bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of the School Nurse as perceived by school children Parent in Jeddah.
Authors: Helal Houaida , Al Hudaifi Dema , Bajoudah Mervat , Almaggrby Ghida
Published: February 2021

Descriptive research design was used to determine the school nurse role as perceived by the school children’ parents in Jeddah. A convenience sample was recruited for the study. The estimated number was 200 school children’parents living in Jeddah.The study was conducted at different public places in Jeddah. The study questionnaire included three parts. First, Socio-demographic data, second, a list of responsibilities of school nurse classified according to the school health program components and third, open-ended questions regarding the most important responsibility of the school nurse and the most important health education topic as perceived by the parents. The results of this study revealed that 82.5 % of the study subjects were mothers. The majority of schools don’t have the school nurse, and 6 % have a school nurse, and all the parents prefer hiring a school nurse for their children schools. Regarding the most important responsibility of the school nurse as perceived by the parents, screening was considered her first responsibility by nearly a quarter of parents, while 22 % of the parents agreed that prevention and control of communicable diseases was the first important health education topic. Recommendation: The Ministry of Education should recruit a nurse for each school with at least a higher nursing graduation and provide her with enough equipment and facilities.
Modelling and Analysis of Bidirectional DC-DC Converter
Authors: Demirdelen Tuğçe , Kayaalp R. İlker , Tümay Mehmet
Published: February 2021

Bidirectional dc-dc converters are used lots of industrial areas such as electric vehicles, uninterruptable power supplies, fuel cells, solar panel cells as energy sources are searched in order to improve the quality of power at the transmission, distribution lines and other areas. The main contribution of this paper, applying the most common used control method on single phase isolated bidirectional full bridge dc-dc converter and comparing this control method (Extended Phase Shift – EPS) on efficiency way by with/without using snubber capacitors. In this paper, Isolated Bidirectional DC-DC Converter topology is modelled and controller algorithm is written by FORTRAN programming language. According to the results, it is observed that efficiency result of the converter, using snubber capacitors in the converter topology has higher performance than the snubberless system.
Using Response Cards to Increase Student Participation in an Inclusive Classroom
Authors: Simmons Kate D , Smith Luke
Published: February 2021

One of the most challenging aspects facing educators today is ensuring academic success for all students in the classroom. Many teachers feel that increasing participation levels of students during instructional time afford students the best chance of academic success. This study analyzed the use of response cards in an eighth grade inclusion math classroom to increase student participation and academic achievement. An AB design study was used to collect data on five students who represented the classroom population of students with and without disabilities. Lesson materials were delivered under two conditions, hand-raising and write-on dry erase board response cards. Results indicated a significant increase in student participation and on-task behaviors during the response card phase. Scores on weekly quizzes and end of unit tests increased after review lessons were conducted with response cards. Recommendations for future studies are included.
Classification of Failure Factors in Information Systems
Authors: Gunawardhana D.N.T , Perera Chandana
Published: February 2021

Failure rate of Information Systems have rapidly increased in different aspects due to different reasons. Although above situation is not a new sight in the field of Information System, it creates many obstacles to regular activities of any organization. The failure of Information System has become a common state for any organization or industry and not depending on their rank or status. Numerous factors may have affected for Information System Failures and these factors are functioning together or individually to create the failure situation of Information Systems. The objective of this paper is to identify the main failure factors in the Information Systems. An in-depth review of the existing literature has been done to meet the objective of this study. Multidisciplinary studies across different countries, industries and areas have taken into account for identifying the main failure factors of Information Systems. This paper is presented to focus the main failure factors that affected for Information System failures based on literature; environment, quality control, human related, technology related and other connected factors. It can be mainly divided into two parts. They are conceptual factors and background factors or hard factors and soft factors. User participation, participant behavior, user satisfaction, attitudes and expectation level, and the management of organization, infrastructure facilities and pattern of usage play a crucial role in the field of Information Systems that have been identified as background factors with significant impact on Information System failures. Quality failure, project failure, system failure, management failure and software failure identified as conceptual failure factors.
Financial Education In Building Financial Literacy Among Sudanese Youth
Authors: Mohamed Omaima Eltahir Babikir
Published: February 2021

Financial literacy is a crucial life skill. It goes well beyond the simple concepts of saving and borrowing. Lack of financial knowledge can expose youth to face financial difficulties. This research focuses on assessing the impact of financial exposure via educational channels on university student’s financial attitude. The approach of the research is qualitative in nature. Data was collected through structured interviews. The interview included questions on demographics, education, health insurance and financial capability among Sudanese youth. Twenty (20) university students from two different states were interviewed between August 2013 and September 2013. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings of this research revealed that youth who were exposed to financial knowledge during their university studies have better understanding of financial knowledge compared to those who were not exposed. The paper concludes that financial education at an early age can reduce the financial illiteracy and alleviate financial difficulties among youth significantly.
Barriers to Implementing English School Based Curriculum In Indonesia
Authors: Mangali Zaifuddin , Hamdan Abdul Rahim Bin
Published: February 2021

Eight years have passed since the current English School Based Curriculum 2006 for Junior High School in Indonesia first introduced in school, so teachers, principals and other stakeholders have had sufficient time to work with it and discover both the positive aspects and limitation in their individual context. At the time of its introduction, it represented a radical change of teacher’s role. Teachers is not only the implementer but also a designer and developer of recent curriculum. This new paradigm requires the presence of qualified teachers who are able to determine their own material, teaching methods and assessment those are suitable for their students. Consequently, a teacher will have greater flexibility and accountability in transferring the curriculum into classroom level. This new double role will require a greater level of expertise in curriculum decision making. The aim of this article is twofold. First, it will t give a comprehensive review of the challenges in implementing English School Based for Senior High School 2006 from teachers perspective. It discusses the challenges that teachers hold as designer and implementer of the curriculum, and second, it will look into the importance of teacher change and commitment in succeeding the present curriculum.
Competence Of Preservice Preschool Teachers At Teacher Education Institute Of Malaysia
Authors: Yong Miller , Daud Khadijah Binti , Rahman Anuar Abd.
Published: February 2021

This study aims to identify the level of competency of preserviced teachers at the Institute of Teacher Education. The competencies include teaching, management, communication, professional development, and care and protection of children. This study is based on quantitative design that uses a Likert Scale. The number of respondent involves is 223 people. For the purpose of identifying competencies, data were analyzed using SPSS Ver.21. The results showed that pre-service preschool teachers at the Institute of Teacher Education has statistically significant competencies in attending their teaching training program at Teacher Education Institute of Malaysia.
Taking Teaching as a Calling
Authors: Na Zeng
Published: February 2021

Successful teaching experience and outcome is often dependent upon the teacher's personal charisma which includes the qualities of a sense of humor, friendliness, forgiving, understanding, caring, patience, and so on. A critical link to all these positive characteristics is that the teacher feels a deep sense of gratitude on a daily basis. This article reports on studies from the field of positive psychology that focus on grateful affect and grateful expression. As far as teaching is concerned, it reveals that gratitude is one of the most obvious positive emotions to flourish a teacher's life and career. In practice, some tools of cultivating gratitude for a teacher are introduced such as staying away from mass media, keeping a gratitude journal and keeping a gratitude reminder. It is hoped that through practice, teachers in their daily teaching experience can tune their feelings to the grateful channel and arrive at the level where teaching becomes a calling in their life.
Level of Awareness of Open Access Electronic Resources by Scientists in Agricultural Research Institutes in Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: N.E Okore , E.S. Anaehobi , Y.U. Haliru
Published: February 2021

Purpose: This study was conducted to determine the level of awareness of open access electronic resources (OAER) by scientists in agricultural research institutes in Edo State, South – South geopolitical zone of Nigeria.Methodology: Descriptive survey research design was adopted. One hundred and fifty research scientists in agricultural research institutes in Edo (70 from Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria and 80 from Nigerian Institute For Oil Palm Research) constituted the population for the study. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. Two research questions guided the study.Findings: The result of the study showed that scientists in agricultural research institutes in Edo state are fully aware of the existence of open access electronic resources but yet have greater access to traditional library materials than electronic journals and books for their research work.Implication: The study implies that the scientists though fully aware of existence of open access electronic resources but have challenges that compeled them to still access traditional library materials for their research work.Recommendation: It is recommended that the management of the two agricultural research institutes in Edo State should provide functional Internet facilities for the scientists and organize regular workshops and seminars aimed at informing their scientists on the relevance and use of open access electronic resources.
Evaluation Of The Current Endodontic Trends Among The General Dental Practitioners And Specialist In Riyadh, Ksa.
Authors: Mathew Shibu Thomas , Nafea Manahel Al
Published: February 2021

Objective:The aim of this study was to investigate about the quality and quantity of root canal treatments performed by general dental practitioners and specialists and an insight to their knowledge and attitude towards the recent innovative materials and techniques employed in the field of endodontics.Material and methods;A well-structured, questionnaire was framed and distributed among 150 general practitioners and specialists working both in private and governmental clinics, hospitals and universities. The collected data was statistically analyzed using SPSS version 18 software.Results:Out of the 1345 respondents,45.2% performed more than 5 root canal treatments per week,54.1% get an informed consent, 27% take pre-operative radiographs,51% complete treatment in multiple visits, 14.7% used rubber dam isolation,22.2% used rotary instruments, 16.3% are aware of the recent advancements in endodontics. And 77.2% of them feel satisfied with their routine endodontic treatments.Conclusion:There need to be an increase in the awareness of the standard guidelines and procedure to be followed during routine treatment, to improve the quality of treatment delivered.Clinical significance:This study signifies that most of the specialists and general dental practitioners deviated from the standard guidelines in the root canal treatment such as use of pre-operative radiographs, rubber dam isolation, appropriate armamentarium, for the procedure, and standardized techniques. So, it is essential to promulgate the current concepts and technique in endodontics through continuing dental education programs and conferences.
International Criminal Court
Authors: Ubah Charles B.A , Nwebo Osy E.
Published: February 2021

The principle of domestic jurisdiction in international law makes national governments responsible for protecting their citizens, investigating alleged abuses of human rights in their countries and bringing the perpetrators to justice. They governments may also extradite those accused of abuse of human rights to any other states prepared to give them a fair trial. Problem arises however, when governments are unable or unwilling to perform this duty or are themselves perpetrators of these crimes. Thus, millions of people have fallen victims of genocide, crimes against humanity and serious violations of humanitarian laws. But only very few of these perpetrators have been brought to justice in national courts as many governments claim sanctuary under the principle of domestic jurisdiction. The need therefore arises for the international community to act in order to protect helpless or defenseless citizens from being victims of crimes against humanity and human rights abuses, by bringing the perpetrators of these crimes to justice. The thrust of this article therefore, is that the creation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) fills this void by fulfilling a central and pivotal goal in international jurisprudence. This article, therefore, provides insights and lessons into the history and prospects of the International Criminal Court. These are insights and lessons that are too important and too costly to ignore in the 21st century understanding of international criminal justice system.
Pre-service Teachers’ Perceptions towards Multicultural Education and Teaching of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners
Authors: Taylor Roben , Yeboah Alex Kumi , Ringlaben Ravic P.
Published: February 2021

In this study the authors investigated 80 pre-service teachers about their perception towards multicultural education and teaching of culturally and linguistically underrepresented diverse students. Participants completed a modified version of the Diversity Orientations Survey. First, results show that the majority of pre-service teachers largely agreed for the need for the inclusion of multicultural education to teacher education program with regards to teaching linguistically culturally diverse students. Second, participants indicate lack of awareness with regards to understanding of multicultural education in terms of cultural awareness in the teaching of special needs students. This paper conceptualizes pre-service teacher’s perceptions towards multicultural education in general and discusses the teaching of culturally, linguistically and underrepresented diverse learners in K-12 schools. The authors propose reforms in the curriculum of teacher education preparation programs in colleges of education of inclusion of comprehensive multicultural education course at each level of education.
Assessment of Consumer Preference in the Use of African Wax Prints in Ghana
Authors: Chichi C. , Howard Ebenezer Kofi , Baines E.
Published: February 2021

Africa as a continent is well noted for its artistry and culture which form integral part of everyday lives of the people. Africans portray themselves with rich material culture and this is expressed in the fabrics they adorn themselves with. Notable among such fabrics are the types known as “African prints” which are actually not of African origin but have come to be accepted as part of African textiles with incorporation of traditional motifs. A survey of the sales and usage of the prints shows that consumers mainly used the prints for making garments and accessories. With variety of colour ways, symbolic motifs, textures among others, consumers have the choice to select from a wider range of the prints thatbest suits the intended purpose. This paper assesses consumer preference of African Wax prints to ascertain the buying drivers that influenced consumers in choosing specific print for specific fashion need. The study finds that consumer preference for the prints have changed significantly due to dynamism in today’s fashion trend and needs of consumers. Factors such as brand and quality, colour scheme, pattern size and layout, symbolism and cultural significance and adaptability of the print design to fashion styles are the main driving forces that influence consumers to choose a particular print for specific need. It is recommended therefore that textile and fashion designers should make concertedefforts to consider these factors in their design process so as to satisfy the needs of their consumers to promote the prints both locally and internationally.
Nutrition and Dietetic Students’ Vitamin and Mineral Knowledge and Concurrent Learning and Retention Strategies
Authors: Brown Katie , Ellis Jenna , Ogan Dana , Wengreen Heidi
Published: February 2021

Background: The functions, food sources, deficiency symptoms, and toxicity symptoms are important for dietetic professionals to know and apply to community, food service, and clinical settings.Purpose: To assess nutrition and dietetic students’ knowledge of vitamins and minerals and identify students’ strategies for learning and retaining vitamin and mineral information.Methodology: Students from three universities in the western United States were invited to participate in cross-sectional study. Participants completed a brief questionnaire that included multiple choice and short answer questions to assess their knowledge of a representative list of 8 vitamins and minerals. The questionnaire also included free-response questions about strategies for retention of vitamin/mineral information. Two researchers independently reviewed responses and identified themes.Results: Students’ scores on multiple-choice vitamin/mineral questions suggested that they had difficulty remembering details regarding vitamins and minerals. Three themes were identified as common study strategies for learning vitamin and mineral content: repetition, mnemonic devices, and personal application.Conclusions: These findings suggest that further research assessing the increased use of repetition, mnemonic devices, and especially personal application in dietetics education curriculum are warranted.
Role of Domain-Specific Non-Cognitive Variables in Postsecondary Academic Success
Authors: Nelson Mary , Gee Bernard P. , Hoegler Sarah
Published: February 2021

The Self-Regulated Learner must possess certain non-cognitive beliefs in order to remain sufficiently motivated in the pursuit of academic success. Students who are do not possess such beliefs are more likely to struggle in academics. This problem is especially pronounced in students at public universities and community colleges. Even though these students have the appropriate background knowledge to be awarded a high school diploma, they must still acquire certain non-cognitive beliefs, in particular self-efficacy (a belief in one’s ability to succeed and master the tasks at hand within a given domain), in order to be motivated to apply the knowledge they learned in high school, regulate their study habits, and monitor their progress. This exploratory study surveyed 42 undergraduates enrolled in a psychological statistics course. A hierarchical multiple regression assessed the extent to which self-efficacy predicted final statistics exam grades, while controlling for prior GPA. This analysis showed that prior GPA explained 38.9% of the variability in final exam grades and self-efficacy accounted for another 7.3% of the variance, explaining a total of 46.2% of the variance in final exam performance. These findings indicate that non-cognitive variables play an essential role in the prediction and promotion of academic performance at the college level in public universities. Developing students’ self-efficacy beliefs in specific courses may improve students’ performance. Different methods of employing interventions to alter students’ non-cognitive beliefs are discussed, with particular focus on the use of exam wrappers to promote self-efficacy and improve course grades.
Challenges Facing Teachers in Integrating Educational Technology into Kiswahili Teaching. A Case of Selected Secondary Schools in Kisii County, Kenya.
Authors: Omariba Alice , Ondigi Samson Rosana , Ayot Henry Okello
Published: February 2021

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought about profound changes in this 21st century era.ICT has changed the way people communicate and do business. In education, the role of ICT and whether or not it positively influences the learners’ attitudes to work and particularly in language (Kiswahili) has been a matter of much debate. Globally, Kiswahili is taught as a language in universities such as Harvard, Yale, Germany, Osaka-Japan, China, South Korea, South Africa, Ghana and Nigeria just to mention a few. Further, the African Union meetings recognize Kiswahili as one of the languages of communication. The use of ICT creates an environment which moves away from the traditional teacher-centered approaches that have been devoid of learner enjoyment and explorativeness which are important characteristics of effective and meaningful learning. ICT allows learners to create, collect, store, use knowledge and information; and it enables learners to connect with people and resources all over the world (Alberta Learning, 2000). The emphasis of teaching Kiswahili language in Kenya is becoming commonplace. The professional development of teachers on the use of ICT enables them develop and update themselves on the ever changing trends and techniques of integrating Educational Technology (ICT-based ) in teaching. The Ministry of Education in Kenya as in many countries in the world realized and accepted the importance of ICT in teaching. It was with this regard that New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD) a pilot project was started with an aim of trying to find out the possibility of realizing the dream of integrating ICT in teaching in secondary schools. However, like any new project, there is a possibility of certain challenges such as students’ attitudes and how to impart knowledge and skills which may first need to be addressed in order to guarantee full implementation and success of the project in Kenyan secondary schools. The presenters of this paper did a study of selected secondary schools in Kisii County Kenya. The purpose of the study was to investigate the professional preparedness of the Kiswahili teachers in integrating educational technology into the teaching of the language and establish challenges teachers face while trying to integrate technology into Kiswahili instructional process. The findings have important implications for the future integration of educational technology in the teaching of Kiswahili in Kenya. Will this dream come true? The presenters will share their findings and experience.
Divergent Movement Ability and Digital learning environments
Authors: Apostolakis Nikolas Ioannis , Antoniou Panagiotis , Karipidis Alexandros , Anastasiades Panagiotis
Published: February 2021

Creativity and the Information and Communication Technologies are considered as key factors for social and personal development. New technologies are valuable tools on learner's creativity cultivation. When the children act as movers they modify, adapt and combine fundamental movements. When creativity is expressed with a movement, is defined as a creative movement and its outcome as a creative product. The aim of the present study was to investigate if the proposed educational technique has been effective and furthermore to investigate the effects of a Digital Learning Environment (DLE) focused on basketball elements on the motor creativity of elementary school students. 86 students divided in 2 groups participated in the study. According the results, the DLE and its content effect with no significant difference among the three subgroups of the experimental group and help the students to express themselves, to improve their previous divergent movement ability.
study of Personality in relation to Resilience and Stress
Authors: Sahi Mahima
Published: February 2021

With the growing amount of stress among individuals, a need was felt to investigate Personality types in relation to Resilience and Stress. The sample comprised of 100 college students (50 males and 50 females) in the age range of 18-23 years. For this purpose, Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-R Short Form (Francis et al., 1992), Perceived Stress Scale (Cohen et al., 1983), The 14 item Resilience Scale (RS-14; Wagnild & Young, 1993) and Stress Symptom Rating Scale (Heilbrun & Pepe, 1985) were administered. Data was analyzed using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient and t-ratio. Among females the results showed significant positive relationship between Stress (symptoms and perceived stress) with both Neuroticism and Psychoticism. Positive associations were also seen in perceived stress and stress symptoms among females. Among males positive correlations were observed between Neuroticism and Stress (symptoms and perceived stress) and between Perceived Stress and Stress Symptoms. For the total sample, positive associations were observed between Stress Symptoms, Perceived Stress and Neuroticism. Also there was a positive relationship between Stress Symptoms and Psychoticism in the total sample. No significant gender differences were observed on dimensions of Psychoticism, Neuroticism, Extraversion, Resilience, Perceived Stress, however significant gender differences were observed on the dimension of Stress Symptoms. The results thus revealed stress proneness in individuals high on Neuroticism and Psychoticism. Further it was also observed that people high on Neuroticism and Psychoticism dimensions exhibit a decreased amount of resilience. The study invites interventional researches in order to inculcate resilience and reduce neuroticism to deal with stress successfully.
Not All Are Created Equal
Authors: Romero Aldemaro , Nate Michael
Published: February 2021

Environmental academic programs in U.S. institutions of higher education have traditionally lacked definition of their nature and unifying principles.  In order to ascertain how these programs are presently constituted in U.S. institutions of higher education, we surveyed 1050 environmental programs/departments between November 2013 and March of 2014.  The states with the highest number of those programs/departments were New York (100), Pennsylvania (92), California (76), Ohio (56), Massachusetts (54), while those with the lowest numbers are Oklahoma, and Utah (4), Delaware (3), Arkansas, Hawaii, South Dakota, and Wyoming (2), North Dakota (1), and Idaho (0).  However, when the state population is taken into account and the number of programs per 1,000,000 inhabitants is calculated, the results vary greatly for the ones that were at the top in absolute numbers but remain basically the same for those that were at the bottom in absolute number.  Thus, the states with the highest number of programs/departments per 1,000,000 inhabitants are Vermont (30.364), Montana (15.160), Maine (15.056), the District of Columbia (14.957), Alaska (14.080), and Rhode Island (10.451), and at the bottom we find Idaho (0), Arkansas (0.686), Oklahoma (1.066), Texas (1.352), Florida (1.436), Utah (1.447), Hawaii (1.470), and North Dakota (1.487).
The names Environmental Science and Environmental Studies are, by far, the most common ones being applied to these programs, accounting for 52.40% of the programs in our study.  Environmental programs are also housed in departments of Biology/Ecology/Conservation (9.93%), Policy/Analysis/Planning (7.19%), and Geology (4.79%). 
Between 1900 (the year of the first program was created) and 1958, only 14 programs were established.  For the period 1959-1999, there is a dramatic increase in the number of programs.  There are two big "waves" in the creation of programs:  one between 1965 and 1976 (with a high peak in 1970) and another starting 1988 and, probably, continuing to this date, with a peak in 1997.  Representatives of the programs surveyed cited students and faculty demand and job market opportunities as the most common reasons behind the creation of these programs.
The high diversity of names and emphases found in this study is consistent with the premise that Environmental Studies is a field where there is a lack of unifying principles and clarity of what environmental studies programs should be.
Cognitive Study of XHY via Conceptual Integration Theory in English Teaching
Authors: Wen Jia
Published: February 2021

Based on the conceptual integration theory, this thesis makes a cognitive analysis on the meaning construction of Chinese XHY. Particularly, the author conducts case studies at length of four pieces of XHY in accordance with the categories of conceptual networks, i.e. simplex network, mirror network, single-scope network and double-scope network. Additionally, the analysis of the XHY is conducted in combination with the contextual information or the cultural entrenchment. Above all, this thesis makes a preliminary attempt to apply the conceptual integration theory to the construal of Chinese XHY in order to prove the explanatory power of the theory so that further relevant research can be conducted.
Implementing Short-Format Podcasts for Preview on Mathematics Self-efficacy and Mathematical Achievement in Undergraduate Mathematics
Authors: Kim Minsu
Published: February 2021

The aims o f this study were to examine the impact of the educational use of short format podcasts before class and to investigate students’ responses to the short format podcasts regarding mathematics self efficacy and mathematical achievement. Data was collected fr om 128 students in 6 sections of Intermediate and College Algebra for two semesters through pre and post tests , questionnaires including the Mathematics Self Efficacy Scale , and semi structured interviews . The data were analyzed by the two subgroups regar ding students who do not watch the short format podcast lectures (NSPL) before class and students who watch the short format podcast lectures (SPL) before class, and intermediate low and intermediate high students. T he results of this study showed that s hort format podcasts before class were vital to enhancing intermediate students’ mathematics self efficacy and their achievemen t and an appropriate format on the preview section of the study cycle. In addition, this study contributed to theknowledge of st udent learning with technology and applications of short format podcasts before class in mathematics education.
FORMING A BIOMATHEMATICAL LEARNING ALLIANCE ACROSS TRADITIONAL ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS
Authors: Goins Gregory D , Redd Thomas C. , Chen Mingxiang , White Catherine Dinitra , Clemence Dominic P.
Published: February 2021

Across the United States, many generalized programs have focused on retention of minority students in the sciences with varying degrees of success. Paradoxically, this challenge exists despite expanding career opportunities in industry, academia, and government for those skilled at the intersection of biology and mathematics. Here we describe a cross-departmental learning alliance (iBLEND- an Integrative Biomathematics Learning and Empowerment Network for Diversity) which directly targets these recognized challenges. Our goal is for the iBLEND project to have significant spillover effects for our university by developing new interdisciplinary collaborations that benefit our students. The iBLEND is a proactive, intensive approach in order to bridge campus chasms for both faculty and undergraduate students by positively influencing academic programs through interdisciplinary training coupled with strong evaluation and assessments. By leveraging our recent surge of competitive research activity, innovative instruction, and collaboration, the iBLEND advances our transformation to the next level by establishing a broader bridge for our undergraduates at the interface of mathematics and biology. In working together, the math and biology students learned to bridge language barriers inhibiting interdisciplinary explorations. Students were closely involved with faculty mentors in core laboratories and developed cross-disciplinary research skills that enhanced their post-graduate career opportunities. Using systems biology tools combined with targeted mathematics classroom work, students merged data from their lab bench experiments with mathematical models to determine how various changes impacted an overall organism and its functions. The students had hands-on training with a myriad of computational, simulations, data mining and data analysis tools needed in approaching their projects.
Assessing the Interaction and Interactivity in OUT MOODLE LMS:
Authors: Ally Said
Published: February 2021

Despite the wide spread adoption of MOODLE by Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) in Tanzania, there is still lack of maximum utilization of the software by learners. This is due to lack of interactivity in the system caused by poor MOODLE customization and configuration, improper content design and integration with add-on multimedia files. On the other hand, instructors consider that uploading learning materials in MOODLE is enough without putting down the interactivity facilities. This paper assesses the interactivity in MOODLE from both design and usage. The paper discloses the extent of poor MOODLE customization that can likely hinder the inclusion of the multimedia facilities, extent of poor online course design and lack of virtual interactivity among learners. To undertake this study, a case study methodology was opted by investigating the MOODLE platform of the Open University of Tanzania. The respondents to this study were categorized as MOODLE Learners (MLs), MOODLE Instructors (MIs) and MOODLE Administrators (MA). In addition to interview, an intensive documentary review together with screening the design and configurations of MOODLE servers has been done. The study focused on four aspects of interactivity which are learner interaction to learner, instructor, content, and interface. The study reveals that there is a critical lack of interactivity between learners themselves enrolled in the same course, between learners and their respective tutors and between learners and system contents and interfaces. The synchronous interaction is less practiced compared to asynchronous interaction. This has been due to less insertion of real time multimedia and interactivity features. Generally, uncoordinated operations and ad hoc performance among key MOODLE stakeholders during interface design, software implementation, system configuration, and onsite content development form the basis of this.
Graphic Design Students’ Per spectives and Attitudes t owards Feedback w ithin Peer Assessment in Design Studio Pedagogy
Authors: ESHUN ERIC FRANCIS
Published: February 2021

This paper reports the validity of the hypothesis that giving and receiving peer feedback during studio critique supports the assumption that the nature of feedback affects student learning and student perceptions of the quality of the learning experience. The research question is whether peer feedback operated under studio pedagogy has the potential of enhancing quality learning. The purpose of this study is to examine student perceptions of peer feedback in a studio-based learning environment. This is a case study where data was collected qualitatively. This study clearly demonstrates the positive perceptions of peer feedback held by design students and the influence these perceptions have on students’ learning outcomes.
Pre-Service Basic Science Teachers’ Self-Efficacy Beliefs and Attitudes towards Science Teaching
Authors: Ngman-wara Ernest Immaare , Edem Dorwu Ishmael
Published: February 2021

The main purpose of the study was to explore preservice basic pre-service science teachers’ self-efficacy beliefs and attitude regarding science teaching. Data were collected by administering science teaching self-efficacy beliefs and attitude towards science teaching instruments to 100 pre-service basic science teachers (92 males and 8females). Descriptive statistical techniques such as mean scores, standard deviations and percentages were used to analyse the data. Results of the study showed that the pre-service basic science teachers have very high level of self-efficacy beliefs and positive attitudes towards basic science teaching. However, the respondents had some reservations about their ability to facilitate hands-on activities and laboratory work in their future science lessons. It was recommended that science tutors should integrate science content into their science methods courses to improve the pre-service teachers’ science content and pedagogical content knowledge.
Faculty members' attitudes towards the use of the Blackboard System
Authors: Al Naibi Salim Abdullah
Published: February 2021

This research was conducted to explore the attitudes of faculty members in the Colleges of Applied Sciences in the Sultanate of Oman towards the Blackboard System. A questionnaire was distributed to all faculty members in these colleges eliciting their perceptions about Blackboard and its uses in teaching. Factor Analysis using SPSS was used for data reduction and for identifying the constituents of faculty members' perceptions. Five attitudinal constructs were identified: Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEU), Self-Efficacy (SEF), Enjoyment (ENJ), and Behavioral Intention (BI). Further analysis revealed that, in general terms, faculty members perceived the Blackboard System as being useful in teaching and easy to learn to use; they had high self-perceptions about their ability in using it and had a quite reasonable level of intention of using it in their teaching.  However, faculty members still perceive the system as difficult to use and their level of enjoyment in using it is low. Further research was recommended to explore the interaction between these constructs and, in particular, the effect of PU, PEU, SEF, and ENJ on BI and on the actual use of the Blackboard system.
Improving Students’ Engagement in Learning by Using Self Reflection in Undergraduate Advanced Physics Courses
Authors: Malkawi Ehab
Published: February 2021

We modify the traditional method of teaching advanced physics courses by incorporating a new item in the teaching outline and assessment, namely students’ reflection throughout the semester. Students are asked to reflect on different items in their course and in particular to reflect on their achievement, struggles, goals, and skills. Students are encouraged to be open, direct, and to give details as much as possible. Consequently, instructors felt the mentor and facilitator connection with students that strengthened the feeling of academic responsibility. On the other hand, students expressed positive experience and were less concentrated on the minute details of the course but rather on a general and global picture of learning experience. This connected students with their goals, it reminded them of their struggle, confusion, and growing up experience during the process.
The term “Civilization” in the Muslim intellectual Traditions
Authors: Benlahcene Badrane
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this paper is to present an investigation on the use of the term “civilization” in Muslim intellectual traditions; that is to look for the terms used in various languages used by Muslim peoples to mean civilization. It tries to find out some definition of what we mean by “civilization” as well as whatwe mean by “being civilized” in Islamic intellectual traditions. Therefore, the methodology adopted to achieve the paper's objective is to analyze the various literal and terminological words and terms used to denote civilization in various Muslim languages.The paper finds that in the Muslim scientific and cultural traditions, hadarah, tamaddun or tamadun are the various terms used. However, Ibn Khalduun’s term hadarah is the most appropriate one to express the concept of civilization in its modern sense.It is also clear that the mentioned usages of term “civilization” agree on certain rudimentary elements of civilization, that is, the presence of the city, the order or organization and the sedentary life of its inhabitants.
ROLE OF THE INSTITUTION OF BASHINGANTAHE IN NURTURING GOOD GOVERNANCE AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN BURUNDI
Authors: Kwizera Dolive Gretta
Published: February 2021

This study on the role of institution of Bashingantahe in nurturing good governance and socio-economic development was carried out in Burundi.  The specific objectives were to assess the roles of institution of Bashingantahe in nurturing good governance and socio-economic development in Burundi before, during and after colonialism; examine the effectiveness of institution of Bashingantahe in nurturing good governance and socio-economic development and to find out the relationship between institution of Bashingantahe and current system of governance in nurturing good governance and socio-economic development.
Innovating in the Educational Development of Collective and Individual Potential through Freinetian Thought Concepts in Digital Culture
Authors: FERRARI HELIO OLIVEIRA , Lima Luciano Vieira
Published: February 2021

Innovative methodologies are necessary in education in order to overcome learning difficulties. Some of these difficulties are caused through the disassociation between the educational methods of the current generation. In a society deeply immersed into the digital culture, it becomes necessary that the pedagogical methodologies are themselves associated with digital technologies to evoke the development of student potential. This study demonstrates that through Freinet pedagogy, which is based on a work pedagogy principal and a pedagogical use of technologies, one obtains important results for an innovative education.
COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE, PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDE TOWARD BREAST CANCER IN SEKYERE EAST DISTRICT-GHANA
Authors: Azumah Francess Dufie , Nachinaab John Onzaberigu
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted to determine the knowledge level of women on breast cancer, respondents perceptions about breast cancer and the attitude of the people toward breast cancer in the Sekyere East District-Ghana. The study adopted quantitative approach by collecting data through the use of questionnaire from 97 women, who were selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The study established that the respondents demonstrated their knowledge level of breast cancer in their breast cancer practices and their source of information of breast cancer which most of the respondents stated that they got to know of breast cancer through the hospital. It was also established that most of the women in the study area practice Breast Self-Examination. The study also established that the women who did not practice BSE regularly felt that they did not have the breast problem, felt uncomfortable doing BSE. The study also found that respondents perceived Clinical Breast Examination as expensive and time wasting. The study recommended women should practice Breast Self-Examination (BSE).
Brazilian Ceremony in Honor of Body Donors
Authors: Rocha Andréa O. da , Júnior Marco A. Farina , Girotto Marina C. , Moraes Maria P. O. de , Thomaz Gabriela D. G. R. , Campos Deivis de , Pacini Gabriel S.
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Memorial ceremonies are a way for institutions to show their gratitude for the gesture made by body donors and are an opportunity for students to reflect on the ethical paradigm shift. Therefore, this study aims to describe the memorial ceremony at the Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre and assess the perception of both students and the donors’ relatives regarding the event.

Material and methods: In 2016, a questionnaire was applied to donors’ relatives with questions regarding structure of the ceremony, ethical training of the students and importance of body donation. Another questionnaire was applied to the first-year students of the medical school, with questions about understanding the use of bodies, and their thoughts on death and relevant ethical issues.

Results: Fifty questionnaires were answered by family members and 98% agreed that the ceremony was an opportunity to feel closer to the donors and 100% said that the ceremony is important in the ethical training of students. Among students, 68 questionnaires were answered, and all affirmed that the event had a positive impact on the perception of physician-patient relationship and personal growth, and 86.7% reported enhanced empathy.

Conclusion: The memorial ceremony seems to encourage students to reflect on ethical issues, because at the same time that the donors’ relatives perceive an attitude of care and respect on the part of the students, the students state a heightened sense of commitment and responsibility regarding their learning and professional formation, which depends on the gesture made by the donors.
FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH OF NIGERIA (THE MICROFINANCE OPTION)
Authors: Okere Peter A , Kingsley C Otiwu , Lawrence N Uzowuru , P.N Ozuzu
Published: February 2021

The main focus of this study is to establish the relationship between financial inclusion and economic growth with particular reference of microfinance option for the period 1992 to 2013. Using Ordinary Least Square method and employing the Johansen Cointegration tests the study revealed that the activities of microfinance as one of the financial inclusion strategy significantly contribute to economic growth. While total loans and advances of microfinance banks significantly contribute to economic growth, total deposits inversely affect economic growth. The study also established the presence of long-run relationship between the variables considered (GDP, total loans and advances, total deposits, investments and number of microfinance banks) The study reveals that the growth and development of a nation is significantly dependent on the expansion of banking and financial services to the currently financially-excluded class of citizens of the country, as they possess untapped and unexplored valuable potentials that will be of tremendous to the country. In view of the benefits inherent in financial inclusion, this study recommends that microfinance banks should concentrate efforts on low cost deposits which are in line with their operations than competing with the conventional banks in mobilizing fixed deposits that has higher cost attached to it. Financial education is also recommended to enlighten the public on benefits of a financial superstructure.