bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating organisational influence : Drivers of leadership and decision making
Authors: Bevara Sreedhara Rao , Nudurupati Sai Sudhakar
Published: October 2024

In terms of leadership and organizational decision-making, several factors influence leaders’ approaches, techniques, and outcomes. The existing study aims to find out ways that may collaborative leadership help organisations promote a culture of well-informed decisionmaking and also how can collaborative leaders effectively foster teamwork and consensusbuilding? and what are the most important skills and actions that these leaders take? The study proposes a conceptual framework using Structured Equation Modelling using AMOS software version 23.0 to ascertain the relationship between factors of leadership and decision making in the organisation. It also validates the relationship and understand the reasons of their association along with Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor analysis (CFA). The model was designed by consulting Human resource employees working in Dubai as leaders in their respective designations. The sample size of the study is 363 Human resource employees and responses retrieve through Structured questionnaire frame on 5-point Likert scale. The findings of the study stated that leaders face extra challenges from external factors such as regulatory frameworks, stakeholder expectations, and market circumstances. The strategic decisions that leaders face is influenced by factors like as economic trends, industry competitiveness, and technological breakthroughs. Leaders must strike a balance between their legal responsibilities and the organization’s objectives in light of the decision-making limits imposed by regulatory regulations and compliance standards.
Investigation of the Relationship between Empathic Anger and Violence Tendency in Nurses
Authors: Karakurt Nurgül , Ulupınar Fadime , Erden Yasemin , Karasu Şeyda
Published: October 2024

Introduction: While empathy is generally regarded as a positive trait, the emergence of empathic anger among nurses can have adverse effects on their mental well-being and, more importantly, on their tendency for violence.
Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between empathic anger and violence tendencies in nurses.
Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 348 nurses who agreed to participate in the research working in a hospital in Erzurum. The study data were collected with a personal information form, empathic anger scale, and violence tendency scale. The data analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and independent samples t-tests, and Hierarchical regression analyses.
Results: It was found that the mean Emphatic Anger Scale score of the nurses included in the study was 23.20 ± 5.66, and the Violence Tendencies Scale score was 44.35 ± 11.01. It was found that there was a positive, statistically significant relationship between the Emphatic Anger Scale scores and Violence Tendencies Scale mean scores of the nurses (p < 0.001). In the regression model, Emphatic Anger Scale scores were entered as the sole predictor, explaining 9.6% of the variance in violence tendency (R² = 0.096, Adj. R² = 0.093, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: As a result, it shows that empathic anger in nurses has a significant and positive effect on violent tendencies. In addition, it was determined that as the empathic anger levels of the nurses increased, their level of violence tendencies also increased.
Maize Leaf Disease Detection using Manta-Ray Foraging Optimization with Deep Learning Model
Authors: Vimalkumar Shanmugam , Latha Ramavel
Published: October 2024

Maize (corn) is a major and high yield crop, cultivated worldwide although diseases may cause severe yield reductions. Monitoring and identifying maize diseases throughout the growth cycle are crucial tasks. Accurately detecting diseases is an issue for farmers who need expertise in plant pathology, while professional diagnosis can be time-consuming and expensive. Meanwhile, conventional Deep Learning (DL) and image recognition models are slowly entering the field of plant disease detection. This paper proposes the Intelligent Maize Leaf Disease Detection design using the Manta-Ray Foraging Optimization with a DL (IMLDD-MRFODL) model. The aim of the IMLDD-MRFODL method is to detect and categorize maize leaf diseases. The IMLDD-MRFODL method applies Median Filtering (MF) for image preprocessing, a densely connected network (DenseNet) for feature extraction, and the MRFO technique for hyperparameter tuning. The IMLDD-MRFODL technique exploits a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network for maize leaf disease classification. Experimental evaluation was conducted to validate the IMLDD-MRFODL approach and the comparative analysis exhibited the superior accuracy of the proposed method.
Design of a Machine Learning-based Decision Support System for Product Scheduling on Non Identical Parallel Machines
Authors: Ait Ben Hamou Khalid , Jarir Zahi , Elfirdoussi Selwa
Published: October 2024

Production planning in supply chain management faces considerable challenges due to the dynamics and unpredictability of the production environment. Decision support systems based on the evolution of artificial intelligence can provide innovative solutions. In this paper, an approach based on machine learning techniques to solve the problem of scheduling the production of N products on M non-identical parallel machines is proposed. Using regression and classification models, our approach aims to predict overall production costs and assign products to the right machines. Some experiments carried out on simulated data sets demonstrate the relevance of the proposed approach. In particular, the XGBoost model stands out for its superior performance compared with the other tested ML algorithms. The proposed approach makes a significant contribution to the optimization of production scheduling, offering significant potential for improvement in Supply Chain Management.
A Framework for Construction-related Risks by integrating the Fuzzy Grey Comprehensive Evaluation Method (FGCE)
Authors: Jalhoom Rana Jabbar Kasid , Mahjoob Ahmed Mohammed Raoof
Published: October 2024

There are five basic phases for construction projects: planning, design, tendering, construction and maintenance. The risks of each phase have an impact on time, cost, and quality. In this paper, the tendering phase of the residential complex project was investigated as a case study, and the creation of a fuzzy and grey correlation analysis model was examined using a fuzzy theory and a grey correlation theory to dispel the professional judgment around the project phase. Creating a comparison and a reference matrix based on grey theory and/by examining factors and their impact on duration, cost, and quality separately, gives the construction investors a scientific, direct, flexible, and adaptable technique to assess project risks. The described method categorized the tendering phase risk based on the three project determinants: duration, cost, and quality. The correlation degree is greater than 0.5, hence construction project duration risk is almost nonexistent. The project investor must also investigate risk assumption, reduction, diversion, and evasion tactics to handle cost and quality risks, which are between 0.2 and 0.5. This suggests that tender phase issues do not affect project length but do affect cost and quality, requiring attention and action.
Rapid Quantitative Detection of Cannabinoids using Laser Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Chuchuen Oranat , Madee Rungtip , Paluka Jakkapat , Lapjit Chanon , Intapan Pewpan M.
Published: October 2024

The current gold-standard methods for cannabinoid measurement are highly sensitive, yet expensive, sophisticated, and time-consuming. This study investigated the potential of laser Raman spectroscopy as a rapid and straightforward method for the quantitative detection of three major cannabinoids: Cannabidiol (CBD), Cannabinol (CBN), and Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). A series of solutions of the cannabinoids extracted from Cannabis sativa were prepared in Tetrahydrofuran (THF) and measured with a Near-Infrared (NIR)-excited Raman microspectrometer. The Raman spectra were subjected to chemometrics-based multivariate analysis, employing an ordinary least square fitting method. A strong linear relationship (R² > 0.98) was observed between the Raman intensity and the concentration of all studied cannabinoids. A Raman-based prediction model of each cannabinoid was developed based on a leave-one-out cross-validation analysis, which yielded a minimum detectable concentration in the range of 0.23-0.42 mg/ml, as determined by the Root Mean Square Error of Cross Validation (RMSECV). Additionally, characteristic Raman marker bands for each cannabinoid were identified. Overall, this study presented a simple yet effective Raman spectroscopy-based technique for rapid label-free cannabinoid detection and measurement.
Stacked Generalization with Sequential-Model Based Optimization for estimating Used Car Valuation in Indonesia
Authors: Surjandari Isti , Dzikri Ahmad , Dhini Arian , Laoh Enrico , Pangesty Kinanthy D. , Aurora Pocut S. , Ferrouzi Dewa
Published: October 2024

In Indonesia, the purchase and sale of used vehicles is a common practice. The valuation of a used vehicle is influenced by several factors, making it challenging to determine an appropriate selling price. To address this issue, this study employs a stacked generalization (stacking) algorithm to integrate Machine Learning (ML) techniques that have demonstrated efficacy in prior research on used car valuations. The Sequential Model-Based Optimization (SMBO) algorithm is employed to achieve high accuracy while ensuring an efficient hyperparameter optimization process. The initial price of a vehicle is undoubtedly a significant determinant of its resale value. However, this fact is frequently overlooked in previous studies on developing car price estimation models. This study makes a contribution to the field by addressing this issue. The use of the initial price as an input for the model enables two distinct types of analysis: one for the assessment of used car prices and the other for the measurement of the degree of residual valuation of used cars in relation to their initial costs. The results demonstrated that the optimized stacking model exhibited superior predictive ability compared to the other algorithms in both analyses. Feature analysis substantiated the considerable influence of the initial price on the used car's price. This study also corroborates the assertion that accurately predicting the valuation of a used car cannot be achieved by solely considering the usage of the previous owner, such as the car's age and mileage. It is crucial to take into account the car's original attributes, particularly its initial price.
IoT-enabled EEG-based Epilepsy Detection using Multilayer Deep Learning and the Evolutionary Algorithm Approach
Authors: Jaffar Amar
Published: October 2024

Abnormal signals of brain activity can predict epilepsy, which can be effectively detected with the use of IoT-enabled Electro-Encephalo-Gram (EEG) devices. In this process, wearable devices can collect relevant data and transmit them to health providers for analysis. These data can be assessed for epilepsy using Deep Learning (DL) algorithms. DL and evolutionary algorithms are combined to detect epilepsy detection with optimized performance. This study proposed a system with multiple objectives. First, EEG signals were obtained using IoT from subjects in healthy conditions and with epilepsy. In preprocessing, the EEG signal is filtered using finite impulse response. Features were extracted from preprocessed signals, including wavelet coefficients, signal entropy, spectral power, coherence, and frequency bands. An optimal structure was selected from the extracted features through a newly designed hybrid optimization model, called the alpha bat customized squirrel optimizer, with a combination of standard jellyfish search algorithm with particle swarm optimization. Finally, a multimodal deep learning framework, including Long Short-Term Memory Network (LSTM), Gated Recurrent Units (GRU), and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), detects epilepsy. The results show that the proposed multilayer DL-based approach outperforms existing methods in terms of accuracy, precision, sensitivity, False Negative Rate (FNR), and specificity.
Synergistic Neural Network and Velocity Pausing Particle Swarm Optimization for Enhanced Residential Building Energy Efficiency: A Case Study in Kuwait
Authors: El Assri Nasima , Jallal Mohammed Ali , El Aoud Salah Eddine , Chabaa Samira , Zeroual Abdelouhab
Published: October 2024

The global energy demand of buildings is on the rise, driven by factors such as rapid population growth, increasing comfort, technological advances, and ongoing developments in building construction. This escalating energy consumption in buildings is a major contributor to the energy crisis and climate change. Accurate prediction of building energy consumption is essential for gaining insight into energy utilization, reducing waste, and enhancing comfort conditions. This study aimed to introduce a reliable technique for predicting and optimizing the energy consumption of residential buildings, with a focus on a case study in Kuwait. A robust Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was developed, meticulously trained, and rigorously tested to provide accurate energy consumption predictions. Subsequently, an innovative variant of the Velocity Pausing Particle Swarm Optimization (VPPSO) algorithm was employed to identify optimal energy consumption solutions. This novel optimization technique can achieve significant reductions in building energy consumption, with potential savings of up to 43%. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was performed using the Garson method to assess the impact of input parameters on energy utilization. The results reveal that the insulation and cooling setpoint exert the greatest influence on the objective function, followed by the outdoor airflow. The proposed model, which combines the power of ANN with VPPSO, can be applied to similar buildings, offering precise predictions and optimizing energy consumption. This approach holds promise in addressing the pressing challenges of energy efficiency in building environments.
A Machine Learning Approach to Reduce Latency in Edge Computing for IoT Devices
Authors: Ali Muddassar , Khan Hamayun , Rana Muhammad Tausif Afzal , Ali Arshad , Baig Muhammad Zeeshan , Rehman Saif Ur , Alsaawy Yazed
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, high latency in Edge Computing (EC) for Internet of Things (IoT) devices due to network congestion and online traffic reduces the acquired precision, performance, and processing power of the network. Data overload in IoT significantly impacts the real-time capabilities of user experience, decision-making efficiency, operational costs, and security in EC. By combining EC innovation and three Machine Learning (ML) models, namely Decision Trees (DT), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), this research aims to tackle the inactivity of IoT devices and information cleaning from errors. Its purpose is to preserve information astuteness and highlight the efficacy of each model's execution by using the essential components of previous approaches. The proposed model evaluates the precision, performance, and quality enhancement by measuring the Mean Square Error (MSE), coefficient of determination (R2), and accuracy.
The Impact of Numerology on the PDSCH Throughput of the 5G Downlink
Authors: Mohamed Abdullah Alsir
Published: October 2024

The introduction of 5G technology has provided numerous improvements in wireless communication systems, like higher data rates, lower latency, power efficiency, and enhanced spectral efficiency. Subcarrier spacing is one of the most important elements affecting system performance. This paper studies the influence of numerology on the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) throughput in the 5G NR downlink. Two types of channel models and different bandwidths are used to evaluate the throughput as a function of the signal-to-noise ratio. This paper aims to find the right numerology for various bandwidths, channel models, and signal-to-noise ratio levels. Results show that the throughput increases as the numerology index decreases for the CDL-C channel model. In contrast, for the TDL-C channel model, increasing the numerology index does not always mean increasing throughput. It can result in decreased throughput in some scenarios.
Structural, Electronic, and Mechanical Properties of Anatase and Rutile Titanium Dioxide Phases using the Density Functional Theory
Authors: Al-Enzi Asma A. , Eid Omer I. , Eisa M. E. M.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the structural and electronic properties of the anatase and rutile TiO2 systems by employing the Quantum Espresso (QE) software using first-principles calculations based on Density Functional Theory (DFT). Optimized lattice constants (a = 3.788, 4.627 a.u. and c = 9.491, 2.979 a.u.) and the internal parameter u (0.209, 0.305), were obtained for anatase and rutile TiO2 phases, respectively. Unit cell volumes were also calculated. Furthermore, the Birch-Murnaghan equation of state was used to obtain the equilibrium volume (937.5, 428.3 a.u.3), the bulk modulus (198.5, 222.5 GPa), and the pressure derivative of the bulk modulus (4.18, 4.37) for both phases. The results are in good agreement with the experimental data and the theoretical results published in other studies. Finally, the energy band gap of both samples was calculated (1.8 and 1.6 eV, respectively) and compared with published results obtained from the Density Of Electron States (DOS).
Effect of using Fly Ash and Attapulgite Lightweight Aggregates on Some Properties of Concrete
Authors: Abdulhussein Faisal K. , Beddu Salmia , Nazri Fadzil , Al-Hubboubi Suhair , Aljalawi Nada
Published: October 2024

Attapulgite is a natural clay mineral, that has been investigated as a potential lightweight aggregate due to its low density and unique structural properties. Recently, the interest in using attapulgite has increased. In this study, the combined attapulgite (fine and coarse) is used in a concrete mixture. Tests were conducted to select the best content of attapulgite in mixtures by investigating its properties, including slump, compressive strength, and density characteristics to evaluate Lightweight Concrete (LWC) performance. The outcomes exhibited that different attapulgite aggregate contents influence compressive strength, with the highest value being 21 MPa for 984 kg/m3 attapulgite content at 28 days of curing. Furthermore, the dry density is positively correlated with the increment of the attapulgite aggregate percentage. Then, different percentages of Superplasticizer (SP) of 0.9%, 1.1%, 1.3%, 1.5%, and 1.7% were utilized, which led to the enhancement of the slump flow. The ideal ratio adopted for the subsequent mixtures was 1.3% by weight of cementitious material, which gave the highest compressive strength (26.2 MPa at 28 days). Also, mixtures in which cement was replaced by fly ash of 10%, 20%, 30%, 60%, and 100% ratio by weight of cement were prepared. The results demonstrated that the highest compressive strength was 32.7 MPa with a 30% ratio of fly ash by weight of cementitious materials after 90 days of curing.
Efficacy of Nitrofurantoin in Treating Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Harshada Gajanan Kamalkar  , Komal Machhindranath Halwar  , Khushbu Sanjay Pawar  , Monika Dnyaneshwar Dange  , Prof. Manisha Ramesh Virkar  , Dr. Kavita Kulkarni
Published: October 2024

Urinary tract infections are often caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotics which have evolved to be a major health issue in recent years. Often, urinary tract infections are very hard to treat and if not appropriately treated in time, may result in serious consequences, particularly, when it spreads to kidneys ultimately resulting in an increase in morbidity and mortality. Nitrofurantoin, a first line agent and has bactericidal action, frequently used to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infection. The literature was searched with published sources from Medline, PubMed and Embase search engines. Published articles were searched, of which 81 articles were eligible to be included for this systematic review. Nitrofurantoin is reduced by the action of bacterial flavoproteins to reactive intermediate compounds that non-specifically inactivate ribosomal proteins resulting in inhibition of protein synthesis. Various mechanisms seem to be responsible for the reduced capability of microorganism to acquire resistance in a faster manner. Nitrofurantoin exhibits high quality success against most bacteria anticipated in urinary tract infection. Nitrofurantoin has been recommended for prophylaxis in the treatment of reinfection in case of recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infections in many western countries. Nitrofurantoin is one of the treatment options for urinary tract infection due to extended spectrum beta lactamase producing Escherichia coli. In pregnant women with urinary tract infection, nitrofurantoin can be appropriate treatment. Also, nitrofurantoin associated reactions have been reported in many studies. This review updates the clinical use of nitrofurantoin, including new facts about the role of nitrofurantoin in the therapy of community acquired urinary tract infection, adverse outcomes, complications, interactions and antibiotic resistance mechanism against different uropathogens.
Nitrofurantoin is an old antibiotic and an important first-line oral antibiotic for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections. However despite its long term use for over 60 years, little information is available with respect to its dose justification and this may be the reason of highly variable recommended doses and dosing schedules. Furthermore, nitrofurantoin is not a uniform product -crystal sizes of nitrofurantoin, and therefore pharmacokinetic properties, differ significantly by product. Moreover, pharmacokinetic profiling of some products is even lacking, or difficult to interpret because of its unstable chemical properties. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data is now slowly becoming available. This review provides an overview of nitrofurantoins antibacterial, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. This shows that a clear rationale of current dosing regimens is scanty
Cinema e Psicanálise - Oscar & Wilder: Um Caso Limite
Authors: Garrit Marcio , Vianna Monique
Published: October 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a temática dos pacientes limítrofes e o trauma através da análise do filme Oscar & Wilder Amor Improvável. O filme retrata a história de Oscar, um menino que passa por momentos traumáticos ao longo da sua infância, que devido a sua construção subjetiva se atualizaram, na vida adulta, através de mecanismos de defesas particulares do sujeito limítrofe. Procura-se entender como se presentifica uma situação traumática em uma estrutura limítrofe, debruçando em algumas obras de Green e Ferenczi, entre outros, além de conceitos importantes de Freud para a Psicanálise. Aborda-se temas importantes sobre a construção subjetiva desses sujeitos, em relação aos cuidados ao infans na fase do narcisismo primário, o conceito de mãe morta, circuito pulsional, o processo de clivagem e os mecanismos de defesa que ficaram evidenciados nessa estrutura do personagem principal. Inclui-se a abordagem da temática da produção artística nesses casos limítrofes, refletindo sobre essas manifestações como uma forma de descarga pulsional em contraponto a um destino pulsional.
"Beyond Professional Development: Factors Influencing Early Childhood Educators’ Beliefs and Practices Working With Dual Language Learners"
Authors: Spies Tracy Griffin , Lyons Catherine , Huerta Margarita , Garza Tiberio , Reding Cristina
Published: October 2024

The National Association for the Education of Young Children and Head Start have clearly articulated their position on the provision of high-quality instruction for the 4 million dual language learners (DLLs) enrolled in early childhood (EC) programs nationwide. Professional development (PD) provides a way for educators to increase their knowledge and skills; however, teacher practices in the classroom are strongly influenced by implicit beliefs about how children learn. This study examined the influence of 6 PD sessions related to high-quality instruction for DLLs and examined other influential factors related to beliefs and practices. Participants were 98 early childhood educators serving 3- and 4-year-old DLLs in an urban area in the Southwest US. Quantitative findings indicate educators’ beliefs and practices shifted after PD. Qualitative findings suggest that educators’ empathy, expectations, and external factors also influenced their beliefs and practices. Implications for PD and program design are discussed.
Does the Flipped Classroom Lead to Increased Gains of Learning Outcomes in ESL/EFL Contexts?
Authors: Webb Marie , Doman Evelyn
Published: October 2024

This research investigates whether the flipped classroom can lead students to increased gains on learning outcomes in 2 ESL/EFL contexts in Macau, China, and the US. A pretest posttest quasiexperimental mixed-methods design (N = 64) was used to determine any differences in student achievement that might be associated with the flipped approach (FA). The effectiveness of the FA on students’ achievement with grammar-student learning outcomes was evaluated with a pretest and posttest grammar test, along with students’ perceptions of their increased comfort and confidence using English grammar through a grammar survey. These data were triangulated with student focus groups and means of completed grammar assignments. The findings suggest that although both the control and experimental groups showed increased comfort in the self-report data, gains on actual achievement were significant only for the experimental groups. The researchers of this study make recommendations for a flipped curriculum and materials design for ESL/EFL teachers in any context globally
Implementing Task-Oriented, Content-Based Instruction for First- and Second-Generation Immigrant Students
Authors: Santana-Williamson Eliana
Published: October 2024

This article discusses how the ESL program at an ethnically/linguistically diverse community college (between San Diego and the Mexican border) moved from a general, grammar-based ESL curriculum to a content-based instruction (CBI) curriculum. The move was designed to better prepare 1st- and 2nd-generation immigrant students for freshman composition and mainstream content classes. The article describes the author’s challenges and successes in implementing this new curriculum in her classrooms, particularly with beginning-level immigrant ESL students. The author provides a close look at 6 portfolios by students with whom that author worked for 3 semesters. The chapter ends with reflections on how this experience can help other instructors whose programs and classes undergo major curricular changes.
Word Lists for Vocabulary Learning and Teaching
Authors: Lessard-Clouston Michael
Published: October 2024

Within the communicative approach, often the assumption has been that with the right exposure, students will simply “pick up” the vocabulary required for learning and using English, and thus there is no need to focus on or teach it. Yet, as many teachers can attest, this is frequently not the case, and there have been recent efforts to reemphasize vocabulary learning and teaching in both research and practice. This article surveys the literature on word lists for vocabulary teaching in English as a second/foreign language (ESL/EFL), especially for adults, briefly summarizing their potential for learners and teachers in learning and teaching English vocabulary. After discussing general and academic word lists, it introduces contributions from recent corpus research resulting in 2 lists of English formulaic expressions and 8 subject-specific English word lists, in fields varying from agriculture, business, and engineering to medicine and theology. Finally, it offers suggestions for their potential in vocabulary teaching.
Professional Development to Work With Low-Educated Adult ESL Learners: Searching Beyond the Program
Authors: McCluskey Corrie
Published: October 2024

After following career interests that included anthropology and the visual arts, the author realized that working with adult immigrants with limited formal education and literacy skills was her path and her passion. Since few programs in the TESOL field focused on these learners, the author sought out instruction in nontraditional spaces to supplement her master’s course work with the specific training she desired. She views graduate school as an opportunity to explore fundamental questions about what skill set is essential to effectively teach this population, and in this article she shares her insight, resources, and suggestions for how graduate students can take further agency over their own education and how TESOL teacher training might be more inclusive.
Monolingual Teachers in Multilingual Settings: Changing Attitudes and Practices
Authors: Pritchard Robert
Published: October 2024

This article describes a 6-year, districtwide staff-development project that was implemented in an attempt to change teacher attitudes and practices as they relate to English learners (ELs). The specific goals of the project were (a) to help the district’s teachers develop the knowledge base, pedagogical skills, and professional attitudes required to provide the English learners enrolled in their classrooms with effective English language development and academic subject matter instruction, and (b) to enable the teachers who still needed it to earn a Crosscultural, Language, and Academic Development (CLAD) certificate. Reflective journal entries and classroom observations were both learning tools and methods of data collection. Results indicate that the project had a positive impact on teacher attitudes and practices.
Task-Based Writing Instruction
Authors: Bantis Alexandros
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of task-based writing instruction, a communicative language-teaching method, on second language acquisition and differentiation of instruction for English language learners during the independent work time instructional component of the Open Court Reading program. Through student-teacher interaction that incorporated prompts, recasts, and constructivist pedagogy, the students’ rough drafts (written interlanguage) were transformed into standard English at the conclusion of 1-to-1 writing conferences. One teacher and 10 3rd-grade students participated in this mixed-methods study. The study took place after school for 1 month (20 sessions of 20-45 minutes each). The data consisted of 35 transcribed writing conferences, writing samples, and interviews. Results indicate that it can be a useful vehicle for differentiated instruction, constructivist pedagogy, and second language acquisition to address the diverse needs of second language learners.
Vocabulary and Content Learning in Grade 9 Earth Science: Effects of Vocabulary Preteaching, Rational Cloze Task, and Reading Comprehension Task
Authors: Lee Siok H.
Published: October 2024

This study examines strategies for supporting vocabulary and content learning in 5 grade 9 Earth Science classes that are part of a SDAIE program (Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English) in an urban California high school. Students received vocabulary and content instruction during a unit on Earthquakes. One group of students performed rational cloze (gap-filling) exercises as a postinstruction activity, while a second group performed reading comprehension exercises. In immediate and delayed posttests, the 2 groups showed no differences in receptive learning of vocabulary and content. However, in delayed posttests, students in the rational cloze group performed better on paragraph summary writing using content-area vocabulary and expressing content knowledge. Their superior performance may be attributable to 2 factors: The rational cloze activity gave them opportunities for text rehearsal (i.e., reading and understanding the passages while filling gaps) and the rational cloze passages gave them discourse-level language models. In a follow-up questionnaire, students in the reading comprehension group characterized their activity as equally useful to other instructional activities. However, students in the rational cloze group characterized their activity as distinctively more useful than all other instructional activities. Thus, rational cloze activities appear to provide learners with useful scaffolding for vocabulary use and summary writing.
Their Words and Worlds: English as a Second Language Students in Adult Basic Education Literacy Programs
Authors: Csepelyi Tünde
Published: October 2024

The focus of this article is on adult literacy in adult basic education (ABE) programs with special emphasis on English as a Second Language (ESL) students. The article intends to highlight several relevant points in ABE ESL literacy instruction. It focuses on (a) the nature of adult learning, (b) the structure of ABE programs, (c) who the students, in particular ESL students, are in ABE programs, and (d) ESL students’ instructional needs. It also refers to the Generation 1.5 phenomenon and describes studies comparing native and nonnative English-speaking students’ literacy development. Finally, it proposes some recommendations for future research projects and underlines the necessity of developing literacy programs with a focus on adult ESL learners.
Using Corpus-Linguistics Findings in the Classroom: A Rationale With Practical Applications
Authors: van Zante Janis , Persiani Robin
Published: October 2024

ESL instructors, curriculum designers, and materials writers must make decisions about which linguistic features to teach and the sequence in which to present them. Historically, ESL professionals have had to rely on intuitions about language use and frequency to guide them in making these decisions. Recently, however, corpus linguistics studies have provided information about the language actually used by speakers and writers in natural situations, including the relative frequencies of features and words. Because more frequent grammatical structures and words will be more useful to students both receptively and in production, this information has great potential for advancing ESL instruction. This article emphasizes the importance of frequency information for the teaching of ESL and offers suggestions for change. In addition, it provides practical applications for teaching certain features and words that corpus linguistics has shown to be quite frequent; their frequency, however, is not yet commonly reflected in materials and practice.
Meeting the Language Needs of Immigrant Health Professionals: An Innovative Approach
Authors: Fernández-Peña José Ramón , Simas Helena , Rueckhaus Paul
Published: October 2024

Immigrant health professionals in the US seeking to reenter or advance in health professions need more than English medical terminology to effectively communicate and succeed in the workplace. We have developed an extensive, integrated curriculum based on the identified needs of this diverse population that incorporates meaningful content, critical thinking, and personal and professional development throughout the learning experience. The English Health Train presents an exciting and successful new model of supporting immigrant health professionals to integrate into health careers in the US and, in turn, contribute to a more linguistically and culturally competent health-care workforce.
Listener Responses as a Pragmatic Resource for Learners of English
Authors: Thonus Terese
Published: October 2024

Listener responses are essential to the progress and intelligibility of conversation. Learners of English for Academic Purposes (EAP) have only rarely been taught the forms and functions of these conversational particles. This paper offers a simple taxonomy of the most common listener responses; compares English listener responses with those of Spanish, German, Japanese, and Chinese; and discusses the pragmatics and interpretation of listener responses. It examines the placement and interpretations of three types of listener responses: minimal responses, the most common of backchannels, continuers (e.g., uh-huh), and reactive expressions (e.g., o.k.). Pedagogical tools for raising awareness, eliciting intuitions, and using listener responses are recommended.
Generation 1.5 Writers’ Success in Correcting Errors Marked on an Out-of-Class Paper
Authors: Foin Angela T. , Lange Ellen J.
Published: October 2024

This exploratory study investigates how successfully advanced Generation 1.5 college writers can revise their grammar errors in out-of-class writing when a specific set of grading symbols is used and grammar addressing these same points is being taught. While recent research on Generation 1.5 writers’ error correction using data from in-class writing gives insight into their ability to self-edit (Ferris, 1997; Ferris & Roberts, 2001), it does not address the more demanding task of revising an out-of-class analytical paper. The study involved comparing an early draft (with errors indicated in various ways) and the final draft of an analytical paper of 58 Generation 1.5 students in an advanced ESL composition class to determine their success in correcting eight of their most frequent and problematic grammar errors. The average success rate for all untreated errors was 32% versus a success rate ranging 77-81% for errors treated in some way, indicating a marked disparity in correction success between marked and unmarked errors. The study also shows conditional and word-choice errors are the most difficult of the errors studied for these students to correct. Implications of the findings for error treatment and grammar instruction are discussed.
Untying Teachers’ Hands: Affirming Language and Literacy in Diverse Learners
Authors: Quach Lan Hue , Cornwell Kendra
Published: October 2024

In response to the current climate of accountability, many districts have turned to scripted reading programs as the solution to literacy instruction in schools with populations of students with high needs. While scripted programs may be beneficial for some students, they often limit a teacher’s ability to create active learning environments to facilitate the second language learning and literacy skills in English Learners (ELs). Specifically, this paper critically examines three aspects of scripted programs that include whole group instruction, repetition, and pacing guides to understand how ELs experience these lessons. Additionally, it describes how one first-grade teacher in a highly diverse urban school has been able to embed strategies that work for ELs within a classroom guided by scripts.
Adult ESL Learners’ Attitudes Toward Movement (TPR) and Drama (TPR Storytelling) in the Classroom
Authors: Braunstein Lauren
Published: October 2024

In this study, I investigated how adult Latino ESL students reacted to two alternative methods of instruction: Total Physical Response (TPR) and Total Physical Response Storytelling (TPRS).The research regarding adult Latino attitudes suggests that this population expects a grammar-driven and “traditional” classroom atmosphere (Gault, 2003, 2004). The TPR and TPRS methods deviate from what is considered a “traditional classroom” because of their implicit and kinesthetic nature. I, therefore, researched the students’ expectations as well as their affective reactions to the kinesthetic class. I first collected a survey to find out the students’ learning preferences. Then, the students experienced a total of five hours of teaching, which consisted of a combination of TPR and TPRS. The students’ attitudes were collected through questionnaires, video recording, and professional observation. The data revealed that the students showed overwhelmingly positive attitudes toward these two methods, despite the fact that the students had more “traditional” expectations of English class. Although further research is necessary, teachers could use the findings of this study as an impetus to use alternative methods in their adult classes and to encourage teachers to conduct action research as a means to assess students’ attitudes toward various teaching methodologies.
Influence of Attitudes and Strategies on English Acquisition by Japanese Women
Authors: Kakihara Satoko
Published: October 2024

This study examines the relationship between Japanese women’s attitudes toward learning English and the improvement in their ability to judge grammaticality. Fourteen women temporarily living in the United States, who were neither working nor attending school full time, were interviewed regarding their English learning experiences. Data analysis reveals that attitudes toward American people correlate with improvement in ability to judge grammaticality. Tendencies to learn with others and to think actively about the learning process and its applications to daily activities also correlate with higher levels of improvement. The Johnson and Newport (1989) grammaticality judgment task served as the testing instrument, with pre- and posttests administered 11 weeks apart for each subject. Gardner’s (1985) Attitude/Motivation Test Battery measured subjects’ attitudes toward American culture and motivations for learning English. Oxford’s (1990) Strategy Inventory for Language Learning and interviews conducted in Japanese were used to gather information on subjects’ methods of, and preferences for, learning English.
Parent and Child Activities in a Community-Based English Tutoring Program
Authors: Peck Sabrina , Lerner Lia
Published: October 2024

A Community-Based English Tutoring (CBET) program at Burbank Adult School taught English as a Second Language (ESL) and tutoring skills to adults, as CBET programs are designed to do, but in a unique variation, children were included in the classes. The teachers faced major challenges in designing activities in which parents and children learned together, because of the varying developmental levels of the children and the greater proficiency of some children related to some adults. This paper describes successful activities and practices from the program.
Literacy as Sociocultural Practice: Comparing Chinese and Korean Readers
Authors: Devine Joanne , Eskey David
Published: October 2024

This paper reports on a study investigating the literacy practices, attitudes, and uses of two groups of subjects: Chinese (n=35) and Korean (n=26); it examines the relationship between each group’s practices, attitudes, and uses and success in reading in a second language (English). Results of the research suggest: (a) literacy attitudes, practices, and uses can be seen to vary cross-culturally; (b) that cultural group appears to be a factor in determining attitudes about reading and reading behaviors; (c) differences in attitude, practice, and use in the first language have implications for literacy behavior in the second language; and (d) that second language reading success may be related to certain first language attitudes and behaviors that seem to be characteristic of the groups under study
Students’ Reading and Writing Strategies and Their WST Performance
Authors: Thot-Johnson Iris Dolores
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is multifold: (a) to describe the academic background of students enrolled in LLD 99 classes during the summer of 2001 at San José State University, (b) to study the kinds of reading and writing strategies these students use, (c) to assess their perceptions with regard to the validity of the Writing Skills Test (WST), and (d) to explore whether their background, their use of certain reading and writing strategies, and their perceptions with regard to the validity of the WST have any significant correlations with their test performance. A 48-item questionnaire was used to collect the data. Results showed that students preferred some strategies to others and that three strategies positively correlated with passing scores on the WST. There were also positive correlations between prior elementary and/or high school education in English and passing scores.
Exploring the Learning Styles of Russian-Speaking Students of English as a Second Language
Authors: Wintergerst Ann C. , DeCapua Andrea
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the learning styles of college and university Russian-speaking students of English as a second language (ESL) through an analysis of their responses to Reid’s (1984) Perceptual Learning Styles Preference Questionnaire (PLSPQ), of their responses to a background questionnaire, and of data from oral interviews. The research questions are: 1. What learning styles emerged from Reid’s PLSPQ? 2. How well did the PLSPQ findings correspond to the oral interview results? 3. Did the learning style preferences reflect more the students’ individual preferences or their cultural traditions? Findings from the data indicate that the preferred learning style of these Russianspeaking students is kinesthetic, closely followed by auditory. In addition, the results of the data suggest that the learning style preferences of these subjects reflect more their individual learning style preferences than the influence of cultural traditions. Discrepancies, however, arose in the findings among the three elicitation instruments. The article also provides insights into the area of research design and methodology and questions the validity of the PLSPQ.
Individualism-Collectivism and Power Distance: Applications for the English as a Second Language Classroom
Authors: Nelson Gayle
Published: October 2024

This article addresses the issue of culture within the field of Teaching English as a Second or Other Language (TESOL), suggesting that it is essential that English as a Second Language (ESL) professionals understand students as both members of cultures and as individuals. It also discusses two dimensions from the field of intercultural communication that impact the ESL classroom: individualism/collectivism and power distance. Each dimension will be defined and illustrated with classroom situations in which intercultural misunderstandings have occurred. The misunderstandings will be explained from the point of view of each culture (the teacher’s and the student’s) and will demonstrate the need for ESL teachers to understand the intercultural dimensions operating in their classrooms.
Culture Clash in the English as a Second Language Classroom: Russian Students in America
Authors: Smith Irina
Published: October 2024

Russian-speaking English as a second language (ESL) students represent one of the fastest growing language groups in California and form the majority of the community college population in the Sacramento area. Many American ESL teachers find themselves unprepared to deal with this unique group of learners. Based on an ethnographic study, this article examines how cultural differences between the Russian-speaking students and their North American teachers often lead to conflict in the ESL classroom. Russian students are frequently not aware of the extent to which they create classroom conflicts. This article argues that teachers can help mainstream their Russian students into the American classroom culture by adopting a direct, pro-active teaching approach. In conclusion, the author provides practical suggestions to teachers working with Russian-speaking students. The sources of data include classroom observations, a demographic survey, and informal interviews of ESL instructors and their Russian-speaking students.