Search Results (51)

Addressing global challenges such as climate change and inequality requires convergence competencies that enable learners to devise sustainable solutions. Such competencies have been emphasized in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) fields, but empirical research and assessment tools tailored to Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) remain scarce. This study aimed to develop and validate a self-assessment tool to measure convergence competencies among HASS learners. A three-round Delphi survey with domain experts was conducted to evaluate and refine an initial pool of items. Items with insufficient content validity were revised or deleted, and all retained items achieved a Content Validity Ratio (CVR) of ≥0.800, with most scoring 1.000. The validated instrument was administered to 455 undergraduates participating in a convergence education program. Exploratory factor analysis identified five key dimensions: Convergent Commitment, Future Problem Awareness, Future Efficacy, Convergent Learning, and Multidisciplinary Inclusiveness, explaining 69.72% of the variance. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the model’s goodness-of-fit (χ² (160) = 378.786, RMSEA = 0.054, CFI = 0.952), and the instrument demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.919). The results confirm that the tool is both reliable and valid for diagnosing convergence competencies in HASS contexts, providing a practical framework for interdisciplinary learning and reflective engagement toward sustainable futures. Full article

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education offers novel opportunities to enhance critical thinking while also posing challenges to independent cognitive development. In particular, Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) in education aims to enhance human experience by providing a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Rather than replacing the educator, HCAI serves as a tool that empowers both students and teachers, fostering critical thinking and autonomy in learning. This study investigates the potential for AI to become a collaborative partner that assists learning and enriches academic engagement. The research was conducted during the 2024–2025 winter semester within the Pedagogical and Teaching Sufficiency Program offered by the Audio and Visual Arts Department, Ionian University, Corfu, Greece. The research employs a hybrid ethnographic methodology that blends digital interactions—where students use AI tools to create artistic representations—with physical classroom engagement. Data was collected through student projects, reflective journals, and questionnaires, revealing that structured dialog with AI not only facilitates deeper critical inquiry and analytical reasoning but also induces a state of flow, characterized by intense focus and heightened creativity. The findings highlight a dialectic between individual agency and collaborative co-agency, demonstrating that while automated AI responses may diminish active cognitive engagement, meaningful interactions can transform AI into an intellectual partner that enriches the learning experience. These insights suggest promising directions for future pedagogical strategies that balance digital innovation with traditional teaching methods, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of education. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of integrating reflective practices and adaptive frameworks to support evolving student needs, ensuring a sustainable model. Full article

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a pivotal role in neuroplasticity and cognitive development. While exercise has been shown to modulate BDNF levels in adults, evidence in children remains limited and heterogeneous. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to examine randomized controlled trials investigating exercise effects on BDNF in children aged 5–12 years. The databases searched included FECYT, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, ProQuest Central, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library through June 2025. Study quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Five randomized controlled trials (N = 385 participants) met inclusion criteria. Two studies (40%) demonstrated significant BDNF increases following exercise interventions. Successful interventions were characterized by neuromotor activities or martial arts programs, training frequencies ≥ 3 sessions/week, durations ≥ 12 weeks, and healthy participant populations. Methodological quality was mostly fair, with four studies rated as fair and one as good. Conclusions: Structured physical exercise may enhance BDNF levels in healthy children, with neuromotor activities and martial arts showing particular promise. However, children with overweight/obesity may require modified intervention approaches. The evidence supports the implementation of cognitively engaging physical activities in educational settings to optimize brain health during critical developmental periods, though larger standardized trials are needed to strengthen these preliminary findings. Full article

The TOWCHED project explores how arts and heritage-based educational methodologies can support sustainable development by enhancing key transversal competencies in learners, particularly children and youth. In response to the global challenges outlined in the sustainable development goals (SDGs), this project promotes inclusive and participatory approaches to education that foster social cohesion, intercultural understanding, and civic engagement. Partnering with museums, TOWCHED develops cross-curricular pedagogical interventions, such as experiential, blended, and collection-mediated learning, that link cultural heritage with contemporary social and environmental concerns. These approaches aim to strengthen creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and self-awareness. TOWCHED demonstrates that heritage collection-based education can play a vital role in transforming schools and other learning environments into hubs for sustainable, lifelong learning. By embedding cultural expression and heritage into educational practices, the project offers a compelling model for empowering individuals to navigate and shape a more equitable and interconnected world. This paper has two aims. First, we introduce TOWCHED, an interdisciplinary project recently funded by the Horizon Europe program of the European Union to preserve and promote education for sustainability in the heritage context. Second, we introduce a set of tools related to the project. Full article

Computational thinking (CT), an interrelation of skills and practices, is a crucial competency that empowers individuals to tackle logical problems, enabling them to overcome various challenges in their daily lives. To help Deaf students (those with hearing loss and using sign language for communication) enhance their CT, a STEAM learning program using a physical computing tool is proposed. The learning program composes four courses: learning concepts, implementing concepts, finding solutions to real problems and developing innovations. The program engaged Deaf students from 18 Deaf schools. It is geared towards boosting students’ CT and facilitating their capacity to devise technology-based solutions. The program measured students’ CT effectiveness based on the CT framework: concepts, practices, and perspectives. The measurement encompassed multiple-choice assessments for CT concepts, task rubrics for CT practices, and interview and invention observations for CT perspectives. The program concludes with participating in a science project competition, using a physical computing tool, called KidBright, to solve real-world issues by integrating science, mathematics, and art. After completing the learning program, Deaf students demonstrated an improved understanding of CT concepts, performing high-level CT practices, and expressing strong CT perspectives. These indicate that a STEAM learning program utilizing a physical computing tool can help Deaf students enhance their computational thinking. Full article

Background: Recreational participation in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has rapidly increased. Despite consistent evidence of a high injury prevalence in MMA athletes, the neuromuscular implications of regular MMA training remain underexplored. The cervical spine is particularly vulnerable to trauma due to repetitive impacts and high mechanical demands in combat sports. Methods: This case-control study compared cervical spine function and self-reported symptoms between 25 recreational MMA athletes and 25 matched individuals who engaged in general fitness training. Outcome measures included Neck Disability Index (NDI), Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), pain and headache reports, cervical range of motion (ROM), proprioception, isometric strength, and endurance. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictors of group classification. Results: The MMA group exhibited significantly higher values for post-concussion symptoms (p = 0.012), cervical flexor endurance (p = 0.031), and the number of concussions (p = 0.001) but lower flexion ROM (p = 0.031). No significant differences were observed in strength, proprioception, or NDI scores. Logistic regression identified the number of concussions, age, total cervical ROM, and average rotation strength as significant predictors of group membership (model AUC = 0.96; Nagelkerke R² = 0.797). Conclusions: Recreational MMA athletes demonstrated higher rates of concussion-related symptoms and reduced cervical flexion ROM than noncontact exercisers despite no statistically significant differences in strength and proprioception. These findings suggest that cumulative exposure to amateur MMA is associated with alterations in cervical neuromuscular characteristics. These results support the implementation of targeted mobility, endurance, and injury prevention programs in recreational MMA training. Full article

In order to meet the learning demands and challenges of the 21st century, computational thinking (CT) skills are important to start developing in early childhood education. The best way to cultivate CT skills, such as algorithmic thinking, is by implementing multidisciplinary education, introducing state-of-the-art technological tools, and adopting engaging teaching strategies like robotics. Within this context, we introduce a play-based educational framework that is developmentally appropriate for second graders and aims to exercise pupils’ algorithmic thinking amid the Environmental Studies course. Keeping in mind that the early childhood period is crucial in developing environmentally friendly attitudes, intentions, and behaviours, we designed the proposed educational framework not only to cultivate pupils’ algorithmic thinking but environmental awareness too. The main technology exploited was the Bee-Bot, which stimulates children to learn how to solve problems efficiently and imaginatively through playful programming. This article reports a relevant case study conducted in October 2023 in Crete, Greece, adopting a robust ethical framework and being implemented under the umbrella of the qualitative research methodology. Studying the data obtained shows that the pupils embraced the proposed robotics activities, exercised their algorithmic thinking, and cultivated their environmental awareness in a playful, collaborative, and engaging learning environment. Full article

Objectives: The present study examined the sensory preferences adopted by students over three years of training in a specialized training program for security forces (STPSF). It determines their impact on karate performance metrics. Methods: Thirty-one students aged 20 to 26 (SD = 0.81) completed the modified Visual, Aural, Read/Write, and Kinesthetic questionnaire (VARK), a tool designed to help identify students’ preferred learning styles. This research suggests a theoretical model in which the balanced and optimal engagement of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic modalities rather than a strict mathematical equation might provide an optimal foundation for improving proficiency in martial arts. Balanced engagement of these sensory modalities can foster a deeper understanding of karate techniques, improve performance, minimize dependence on a single sensory channel, and bolster real-time adaptability. The students were tested at two points: once at the beginning of their enrolment and again after completing their three-year training program. Results: After a relatively intensive intervention over three years, the findings suggest a positive shift in the ratio of the primary modalities, moving toward an optimal balance. Considering the ideal sensory balance of 50:50:50%, the visual modality increased from 45.8 to 50.4, approaching the optimal value. The auditory modality, initially above the ideal level at 53.8, adjusted closer to balance, reaching 51.9. In contrast, the kinesthetic modality slightly decreased from 50 to 47.5, indicating a minor deviation from the ideal state. It was further confirmed that a higher technical level, such as the third kyu, exhibits an equal distribution, approaching the optimal use of the three modalities: visual 51.5 auditory 47.6 and kinesthetic 50.7. Moreover, the progress toward an optimal synergy and a more efficient evaluation of situational possibilities within the decision-making process was more frequently noted in females than in male students. Conclusions: Acknowledging students’ sensory processing preferences can assist the teacher, trainer, coach, and student in advancing interaction, optimizing learning strategies, improving performance, promoting analytical skills, and fostering self-assurance and determination. Full article

This paper explores the intersection of art, fashion, and decolonisation within First Nations communities, focusing on how clothing and adornment are powerful tools for healing, cultural survival, and resistance. Through art programs, fashion workshops, and community-based projects, First Nations peoples reconnect with culture, land, and history, fostering identity and continuity while addressing the traumas of colonisation. This paper examines how First Nations artists and designers engage with traditional garments, such as kangaroo skin cloaks and shell necklaces, to reclaim ancestral practices and challenge colonial traumas. By reinterpreting colonial clothes and creating new forms of fashion, artists engage in truth-telling, amplify resilience, and promote reconciliation. This paper highlights the role of art and fashion as an aesthetic expression and a strategy for cultural survival and resistance. It concludes by offering recommendations for policies and programs that support First Nations fashion initiatives, fostering economic opportunities, social well-being, and intergenerational healing. Ultimately, this paper advocates for the transformative power of art and fashion as pathways to decolonisation and empowerment for First Nations communities. Full article

Background: Human population has been overexploiting natural resources for many decades. Consumerism drives a strong economy, but at the same time it degrades the environment. The solution is to turn it into sustainable development. In this study, our aim was to determine how the quest for sustainable consumption was perceived in the current scientific literature; Methods: A total of 712 papers from the Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases were investigated. Descriptive statistics and VOSviewer (version 1.6.18.) and Wordcloud software were used for further analysis. The analysis involved investigating publication trends over time, engaged countries and funding agencies, co-authorships, document types, thematic categories, sustainable development goals orientation, and the most frequently occurring words. Results: Word clouds created in the WordArt program based on the titles and abstracts indicated “food” to be the most frequently occurring word. The content of the articles was analyzed based on three term clusters: (1) “food waste”, “waste”, “food security”; (2) “agriculture” and “vertical farming”; and (3) “energy”. Conclusions: Analyzed articles surpassed the European Union, indicating the global range of striving for sustainability. The co-occurrence of the following sustainable development goals (SDGs) was indicated in the study: no. 1 (“no poverty”), no. 2 (“zero hunger”), no. 3 (“good health and well-being”), no. 6 (“clean water and sanitation”), no. 7 (“affordable and clean energy”), no. 8 (“decent work and economic growth”), no. 9 (“industry, innovation and infrastructure”), no. 10 (“reduced inequalities”), no. 12 (“responsible production and consumption”), no. 13 (“climate action”), no. 14 (“life below water”), and no. 15 (“life on land”). Full article

Thirty general education candidates from elementary education, middle/secondary education, and arts education in multiple sections of one course engaged in a series of discussion posts and lesson plans related to creating inclusive general education lessons. Using candidate posts, rubric scores, feedback on lesson plans, and course evaluation ratings, a mixed methods approach was used to understand candidate knowledge, perceptions, and applications of Universal Design for Learning. The results from our research have important implications for policy, practice, and research. Policy makers must be aware of the lack of UDL in general education programs and IHEs need to do more than the cursory coverage of these principles. Additional research is needed for the implementation of lessons designed using UDL by general education candidates. Full article

Software security is an important topic that is gaining more and more attention due to the rising number of publicly known cybersecurity incidents. Previous research has shown that one way to address software security is by means of a serious game, the CyberSecurity Challenges, which are designed to raise awareness of software developers of secure coding guidelines. This game, proven to be very successful in the industry, makes use of an artificial intelligence technique (laddering technique) to implement a chatbot for human–machine interaction. Recent advances in machine learning have led to a breakthrough, with the implementation and release of large language models, now freely available to the public. Such models are trained on a large amount of data and are capable of analyzing and interpreting not only natural language but also source code in different programming languages. With the advent of ChatGPT, and previous state-of-the-art research in secure software development, a natural question arises: to what extent can ChatGPT aid software developers in writing secure software? In this work, we draw on our experience in the industry, and also on extensive previous work to analyze and reflect on how to use ChatGPT to aid secure software development. Towards this, we conduct two experiments with large language models. Our engagements with ChatGPT and our experience in the field allow us to draw conclusions on the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of the usage of this new technology. Full article

The rapid advancement of digital technology has necessitated a reevaluation of traditional educational methodologies, particularly in literature and visual arts. This study investigates the application of metaverse technology to integrate contemporary poetry and visual arts, aiming to enhance university-level education. The purpose is to develop a convergent teaching method that leverages the immersive and interactive capabilities of the metaverse. The research involves a joint exhibition project with students from Sangmyung University and international participants, incorporating a metaverse-based educational program. A sample of 85 students participated in the program, and their experiences were evaluated through surveys and focus group interviews (FGIs). The findings reveal significant correlations between content satisfaction and method satisfaction, underscoring the importance of engaging and interactive methods. The study also identifies technical challenges and provides insights for optimizing digital platforms for educational purposes. The implications suggest that integrating metaverse technology in arts education can significantly enhance creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary skills, offering a sustainable and innovative approach to modern education. Based on these implications, this paper proposes methods for incorporating the insights gained from case analyses and implications into the design of educational programs. It is anticipated that this approach will contribute to enhancing the quality of convergence education in higher education institutions. Furthermore, it is expected that this program will serve as a starting point for the systematic implementation of integrated education and the use of digital platforms, thereby helping to reduce disparities in integrated education between countries. Full article

The rapid advancement of technology is transforming the landscape of art education, fostering a new era of creativity and learning with a focus on sustainability. By optimizing resources and reducing the reliance on physical materials, AI-supported art education enhances sustainability, broadens accessibility, and lowers environmental impacts. Despite some research on the application of smart tools in art education, there remains a gap in robust evidence supporting their effectiveness and long-term impact. This study undertakes an in-depth examination of the intersection of sustainable technologies, pedagogical theories, and assessment methods within visual art education. By reviewing 685 research articles from the past decade, we ultimately filtered them down to 36 completely relevant studies that illuminate the technological advancements in teaching visual art. Our analysis focuses on emerging trends, the theoretical frameworks underpinning learning, hardware platforms, application categories, and dependent variables used to assess the impact on sustainability. Our findings indicate that the use of technology in art education is still in its nascent stages, yet it holds significant potential for sustainable development. These insights are crucial for developers and educators, offering guidance on creating user-friendly, interactive, and sustainable art education programs that enhance student comprehension and engagement beyond the current offerings. Full article

Background: Pharmacists need up-to-date knowledge and decision-making support in HIV care. We aim to develop MARVIN-Pharma, an adapted artificial intelligence-based chatbot initially for people with HIV, to assist pharmacists in considering evidence-based needs. Methods: From December 2022 to December 2023, an online needs-assessment survey evaluated Québec pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes, involvement, and barriers relative to HIV care, alongside perceptions relevant to the usability of MARVIN-Pharma. Recruitment involved convenience and snowball sampling, targeting National HIV and Hepatitis Mentoring Program affiliates. Results: Forty-one pharmacists (28 community, 13 hospital-based) across 15 Québec municipalities participated. Participants perceived their HIV knowledge as moderate (M = 3.74/6). They held largely favorable attitudes towards providing HIV care (M = 4.02/6). They reported a “little” involvement in the delivery of HIV care services (M = 2.08/5), most often ART adherence counseling, refilling, and monitoring. The most common barriers reported to HIV care delivery were a lack of time, staff resources, clinical tools, and HIV information/training, with pharmacists at least somewhat agreeing that they experienced each (M ≥ 4.00/6). On average, MARVIN-Pharma’s acceptability and compatibility were in the ‘undecided’ range (M = 4.34, M = 4.13/7, respectively), while pharmacists agreed to their self-efficacy to use online health services (M = 5.6/7). Conclusion: MARVIN-Pharma might help address pharmacists’ knowledge gaps and barriers to HIV treatment and care, but pharmacist engagement in the chatbot’s development seems vital for its future uptake and usability. Full article