Journal Description
Education Sciences
Education Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on education published monthly online by MDPI. The European Network of Sport Education (ENSE) is affiliated with Education Sciences and its members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), Educational Research Abstracts, PscyInfo, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q1 (Education)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 24.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.0 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Pedagogical Competence Analysis Based on the TPACK Model: Focus on VR-Based Survival Swimming Instructors
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050460 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study explores the pedagogical competence of VR-based survival swimming instructors in South Korea, focusing on their application of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK). Employing qualitative methodology, we conducted in-depth interviews with 11 instructors to understand their instructional strategies within a VR context.
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This study explores the pedagogical competence of VR-based survival swimming instructors in South Korea, focusing on their application of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK). Employing qualitative methodology, we conducted in-depth interviews with 11 instructors to understand their instructional strategies within a VR context. The study aimed to identify how instructors integrate TPACK components into their teaching, specifically exploring technological content knowledge (content utilization, equipment preparation, addressing dizziness), pedagogical content knowledge (creating a conducive learning environment, enhancing student engagement), and technological pedagogical knowledge (setting appropriate learning objectives and guidelines, educational assessment), understanding learners, and pedagogical beliefs and philosophy. Our findings reveal that VR-based instructors proficiently blend these knowledge domains to enhance the effectiveness of survival swimming education. The results demonstrate that strategic pedagogical approaches are crucial in leveraging VR technology for educational outcomes, highlighting the importance of instructor competence in successfully implementing VR in teaching. This research contributes to the literature by detailing specific competencies critical for VR-based education and suggesting that a thorough understanding and application of the TPACK framework are essential for optimizing VR’s educational potential.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teaching and Learning with Virtual/Augmented Reality)
Open AccessArticle
The Relevance of Visibility in Cultivating Teacher Leaders’ Professional Identity
by
Nurit Chamo
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050459 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the realm of education, discussions surrounding the concept of “visibility” typically concentrate on students and marginalized populations, often overlooking highly positioned individuals, such as leading teachers. This research delves into the fundamental importance of visibility in the transformative process of teacher professional
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In the realm of education, discussions surrounding the concept of “visibility” typically concentrate on students and marginalized populations, often overlooking highly positioned individuals, such as leading teachers. This research delves into the fundamental importance of visibility in the transformative process of teacher professional development as leaders. It investigates its character among teacher leaders and the experience of being seen and scrutinizes its central role in shaping a cohesive professional identity. Over a two-year period, data were gathered from 42 leading teachers in elementary and high schools using a phenomenological approach. The findings reveal a paradox: despite the visibility of teachers in their communities, expressions of a lack of professional visibility persist in their continuing professional development (CPD). However, visibility is crucial for research participants, serving as a catalyst for shaping their professional identity. This identity formation involves four key processes: recognizing one’s developmental journey, reflecting on professional experiences within a timeframe, fostering introspection, and reconstructing identity based on reflection outcomes. This iterative process signifies continuous evolution and analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Teacher Education: Innovations and Challenges in Professional Development and Training)
Open AccessArticle
Bridging Theory and Practice: Using Goal Systems to Spark Professional Dialogue and Develop Personal Theories
by
Hanna Westbroek, Bregje de Vries, Anna Kaal and Michelle McDonnell
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050458 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
School-based mentors play a key role in the learning processes of student teachers. Ideally, they facilitate student teachers to scrutinize their approaches and underlying assumptions, and link these to theoretical notions. In this study we investigated how three mentors used a goal-system representation
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School-based mentors play a key role in the learning processes of student teachers. Ideally, they facilitate student teachers to scrutinize their approaches and underlying assumptions, and link these to theoretical notions. In this study we investigated how three mentors used a goal-system representation (GSR) tool in their mentoring conversations. The GSR tool is essentially a visual reflection of the student teacher’s personal theory regarding classroom practice. It was developed at our teacher training institute to help our students see the personal relevance of research literature and theory and apply it to their lesson plans, to bridge the gap between educational theory, their vision of good teaching and their educational practice. In three explorative case studies, we show how mentors use the GSR tool and to what extent they support three levels of personal theory development: sharing, investigating and transforming. In all cases, student teachers could relate their practices to theoretical notions, giving access to their mentors for further questioning of their sense-making of the situation. Mentors successfully use these opportunities for personal theory development in various ways. We conclude that the GSR tool functions as a boundary object between theory and practice and between institute-based and school-based teacher education.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teachers and Teaching in Teacher Education)
Open AccessArticle
Views on Gender Differences in the Physics Classroom
by
Natascha Musters, Rian Aarts, Marije Van Amelsvoort and Marc Swerts
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050457 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Concerns about the differences between boys and girls in educational achievement, school careers and educational choices have existed since the last century. Despite ongoing research, we still do not have a complete picture of gender-based differences in education. In particular, there is little
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Concerns about the differences between boys and girls in educational achievement, school careers and educational choices have existed since the last century. Despite ongoing research, we still do not have a complete picture of gender-based differences in education. In particular, there is little comparative research on how teachers and students experience and deal with gender differences in their classrooms. Therefore, this study focuses on teacher and student perspectives on gender differences in the physics classroom of Dutch upper secondary education. The data were collected through questionnaires distributed among physics teachers (N = 72) and students (N = 212). The questionnaires for students and teachers were designed to reveal their perceptions of gender differences in the classroom, focusing on student learning characteristics and teacher–student interactions. Gender differences are reported to a larger extent by teachers than by students, especially in the area of students’ learning characteristics (e.g., boys showing more talent and interest in physics, girls showing more effort and self-regulation) and some in teacher–student interactions (e.g., girls asking teachers more questions). We conclude that concerns about differences between boys and girls are still present and need further research. More work is needed to fully understand the implications of these differences, which are expected to have an important impact on classroom interventions and guidelines for teachers to use in their classrooms.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and STEM Education)
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Open AccessArticle
Resilience Development of Swiss Adolescents: A Convergent Mixed-Methods Approach
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Wassilis Kassis, Ulrike Graf, Christian Rietz and Franziska Widmer
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050456 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Introduction: We applied a convergent mixed-methods research design, focusing on data from Swiss students to identify patterns of resilience development in high school. Method: The study consisted of an online longitudinal survey conducted in two waves, in autumn 2019 (n = 377 grade
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Introduction: We applied a convergent mixed-methods research design, focusing on data from Swiss students to identify patterns of resilience development in high school. Method: The study consisted of an online longitudinal survey conducted in two waves, in autumn 2019 (n = 377 grade seven) and spring 2021 (n = 257 grade eight). By combining latent transition analysis (LTA), a person-oriented quantitative method, and qualitative content analysis, we detected four resilience patterns. Results: The longitudinal survey revealed a decrease in the “blooming” pattern (students who displayed high levels of individual and social support indicators as well as satisfaction with their grades and academic success measures) over time and, on the other hand, an increase in the “challenged” pattern, suggesting larger numbers of students with low levels of social support and academic success. Additionally, qualitative interviews were conducted with four students from the sample. These interviews provided insights into the stressors; coping experiences, skills, processes, and resources; and outcomes related to resilience. Discussion: The analysis revealed key factors contributing to resilience, including empowering experiences, supportive individuals, self-help as a prioritized resource, and a positive school environment. Merging the data has elicited various claims such as improving both home and school environments, along with focusing on elaborating their interplay, is the most efficacious approach to bolstering resilience.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Education and Psychology)
Open AccessArticle
Enhancing ICT Literacy and Achievement: A TPACK-Based Blended Learning Model for Thai Business Administration Students
by
Cherisa Nantha, Kobchai Siripongdee, Surapong Siripongdee, Paitoon Pimdee, Thiyaporn Kantathanawat and Kanitphan Boonsomchuae
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050455 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the need for 21st century skills, particularly computer and ICT literacy (CICT) in Thailand. This study aimed to develop a TPACK (Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge)-based blended learning model (BLM) to enhance CICT skills and academic performance among
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The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the need for 21st century skills, particularly computer and ICT literacy (CICT) in Thailand. This study aimed to develop a TPACK (Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge)-based blended learning model (BLM) to enhance CICT skills and academic performance among 179 Business Administration (BA) undergraduates in the 2022 academic year Computer and Information Applications course. Research instruments were designed and evaluated by experts. Over 18 weeks, qualitative and quantitative data were collected, with the qualitative data undergoing content analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, comparing pretests, post-tests, and 2-week retests using a repeated measure ANOVA. One-sample t-tests were used to assess the model’s impact on CICT skills. The results showed a significant score improvement between tests, with the highest mean being seen in the 2-week retest. The BA-TPACK model significantly enhanced CICT skills, exceeding 80%. The students expressed high satisfaction, with the BA-TPACK model effectively enhancing CICT skills and academic achievement, recommending its integration into future computer and information courses. This study’s contribution lies in addressing the pressing need for CICT skills in the ‘new normal’. By developing and implementing a BLM grounded in the TPACK framework, this study not only enhances students’ CICT proficiency but also fills a crucial gap in the literature regarding effective pedagogical approaches to foster 21st century skills.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technologically Enhanced Teaching Practices That Engage Student Learning)
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Identity Trajectories of Faculty Members through Interdisciplinary STEAM Collaboration Paired with Public Communication
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Renee M. Desing, Renee Pelan, Rachel L. Kajfez, Cassie Wallwey, Abigail M. Clark and Sathya Gopalakrishnan
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050454 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Faculty members in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are accustomed to presenting their research findings through journal publications, conference presentations, textbooks, and other academic mediums. However, the audience for these traditional forms of communication are other researchers, which raises concerns about
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Faculty members in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are accustomed to presenting their research findings through journal publications, conference presentations, textbooks, and other academic mediums. However, the audience for these traditional forms of communication are other researchers, which raises concerns about how science research and knowledge are communicated to audiences who have less expertise on these topics. We sought to understand how faculty members develop their identities through collaborative professional development opportunities aimed at growing communication skills to communicate with audiences less familiar with research through interdisciplinary science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) activities. We conducted a qualitative, longitudinal study with sixteen STEAM faculty members to explore their identity trajectories as their interdisciplinary cohorts participated in various collaborations to engage with public audiences about their research. Through our analysis, we found that each faculty member’s dominant identity played a significant role in their identity trajectory through their professional development. We observed a significant growth in faculty members’ communication skills, such as learning new presentation techniques to engage others in their research areas of expertise and in their understanding of interdisciplinary STEAM collaboration. Our results provide insights into the identity trajectories of faculty members and how their identity development through these interdisciplinary STEAM collaborations will impact their formal education roles as researchers and teachers moving forward.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Integrated STEAM Education)
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Exploring the Effects of Teachers’ Practices in the Early Childhood Literacy Classroom Environment on Children’s Acquisition of Literacy Skills
by
Merfat Ayesh Alsubaie
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050453 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The primary focus of this study is to explore the relationship between the early childhood literacy classroom environment and teachers’ practices to promote an understanding of their influence on Arabic-speaking children’s acquisition of literacy skills. This study utilizes a quantitative methodological approach, whereby
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The primary focus of this study is to explore the relationship between the early childhood literacy classroom environment and teachers’ practices to promote an understanding of their influence on Arabic-speaking children’s acquisition of literacy skills. This study utilizes a quantitative methodological approach, whereby null and alternative hypotheses were formulated to examine the association between Arabic-speaking children’s acquisition of literacy skills and the early childhood literacy classroom environment. Data analysis was conducted using a statistical technique known as structural equation modeling. The results of this study indicate that the literacy classroom environment, teachers’ practices, and Arabic-speaking children’s acquisition of literacy skills affect each other and have an evidence-based interrelationship. Based on this relationship, the results and recommendations of this study may be considered inspirational ideas for teachers, researchers, and decision-makers working in early childhood who seek to make positive educational changes in this field.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teacher Professional Development and Teaching Practices in Early Childhood Education: An International Landscape)
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From Specialised Classrooms to Mainstream Classrooms: A Study on the Inclusion of Students with Special Educational Needs from the Voices of Their Mainstream Peers
by
Carmen María Caballero
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050452 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
The modalities of schooling and the educational measures for students with special educational needs (SENs) are postulated as important aspects within the field of study of inclusive education. The general objective of this research is to analyse the processes, through the voice of
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The modalities of schooling and the educational measures for students with special educational needs (SENs) are postulated as important aspects within the field of study of inclusive education. The general objective of this research is to analyse the processes, through the voice of their peers, for the inclusion of students with SENs enrolled in specialised classrooms (SCs) in mainstream centres in Spain when they attend mainstream classrooms (MCs). The design of the research is mixed (QUAN-Qual), non-experimental, and descriptive. The participants in the quantitative phase were 2649 peers from MCs that have students enrolled in the SCs, and the participants in the qualitative phase were 57 students from MCs. A questionnaire designed ad hoc was used for collecting the quantitative information and discussion groups for the qualitative information. This study shows the barriers and facilitators towards the inclusion of students in the SU within mainstream centres or classrooms. Among the facilitators which stand out is the wish of classmates from mainstream classrooms to share times, spaces, and activities with their classmates with SENs from the SU. Among the barriers highlighted by a large number of students in the MCs are the fact that they do not participate in group activities with their peers with SENs and that the latter do not usually participate in common activities developed at the centre (like celebrations or excursions).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Culture of Diversity and Interculturality in Education Today)
Open AccessArticle
Increased Perceived Confidence in Professional Role Skills among Undergraduate Dietetic Students Following Simulation-Based Learning Experiences
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Makenzie Barr-Porter, Elizabeth Combs, Lauren Batey, Dawn Brewer, Aaron Schwartz and Tammy Stephenson
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050451 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Simulation-based learning experiences (SBLEs) are effective for teaching healthcare students clinical and communication skills. The current study assessed self-perceived clinical and communication confidence among dietetics students completing a series of four SBLEs (3 group, 1 individual) across nine months. Dietetics students were recruited
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Simulation-based learning experiences (SBLEs) are effective for teaching healthcare students clinical and communication skills. The current study assessed self-perceived clinical and communication confidence among dietetics students completing a series of four SBLEs (3 group, 1 individual) across nine months. Dietetics students were recruited in February 2023 prior to their first SBLE. Simultaneously through the academic year, students completed clinical and communication courses. Students were invited to complete an online, anonymous self-reported survey regarding confidence with nutrition care and communication prior to their first SBLE (Time 1), prior to their third SBLE (Time 2), and following their final SBLE (Time 3). The survey measured healthcare work experience and self-perceived confidence. Student confidence increased among 30 of the 38 indicators (p < 0.05). At Time 2 (following two group SBLEs), those with healthcare experience had higher confidence among 12 of the 39 items (p < 0.05). At Time 3 (following four simulation experiences) those with healthcare experience had higher confidence among just four of the 39 total items (p < 0.05). Cohort increases in confidence suggest that SBLEs, along with dietetics coursework, were critical in increasing confidence and students’ perceived ability to carry-out entry-level tasks of a dietitian. While student confidence increased across the cohort, SBLEs were particularly beneficial in leveling confidence between those with prior clinical experience and those without.
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Open AccessArticle
Implementation of Home-Schooling: Parents’ Practices and Processes
by
Chris Forlin and Dianne Chambers
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 450; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050450 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
With increasing numbers of parents choosing to home-school their child, currently there is very limited information about how this is implemented. Utilizing the recently developed Parents’ Perceptions of Home-Schooling scale (PPHS), a survey of 93 home-schooling parents in Western Australia was undertaken. Data
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With increasing numbers of parents choosing to home-school their child, currently there is very limited information about how this is implemented. Utilizing the recently developed Parents’ Perceptions of Home-Schooling scale (PPHS), a survey of 93 home-schooling parents in Western Australia was undertaken. Data were collected using five Likert scales to obtain information concerned with a range of implementation aspects. Key findings were related to the process for registering and providing an appropriate learning program, the role of the home-educator moderator, the type of study and support utilized, and whether the student had a disability or ALNs. The discussion considers links to inclusion and how the heightened uptake of home-schooling can be monitored effectively.
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Open AccessArticle
Didactical Materials Customizable to Suit Classroom Needs: A Valuable Resource for Teachers
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Silvia Sbaragli and Monica Panero
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050449 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Can free, adaptable, and didactically validated materials have an impact on teachers’ practices and competences? This issue has been focused on by the researchers working on the MaMa—Matematica per la scuola elementare (MaMa—Mathematics for the primary school) project, commissioned by the Dipartimento dell’educazione,
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Can free, adaptable, and didactically validated materials have an impact on teachers’ practices and competences? This issue has been focused on by the researchers working on the MaMa—Matematica per la scuola elementare (MaMa—Mathematics for the primary school) project, commissioned by the Dipartimento dell’educazione, della cultura e dello sport (Department of education, culture and sport) of the Canton of Ticino (Switzerland). Since 2019, this project has been aiming to create materials for teaching and learning mathematics in primary school, in line with the curriculum. The innovative MaMa materials, which can be freely downloaded via the mama.edu.ti.ch platform, are addressed to both teachers and learners. In many cases, they are editable, so that they can be customized by each user to suit the different teaching contexts and pupils’ learning needs and be grouped into collections. Via the administration and analysis of a questionnaire, this article investigates how teachers use the materials, and whether they influence teachers’ practices and competences. The results of this pilot study show that MaMa materials are perceived from teacher–users as “materials for teacher education and development”, especially at the disciplinary level, supporting both the instructional design process and the appropriation/transformation of didactical resources to deal with the challenges of differentiation in the classrooms.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methods and Tools in Mathematics Education)
Open AccessArticle
Reflections on Initial Teacher Education and Theoretical Framing of Applied Pedagogical Knowledge with a Context-Consciousness: An International Study
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Anna Elizabeth du Plessis and Johann Dreyer
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050448 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
A stable teacher workforce is developed through a combination of quality preparation and tailored support. This study offers different lenses for the development of an in-depth understanding of professional experiences and the implications of professional experiences for initial teacher education (ITE) and early
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A stable teacher workforce is developed through a combination of quality preparation and tailored support. This study offers different lenses for the development of an in-depth understanding of professional experiences and the implications of professional experiences for initial teacher education (ITE) and early career teachers across international borders. In a globalized education environment, transnational research facilitates the acquisition of an in-depth understanding of the challenges encountered in ITE programs. These programs are frequently criticized for the quality of preparation of prospective teachers for teaching. Teacher preparedness, high expectations, targeted support, leadership awareness, and wellbeing lived experiences are concerns that if left unresolved over an extended period, will influence the confidence of preservice and beginning teachers, with implications for their career decisions. This qualitative study involved preservice and beginning teachers (n = 151) and their mentors (n = 123) from South Africa, as well as preservice and beginning teachers (n = 144) and school leaders (n = 763) from Australia. The research design was based on the context-conscious understanding development (C-CUD) theory, as a comprehensive theory to support the reflecting awareness of the context impact on preservice and beginning teachers. The findings unveil preservice and beginning teachers’ perceptions about lived experiences during professional learning and the perceived gap between theory and practice. In addition, the findings highlight expectations based on teacher standards and classroom challenges, as well as the realities teachers encounter even before entering the workforce and how these could be overcome.
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Exploring Student Agency in Narratives of English Literacy Events across School Subjects
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Marcus Warnby
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050447 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
In contemporary academia, English-language reading assignments are prevalent, even in contexts where English is not the primary medium of instruction nor the local language. This presents a challenge for students with English as a foreign language (EFL) who seek to pursue a university
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In contemporary academia, English-language reading assignments are prevalent, even in contexts where English is not the primary medium of instruction nor the local language. This presents a challenge for students with English as a foreign language (EFL) who seek to pursue a university education in their home country. This study investigates the presence of English literacy events in Swedish upper secondary schools outside of English classes and explores their implications for university readiness and educational equity. Using survey data from 163 EFL students and qualitative content analysis, students’ written comments revealed a notable absence of English literacy events in non-English subjects, with limited exposure to written English texts and occasional use of multimodal English activities. The findings underscore disparities in students’ opportunities to engage with academic English literacy practices, primarily influenced by individual factors. This paper delves into the interplay between individual dimensions, and institutional and social practices, in shaping student agency in English academic literacy practices.
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Open AccessEssay
We Have Met the Enemy in Teacher Education; It Is Us—Teacher Educators and the Bad Faith of Our Niceness, Not Teachers
by
Brenda G. Harris
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050446 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this conceptual essay, the author draws on the concept of bad faith to explore its connections to Niceness and role in sustaining the historical failures of U.S. teacher education to prepare future teachers to effectively teach learners from diverse backgrounds through culturally
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In this conceptual essay, the author draws on the concept of bad faith to explore its connections to Niceness and role in sustaining the historical failures of U.S. teacher education to prepare future teachers to effectively teach learners from diverse backgrounds through culturally responsive pedagogy. Bad faith is a useful, albeit underutilized, concept in considering and challenging the patterned historical inequities maintained by Niceness in teacher preparation programs. Applying a critical race theory (CRT) methodology and analysis, the author presents and interrogates three representative exemplars of a logic of racism operationalized through bad faith, then insulated by Niceness in U.S. teacher education. These exemplars serve as conceptual case studies that are constituted as composite scenarios of patterned enactments of bad faith authorized by Niceness within U.S. teacher education; these cases demonstrate how [and why] the bad faith–Niceness interplay informs the work and [good] intentions of stakeholders most often in ways that further, rather than challenge, historical failures of U.S. teacher education for culturally responsive pedagogy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Niceness, Leadership and Educational Equity)
Open AccessArticle
The Unique Professional Journey of Female High School Principals in Utah
by
Deon Leavy, Donald Baum, Isaac Calvert, Bryan Bowles, Heidi Erickson, Michael Owens and Jessica Ashcraft
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050445 - 24 Apr 2024
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The purpose of this study was to increase awareness of the unique professional journey of female high school principals in Utah and to potentially adjust the male-gendered lens through which such leadership positions have traditionally been viewed. A narrative, phenomenological qualitative research approach
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The purpose of this study was to increase awareness of the unique professional journey of female high school principals in Utah and to potentially adjust the male-gendered lens through which such leadership positions have traditionally been viewed. A narrative, phenomenological qualitative research approach was used to gather and analyze the career journeys of six female high school principals in Utah. Our findings indicated that female high school principals in Utah have experienced barriers similar to those identified in the relevant literature. Mentored support and examples of inclusive leadership practices assisted these women in moving through and beyond these barriers. Themes included expectations for female high school principals to act more like moms, failure to be recognized as the principal, perceptions of female leadership as unnatural, a woman’s voice not being heard, coaching as an effective career move for men, men freely talking down to women, not considering women for advancement, career-limiting stereotypes, women having to work harder, and the impact of mentors. We suggest that the simple sharing of rich narratives like those in this paper can invite administrators and policy makers to develop an awareness of the unique experiences of female high school principals and facilitate a reconceptualization of the high school principalship both in terms of theory as well as policy.
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A Blended Approach to Inquiry-Based Learning Using the Example of the Interdisciplinary Course of BIM in Spatial Management Studies: A Perspective of Students and Professor
by
Andrzej Szymon Borkowski
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050444 - 24 Apr 2024
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Inquiry-based learning (IBL) is one of the most effective teaching methods to follow the trend of constructivism. Its main premise is the dominant role of the cognitively activated student, who, like the researcher, has the opportunity to pose questions, test hypotheses and solve
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Inquiry-based learning (IBL) is one of the most effective teaching methods to follow the trend of constructivism. Its main premise is the dominant role of the cognitively activated student, who, like the researcher, has the opportunity to pose questions, test hypotheses and solve problems by using a wide range of tools and techniques. The output of the IBL method is usually a presentation or a piece of work. In the experiment carried out, the IBL method was used during the interdisciplinary course “Building Information Modelling (BIM)”, taught at the master’s degree programme majoring in spatial management at the Warsaw University of Technology. The aim of the class was to solve a specific problem and develop a scientific and technical manuscript, which at the same time could form the basis of a scientific publication. The class was first experimentally implemented with a mixed-methods approach based mainly on IBL. Students were introduced to IBL techniques and tools as part of a project exercise, then were presented with problem and research topics. Participants in the classes chose an issue from those presented or created a topic of interest themselves. Peer learning, Montessori silent lessons or supervision were used during the implementation of the activities. Students were not assessed digitally, but their activity was marked in the form of pluses (+) and the focus was on providing quick and complete feedback (always individually to the individual or group). The class concluded with a self-assessment and a research questionnaire, which concluded that an authoritative teaching process was a far better choice than an authoritarian or liberal process.
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Impact of Teaching and Learning Modes on Graduates’ Social and Entrepreneurial Skills Development: A Comparative Analysis
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Ana Tecilazić, Ivana Ogrizek Biškupić and Mislav Balković
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050443 - 23 Apr 2024
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There is a growing interest in researching the impact of different modes of learning and teaching on the non-academic outcomes of graduates, such as their employment outcomes. This study examines the impact of teaching and learning modes on the perceived relevance of study
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There is a growing interest in researching the impact of different modes of learning and teaching on the non-academic outcomes of graduates, such as their employment outcomes. This study examines the impact of teaching and learning modes on the perceived relevance of study programmes in preparing graduates for career entry and the development of social and entrepreneurial skills in six European countries that participated in the Eurograduate pilot survey: Austria, Croatia, Czechia, Lithuania, Malta, and Norway. The study shows that learning and teaching methods have a modest impact on graduates’ perceptions that their study programmes provide a good foundation for entering professional life. However, it proves that there is a significant relationship emerging between activating teaching and learning modes and the development of graduates’ social and entrepreneurial skills. It, thus, expands on the results of the first European pilot study on the graduate survey and contributes to the current debates in this area.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Methods and Empirical Studies of Higher Education Study Environments)
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Canicross Pilot Programme: Basic Considerations for Its Implementation as an Extracurricular Sports Activity
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Xabier Gonzalez-Santamaria, Erika Borrajo, Eneko Sanchez-Mencia and Maite Aurrekoetxea-Casaus
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050442 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Canicross is a sport that consists of running while being pulled by a dog in a natural environment. Due to the benefits to health and well-being that it brings to the people and dogs that practise it, this sport could be implemented as
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Canicross is a sport that consists of running while being pulled by a dog in a natural environment. Due to the benefits to health and well-being that it brings to the people and dogs that practise it, this sport could be implemented as an animal-assisted intervention (AAI) in the educational field. Against this background, the present work describes a pilot experience carried out in an educational centre in the Basque Country for the implementation of canicross as an extracurricular sports activity. The main objective is to describe the educational potential of canicross as an extracurricular activity that fosters students’ values of respect for animals and physical activity (PA) in natural environments. The results of this innovative experience provide the first evidence of the valuable role of animal activities in this educational context, where current academic research is practically non-existent. In conclusion, we highlight the novelty of the proposal and the motivating effect that the dogs in this case had among the students in encouraging them to practise PA and adhere to values of respect and animal welfare.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Delivery Modes as for the New Ways of Teaching and Learning in Post COVID-19)
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Open AccessArticle
Support without Status: Inequities in Student–Advisor Relational Dynamics between First-Generation and Continuing-Generation Doctoral Students
by
Jesse McCain, Josipa Roksa and Stephanie Breen
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14050441 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
One of the most important developmental relationships in the doctoral student experience is that of the faculty advisor, and yet we know little about whether and how advisor relationships vary between first-generation and continuing-generation doctoral students. Drawing on qualitative interviews with 83 late-stage
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One of the most important developmental relationships in the doctoral student experience is that of the faculty advisor, and yet we know little about whether and how advisor relationships vary between first-generation and continuing-generation doctoral students. Drawing on qualitative interviews with 83 late-stage doctoral students in biological sciences, we explore differences in student perceptions of their relationships with advisors. Narratives reveal a continuum of relationship types, including strained, evolving, supportive, and equal. In equal relationships, doctoral students feel more like collegial partners working alongside their advisors. While continuing-generation and first-generation students are similarly represented among strained and evolving relationships, first-generation students rarely attain equal relationship status. The presented findings offer implications for understanding how inequality shapes student–advisor relationships, the role of collegiality in doctoral education’s hidden curriculum, and the supports needed to foster equity for first-generation students in graduate programs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reimagining Equitable Student Support across Phases of Graduate Education)
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