Showing papers in "American Journal of Educational Research in 2015"

Review of Women and Society in Saudi Arabia

Abstract: Saudi society is a unique mix between religion and culture, which poses difficulties for the government over education for women. The position of women in this society is complicated and they have to face a lot of barriers to get an education as they live under male authority all the time. Thereby, this paper will review the literature on women and society in Saudi Arabia and its relation to their educational achievement, considering several different aspects including: Feminist theory, Islamic feminism in Saudi society, the status of women in Saudi society and the Holy Book of the Muslims (Qur’an) as well as their comparison in both.

Role of Cooperatives in Improving Livelihood of Farmers on Sustainable Basis

Abstract: Cooperatives are present in all the countries and in almost all the sectors, including agriculture, food, finance, health care, marketing, insurance & credit. A cooperative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise. Agriculture continues to be the engine of economic growth in most developing countries. Strong cooperatives are able to overcome many of the difficulties faced by the farmers; wherein in a country like India 85% are small and marginal farmers. Cooperatives work on the set seven principles, among these principles the seventh principle - Concern for the community derives cooperatives to work for the sustainable development of the community. There are a number of successful cooperatives in India itself like IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd.) and KRIBHCO (Krishak Bharti Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd.) in the fertiliser sector, the Institution like AMUL in Dairy Sector and Self Help Groups (SHGs) formed by various Institutions have immensely benefitted farmer members in increasing crop productivity and overall income by generating support in various programmes related with agriculture. Suitable Farming Systems to generate year round employment and sustainable income through crops, vegetables, fruits and livestock have been achieved by the members of the cooperatives. Initiative has been taken to go in for Agro Forestry combining plantation of fruit trees, fuel trees, and forest trees to improve the overall climate on wastelands by cooperatives like IFFDC (Indian Farm Forestry Development Cooperative Ltd.). This has helped ecological resilience and rural livelihood enhancement among the community. The farmer members have been immensely benefitted in increasing efficiency of various agri inputs and overall crop productivity and finally making better profit through the efforts of cooperatives.

Prospect of Integrating African Indigenous Knowledge Systems into the Teaching of Sciences in Africa

Abstract: The consideration of cultural backgrounds of the learners in planning and teaching science has informed much recent discussions in making teaching more learner-centered. In many countries today, formal education continues to be Euro-centric in outlook and academic in orientation, reflecting Western scientific cultures rather than the cultures of learners and the teachers. This phenomenon is a major concern in developing countries, where formal education does not put into consideration the way the majorities of learners communicate, think and learn. Leaners’ underachievement in school has been attributed to the ‘cultural gaps’ between the expectations of school curriculum and those of the environment in which the learners are socialized. In the developing countries, this gap also existed for majority of the teachers and thus, raises the question of whose and what knowledge is considered worthwhile? The current euphoria for market driven economies and education development make issues such as cross cultural transfer of knowledge, globalized curricula integration and appropriate teaching-learning strategies critically important for consideration. While commendable efforts are being made to better align educational curricula with indigenous realities, the interrelationship and balance between these two different ways of learning remain delicate especially in the African context. This review study focuses among others, the indigenous peoples’ systems of knowledge creation and transmission, modern science versus African indigenous knowledge, improving Science teaching in Africa, and the impact of indigenous knowledge system on scientific discovery and development.

Review of Women's Higher Education in Saudi Arabia

Abstract: In spite of the barriers that stand in front of women’s education, their higher education opportunities have increased with the improvement of female higher education provision but the opportunities are still not able to provide the level of education needed to meet the demand of women or to provide equality of access across the country. Thereby, this paper will review the literature on women’s higher education in Saudi Arabia considering several different aspects including history, pedagogy, teaching methods and barriers.

"I Teach Better with the Puppet" - Use of Puppet as a Mediating Tool in Kindergarten Education - an Evaluation

Abstract: A focus of interest among researchers and educators is to find teaching methods adjusted to developmental aspects in early childhood. Teaching that generates significant learning and creates motivation, interest and enjoyment in young children is a real challenge in contemporary education. The effectiveness of using puppets in early childhood has been demonstrated in clinical areas as having the potential to create communication, increase involvement and change attitudes. However, there is limited research literature relating to the use of puppets as a teaching method, and therefore a methodology based on measurement and evaluation is lacking in this field. This article presents partial results of a broader study that examined the influence of an intervention program integrating a puppet as a mediation tool on learning motivation, and enhancing literacy achievements in regular and special kindergarten children. One of the aims of this research was to evaluate, from mediators' perspectives, the use of puppets as a mediation tool for kindergarten children. This evaluation was carried out by means of personal interviews with each of the mediators at the end of the intervention program. From the interviews it became apparent that the mediators considered the puppets to be an effective tool for young children's developmental aspects, by means of which they could relate to cognitive, emotional, and social realms. Mediation using puppets facilitated learning processes, while using puppets, children's cooperation level increased, as did interest, attention span and their involvement in learning interaction was evident. The puppets contributed to the mediators' self-confidence and to their sense of professionalism. During the puppets mediation, the mediators felt that they were teaching in a clear manner, and they felt they were being interesting and. interactive. By using puppets, they succeeded in creating a close personal connection with the children. These findings have an applicable contribution in presenting the effectiveness of the puppet as a mediation tool for use in kindergarten and with special needs children.

Preparation of mathematics teachers: lessons from review of literature on teachers’ knowledge, beliefs, and teacher education

Abstract: Teachers’ mathematics knowledge has been known to have a significant impact on instructional practices. This paper discusses research on teachers’ mathematics knowledge. The paper has been summarised in five main areas: (a) the role of subject matter knowledge in teaching and learning, (b) teachers’ beliefs about mathematics teaching and learning, (c) beliefs and beliefs-in-practice: inconsistencies, (d) teacher education and its impact on instructional practices, and (e) future research on teachers’ mathematics knowledge. The review indicated that teachers are critical factors in the learning of mathematics and the extents of their content and pedagogical knowledge do determine students’ achievement. Also, the paper acceded to the view that, a teacher’s memories from the school years is a central influencing factor that affects its mathematics related beliefs, hence there is a need to enhance pre-service teachers’ positive attitude towards mathematics during training. The paper suggested further areas of research should look at: different theoretically-and empirically distinction in content knowledge for teaching and investigate their relationship, separately and in combination, to student achievement; whether mathematics teachers’ knowledge affects their lesson planning strategies and whether the provision of ‘mathematical knowledge for teaching’ by teacher training institutions improve pre-service teachers’ beliefs about mathematics and mathematics teaching. The paper concluded that, mathematics teacher education programme should provide pre-service teachers with awareness of conception of mathematics which may influence their teaching.

The Impact of Andragogy on Learning Satisfaction of Graduate Students

Abstract: The study of adult learning—andragogy—has emerged as a learning framework due to its increasing popularity in the past four decades. Research on andragogy has been mostly exploratory till recently, when Lynda Swanson Wilson designed and tested the Adult Learning Principles Design Elements Questionnaire (ALPDEQ) to measure six andragogy principles and eight andragogy processes (a 77-item instrument). The present study attempts to find the applicability of andragogy by testing its principles using the self-developed Perception, Experiences, and Learning Satisfaction of Knowles’ Andragogical Theory Questionnaire (PELSKATQ) on 91 graduate students from multiple disciplines (Business, Education, Public Health, and Religion) and two programs (Masters and PhD). The findings of this study showed that gender, marital status, program of study, age, field of study, work experience, coursework completion do not influence learning satisfaction of adult learners. We recommend further studies integrating other factors related to adult learning such as teaching and learning strategies, types of classroom interactions, and types of course assignments.

Argument-Driven Inquiry with Scaffolding as the Development Strategies of Argumentation and Critical Thinking Skills of Students in Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract: Argumentation skills as a form of communication to externalize ideas through scientific discourse is a very important process in learning of biology. Develop strategies argumentation can be one of the alternatives that can help students to improve their critical thinking skills. Students can demonstrate their critical thinking skills, especially in inquiry-based laboratory activities. Therefore, the learning process that uses the inquiry-based laboratory experiments to establish scientific arguments should be designed to develop the argumentation and critical thinking skills of student. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Argument-Driven Inquiry (ADI) strategy, Argument-Driven Inquiry with Scaffolding (ADIS) strategy, and conventional strategy on the argumentation and critical thinking skills of pre-service sience teachers in Faculty of Teacher Training and Education of Lampung University. The study had been carried out in Quasi-Experiment of Pretest-Posttest Nonequivalent Control Group design. The data of the study were collected through argumentation and critical thinking tests before and after the implementation the learning strategies. The data were analyzed by using MANCOVA and were tested in terms of the normality and homogeneity beforehand. The result of the study showed that there were significant differences in the argumentation skill between the learning activities which implemented ADI, ADIS, and conventional strategies. ADIS learning strategy was more effective in improving the students’ argumentation skills compared to ADI and conventional learning strategies. Meanwhile, ADIS strategy was as effective as ADI strategy in improving the students’ critical thinking skills than conventional strategy. This study also showed that the students’ argumentation and critical thinking skills are similar or almost similar between two academic abilities (high and low) when ADIS was applied.

The Politics of Conflict over Oil in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria: A Review of the Corporate Social Responsibility Strategies of the Oil Companies

Abstract: This article evaluates the nature of corporate social responsibility related oil conflict with emphasis on the key reasons for the conflict in the Niger Delta region that has remained impoverished despite the region's huge contributions to the Nigerian economy for many decades. The problem is that the region has been underdeveloped despite its contributions to the national economy. In fact, observations show that the corporate social responsibility projects of the oil companies are inadequate and therefore require a change of strategy. The methodology is a combination of the qualitative data, especially secondary and primary sources including observation of the situation in some oil producing communities, and also the use of the Nigeria Watch database which identifies the sources and maps and the trends of violent deaths in the country. From observations, the resistant movements were formed in the region to address environmental rights violations and enhance economic development. In terms of theoretical and practical significance, the study argues, based on the stakeholder's theory that there is a direct relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and conflict, considering the disconnect between the community development projects and the actualisation of human needs. Their capacity to differentiate between what the people want and their actual needs would end the attacks on the oil workers by restive youths. The article has suggested possible ways of resolving this conflict.

Recent Curriculum Reforms at the Basic Education Level in Nigeria Aimed at Catching Them Young to Create Change

Abstract: The Universal Basic Education (UBE) Programme was introduced in Nigeria in September, 1988. Following this, in 2008 the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) developed and introduced the 9-Year Basic Education Curriculum (BEC) in schools by realigning all extant Primary and Junior Secondary School Curricula to meet the key targets of the UBE programme. In view of some contemporary and national concerns and to make the curriculum more practical, relevant, interest generating to the young learners and in line with global best practices, the 9-year BEC was recently revised in 2012 and its implementation has just commenced in September, 2014. This article is focused on the structure, special features and the implementation strategy of the Revised 9-Year Basic Education Curriculum with some emphasis on the Basic Science and Technology component as one of the key cluster subjects prepared with the aim of catching the young learner to love science, learn science and create change in the learners environment.

An Overview of the Occupational Safety and Health Systems of Nigeria, UK, USA, Australia and China: Nigeria Being the Reference Case Study

Abstract: This paper reviews the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) frameworks of Nigeria, UK, USA, Australia and China considering Nigeria as a representative developing country. The study looks at each of the five OSH regulatory and enforcement models against a range of performance themes with a view to uncovering strategic lessons for Nigeria and other developing nations. The study identifies some of the potential drivers behind the developments of the different OSH management frameworks. These drivers include robustness of the OSH laws, efficiency of the judicial system, degree of independence of the OSH enforcement agency, adequacy of financial budgets, good workforce-inspector ratio, accident history and activities of the civil/human right groups. Even though Nigeria is used as a reference case study, the observations and conclusions drawn are generic and applicable to typical developing countries. The paper may also be found beneficial by researchers looking to have a high level view of the OSH management frameworks of Nigeria, UK, USA, Australia and China. Although Nigeria is working to implement a new and more comprehensive OSH law, i.e. the Labour, Safety, Health and Welfare (LSHW) Bill (2012), this paper does not assess Nigeria’s current OSH standing against the provisions of LSHW Bill which is yet to be rolled out. (The second part of this bipartite series will address some of the key structural and potential implementation issues surrounding LSHW Bill).

Improving English Writing Skill: A Case of Problem Based Learning

Abstract: English has been recognized as important language in Pakistan like many other counties of the world and used for academic, research, communication, business and official purposes. It has been taught as compulsory subject up to graduation level. The students at all levels and especially secondary level try to have competency in English language skills particularly writing skill; being more important as used for evaluation of their academic achievements. But they feel difficulty to acquire competency because of many reasons; the conventional teaching method being used as one of the causes. New pedagogical methods like Problem Based Learning need to be experimented in Pakistani situations as it has been proved a successful pedagogy in many contexts around the world [8]. PBL as pedagogy is a teaching-learning method where students work in learner-centered classroom environment in small groups of 4-5 confronting the authentic problems given by the teacher and find their solutions by discussing among themselves generally in three class meetings. They work more at home by studying and searching for the solutions. The present study was an attempt to experiment PBL learning of English writing skill through English essay writing on secondary level students at IMCBIP (Islamabad Model College for Boys, Sector G-7/4 Islamabad, Pakistan) and to see effectiveness of PBL in comparison of that of conventional lecture method. The study was conducted by using pretest-posttest control group experimental design with the subjects (20+20 experimental & control groups) and data were analyzed by employing t-test and descriptive statistics. The findings showed that PBL was more effective pedagogy than conventional lecture method for improving English writing skill of secondary level students.

The Implementation of Generative Learning Model on Physics Lesson to Increase Mastery Concepts and Generic Science Skills of Vocational Students

Abstract: The weakness of learning process is one of the problems faced by the education world. The learning model used has not been able to make students become active in the learning process on physics lessons. One of the learning model has been developed is the generative learning model. The students are required prepare themselves mentally and for understanding the material information studied on the generative learning activity. The knowledge with the mental a connection has been produced from the concept formulation by the active students in the learning process. This study represents a quasi experimental research design is the randomized pretest-posttest control groups design. The generative learning model provides a better impact in increasing mastery concepts of physics for vocational students. Generic science skills were developed on the lesson of vocational physics, mass and unit topic as well as particle kinematics are direct observation techniques, large scale consciousness of nature’s objects, fluency using the symbolic language, proficiency perform logical inference, and proficiency make the mathematics modeling. The Generative learning model provides a better impact in increasing Generic Science Skills of Vocational Students.

Video Analysis and Modeling Performance Task to Promote Becoming Like Scientists in Classrooms

Abstract: This paper aims to share the use of Tracker—a free open source video analysis and modeling tool—that is increasingly used as a pedagogical tool for the effective learning and teaching of Physics for Grade 9 (Secondary 3) students in Singapore schools to make physics relevant to the real world. We discuss the pedagogical use of Tracker, guided by the Framework for K-12 Science Education by National Research Council, USA to help students to be more like scientists. For a period of 6 to 10 weeks, students use a video analysis coupled with the 8 practices of sciences such as 1. Ask question, 2. Use models, 3. Plan and carry out investigation, 4. Analyse and interpret data, 5. Use mathematical and computational thinking, 6. Construct explanations, 7. Argue from evidence and 8. Communicate information. This paper’s focus in on discussing some of the performance task design ideas such as 3.1 flip video, 3.2 starting with simple classroom activities, 3.3 primer science activity, 3.4 integrative dynamics and kinematics lesson flow using Tracker progressing from video analysis to video modeling, 3.5 motivating performance task, 3.6 assessment rubrics and lastly 3.7 close mentorship. Initial research findings using pre- and post- perception survey, triangulated with student interviews suggest an increased level of students’ enjoyment such as “I look forward to physics lessons”, “I really enjoy physics lessons” and “Physics is one of the most interesting school subjects” etc for the more mathematically inclined students. Most importantly, the artefacts of the students’ performance task in terms of the research report and Tracker *.TRZ files, further suggest that the use of the Tracker for performance tasks, guided by the Framework for K-12 Science Education by National Research Council, USA, can be an innovative way to mentor authentic and meaningful learning that empowers students to be more like scientists.

The Philosophical Foundations of Educational Research: a Beginner's Guide

Abstract: This paper aims to provide a concise introduction about the philosophical underpinnings of educational research. Whilst the philosophies of educational research have been extensively researched, a concise guide is hoped to uncover research underpinnings for beginners’ postgraduate research students. It overviews the philosophies, paradigms, basic terminologies and related methodologies of educational research. Moreover, the paper provides insights into how researchers’ philosophical stance can inform their research undertaking and transform the educational landscape.

Common and Flexible Use of Mathematical Non Routine Problem Solving Strategies

Abstract: This study aims to investigate whether high-achieving sixth, seventh and eighth graders can exhibit strategy flexibility while they are solving non-routine problems. In this context, four students from each grade level participated in the study. Four non routine problems were represented to the students one by one in separate papers. Students worked in pairs and all interviews were videotaped. These records, pupils’ scripts, and notes taken by the researchers were used in data analysis. Four criteria (selection and use of the most appropriate strategy, changing strategies when it does not work for the solution of a problem, using multiple strategies for the solution of a problem and changing strategies between problems) were established to determine students’ flexibility levels. Each answer given by pairs was evaluated based on these criteria and scored as 0, 1 or 2. Results showed that students usually can select the most appropriate strategy, and use multiple strategies in one problem. Students were comfortable in using “look for a pattern” and “make a drawing” strategies. On the other hand, the most unfavorable strategy for them was “simplify the problem”. Additionally, there were enterprises to use “write an equation” strategy. Besides, it was observed that students did not need to make a significant change in their thinking ways when their first attempts were wrong and they rarely change their strategies between problems. A longitudinal study including more students at different achievement levels and different kind of non-routine problems will give in-depth information about this subject.

Representations Based Physics Instruction to Enhance Students' Problem Solving

Abstract: Physicists use multiple representations such as sketches, motion diagrams, force diagrams, graphs, and mathematical equations to represent concepts. This study probed the effect of utilizing multiple representations while learning physics and solving physics problem. The samples of this study are the first year of senior high school (in 2013) in Pontianak district-West Kalimantan. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were applied to identify students’ representation, to analyze students’ score and to acquire the effect of multiple representations after students learning the concept. The result shows that students who employed more than one representation such as motion diagram, force diagram while solving the problem got higher score than students did not. This indicates that multiple representations can be effective to enhance students’ understanding of physics concept as well as problem solving skills.

The Place of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) in Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Abstract: ICT is an accepted acronym of the word Information and Communication Technology. It include diverse set of technology and technological tools used to communicate, disseminates, store and manage information. The use of ICT in schools by staff and students have become a necessity as it can be used to improve the quality of teaching and learning in any tertiary institution. ICT is also a key tool that is having a revolutionary impact on educational methodology globally; however, this revolution is not adopted and widespread in Nigerian universities, it needs to be strengthening to reach the large percentage of universities in the country as only a few universities can boast of ICT and internet connectivity on campus. This study investigated the availability of ICT facilities as well as its usage in one of the newest government owned universities in the oil rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The research design was a survey research with a sample size of 843 undergraduate students from three faculties out of the six faculties in the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were employed in this study. The quantitative method of data collection involved questionnaire while the qualitative method of data collection involved interview schedule. These two methods of research were adopted in this study in order to triangulate the findings from both instruments. The face and content validity of the instrument was validated by two experts in measurement and evaluation while a reliability index of 0.86 was obtained using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient after the instrument has been administered twice to the same respondents not involved in the study (test re-test method of determining reliability). The research questions posited for this study were analysed using percentages while the hypotheses were tested using chi-square. The study revealed that basic ICT facilities like computers are unavailable, students are unable to afford personal laptop, this has grossly affected e-learning and e-communication channels like email, e-board, internet and organized networking system between staff and students. It is therefore recommended that there should be provision of student workstation and the inculcation of ICT in the curriculum to enable students to be computer literates so they can accept and use ICT in their everyday studies. It is interesting to note that, even in today’s globalizing world, traditional education still continues to exist in the form of socialization, cultural instruction and vocational training. Be it as it may, globalization has come to stay as it reflects the idea that life is a process and that human or a nation’s existence is a process that unfolds with time.

Exploration of Students’ Misconceptions in Mechanics using the FCI

Abstract: During 3 years, we have used the Force Concept Inventory (FCI) to assess the progress of our First-Year students in Engineering in mastering the concepts of Newtonian Physics and to compare the efficiency of two teaching methods, courses and drills versus Problem-Based Learning. If both methods lead to quite similar deceptive results, the detailed analysis of the response to each question of the test allowed us to identify our students’ most common misconceptions. This paper presents this research and discusses our findings.

The Effect of Smartphone on Students' Critical Thinking Skill in Relation to the Concept of Biodiversity

Abstract: The advance in technology and communication currently has significantly influenced the development in the field of education, including the use of smartphones that can be adopted as a source of learning in schools. The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of smartphones on students’ critical thinking skill in relation to the concept of biodiversity. The population of the study was all year-11 students of Senior High School 5 Samarinda, while the sample was the science-program class XI 2 (learning with Smartphone) and XI 3 (learning without smartphones) with 25 students for each class. The obtained data were analyzed with t test and the obtained value of tcalculation = 4.30 and ttabulation = 2.01. The result of the data analysis showed that the value of tcalculation > ttabulation at the significance level 0.05, so it is concluded that learning with smartphones has the effect on students’ critical thinking skill in relation to the concept of biodiversity.

Cooperative Learning Model on Developmental of Biology

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the implementation of cooperative learning model on developmental of biology. This aim can be devide (1) to explain the management of the process of cooperative learning (2) to explain the cooperative skills of students in the learning process (3) to explain the feedback information (response) student on the implementation of cooperative learning processes (4) to explain the achievement of student learning in cooperative learning. The study begins by designing and reconstruct the course materials as (a) syllabus cooperative learning; (b) unit of cooperative learning events; (c) guidelines for student work; (d) cooperative learning evaluation sheet (e) work guidelines gazette concept maps and (f) interactive cd-oriented cooperative learning. The next phase of research is to test the validity of devices and instruments that have been made. Validity test conducted by the experts and practitioners. The results of the expert assessment shows that the average value of the validity range 2.75 – 3.58 or can be used with revision. Repairs done by removing, repairing and adding critical parts in accordance with the advice of the validator. Data obtained from the validity and practicalities will be analyzed with descriptive statistics. The results showed that all four aspects of the application performing well. Observations on the learning process of the students have been able to demonstrate their stints each with responsibility. Students are also able to motivate his fellow group members to contribute to group discussions. At the end of the lesson the students have also been able to use the agreement. These results constitute the implementation of students' skills at an early, middle and advanced stage in the cooperative learning model. The response of students to cooperative learning is very good. Students much choose to agree and strongly agree with the implementation of cooperative learning model. The implementation of cooperative learning model can improved student achievement. The process of learning, skills, responsiveness and student learning outcomes in accordance with the principles of cooperative learning. In conclusion, the implementation of cooperative learning model can improved the learning process, conitives, skills and good respons of students in developmental of biology.

CyberParks as a new context for Smart Education : theoretical background, assumptions, and pre-service teachers’ rating

Abstract: New digital technologies without doubt are transforming practically all spheres of our lives. In education, many new concepts emerge with technological development. One such concept is Smart Education, which is an education strategy for Smart Cities. Smart Education can be considered as technology enhanced education emerging in technology-enhanced cities. This paper presents the concept of CyberParks, a new context for Smart Education. The basic assumptions and the theoretical background of CyberParks are discussed, in light of the concepts of Smart Cities and Smart Education. CyberParks are considered as an innovative educational solution where new modes of learning are promoted as an integral element of Smart Education. Study results are presented showing how CyberParks are rated by pre-service teachers, in their role as architects of future education. Pre-service teachers rated CyberParks very low as an educational and pedagogical solution considering these digital-enhanced contexts as a threat to their vision of education. On the one hand, this is a clear confirmation of the assumptions of the SCOT theory, and on the other, it is an example of social reproduction of how education is perceived.

Using Reading-Concept Map-Teams Games Tournament (Remap-TGT) to Improve Reading Interest of Tenth Grade Student of Laboratory Senior High School State University of Malang

Abstract: Reading is a simple activity that can makes students get a wide range of information. The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) in 2006 and Progress in International Reading Literacy Study international (PIRLS) in 2011 showed that students reading literacy in Indonesia were still low. The observation in science 4th class Tenth Grade of Laboratory Senior High School of State University of Malang showed the same result with PISA and PIRLS. The low student’s reading interest would affect the students thinking skills. Thus, the students reading interest in the classroom need to be increased. In order to overcome this problem, learning model that combines reading, construct a concept map, and cooperative learning Teams Games Tournament would applied in the biology learning. This research was Classroom Action Research, which was implemented within two cycles. The first cycle conducted in 11 meetings and the second cycle conducted in12 meetings. The results showed that the application of Reading-Concept Map-Teams Games Tournament (Remap-TGT) biology learning models can increase reading interest.

Investigating the Science Process Skills in Cycle 3 National Science Textbooks in Lebanon

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the level of inclusion of basic and integrated science process skills in Lebanese national science text books for cycle 3 and to compare the basic and integrated process skills across subjects (physics, chemistry and biology) and within the same subject across the 3 years(grades 7, 8 & 9). This was to investigate the compliance between the content of the textbooks and the new evaluation system set by the Lebanese government. For instance, the study focused on the SPS that have been neglected in some textbooks as well as the maximum percentage of each skill. To that end, the researchers used the analytical descriptive method, and content analysis. The study revealed that the percentage of basic skills in the textbooks analyzed for all grades was higher than that of the integrated skills. The study revealed also that there is emphasis on some skills at the expense of the others and there is no consistency in the total number of skills across skills or subjects. Furthermore the study revealed that within the same subject, some skills disappear from one grade to another. The study ends by recommendations regarding reviewing textbooks regarding the inclusion of science process skills in a way to ensure coherence between the content of the textbooks and the new evaluation system.

Possibility to Engage in Pedagogical Leadership as Experienced by Finnish Newly Appointed Principals

Abstract: This qualitative research was based on the construct of broad based pedagogical leadership, which comprises not only technical, human and educational (pedagogical) but also symbolic leadership, the meanings interpreted from the principal’s ordinary activity by the school community, the web of which is understood as the cultural leadership of the school. The research purpose was to find out newly appointed principals’ views on what the most common situations of technical, human and educational (pedagogical) leadership were in their ordinary work and how they could enhance the realization of the pedagogical perspective. The data consisted of the written descriptions of the eighteen participants beginning an in-service training. The responses were analyzed with thematic analysis. The dominance of the technical leadership tasks with routine administration as the most common was the biggest obstacle to advancing the pedagogical perspective. The most common human leadership task was interaction and that of pedagogical leadership was strategic leadership. Human and pedagogical leadership tasks were perceived to be partly overlapping. In contrast to studied international research, the respondents made no mention of leading quality teaching, a quality learning environment or strategic resourcing. The informants did not identify symbolic and cultural leadership components. The findings imply that school based management without an increase in managerial human resource in schools efficiently prevents enhancing pedagogical leadership, perceived as the core task of a principal’s ordinary work, that in studying leadership the context always needs to be considered, and that principals’ in-service training ought to comprise broad based pedagogical leadership to inculcate the holistic and integrative character of principalship. These issues merit further and comparative research.

Drawings and Tables as Cognitive Tools for Solving Non-Routine Word Problems in Primary School

Abstract: External representations play a central role in the process of word problem solving This study aimed to shed light on teacher-provided representations as cognitive tools for primary students when working on non-routine word problems Non-routine word problems are characterized by the fact that they cannot be solved by simply applying familiar routine calculations due to their demanding mathematical structure or complex situations described in the problem text Since primary students often do not generate external representations, the present study examined the questions if providing students with a representation facilitates problem solving in general, and, more in detail, what type of representation (table or drawing) and what level of pre-structuring provided in the representation is most helpful In an experimental design we studied a sample of 199 4th-graders who worked on non-routine word problems The experimental design consisted of three tests: A pre-, a treatment-, and a transfer-test In the pre-test, we measured participant’s prior performance with non-routine word problems In the treatment-test, an experimental group received problems accompanied by tables and drawings with different levels of pre-structuring to measure student’s performance when external representations were provided for the problem solving process A control group received no representations In the transfer-test, participants worked on problems without provided representations to measure participant’s performance after they were exposed to external tools in the treatment-test Results indicate that providing drawings or tables did not facilitate problem solving in general, which was against our hypothesis If a representation was provided, a drawing was more helpful than a table, which was in line with our assumptions However, the drawing effect was depending on the problem type and the level of pre-structuring Obviously, simply providing external representations was not sufficient to facilitate problem solving This speaks of the necessity of an early training in diagram literacy

Blogs as a Tool for the Development of Self-Regulated Learning Skills: A Project

Abstract: In the last decade projects have been emerging aimed at promoting the competency of self-regulation through didactic resources included in college curriculum. The use of strategies for self-reflection and self-evaluation while the course material is being taught favors self-regulation of students and increases their level of self-efficacy regarding the content of the course. The goal of this didactic experience is to develop self-regulation learning skills through a systematic use of ICT’s, in particular, a blog as a teaching and learning tool. It was implemented as a part of Sociology of Education course whose content is mostly theoretical and requires an advanced level of reflection and internalization of concepts that were completely unfamiliar to the students. The experiment is designed to: [a] encourage well-organized and consistent work habits, by establishing sufficient periods of time for students that would give them enough autonomy to make decisions; [b] to promote reflection on topics covered in class; [c] to facilitate a dialogue among students that promotes reflection aimed at forming a learning community. Said project demonstrates that further research, both qualitative and quantitative in nature, on the impact of the use of blogs for the development of the competencies identified above, is not only possible but would likely provide very useful data.

The Impact of Culture on the Nutritional Status of Children and Mothers Durrinng Recurring Food Insecurity: The Case of Boreicha Woreda (SNNPRS)

Abstract: The major goal of this study was to assess the impact of culture on the nutritional status of children and mothers during the recurring food in security with a particular reference to Boriecha Woreda, Sidama Zone in the Sothern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State (SNNPRS). The research was conducted into two purposively selected peasant associations (Kebeles) of Boriecha Woreda, Yirba- Duuwancho and Belila-Medolomukeanqa. This selection was based on the two reasons. The first reason is that both kebeles have health centers where malnourished children and their respective mother’s receive health services. The second reason both kebeles are centers for the most drought prone areas compared to the other kebeles in the woreda. To achieve this goal, an attempt was made to collect the data in the study area by using different mechanisms. Qualitative research methodology was employed in the study for its appropriateness to explore the impact of culture on the nutritional status of children and mothers during the recurring food in security in the study area. However, with a limited degree the research was also utilized quantitative research method. Data was collected through the use of interview, focus group discussion, personal observation and document review. In the research areas, the targeted groups were pregnant and lactating women those who were suffering from malnutrition (under nutrition), mothers who had malnourished child, household head husbands of the family with the problem, the community elders, health post workers, religious leaders, aid delivery program workers were among others. The results obtained from the study suggest that the culturally patterned role and status of women and socially constructed gender hierarchy, in the study society, as well as the extended and unplanned family structures found directly contributed for the recurrence, frequency and prevalence of acute, moderate and severe malnutrition (under nutrition) among children (<5), lactating and pregnant mothers.

Barriers in Teaching Learning Process of Mathematics at Secondary Level: A Quest for Quality Improvement

Abstract: Mathematics is critical and significant to recognize the computerized world and match with the newly developing information technology knowledge in and is penetrating everywhere in the world. Considering the interrelation of mathematics and science Bangladesh Education Policy, 2010 prioritize mathematics education. However, in spite of this understanding of its importance the overall performance of students in mathematics is unsatisfactory and the number of students in science discipline quality of education. The main focus of the research is to find out the existing barriers in teaching- learning process of mathematics of grade IX-X. The research questions are to reveal the major problems in the teaching- learning process of mathematics and propose possible solution in order to overcome these barriers. A mixed design approach (triangulation) was used to collect data from teacher and students involved in the teaching and learning of mathematics. It was found that the problems are multifaceted and accordingly the solutions require overall effort from all concerned stakeholders. The problems range from pedagogical, social, economic, administrative and policy aspect to attitude of students and teachers, competence of teacher, and the overall teaching learning process. I believe this study will have a contribution in endeavor of identifying some of the major factors which obstruct the teaching and learning of mathematics and thereby towards possible solution. It could be also used as an initial work for those who are interested to do further studies in this area.

Applying Argumentation Approach in STEM Education: A Case Study of the European Student Parliaments Project in Greece

Abstract: Although, worldwide, it is claimed a pressing need in ensuring that students are adequately equipped with the right skills to tackle the serious challenges that lay before them, there seems to be a failure in the empirical implementation of the national curricula to meet this goal. STEM courses are provided to students in the form of an authoritative discourse that leaves no room for students’ development of critical, creative, problem-solving and reflective analytical skills. In this research study we explore the argumentation approach and its implementation in an authentic scientific inquiry context as a way of enhancing students’ skills and promoting their construction of knowledge. Towards this aim, we investigate the case study of the European Student Parliaments project in Greece which sets a collaborative learning environment for the implementation of the argumentation approach. This paper will discuss findings from the implementation of the project and elaborate on the required conditions for its realization and efficiency in enabling students to become engaged in the negotiation of authentic scientific issues/problems by providing and sharing multiple alternative perspectives for their solution. Towards our research aims we have registered students’ scientific arguments and we provide findings from the questionnaire that was used as a research tool to identify the efficiency and impact of the approach in enhancing students’ knowledge construction and shaping their attitude towards STEM courses. The research findings have given us an insight into the significance of having students engaged in collectives in meaningful challenges that address authentic issues relevant to their lives. The implementation of collaborative discourse involving arguing from evidence, following the authentic scientific inquiry process, can enhance students’ acquisition of life-long skills and construction of scientific knowledge and meaning generation and motivate them to further engage in the negotiation of scientific issues.