International Journal of Advanced Research in Future Ready Learning and Education

The Perception of Malaysian Undergraduates towards Bilingualism and Multilingualism in Language Learning

2024-03-23T14:11:35+00:00

Language is essential to human communication and identity. Individuals may have different language abilities in one or more languages. Bilingualism refers to the ability to use two languages proficiently, whereas multilingualism is characterised by the ability to use more than two languages. Cultural background, societal views, and personal experiences can significantly impact perceptions. Bilingualism and multilingualism may be viewed positively by some students while negatively by others. In today's globalised society, language diversity is growing, yet there is little research on students' perceptions of bilingualism and multilingualism in higher education in the Malaysian context. The study seeks to identify Malaysian undergraduates' perceptions towards bilingualism and multilingualism in language learning. Conducted among 51 undergraduate students at an engineering university in Malaysia, this quantitative study employed a survey-based approach. The result revealed positive perceptions of bilingualism and multilingualism in language learning influenced by the bilingual education system in Malaysia and globalisation. The present research has proved that students favour bilingualism and multilingualism, enhancing their motivation to acquire additional languages. This inclination stems from the belief that having proficiency in more than two languages confers a more excellent knowledge upon individuals.

Wellbeing at Public University in Central Mexico

2023-12-18T04:39:37+00:00

The objective of this work was to contrast the hypothesis of significant differences between the quality of university life reported in the literature with respect to the empirical observations in a university in northwestern Mexico. A cross-sectional, exploratory, correlational and psychometric study was carried out with a sample of intentionally selected students. A two-dimensional factorial structure related to quality of life and university identity was found that contravenes the theoretical structure reported in the state of the art, although the literature also suggests the modeling of actors in order to predict academic performance. In this sense, the inclusion of the third factor is recommended whenever the indicators are reduced, and that the adjustment and residual parameters indicate an amplification of the study to other samples, but a reduction of the features of the quality of university life.

Keberkesanaan Penggunaan Kaedah “Enam Topi Pemikiran” dan “Pembacaan Teks Berkelompok” dalam Pengajaran dan Pembelajaran bagi Pemikiran Kritikal di Pendidikan Tinggi

2024-01-28T02:46:22+00:00

Fokus utama pendidikan tinggi adalah membangun pemikiran kritikal pada pelajar supaya berdaya membuat analisis, penilaian, dan meneliti isu secara mendalam. Perkembangan kaedah pengajaran juga menegaskan penguatan kemahiran pemikiran kritikal ini. Tujuan utama kajian ini adalah untuk menilai keberkesanan pembangunan kemahiran pemikiran kritikal dengan menggunakan kaedah "Enam Topi Pemikiran" dan "Pembacaan Teks Berkelompok", termasuk perbandingan keberkesanan kedua-dua kaedah ini. Kajian ini merupakan eksperimental kuasi (reka bentuk dalam subjek) yang dilaksanakan di sebuah institusi pendidikan tinggi dengan sasaran seramai 30 orang pelajar Tahun Satu. Instrumen kajian ini merupakan esei pendek berstruktur di mana peserta menilai contoh-contoh kes dari segi ciri-ciri utama strategi pedagogi, kelebihan, kekurangan, kebolehlaksanaan, dan seterusnya memberi cadangan penambahbaikan. Data dianalisis dengan kaedah deskriptif (pengiraan skor min) dan statistik (ujian T pengukuran berulangan). Didapati kedua-dua kaedah ini membawa kesan positif dari segi pembangunan pemikiran kritikal di mana keberkesanan kaedah "Enam Topi Pemikiran" tampaknya lebih kukuh berbanding dengan keberkesanan kaedah "Pembacaan Teks Berkelompok". Dapatan kajian ini mengindikasikan bahawa kemungkinan pendekatan "Enam Topi Pemikiran" lebih efektif bagi membangunkan pemikiran kritikal di kalangan pelajar pendidikan tinggi berbanding dengan "Pembacaan Teks Berkelompok". Dapatan kajian ini menggalakkan institusi pendidikan tinggi untuk memperkemaskan strategi pengajaran yang melibatkan pelajar dengan bahan pengajaran secara mendalam, terutamanya dengan mengintegrasikan elemen-elemen kaedah "Enam Topi Pemikiran". Ini mungkin melibatkan penyediaan latihan bagi pensyarah untuk melaksanakan pendekatan ini secara lebih terancang dan efektif.

The main focus of higher education is to develop critical thinking in students so that they are able to analyze, evaluate, and examine issues in depth. The development of teaching methods also emphasizes the strengthening of critical thinking skills. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of developing critical thinking skills by using the "Six Thinking Hats" and "Group Text Reading" methods, including a comparison of the effectiveness of these two methods. This study is a quasi-experimental (in-subject design) that was carried out at a higher education institution with a target of 30 First Year students. This research instrument is a structured short essay in which participants evaluate case examples in terms of the main characteristics of pedagogical strategies, advantages, disadvantages, feasibility, and then give suggestions for improvement. Data were analyzed using descriptive methods (calculation of mean scores) and statistics (repeated measurement T-test). It was found that these two methods bring positive effects in terms of developing critical thinking where the effectiveness of the "Six Thinking Hats" method seems to be stronger compared to the effectiveness of the "Group Text Reading" method. The findings of this study indicate that the possibility of the "Six Thinking Hats" approach is more effective in developing critical thinking among higher education students compared to "Group Text Reading". The findings of this study encourage higher education institutions to streamline teaching strategies that engage students with teaching materials in depth, especially by integrating the elements of the "Six Thinking Hats" method. This may involve providing training for lecturers to implement this approach in a more planned and effective manner.

Exploring Surah Ad-Dhuha: A Fun and Educational Tafsir App for Kids

2024-04-20T03:06:20+00:00

In this digital age, mobile applications have become an effective tool for education and learning. This project focuses on developing a mobile application that aims to introduce and educate children about Surah Ad-Dhuha through an engaging and enjoyable experience. Besides, this application will not only introduce children to the tafsir of Surah Ad-Dhuha but also instill in them a deeper connection to the Quran and its teachings also inspire a love for the Quran and its wisdom from an early age. We initiated the development of this application because no application provided a kid-friendly tafsir of Surah Ad-Dhuha or any kind of surah in “Play Store”. According to modern learning, kids prefer learning visually rather than looking at long texts or those without pictures. So, we took the initiative to build this application by helping them understand the tafsir of Surah Ad-Dhuha. Adopting a mixed-methodology approach that seamlessly integrates qualitative and quantitative methods provides a comprehensive understanding of the app's effectiveness and user experience in exploring Surah Ad-Dhuha. This has been achieved based on a survey done by thirty students who take part in Quranic and Multimedia studies at USIM. The project results indicate that the percentage of respondents among Quranic with Multimedia students in evaluating the effectiveness of the application and user experience is highly favorable. In conclusion, our application provides an exciting and effective way for kids to learn about Surah Ad-Dhuha, nurturing a love for the Quran and aiding in their understanding of its interpretation.

Exploring Self-Directed Learning Readiness Among Undergraduates in ESL Classrooms

2024-04-20T06:20:14+00:00

There has been a growing interest in self-directed learning, especially in the context of higher education. This is due to the fact that 21st century learning environments required students to engage in a wider range of learning activities, including online distance learning. To make online learning meaningful, students must exhibit a greater awareness of their responsibility to control and monitor their own learning. In light of this, self-directed learning calls for a variety of skills to ensure effective independent learning. This has been the impetus for the researchers of the present study to look into the self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) among undergraduates of UiTM Cawangan Pulau Pinang who have actively participated in online learning for their ESL classes. A quantitative research design is employed using a survey adapted from Fisher's self-directed learning readiness scale. 224 diploma students and 33 bachelor’s degree students responded to the survey. Data is analyzed using SPSS v28 by means of descriptive and inferential statistics. It was found that the undergraduate students are able to manage themselves, have strong desire for learning and have good self-control. This information may aid in determining the value and current level of self-directed learning within the context. Additionally, it is necessary to put strategies into place that will assist students in becoming better prepared for self-directed learning in a wider range of learning activities.

A Proposed Integration Model of Project Based Learning and Simulation to Improve the Learning Quality

2024-04-20T06:10:18+00:00

Although many studies have been conducted to improve the quality of the learning process at the higher education level, the need for an effective learning model that can develop students' skills remains a challenge that needs to be fully resolved. Considering and redeveloping the suitable learning model to use is very important. This study proposed a project-based learning and simulation model to develop students’ skills and the quality of learning in higher education. The implementation stages of the model are also offered, applied, and analyzed, and the effectiveness of the model is also seen. The 4-D model design, including define, design, develop, and disseminate, was used in this study. The results show that the project-based learning and simulation model developed in the aspects of the rationale for the learning model, supporting theory of learning model, description of learning model syntax, implementation of the learning model, syntax interconnection in learning model, and support platform for learning model were in the highly valid category. Meanwhile, there is also a statistically significant difference in students’ pre-test and post-test scores, which means that students’ skills improved after implementing project-based learning and simulation model in learning. It is concluded that project-based learning and simulation models support improving learning quality in higher education.

Critical Thinking and Teaching Conception of Nigerian Physics Teachers in Inquiry-based Learning Classroom

2024-04-25T14:37:14+00:00

In as much as teaching is meant for attending people’s experience and beyond then teachers must be ready to negotiate their conceptions to tally with the people’s aspirations. This study revisited the long averted aspect of teaching (teaching conception and critical thinking) particularly in physics amongst secondary school physics teachers in Nigeria. Classroom observation and interview was conducted within a period of three months on a sample of 4 secondary school physics teachers who claimed to adopt the inquiry-based learning while teaching. The recordings were transcribed and analysed using content analysis method. The physics teachers were found to be more inclined towards the traditional method of teaching instead of the constructivist teaching method which serves as the main goal of teaching. A framework is therefore developed from the findings to assist physics teachers and educational planners to effectively implement the constructivist paradigm in physics lessons with particular reference to inquiry-based learning teaching strategy.

The Lecturers' Views towards “Mentorship360Hub”

2024-04-20T06:15:47+00:00

This research investigates the viewpoints of university lecturers on Mentorship360Hub, a novel mentorship platform introduced to address the time constraints inherent in mentorship programs. Recognizing the demanding schedules of both mentors and mentees, this study focuses on the implementation of Mentorship360Hub in a university located in Selangor. This study explores the perspectives of the lecturers regarding Mentorship360Hub, an innovative mentorship platform designed to enhance academic and professional development. This study utilized semi-structured interviews with fifteen university lecturers experienced with Mentorship360Hub, selected for their involvement in mentorship activities and familiarity with the platform. Interviews covered usability, benefits, challenges, and improvement suggestions, focusing on how Mentorship360Hub addresses time constraints in mentorship programs. Data was transcribed using Otter.ai and analyzed thematically with NVivo to identify key themes and insights. Inter-rater reliability was assessed to ensure consistency in assessments. The study underscores Mentorship360Hub's beneficial influence on academic institutions, enhancing mentorship access and communication while providing scheduling flexibility, although it encounters challenges like platform unfamiliarity and the need for improved training. Overall, Mentorship360Hub plays a significant role in supporting students' success, but improvements in user experience and training resources are necessary for its continued effectiveness. These findings provide valuable insights for educators, administrators, and developers aiming to enhance mentorship initiatives within academic settings, stressing the significance of tailoring platforms to lecturers' distinct needs and preferences for successful and enduring implementation.

Kesediaan Guru Arus Perdana dalam Pelaksanaan Pendidikan Inklusif di Sebuah Sekolah Rendah di Daerah Kanowit

2024-04-20T06:31:49+00:00

Kesediaan guru arus perdana memainkan peranan yang penting dalam menjayakan pelaksanaan Pendidikan Inklusif. Kajian ini bertujuan mengenal pasti kesediaan guru arus perdana dalam melaksanakan pendidikan inklusif. Kesediaan guru dilihat dalam aspek kesediaan pengetahuan, kesediaan kemahiran guru dan kesediaan persepsi guru. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif iaitu menggunakan reka bentuk kajian kes. Kajian telah dijalankan di sebuah sekolah rendah di daerah Kanowit dan seramai tiga orang guru arus perdana yang terlibat dengan pengajaran Pendidikan Inklusif terpilih sebagai sampel bagi kajian ini. Pensampelan yang digunakan merupakan pensampelan bertujuan. Temu bual dan pemerhatian merupakan kaedah yang digunakan untuk mengumpul dapatan kajian. Temu bual yang dijalankan menggunakan temu bual separa berstruktur dan borang senarai semak digunakan semasa pemerhatian terhadap guru dijalankan di dalam kelas inklusif. Dapatan kajian dianalisis dengan berpandukan objektif kajian ini. Hasil dapatan mendapati secara keseluruhan, kesediaan guru arus perdana bagi kesediaan pengetahuan, kesediaan kemahiran guru dan kesediaan persepsi guru arus perdana dalam pelaksanaan Pendidikan Inklusif berada pada tahap yang tinggi. Kajian ini telah membuktikan bahawa kesediaan guru arus perdana di sekolah tersebut berada pada tahap yang tinggi.

An Evaluation of Secondary School Thai Language Textbooks in Pattani, Thailand: An Islamic Perspectives

2024-04-20T07:04:42+00:00

This study focuses on the evaluation of Thai language textbooks used in secondary schools in Pattani, Thailand, with a specific emphasis on the opinions of Islamic teachers. Due to the cultural and religious diversity in the area, this study aims to assess whether these textbooks align with Islamic principles and perspectives. It provides an in-depth analysis of the educational materials used in the region. Through qualitative methods such as content analysis and in-depth interviews, the study aims to understand the perceptions, experiences, and challenges of Islamic teachers in integrating Islamic content into Thai language instruction. It also explores the extent to which these textbooks incorporate linguistic skills, cultural representation, and Islamic values, and sheds light on the role of teachers in promoting culturally sensitive and religiously inclusive education. Additionally, the study investigates the particular challenges faced by Islamic teachers in Pattani when implementing the integration of Islamic perspectives. It examines their teaching strategies, the adaptation of materials, and any unique considerations that arise in comparison to teachers in non-Islamic contexts. The findings of this study will offer practical recommendations for curriculum development and teacher training programs, aiming to improve the quality of language education and promote a more culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment in secondary schools in the region.

The Effect of the Virtual Laboratory Method on the Conceptual Understanding of Thermal Physics among Undergraduates

2024-04-26T13:43:11+00:00

Access to adequate resources in the form of physical laboratory facilities and consumables has continually been a major challenge to the success of students in physics, especially in developing countries This study was carried out to investigate the effect of the virtual laboratory on the conceptual understanding of thermal physics among undergraduates. To achieve this, three research questions and one hypothesis were raised. The quasi-experimental design using the pretest-posttest control group design was employed in the study. The sample size for this study was made up of 120 first-year undergraduate students selected based on a multistage sampling technique from students in the faculties of education, science, and engineering, who registered for the thermal physics (Phy 104) course in Nigeria. The Thermal Concept Questionnaire (TCQ) was adopted as the research instrument for the study. The data were analyzed using the SPSS package. Findings emanating from the study showed that the mean scores of students taught with virtual laboratory were higher than those taught with the conventional laboratory method. However, there was no significant difference in the mean scores. The virtual laboratory method could be recommended as a suitable alternative to the conventional laboratory method.

Exploring Science Teachers’ Perspectives on STEAM Learning

2024-04-26T15:27:43+00:00

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning has proven to be effective for 21st century education. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding how teachers understand and implement STEAM in schools, particularly in science education. This study aims to explore science teachers’ perspectives on STEAM learning. This case study focused on four dimensions: teachers' understanding, experience, state of mind, and expectations. The study involved 448 Indonesian science teachers from 24 provinces. Data were collected through an online questionnaire using Google Forms. The analysis employed inductive content analysis, extracting themes, sub-themes, categories, and codes from participants’ responses. Indonesian science teachers acknowledged their limited understanding of STEAM. They found the existing STEAM frameworks and seminars insufficient in providing clear guidance. They expressed a need for a more explicit STEAM framework that is easy to implement. Additionally, they requested comprehensive examples of lesson plans that demonstrate the application of STEAM in their classrooms. Thus, this study highlights the need for improved understanding and implementation of STEAM learning among science teachers. Clear guidance, comprehensive frameworks, and practical examples are necessary to support educators in effectively integrating STEAM into various educational contexts.