach from the quantitative to qualitative has occurred. The central thesis of the essay contends that methodological decisions should be based in pragmatism, rather than a pre-existent set of philosophies or beliefs irrespective of context. Implications for research are discussed in terms of the findings of several science education content analysis studies, conveying that research methods often coincide with the collective interest of the masses, policy, educational reform or program developments.
Key words: paradigm decisions, qualitative research, quantitative research, science education, trends.
ESTABLISHING A COOPERATIVE WRITING GROUP AMONG TEACHER EDUCATORS: POSSIBILITIES AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Turunen Tuija A. , Kaasila Raimo , Lauriala Anneli
Published: December 2021

Getting published has become important in academia and also among teacher educators. The purpose of this paper is to investigate potential benefits and challenges when establishing an academic writing group among Finnish teacher educators. The three authors of this paper applied an autoethnographic approach to study the starting points of the writing group. In the group, mentoring and social support were used to share experiences and knowledge about academic writing. Relationships and contributions from all participants were emphasised. Each member was considered equal to the other members. The study demonstrated that writing for international academic audiences was challenging; it was deemed to be both emotionally and intellectually demanding. Many participants described the experiences of tension when allocating time for teaching and writing. Membership in the group provided possibilities for social comparison. The members encouraged self-improvement and allowed other group members to become reflective mirrors. The participants considered their membership in the writing group positively and indicated that it had contributed to their academic writing. On the basis of the project, it is recommended to establish continuing writing groups to promote academic writing and publishing as a central part of teacher educators’ profession.
Key words: academic writing, autoethnography, co-mentoring, cooperative learning, cooperative research, researcher’s career, social comparison.
UP-SCALING FARMER FIELD SCHOOLS AND RAINFOREST ALLIANCE CERTIFICATION AMONG SMALLHOLDER TEA PRODUCERS IN KENYA: OPTIONS, OPPORTUNITIES AND EMERGING LESSONS
Authors: Wambugu Maina Stephen , Gowland-Mwangi John , Boselie Dave , Onduru Davies , Chelang’at Buses Betty
Published: December 2021

The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has been encouraging small-scale tea (Camellia sinensis) producers through Farmer Field Schools (FFS) to adopt good agricultural practices since 2006. The up-scaling of FFS and Rainforest Alliance (RA) certification to 560,000 tea producers remains a big challenge. Hence the need to learn about options, opportunities and emerging lessons for up-scaling FFS and RA certification among smallholder tea producers in Kenya. This study sought to improve tea stakeholders’ understanding on how successful innovations such as FFSs and RA certification can be up-scaled to more stakeholders and how to produce tea sustainably. It also sought to describe the options, opportunities and emerging lessons related to up-scaling. The study used a Cross-Sectional design to collect data from a two-stage random sample of 514 small-scale tea growers drawn from KTDA factories. A semi-structured questionnaire validated by extension experts, whose 0.92α reliability was above the 0.70 acceptable was used to collect data. Face-to-Face interviews, document analysis, record reviews, site visits, observations, living the system and a stakeholders’ workshop were carried out to ensure triangulation. Data were analyzed using Chi-square at 0.05α set a priori. The results indicated that maintaining the current system with some improvements was the best option for up-scaling FFS and RA certification. The researchers concluded that FFSs and RA certification can be up-scaled by increasing resources, improving communication, training and educating non-FFS members using different methods. They showed that up-scaling training for certification and FFS come with a need for additional investments and eventually will alter KTDA’s cost and revenue model of the sustainable tea production. To sustain this system, the true costs and benefits of sustainable tea are incorporated in the KTDA business model, which implies that donors strategically move from subsidizing costs to strategic investments in human resource development, capacity building and extension technologies.
Key words: certification, emerging lessons, farmer field schools, good agricultural practices, Kenya Tea Development Agency, Rainforest Alliance, opportunities, options.
SPECIFICITY OF COMMUNICATION PROCESS IN MILITARIZED EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Authors: Indriksons Alens
Published: December 2021

Communication is the exchange of information between sender who send and receiver who decode it. In an organization communication flows in downward, upward, lateral, external and diagonal directions. Communication process in militarized educational institution has its own specificity. The most popular type of communication in a militarized educational institution is downward communication because of special rules which regulate the service relationship between the participants involved in the communication process. The disadvantage of this communication is limited feedback which is a very important component of the communication process and which plays an important role in the teaching process. It is impossible to reach the purpose of teaching process without feedback because learning is an active bilateral dynamic system. The present paper discovers problems in communication flow directions in militarized educational institution on the basis of Latvian State Border Guard College because college in its activities is guided by a number of rules which regulate and define teaching process and service condition.
Key words: communication, militarized educational institution, service.
INCLUSIVE TOLERANCE AS A BASIS OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE OF PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS
Authors: Khitruk Vera V. , Ulianova Olga A.
Published: December 2021

The article describes the results of the comparative analysis of tolerance as a basis of professional competence of prospective teachers, whose professional activity can be carried out under the conditions of educational integration or/and inclusive education. The research purpose is to study tolerance among first-year and senior pedagogues, which makes it possible to discuss determinacy of the formation process of inclusive tolerance by the content of pedagogical education in the comparative (the first-year and senior students of the department of pedagogy) aspect.
The study of inclusive tolerance of prospective teachers has been carried out using a set of standardized methods adapted to the conditions of the research purpose. Thus, the stimulus material of the methods included the questions among many others the answers to which implied the expression of attitudes towards children/persons with special needs.
The obtained results show, that the actual formation level of inclusive tolerance of the students of pedagogical specializations do not permit to determine their professional competence as sufficient in professional realization under the conditions of inclusive education. The paradoxicality of the obtained results consists in the fact, that in general the indices characterizing the formation level of inclusive tolerance decrease from the first to final years. This fact enables to state, that the content of pedagogical education does not have strong enough influence on the formation of this professional quality.
Key words: children with special needs, inclusive education, inclusive tolerance, integrated education and upbringing.
E-LEARNING IN TERTIARY EDUCATION FROM STUDENTS`POINT OF VIEW
Authors: Klement Milan , Dostál Jiri
Published: December 2021

E-learning has become an integral part of the present day tertiary education, not only within the framework of combined, but, to an increasingly larger extent, also of full-time study modes. However, its deployment on a large scale resulted in the emergence of many problems which shall become a subject of research and investigation. The present study reflects the attitudes of university students toward e-learning within their course of study, and submits partial results of the research investigation implemented throughout the years 2007 to 2011. The hereinabove described survey research focused on monitoring and evaluating students` attitudes to the teaching through e-learning based on the use of electronic study supports enriched with multimedia elements. The research data collection was carried out by means of a non-standardized research questionnaire and the data were subsequently analysed using nonparametric statistical methods. Selected outputs of the research, focused primarily on the assessment of the level of students’ satisfaction with the organization of teaching through e-learning, and on the identification of the elements of electronic study materials preferred by the students, are the subject of this study.
Key words: e-learning, e-learning support, nonparametric statistical methods, pedagogical research, survey research, tertiary education.
INTRODUCTION OF TRIPLE HELIX MODEL IN LATVIA BASED ON EXPERIENCE OF SWEDEN, SINGAPORE AND SOUTH KOREA
Authors: Ozols Andris , Ozola Elena , Eglītis Jānis
Published: December 2021

In the absence of mineral resources and cheap labour, creation of innovations is a way for Latvia to develop a successful modern economy. The aim of the research is to study characteristic features and key ingredients of the Triple Helix model of university-industry-government collaboration in various countries and the potential applicability of their experience in Latvia. For purposes of the study monographs, scientific articles, official documents and bulletins of Latvia, Sweden, Singapore and South Korea, as well as international statistical data, and articles of local and foreign publicists were reviewed and analyzed. According to the hypothesis, the best option for Latvia is to elaborate the own Triple Helix model based on adopted and processed experience of Sweden (Laissez-Fair model), Singapore (Static model) and South Korea (Project approach). The results of research may be useful for local governments and universities for the development of environment and mechanisms aiming the creation of innovations.
Key words: entrepreneurial university, innovations, Triple Helix model.
IMPROVING THE TRANSLATION–INTERPRETING CURRICULUM THROUGH ACKNOWLEDGING THE EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF ALBANIAN STUDENTS
Authors: Papa Mirela , Hafizi Alma
Published: December 2021

The introduction of the Bologna Process into the higher education system in Albania has led to a review and improvement of the existing curricula.
Among the variables influencing the curriculum development the professors and students are the ones directly involved in the curriculum reform implementation project.
Although the Bologna Charter advocates a student – centred approach, students are not given the priority they deserve. This remiss could lead to a conflict between the students’ expectations and the curricular approaches.
First and second year Master students of Translation – Interpreting at the University of Tirana are the subject of a survey aiming at finding out how the students undertaking Translation and Interpreting find the courses they follow. The method used is the quantitative method of observation. 80% of the students have filled in a questionnaire.
The data processing indicates the motives driving the students to choose this curriculum as well as their expectations for their future career.
It is concluded with some findings and recommendations for curriculum reform, since the academic offer is seen as a means of providing answers for a society which, under the pressure of ongoing changes, is in need of professionals who respond to new stimuli.
Key words: curriculum, expectations, interpreting, motivations, translation.
EVALUATION OF INNOVATIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGIES IN SCIENCE EDUCATION: COLLABORATIVE WORK AND PEER ASSESSMENT
Authors: Pombo Lúcia , Talaia Mário
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the design of the curricular unit "Nature Integrated Sciences I” for the Course of Primary School Teachers of the 1st cycle of Higher Education at the University of Aveiro (Portugal). This curricular unit integrates a holistic approach to science based on the STS movement, where the activities promote collaborative work, such as study visits, field trips, laboratory classes, public presentations of works, discussion activities and self-and peer-assessment. It is intended to evaluate innovative teaching and learning strategies by hearing the students’ opinions about the proposed activities, their attitudes towards collaborative work and peer assessment. A questionnaire was applied online during the currilucar unit and the results show that most students felt that the teaching methodology was appropriate, group activities were relevant and assessment strategies contributed to the development of the targeted skills and building of knowledge.
Key words: collaborative work, peer assessment, science education.
THE TRAINING LECTURER (TL): THE LECTURER TEACHES AND GUIDES
Authors: Sharf Simha , Moskovich Yaffa
Published: December 2021

There have been studies on action research in small-group learning in exact and social sciences in colleges and universities in Israel and worldwide (Gorsky & Caspi, 2005; Gorsky, Caspi and Trumper, 2006). This paper is based on research which investigates teaching social sciences in higher education by means of a Training Lecturer (TL). This teaching method uses frontal instruction, immediately followed by the students working in small groups under the TL guidance. The main research question was: How do both following the class with the tutorial, as well as the lecturer himself guiding the students , affect the students’ thinking and learning process, their conceptualization skills, and their satisfaction with the learning process?
The method in this study was based on combination of qualitative (open interviews) and quantitative samples of 92 students, from two classrooms. Our new method (TL) was the independent variable, the students' academic achievement, self efficiency and demographic characteristics were our dependent variables.
The main research finding was a correlation between students' attitudes toward the TL method, and improvements in both self-efficacy and academic achievements. There was a strong correlation between the TL method and friendliness, self efficacy, comprehension, interest and success. The TL method discussion group, which serves as a platform for developing thinking and learning, is the greatest contributor to explained variance at 13.971% and credibility Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.779. The students participating in this project generally had higher achievements in the final test in comparison to the average achievements after previous teaching. There are usually 40% failures in courses such as “organizational behavior”; the amount of students failing dropped to 10-15%.
Key words: active learning, training lecturer, self-efficacy.
LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR HIGHER EDUCATION QUALITY STATE STANDARDS. A CASE OF ALBANIA
Authors: Latifi Juliana
Published: December 2021

Albania’s higher education development is very dynamic. Higher education in Albania is being characterized by a massive expansion process and by competition between both the public and private education sectors. The number of higher education institutions has grown fivefold during the last eight years. There are currently thirteen (13) public and forty six (46) private institutions.
This article is aimed at the research of analysing the legal framework for higher education quality state standards.
This analysis will address three important issues:
1. What is the legal framework for higher education quality state standards?
2. How is the quality assured in higher education institutions?
3. To what extent are Albanian quality standards compared to the European ones?
This study is based on an analysis of the domestic and European legislation, interviews with fifteen (15) key persons that are divided into three groups: officials of the Ministry of Education and Science/Public Agency for the Accreditation of Higher Education, officials of the public Higher Education Institution, and officials of private Higher Education in Albania including reports and policy documents.
The conclusions of this research article will help in understanding the role of the higher education quality state standards and will contribute to the improvement of the quality legal framework in the country.
Key words: standard, quality, legal framework, quality standards, higher education.
O uso do cineclubismo para a abordagem da história local
Authors: Rocha da Silva Géssica , Sales Miranda Raquel
Published: December 2021

O ensino de história muitas vezes é baseado na memorização e não no processo de aprendizagem significativa do acontecimento histórico em seu contexto cultural e social. Nesse sentido, este trabalho tem como objetivo principal apresentar uma proposta de projeto educativo focado no uso do cineclubismo como alternativa para abordar a história local de forma mais contextualizada. A proposta aqui apresentada é baseada nos conteúdos da Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC), para o ensino  de história no 3º ano dos Anos Iniciais do Ensino Fundamental (AIEF). O projeto foi idealizado durante a  disciplina de Estágio no curso de Pedagogia (UECE), para ser aplicado com educandos do terceiro ano  dos AIEF de uma escola pública de Maranguape-CE. Dessa forma, espera-se que esse projeto possa ser replicado por professores de História de diversas localidades, de forma a contribuir para a valorização da cultura cinematográfica e do ensino de história contextualizado.
EL ARTE Y LA EDUCACIÓN EN EL CONTEXTO DE LA PANDEMIA EN EL ECUADOR
Authors: Astudillo-Sarmiento Juan Carlos , Neira-Ruiz Veronica
Published: December 2021

¿La educación en artes es necesaria? Aunque la respuesta pudiese parecer obvia, este es un debate que, en más de una ocasión, se puede escuchar tanto en la academia como fuera de ella. Y las posturas son antagónicas, casi beligerantes: no es necesaria y menos en contextos de crisis (dicen algunos); en contextos de crisis es aún más necesaria (otros). El tema es urgente y sobre todo en la realidad que estamos habitando y la que empezamos a re-construir, en cuanto sociedad. Y para hacerlo, entrevistamos a tres artistas/docentes/ investigadores en y por las artes, quienes, desde su experticia, nos ayudan a hilvanar el diálogo.
Palabras clave: Arte, educación, entrevista, pandemia, crisis político social, Ecuador.
AbstractIs Education in Arts Necessary? Although the answer may seem obvious, this is a debate that on more than one occasion has been heard both in the academy and outside of it. The positions are antagonistic, almost belligerent, as it can be said that it is notnecessary, and even less in crisis contexts by some; as well as being seen as even more necessary in these contexts by others. The issue is urgent and especially in the reality that we are currently living in, and the one that we are beginning to rebuild, as a society. In order to do so, we interview the artists / teachers / researchers in and through the arts who, from their own expertise, help us to weave the dialogue together.
Keywords: Art, education, interview, pandemic, social political crisis, Ecuador.