bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Governance Practices in Zimbabwean Public Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Chikuvadze Pinias , Mugijima Samuel
Published: November 2023

This conceptual paper sought to cross-examine the enactment of governance practices in public higher education institutions. The discussion was guided by qualitative content analysis approach with the view to provide a rich and thick inquiry into the issue. In this context, 60 articles, which met the inclusion conditions were purposively sampled and later on interrogated through content analysis. The discussion noted that governance as a concept had various definitions depending on the context. In addition, in public higher education institutions, there are governance policies, and procedures guiding institutional activities. In the same context relationship between stakeholders and public higher education institutions guided by a systems of governance practices. However, the implementation of these in public higher education institutions with the view to achieving the set was hindered by multi-faceted challenges. Therefore, this draws interest to several issues related to how effective are the public higher education institutions’ operational mechanisms, and the effective use of both the human, financial and infrastructural resources in the interest of the relevant stakeholders. Thus, Zimbabwe’s public higher education institutions are employing rudimentary governance practices to advance substantial implementation of set goals, as far as the "Heritage-Based Education 5.0" doctrine was concerned.
Social Spending and Long-term Economic Performance in the US
Authors: Pereira Alfredo Marvão , Pereira Rui Manuel , Lu Jiayong
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we study the effects of social spending on long-term economic performance in the USA from 1949 to 2019 using vector auto-regressive models. We break down social spending into six programs to identify the economic effects of different social programs. Overall, social spending has a positive impact on private saving but an adverse effect on the unemployment rate. Due to its dominant distortionary impact on the labor market, social spending decreases GDP. However, these effects are minimal and are primarily short-term. The economic implications of the different social spending programs on the economy are similar but different in magnitude. The impact of social security and medical care spending on GDP is not significant. In turn, the adverse effects of veteran benefits and unemployment insurance on GDP are dominated by the short-term impact. In contrast, the effects of public assistance are more evenly distributed, and the adverse effects of other social assistance are exclusively long-term. Overall, the message is that although social spending adversely affects economic performance, these effects are small and primarily short-term. As such, the quest for increased social protection and improved social welfare does not seem to come at a significant economic cost. This attests to the sustainability of such policies.
Exploration on Teaching Reform of Public Art Specialty Based on Interactive Technology
Authors: Yuan Ye
Published: November 2023

Interactive technology refers to the technology of realizing the dialogue between people and computers in an effective way through computer input and output equipment, which can greatly facilitate the work of various industries in China. Based on this, this paper takes the teaching of public art specialty as an example to discuss the teaching reform method in combination with interactive technology. This paper lists the value of interactive technology in public art teaching, the current situation of low application rate, lack of equipment and unbalanced teaching content, and the improvement methods by strengthening teacher training, introducing equipment and standardizing the use of technology.
Research on the Construction of New Studio System Teaching Mode for Public Art Majors
Authors: Yuan Ye
Published: November 2023

The construction of a new studio teaching mode for public art majors can provide students with practical learning platforms and environments, which can help to cultivate high-quality and innovative artistic talents and provide new ideas and methods for the integration of engineering, industry-university-research fusion of talent cultivation. This paper analyzes the role of the new studio teaching mode for public art majors, the problems faced and the construction strategy, in order to cultivate more art talents with high quality and innovation ability.
Discursos y prácticas sobre la diversidad sexual en escuelas secundarias de la Ciudad de México
Authors: Bautista Rojas Enrique
Published: November 2023

Esta investigación parte de reconocer la presencia de estudiantes gays en escuelas secundarias mexicanas, así como las problemáticas que pueden vivir en su tránsito educativo. El objetivo es examinar tanto actitudes como percepciones del estudiantado y personal educativo, así como acciones implementadas para abordar los desafíos que enfrentan dichos estudiantes. La metodología se basa en el paradigma cualitativo con un método interpretativo. Se trabajó en línea mediante entrevistas y cuestionarios con seis jóvenes gays de 18 años de estrato socioeconómico medio urbano de la Ciudad de México. Los resultados se organizan en tres categorías: presencia de la diversidad sexual en las escuelas secundarias; actitudes de pares y amistades; e intervenciones educativas realizadas por los agentes escolares. En las discusiones y conclusiones se enfatiza la necesidad de crear entornos educativos seguros que promuevan el respeto, inclusión y valoración de la diversidad.
Atención Educativa Domiciliaria en España: Comparativa en pandemia y postpandemia
Authors: Fernández Pascual Eduardo
Published: November 2023

La Atención Educativa Domiciliaria es un tipo de apoyo que se incluye dentro de las responsabilidades que describe la legislación española para los centros educativos, debiendo contar con la elaboración de un proyecto educativo de acceso público que respete la inclusión como un valor fundamental sin excepción. Debido a la importancia que radica sobre la necesidad de mejorar la inclusión del alumnado objeto de estudio, en pleno confinamiento del año 2020, se llevó a cabo una investigación previa con el objetivo de analizar los documentos internos de centro para 16 institutos de la región de Cataluña. Con una metodología de corte cualitativo y el método de estudio de caso múltiple, se procedió a la obtención y procesamiento de la información mediante una técnica de análisis documental y un proceso de análisis de contenido por categorización deductiva-inductiva. En el curso académico 2022-2023, con un objetivo comparativo se analizó de nuevo la misma muestra. Los principales resultados indicaron un aumento del 37,5% en la mención del alumnado domiciliario y una planificación documental que se mantuvo en ambas muestras con el 0%, fomentando la improvisación y el abuso de unos planes individualizados que sin unos protocolos previos pueden promover una desigualdad educativa.
AI Pair Programming Tool
Authors: Magar Prof. Anand
Published: November 2023

Abstract: In the ever-evolving landscape of software development, the need for tools that augment developer productivity is paramount. This paper introduces a novel integration of IntelliJ IDEA, a widely used integrated development environment (IDE), with OpenAI's advanced deep learning models. The synergy between these two technologies aims to elevate the coding experience by providing intelligent code assistance, allowing developers to write code more efficiently and with greater accuracy. Our approach leverages OpenAI's natural language processing capabilities to enhance code suggestions, auto-completions, and error detection within IntelliJ IDEA. By analyzing vast code repositories and learning from diverse coding patterns, our system empowers developers with context-aware recommendations, significantly reducing the cognitive load associated with code creation. This paper presents the architecture of our solution, detailing the seamless integration of OpenAI's models into the IntelliJ IDEA IDE. We discuss the methodology behind training the models, emphasizing their adaptability to various programming languages and project structures. Furthermore, we present empirical results demonstrating the effectiveness of our approach in real-world coding scenarios.
A Survey on: Legal Chain Vault Using Blockchain
Authors: R Mrs. Pallavi
Published: November 2023

Abstract: In the face of escalating crime rates accompanying rapid urbanization, traditional criminal record systems face challenges of tampering and inefficiency. The Paper proposes a blockchain-based solution, leveraging the decentralization and immutability of blockchain to create a secure and transparent network for legal records. By utilizing peer-to-peer networks, this system ensures easy accessibility while safeguarding data integrity through the immutability feature of blockchain. The decentralized nature of the blockchain reduces corruption risks, allowing third parties to monitor tamperproof transactions and promoting objectivity in criminal record management. The blockchain-based approach not only enhances transparency and accountability in criminal record keeping but also facilitates timely access to authentic records for law enforcement authorities. The Paper aims to revolutionize record management, making it more efficient, secure, and conducive to effective law enforcement in evolving urban environments.
Unravelling DevOps Agile Methodologies: A Comprehensive Review of Recent Research
Authors: Nyale Duncan
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This study report offers a thorough analysis of current studies on DevOps Agile techniques. The study summarizes and dissects the major discoveries made in peer-reviewed literature, conference proceedings, and other academic publications. The article examines the most recent DevOps Agile practice trends and advances, as well as how they affect software development, testing, deployment, and operations. The analysis emphasizes the advantages of applying DevOps Agile approaches, including enhanced collaboration, faster time to market, and higher-quality software products. The paper also examines the challenges and potential limitations of DevOps Agile adoption, such as cultural resistance, lack of skills, and integration issues. Finally, the study concludes with recommendations for practical implications for software development teams and organizations seeking to implement DevOps Agile methodologies. The review provides valuable insights and guidance for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers in the field of software engineering and information technology.
RUSLE and GIS Based Soil Erosion Modelling in a Micro-Watershed (1E1C4a2) in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Pandit Dr. Bashir Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Abstract: A comprehensive methodology that integrates Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques was adopted to determine that soil erosion vulnerability of micro-watershed in J&K India. The spatial pattern of annual soil erosion rate was obtained by integrating geo-environmental variables in a raster based GIS method. GIS data layers including, rainfall erosivity (R). Soil erodibility (K), slope length and steepness (LS), cover management (C) and conservation Practice (P) factors were computed to determine their effect on average annual soil loss in the area. The resultant map of annual soil erosion shows maximum soil loss of 2.9246 t h Y with a close relation to grass land area, agricultural lands and orchards (with low LS) . The spatial erosion maps generated with RUSLE method and GIS can serve as effective inputs in deriving strategies for land planning management in the environmentally sensitive agricultural areas.
Science Communication practices and Trust in information sources amongst Nigerian scientists and journalists
Authors: Weitkamp Emma , Larbey Ruth , Maina Mahmoud Bukar , Petherick Katy , Muhammad Mustapha Shehu , Tsanni Abdullahi , Hong Xinyang , Al-Gazali Abdulhamid
Published: November 2023

Relatively few studies have explored the communication practices of researchers and journalists working in African contexts. We set out to explore the communication activities undertaken by Nigerian health researchers and journalists, their motivations and the barriers they face in communicating about health topics with lay audiences, as well as their trust in a range of sources of scientific information. The study adopted a survey methodology, recruiting 69 participants at a communications training workshop for both health researchers and journalists. We found high levels of participation in research communication amongst health researchers compared with previous work. While many barriers are similar to those faced by researchers in other contexts, our respondents highlighted that lack of support from managers is a significant hurdle, which has not been highlighted in other studies. Both journalists and researchers primarily communicate science with the aim of educating, informing, entertaining or inspiring their audiences. Regarding trust, both researchers and journalists broadly trust sources linked to science, such as academic journals. However, trust in industry, NGOs and other media was higher amongst journalists than health researchers. Least trust was invested in social media sources, with the exception of material posted on accounts linked to universities.
Corpos e vozes dos artigos científicos: mediações da comunicação e cultura nos conteúdos de divulgação científica do periódico Reciis
Authors: Abib Roberto , Sousa Clara Marques de
Published: November 2023

Este trabalho analisa os processos comunicacionais dos conteúdos de divulgação científica do projeto `Artigos e autores na mídia e nas redes sociais: para uma divulgação científica inovadora e acessível da Reciis'. O estudo parte do pressuposto de que a divulgação científica é uma forma de conhecimento produzido nas mediações da cultura científica. Parte-se da “práxis” como aporte teórico-metodológico a fim de evidenciar os efeitos discursivos dos materiais. Propomos que tais práticas mediadas com a presença (corpos e vozes) das autoras e autores da Reciis nas mídias se apresentam como inovadores modos de comunicar a ciência.
Parenting Practices, Communication about Adoption and Children’s Behavior Problems in Adoptive Families
Authors:   University of Latvia, Dzedone Dace , Miltuze Anika
Published: November 2023

Aspects relating to adoption have not been much in focus of psychology research in Latvia. The aim of the study was to investigate associations between parenting practices, attitude and communication about adoption and child behavior problems in adoptive families raising school-age children, as well as to investigate to what extent parenting practices, attitude and communication about adoption, as well as parent’s perception of adopted child’s adverse childhood experiences explains the internalized and externalized child behavior problems. Participants were 130 adoptive parents (94.6% women and 5.4% men) who are currently raising at least one adopted child between the ages of 7 and 18 (50.8% girls, 49.2% boys). Alabama Parenting Questionnaire, psychological control scale from Block’s Child Rearing Practices Report, parent report form of the Child Behavior Checklist were used in the study, as well as Kirk’s Adoption Questionnaire, which was adapted as part of the study. Results of the study revealed that adverse childhood experience, empathy for the child’s understanding and feelings about adoption, maladaptive parenting practices – inconsistent discipline and low involvement predict internalized behavior problems. On the other hand, poor monitoring/ supervision, psychological control, as well as adverse childhood experience and acknowledgement of differences related to adoption by adoptive parents predict externalized behavior problems. Implications for practice include recommendation to empathize the importance of positive parenting practices during pre and post-adoption trainings for adoptive parents.
Challenging and Reproducing the Discourse of “Intensive Mothering” in Family Magazine “Mans Mazais” (2018–2022)
Authors:   University of Latvia, Lāma Elza
Published: November 2023

The dominant discourse of motherhood in Western civilization is of “intensive mothering”, coined by Hays in 1996, which views the mother as the primary caregiver with absolute responsibility over the child’s physical and psychological needs, promoting unrealistic standards, pressure on the mother, not to mention discrediting the benefits of a more present, engaged father, who is constructed mainly as a “bread winner” and assistant-parent. As recommended by Jansone-Ratinika (2013), the media should focus on egalitarian forms of family, thus, in doing so, gradually transforming hegemonic stereotypes in society. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to explore the various discourses of motherhood in the 21st century over a period of 5 years (2022–2018) in the family magazine “Mans Mazais” (My Little One). A critical discourse analysis has been conducted, illustrating the reproduction and challenge to the dominant discourse. The study provides insight into a variety of motherhood discourses (re)produced in the 36 issues of the family magazine “Mans Mazais” from 2018 to 2022, providing a spectrum of experiences and motherhood ideologies from “intensive mothering” to alternatives. However, the dominance of “intensive mothering” discourse is overbearing, displaying a portrait of an ideal family – a married Latvian heterosexual couple with happy children, who are cared after by the parents without any constraint in financial, emotional, physical resources, treating any challenge as a passing inconvenience.
Bystanders in Bullying Situations in Schools. Does it Matter? Literature Review
Authors:   University of Latvia, Moļņika Baiba
Published: November 2023

Bullying is a model of social behaviour that develops and escalates if notrecognized and accordingly addressed. Bullying can be verbal, physical, or cyberbullying. The causes of bullying and violence in schools are peers’ physical deficiencies, gender, social inequality, ethnic, linguistic and cultural diversity, gender identity. The impact of bullying on personal development can be substantial and include lowered self-esteem, anxiety, greater levels of depression, fear, school refusal, isolation, and even suicide. When analysing bullying situations in schools, the social context must be taken into account. Attention should be shifted from perceiving bullying as a relationship between two persons (perpetrator and victim) to perceiving bullying as a process involving and affecting bystanders – students who are present in bullying situations and taking certain roles towards it. Even apparent neutrality in bullying situations does not mean non-intervention, as non-reaction could be associated with the passive support of the bully. In deciding whether to sand up for the victim, students must consider their existing relationships, their position in the classroom, and their ability to influence the process. In addition, there is a fear that each of the victim’s defenders can become the next victim.The actions, behaviour and attitudes of bystanders can both increase and decrease the level of bullying. The study aims to explore the trends and challenges regarding the role and impact of bystanders in bullying situations in schools. Research suggests that targeting bystanders and giving them the tools and encouragement to intervene should be an integral component of bullying interventions.
Definition, Structure, and Formation of Parental Expectations: Literature Analysis
Authors:   University of Latvia, Barone Inese
Published: November 2023

Parents, teachers, and students are important partners in education collaboration. Parent expectations are a prerequisite for a student to achieve the set academic goals, emphasizing the supportive role of home environment in education. The learning process does not end in school, but continues at home- spending time with parents, traveling, or attending cultural events. In the field of education sciences, the question of expectations of educational partners and the factors that influence and promote students’ learning achievements; as well as the factors that hinder them, has been extensively studied. Expectations of educational goals indicate the level of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that the student should achieve; provided that the expectations are motivating and directed towards achieving educational goals. The question of this study is – what is the definition, structure and formation of parental expectations for a child’s basic education goals. To explore the question of this study, the following methods are used: (1) Systematic analysis of literature and educational documents on parental expectations for a child’s educational goals – 271 units; (2) Content analysis – analysis of content and the keywords. The aim of this study is to determine whether the definition, structure and formation of expectations revealed in the literature analysis correspond to parents’ views on the goals of education for their child.
Competence of Mathematics of 4th Grade Students of Latvia in International Comparison
Authors:   University of Latvia, Mihno Linda , Mālere Agnese , Mitenberga Laima , Rimša Marija
Published: November 2023

Education in Latvia currently is facing major changes. Learning content is based on a competences-based approach. The competences approach is wide spreading in the curricula of other countries, but each country has a different approach to implementing the competences. Not only in the context of the competences-based approach, but also in the education processes in general, the quality of education is emphasised. The quality of education receives increased attention, including of analyse various aspects – the students’ level of knowledge and skills, the professional competence of teachers and principals, the school infrastructure, the evaluation of the education system, etc. In Latvia, the Education Law defines the quality of education, which is similar to the other definitions and explanations of the quality of education that also focuses on the learner acquiring the knowledge and skills, which are required to succeed in life. In countries where the content of the competences-based approach is implemented learning areas are identified. The breakdown of the learning areas varies from country to country, but the core areas are the same: languages, science, maths and arts. This article will analyse students’ mathematics competence to find out which of the skills are better developed, and which of them need further improvement. For that Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2019 data are used, which shows that 4th grade students in Latvia are the 10th best mathematicians in the world, however that does not mean that there are no areas for more development. To become one of the best education systems in the world, it is needed to look for weaknesses and try to reduce them. This article highlights these areas. The aim of this article is to identify the weaknesses of students in Latvia in mathematics competences in TIMSS 2019 and give recommendations what could improve the mathematics competences of students in Latvia and their chances to become better mathematicians.
Pupils’ Perspective on Video-Based Classroom Research
Authors:   University of Osijek, Filipov Mia , Meštrović Ozrenka ,   Antun Gustav Matoš Primary School
Published: November 2023

This case study was part of a practical action research aimed at planning, carrying out and evaluating a video-based professional development program for mathematics and biology teachers. The teachers involved in the research were tasked with implementing elements of effective teaching and their lessons were video-recorded. The research lasted two pandemic school years, from early 2020 to mid-2021. During this period, the recorded lessons were analysed in online learning communities and on Moodle forums. There, the teachers could engage in video-based learning, allowing for a discussion on teaching practices while ensuring collaborative reflection and critical friendship with pedagogues and mathematics or biology teacher educators. However, their pupils were involved in the research only indirectly: they were the objects of recorded lessons with no active role in the process. In addition to analysing recorded lessons, we conducted two group interviews with pupils in order to understand their perspective on the video-based classroom research. Pupils stated that their taking part in video-based classroom research led to some positive changes in themselves, mainly improved attitude towards Mathematics and Biology as school subjects and their self-esteem. However, pupils did not understand why the lessons were video-recorded. They did not understand the positive and negative aspects of recording lessons, which is why their activity decreased during the lessons and they expressed their fear of the camera. Since pupils are at the centre of education, it is necessary to ensure their active involvement in the process of planning, implementing and evaluating changes in teaching, especially since these changes are aimed at improving their learning in general.
Generatıon Alpha from the Perspectıve of Faculty Members
Authors:   Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Arslan Hasan , Esenalieva Zyinat , Doğan Miray
Published: November 2023

he article presents the study of the Alpha Generation in higher education. The Alpha Generation, born in 2010 and after, is a generation that actively uses technology that was still in its school years. This study, in which faculty members’ perceptions of the Alpha generation that will be university students in the future were investigated, was conducted with the qualitative research method to understand in depth what meaning the faculty members ascribe to the Alpha generation. For this purpose, the interviews were conducted with the faculty members at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University. Faculty members expect to be prepared for the new generation of digital and global education, which is changing fast. Learning skills and the ability to apply concepts and understandings affect how we view information differently. Furthermore, technological advancements in higher education play a crucial role in the teaching-learning approaches of the future, so faculty members are also expected to be knowledgeable and experienced about the Alpha Generation’s next generation of higher education. Therefore, in the future higher education environment, this research can be important for academics and administrators to get the opinions of faculty members on the Alpha generation and to anticipate the opportunities and potential problems. Furthermore, this research has tried to explain the faculty members as the next group of university students, considering the learning styles preferred by the Alpha generation, their perceptions and expectations about education. Finally, this research is illustrated with recommendations on how universities can be transformed to provide a better learning experience aligned with the thoughts, perceptions and expectations of faculty members for Generation Alpha students.
The Personality of Antonina Masilune and Her Contribution to Preserving the Culinary Heritage
Authors:   Rezekne Academy of Technologies, Sinakova Valentina , Apele Diana , Bodza Ilze
Published: November 2023

Cookbooks are an essential type of publication in the field of food heritage preservation. Antonina Masilune (1921–2019) is a cook, popularizer of Latvian cuisine and author of several books, whose cookbooks are known both in Latvia and beyond its borders. The first book by Masilune “Everyday and festive table” was published in 1982, while until now the only cookbook in the world in the Latgalian language (one of the languages that is used in Latvia) “Povōru grōmota” (The Cookbook) was published in 1992. This determined the need, when developing the research, to get to know the food recipe books published by Masilune, with the aim of popularizing the culinary heritage by developing a new graphic design of the first and only book published in Latgalian. The redesigned cookbook will popularize the knowledge and skills of Latgale’s traditional crafts in Latvia and the world today, will introduce readers to the contribution of Masilune, an outstanding cook born in Rezekne (Latvia) and internationally known lecturer, fourth class officer of the Order of the Three Stars, (the highest award in Latvia) to the preservation of the culinary heritage. Research base: associates of Masilune – relatives (n = 5), students of culinary courses (n = 1). Research period – 2021, 2022. The research has a practical significance, because during the research a redesign was developed for the book published in 1992 by Masilune. The research results were obtained using theoretical research methods: research and analysis of scientific, journalistic literature and Internet resources, which reveal the nature of the relevant problem, as well as conducted interviews.
Sketching for Value-Embedded Learning
Authors:   University of Latvia, Urdziņa-Deruma Māra , Avotiņa Austra , Karlsone Inguna , Celmiņa-Ķeirāne Austra
Published: November 2023

Sketching as a graphic record of the results of thinking is essential as a design presentation and can help develop design thinking and behaviour, creativity, problem-solving and communication skills. The aim of this study is to find the learning approach in which sketching can become a self-determined value for students. The data were collected through focus group interviews (n = 12) and a survey (n = 55) from three undergraduate programmes. The focus group interview results were analysed using the content analysis method. It was concluded that the lack of experience and skills, the limited time available for learning and the student’s desire to demonstrate perfect results in their coursework hindered their interest in learning to sketch. In order to make sketching more successful, it is essential to explain the importance and purpose of sketching. Assignments related to students’ future professional activity are recommended. Using methods that create a sense of freedom, including play, is also recommended. It is necessary to suggest and use different materials suitable for sketching, encourage the study of artists’ sketches and give regular assignments to promote interest in sketching. Regularly completing sketchbooks (portfolios), quick sketching exercises and balancing free and given assignments are required to make sketching a self-determined value for students.
Pupils’ Written Language in the Latvian Language and History State Examinations in Riga in 2021
Authors:   Liepaja University, Straupeniece Daiga , Dzintars Normunds
Published: November 2023

The research examines pupils’ text creation skills in the Latvian language and history state examinations in 2021. It compares the quality of written language in two examination papers by 15 pupils. The statistical method has been used to evaluate the types of errors in orthography and syntax and establish the frequency of the use of the language means. Pupils’ skills in orthography vary. Only 4 examination papers in Latvian and history do not contain orthographic errors. Writing complex proper names and the use of macrons cause problems for pupils. Similarly, the skills of separate spelling of some words have been underdeveloped. Also, an unjustified lack of a letter or unjustified use of it can be observed. Pupils pay more attention to orthography in the Latvian language examination. Pupils’ skills in syntax are also varied. Syntactical means used in text creation are uniform. In the Latvian language examination papers, 143 instances when coordinated parts of sentence were used have been registered; 78 such instances have been registered in the history examination. In both examinations, a connection of two coordinated parts with the conjunction un ‘and’ was used most frequently, with 78 cases in Latvian and 32 in history. Also, the participial clause, including the undeclinable participle with the suffix -ot and auslaut -oties, was dominant (60% in history, 40% in Latvian). In the third part of the Latvian language examination, insertions were used more often than in the history examination, 63% and 37%, respectively. Other syntactic means were rarely used. It can be concluded that there are no significant differences in the types of orthographic and punctuation errors in the Latvian language and history examination papers; the differences are visible in the choice of language means and their quantity.
Secondary School Level Creative Tasks for Studying Poetry
Authors:   University of Latvia, Stikute Elita , Skalberga Anita
Published: November 2023

The present study endeavors to analyze the challenges encountered by readers when interpreting poetry, and the development of their creative potential. Voluminous decoding of poetry texts is possible in the learning process if creative process is offered, which in turn enables to look for new ways of reading and explore comprehension labyrinths. Literature studies at secondary school require the development of creative task taxonomy, which would assist the reader – student to explore their creative potential and develop it deliberately. Creativity is beneficial in any area and can enrich every aspect of one’s life. It is not an inherent gift but a mastered ability to see the world, interact with it and respond accordingly. The main components of creativity can be categorised in two groups: cognitive (divergent thinking, general knowledge and thinking skills) and personality (focusing on the task and determination to complete it, motivation, tolerance towards the unknown) components. The prerequisites for creativity are connected with the educator’s attitude and expectations, as well as the ability to create a suitable environment, situations, learning tasks, because without them neither creative thinking nor action can be manifested. The educator is the initiator as well as the facilitator of the creative process, thinking and action. Based on the study of poetry of A. Čaks at secondary school, the article introduces the requirements and criteria for the development of creative tasks. The aim of the research is, based on the study of A. Čaks’ poetry in secondary school, to identify the conditions and criteria for developing creative tasks. The study was conducted using qualitative content analysis of students’ works and a case study as the research methods. The results of the case study indicate that when the teacher creates an appropriate environment and atmosphere, students are offered various creative tasks, and students can choose them according to their abilities, students willingly engage in the performance of various creative tasks. The developed methodological framework for introducing A. Čaks’ poetry is original and unprecedented in the history of literature methodology. The developed methodology can be used for the study of the personality and creative work of a specific poet (A. Čaks) as well as adapted and adjusted for the study of other writers. The ideas can be used by both practising and future literature teachers. The developed methodological framework and its results have been presented to prospective educators in the course “Methods of Teaching Latvian Literature,” educators in various continuing education courses, and at the scientific conference of the University of Latvia. Educators have highly appreciated the developed materials.
‘Can-Do Statements’ to Improve Year 4 Pupils’ Performance in English Lessons
Authors:   University of Latvia, Latkovska Evija , Ieleja Klinta ,   Ērgļi Secondary School
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, school education concentrates on developing pupils’ skill to learn – teachers should help pupils understand the meaning of education in their life and encourage their independent inquiry. The essence is not just getting excellent grades. Instead, it is about pupils taking responsibility for being interested, for participating and for reflecting on their performance. The mentioned features are characteristic of self-regulated learning – a transversal skill to be honed from early school years. Overall, research on pupils’ self-regulated learning reveals that if mastered as a skill at an early age, it positively influences pupils’ academic performance. Based on the evidence of prior research, the authors of the article consider relevant ‘Can-Do Statements’ to be of importance to develop and enhance pupils’ self-regulated learning skills parallel to their academic achievement. Therefore, the current study aims to examine how self-regulated learning ‘Can-Do Statements’ applied in lessons of English in Year 4, can improve pupils’ confidence regarding their self-regulated learning and their foreign language achievement. The research method is a case study comprising a research sample of 19 Year 4 pupils (nine to ten years old). The pupils come from a rural school in Latvia, Vidzeme region. The data are collected using lesson observation sheets, language tests and a questionnaire for pupils to ensure triangulation of the data. Empirical data show that ‘Can-Do Statements’ implemented in English language lessons help pupils work on self-regulated learning skills simultaneously achieving academic performance goals they set for themselves. However, the level of achievement depends on whether an individual pupil relates ‘Can-Do Statements’ to oneself and one’s learning process. Even though the data show that the efficient use of ‘Can-Do Statements’ would ask for meticulous lesson planning, it can also be witnessed that their application allows creating a positive learning environment, which in its turn is beneficial for the rapport of the teacher and pupils.
Opportunities and Challenges of Videoconferencing-Based Teaching among English Teachers
Authors:   University of Latvia, Selcuk Hasan , Isperdon Lilian ,   Charles University
Published: November 2023

Over the last decade, online English as a foreign language learning courses have become increasingly popular since teachers and practitioners have realised the benefits of synchronous, video conferencing-based learning activities for their learners. Not all teachers (especially pre-service teachers) are, however, sufficiently well-versed in implementing video conferencing-based English teaching to use its benefits effectively. A qualitative research study aiming to investigate the opportunities and challenges experienced by six pre-service teachers of English as a foreign language in their video conferencing-based praxis was thus devised. It included a five-week, practice-based teacher training course for video conferencing-based English teaching followed by a five-week teaching practice. The study’s findings revealed several opportunities, such as video conferencing-based English courses effectively facilitating productive skills (e.g., speaking and writing) by implementing collaborative learning strategies that support cognitive processes and promote social interaction. Furthermore, the nature of video conferencing-based English teaching encouraged the pre-service teachers to utilise more active learning approaches to keep learners’ interest and engagement in class, potentially leading to longer retention of vocabulary, enhanced comprehension, improved motivation, and critical thinking skills. There were also several challenges. For example, not all pre-service teachers found video conferencing tools engaging or easy to cope with due to limited internet speed, which may affect the quality of video and audio communication. Additionally, instructional design should be tailored to learners’ physiological and psychological needs, including fatigue, technology-related stress, and anxieties. The findings from this study provide valuable insights for educators, policy-makers, and researchers and contribute to the ongoing discourse on the use of technology in foreign language education.
A review of the teaching and practice of forensic accounting in a global context
Authors: Ismail Sawsan , Ahmad Safaa , Dahmash Firas N. , Alzoubi Abdallah Bader Mahmoud , Mahmoud Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the teaching and practice of forensic accounting in a global context. The methodology involved a systematic review of published studies on forensic accounting from different regions and cultures, with a focus on identifying the strengths and weaknesses of current teaching and practice. The main findings of the paper highlight the importance of effective teaching methods and the need for standardized regulatory structures and academic qualifications to enhance the credibility of the profession. Additionally, the review identifies cultural nuances that impact the practice of forensic accounting and the growing significance of emerging technologies in the field. The relevance of this paper lies in its practical and managerial implications for practitioners, educators, and policymakers in the field of forensic accounting. The findings can inform the development of strategies and policies that address the gaps and challenges in current teaching and practice, and can help ensure that practitioners are prepared to meet the demands of a global context.
Task relevance strengthens the sequential dependence in time reproduction but not in time discrimination
Authors: Cheng Si , Chen Siyi , Yang Xuefeng , Shi Zhuanghua
Published: November 2023

Our recent experiences shape our perception, a concept known as
sequential bias. While extensively studied in the visual domain, this
phenomenon remains largely uncharted in time perception. The present
study examined how task relevance and task types influence temporal
sequential biases. Employing a dual-feature random dot kinematogram
(RDK) - duration and direction - we asked participants to encode both
features in each trial and report one based on a post-cue. The preceding
duration-report trials were regarded as task-relevant responses, while
the previous direction-report trials were considered task-irrelevant
responses. Additionally, we used the time discrimination task in
Experiment 1 and the duration reproduction task in Experiment 2. Both
experiments revealed a significant sequential bias: durations were
perceived as longer following longer previous durations, and vice versa.
Moreover, we found a decisional carryover effect in both tasks.
Intriguingly, in the discrimination task (Experiment 1), the sequential
effect showed no significant variation whether following timing or
direction tasks. Conversely, in the reproduction task (Experiment 2),
the sequential effect was more marked following the same timing task
than the direction task. These findings indicate that the sequential
bias in time perception is likely modulated by working memory processes
that link sensory representation and task-specific decision-making.
A Comprehensive Assessment of Carbon Dioxide Removal Options for Germany
Authors: Borchers Malgorzata , Förster Johannes , Thrän Daniela , Beck Silke , Thoni Terese , Korte Klaas , Gawel Erik , Markus Till , Schaller Romina , Rhoden Imke , Chi Yaxuan , Dahmen Nicolaus , Dittmeyer Roland , Dolch Tobias , Dold Christian , Herbst Michael , Heß Dominik , Kalhori Aram , Koop-Jakobsen Ketil , Li Zhan , Oschlies Andreas , Reusch Thorsten B.H. , Sachs Torsten , Schmidt-Hattenberger Cornelia , Stevenson Angela , WU Jiajun , Yeates Christopher , Mengis Nadine
Published: November 2023

To reach their net-zero targets, countries will have to compensate
hard-to-abate CO emissions through carbon dioxide
removal (CDR). Yet, current assessments rarely include socio-cultural or
institutional aspects or fail to contextualize CDR options for
implementation.

Here we present a context-specific feasibility assessment of CDR options
for the example of Germany. We assess fourteen CDR options, including
three chemical carbon capture options, six options for bioenergy
combined with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), and five options that
aim to increase ecosystem carbon uptake. The assessment addresses
technological, economic, environmental, institutional, social-cultural
and systemic considerations using a traffic-light system to evaluate
implementation opportunities and hurdles.

We find that in Germany CDR options like cover crops or seagrass
restoration currently face comparably low implementation hurdles in
terms of technological, economic, or environmental feasibility and low
institutional or social opposition but show comparably small
CO removal potentials. In contrast, some BECCS options
that show high CDR potentials face significant techno-economic, societal
and institutional hurdles when it comes to the geological storage of
CO.

While a combination of CDR options is likely required to meet the
net-zero target in Germany, the current climate protection law includes
a limited set of options. Our analysis aims to provide comprehensive
information on CDR hurdles and possibilities for Germany for use in
further research on CDR options, climate, and energy scenario
development, as well as an effective decision support basis for various
actors.
On the Formation of Earth and Celestial Bodies
Authors: Alzayed Nasser S.
Published: November 2023

Understanding the formation of the solar system can provide a simplified
look at the universe at large. This is because we have a lot of evidence
about the formation of our solar system, and because the universe is
homogeneous on a large scale. In this paper, we propose a new way for
investigating the formation of the Earth and other Solar System objects.
Our approach offers insights into details of the formation of the
multiple layers within Earth, the existence of water and oil, the
variation in mass distribution within Earth, and the origin of
mountains, erratic boulders, and moons. According to our proposed
approach, Roche Radius can explain the origin of moons, rings and
mountains on planets. We have listed and use critical conditions that
are required to form celestial objects.
Optimización del circuito de medicación de Farmacia a Hospitalización a Domicilio en un hospital urbano
Authors: Villegas Bruguera Eulalia Balbina , Barrera Puigdollers Maite , Torres Corts Ana Maria , Carrascosa Piquer Olga , Rodríguez Capdevila Albert
Published: November 2023

Introducción: Se detectaron severas ineficiencias en los circuitos entre el Servicio de Farmacia Hospitalaria (SFH) y el Servicio de Hospitalización a Domicilio (HAD), lo que motivó la realización de un análisis, con el soporte de Calidad, y la definición e implementación posterior de varias acciones de mejora.
Método: Análisis del flujo de medicación entre los SFH y HAD del Hospital Dos de Maig. Los objetivos propuestos fueron reducir las interrupciones a los profesionales, aumentar la eficiencia de los circuitos, y garantizar la disponibilidad de la medicación. Se identificaron ineficiencias en el sistema de solicitud y dispensación de medicación, y desajustes en la dotación y revisión del stock. Se acordó un cambio de modelo de dispensación, se ajustó la dotación del stock, se agilizaron las revisiones del mismo, y se aplicó una nueva herramienta de solicitud vía informática de medicación.
Resultados: El equipo de HAD consiguió mayor autonomía, se redujeron las interrupciones entre ambos servicios y la dispensación ganó en seguridad. La dispensación global de fármacos fuera de stock disminuyó en un 61%, y los técnicos del SFH ganaron casi media hora diaria.
Conclusiones: El cambio en la logística entre el SFH y HAD ha sido muy positivo, obteniendo unos logros importantes, que repercuten positivamente en la organización y en la seguridad del paciente, con un flujo de medicación más fluido y eficiente, y el registro sistemático de las entregas que incrementa la seguridad en la dispensación.