Search Results (39)

Background/Objective: Early mobilization (EM) of critically ill patients is a feasible and safe intervention that limits the implications of bed rest and improves lung function. However, its limited implementation suggests a gap between the research evidence and clinical practice. It is widely accepted that early mobilization faces a variety of barriers. This study aimed to investigate the perceptions of Greek physiotherapists on EM barriers and record their knowledge and practices. Methods: We conducted an electronic survey using the online platform “Microsoft Forms”, among critical care physiotherapists in 66 hospitals that had an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) department in Greece in 2024. We administered a questionnaire, developed based on valid and reliable international questionnaires, with the following domains: education and knowledge on early mobilization, practices, perception regarding EM, and perceived barriers to early mobilization. Results: A total of 126 Greek physical therapists participated. The majority of them worked in urban area hospitals and in a rotation schedule around all departments. Most physical therapists stated that early mobilization is a priority for the patient’s rehabilitation and an important factor in preventing the complications of bed rest. Yet, they do not use specific protocols. Most had knowledge of what EM involved and the international guidelines. The most common barriers reported were the hemodynamic instability and the incoherence with the ventilator. Dedicated physiotherapists singled out certain barriers like the presence of delirium and the lack of communication among ICU staff. Additionally, physiotherapists with more years of experience did not acknowledge tubes, connections, femoral lines and Body Mass Index (BMI) as barriers. Conclusions: Most Greek physiotherapists believe that early mobilization is crucial for the rehabilitation of critically ill patients. A significant percentage know the guidelines, yet they do not follow a specific protocol. Various barriers prevent its implementation, which depends on the patients, healthcare providers, and the overall process. Yet, It is recognized that practices and perceived barriers are influenced by experience and work schedule. Establishing clinical protocols is essential to facilitate the implementation of early mobilization and support patient rehabilitation. Future efforts should focus on designing strategies and EM protocols for physiotherapy in Greek ICUs. Also, we need to monitor changes in perceived barriers across other countries as focus on the matter via published studies and clinical seminars could lead to significant changes. Full article

Adequate education in laboratory animal science and subsequently the attendance of relevant courses are mandatory prerequisites for animal experimentation. The course content for different stakeholders is stipulated by European and national regulations. If all of this content is covered, accreditation by competent bodies is possible and recommended. Here, we present our experiences with an EU-Function A/C/D accredited course (practical training with mice and rats) and an introductory seminar for undergraduate students, which have been running for more than ten years. All courses were organized in-house and were very relevant to the students and their needs but were also very labor intensive. The courses were systematically (and retrospectively) evaluated, showing a high degree of satisfaction and a great acquisition of knowledge, and the organizer was able to re-adjust the courses as needed over the years. Tests demonstrated the students’ progress and highlighted some parts of the lessons that were difficult to convey, such as those on legal regulations, housing and feeding, transport, GM animals, breeding, and the classification of severity. Dummies were proven to be very helpful at the beginning of the training but could not fully replace training with live animals. On-site lectures were favored over online sources, which were needed due to the pandemic. High standards in education are mandatory, and the accreditation process allows for the transferal of certificates to other institutions. Full article

This pilot study explores the efficacy of an AI-powered gamified chatbot integrated with an Online-Merge-Offline (OMO) strategy to enhance parental nutrition knowledge. Conducted in a Taiwanese public childcare setting, the intervention comprised eight weekly nutrition seminars delivered by registered dietitians, supplemented by a LINE-based chatbot providing interactive, gamified learning experiences. Pre-test and post-test evaluations were administered via the chatbot to assess knowledge acquisition. The results from 20 unique participants, including 9 with complete data, indicated a statistically significant improvement in nutritional knowledge (p < 0.0001, Cohen’s d = 2.50), suggesting a substantial educational impact. The integration of gamification elements—such as level completion, community rankings, and personalized feedback—with OMO modalities allowed for sustained engagement, knowledge reinforcement, and seamless transition between digital learning and physical application. This study provides empirical evidence supporting the feasibility and pedagogical value of OMO-gamified chatbots in health promotion and lays the groundwork for future large-scale, longitudinal investigations. Full article

This study aims to understand how InsurTech has developed in Korea. To achieve this, we collected InsurTech-related news articles published in the Korean media over the past eight years. Using a relatedness analysis based on the TopicRank algorithm, a text-mining technique, we extracted the top keywords associated with InsurTech by year. The extracted keywords were analyzed and discussed in terms of development trends: which technologies gained prominence over time, who the key players were, and what solutions were introduced. The analysis revealed several key trends in InsurTech’s development in Korea. First, regarding changes in InsurTech technology, blockchain and the Internet of Things initially garnered significant attention, but artificial intelligence and big data later emerged as more critical technologies. Second, in terms of market players, government agencies and research institutes initially created forums for discussion, such as seminars to draw social attention to InsurTech. Over time, innovative startups entered the market, general agencies specializing in insurance brokerage gained prominence in the online marketplace, and the entry of Big Tech platforms further diversified the market. Finally, in terms of InsurTech-related insurance solutions, early attention was focused on developing new products. However, the trend gradually shifted toward improving the accessibility and convenience of existing insurance services. Additionally, asset management and payment settlement services—linked to financial services beyond traditional insurance—emerged, along with new concepts such as healthcare, which reshaped the approach to insurance services. This study contributes to understanding how InsurTech has evolved by identifying key trends in emerging technologies, leading market players, and innovations in the insurance value chain. The Korean case provides insights that may help explore similar patterns in other countries. Full article

The purpose of this study is to investigate Greek physical therapists’ perceptions of therapeutic approaches, assessment tools, and the use of technology in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire consisting of 26 questions. The questionnaire was addressed to Greek physiotherapists who were registered with the Panhellenic Physical Therapy Association (PPTA) at the time of the survey and practiced their profession in Greece. A total of 203 physical therapists who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study. Out of all the participants, 65% had over 10 years of work experience and treated 1–9 patients with PD per year. Additionally, 84.7% of participants communicated with health scientists as part of the interdisciplinary collaboration, and 23.2% used assessment tools/scales frequently. New technologies were only used by 24.6% of participants despite a positive view of their benefits (70.9%). Physiotherapists who attended a lifelong educational program or adult neurological physiotherapy seminars or held a master’s or doctoral degree in physiotherapy used new technologies at higher rates of 64% and 68%, respectively. Finally, the use of new technologies was related to the acquisition of a master’s degree or lifelong training specialization. Full article

Numerous sources report that patients belonging to sexual or gender minority (SGM) groups often do not receive proper healthcare services due to negative attitudes from healthcare providers, including nurses. This literature review aims to explore the gaps in the existing curriculum and educational preparedness, including ehealth and mhealth trainings and how such educational preparedness affects the attitudes of nurses toward SGM groups. The search strategy included the electronic databases CINHAL, PubMed, Medline, EBSCO, and ProQuest. After reviewing and removing duplicates and irrelevant studies, 21 articles were selected to be included in this literature review. The findings of this research indicate that the provision of educational resources, including ehealth and mhealth trainings, falls short of meeting the requirements of caring for a patient who identifies with a sexual and gender minority (SGM) group. Consequently, nurses feel less confident and prepared to provide care in such situations, resulting in low comfort levels and readiness. It also reveals the nurses’ attitudes towards SGM patients affected by the lack of preparation. Key educational interventions, including targeted seminars and online modules, are recommended to enhance nurse preparedness. Implementing these interventions can foster improved attitudes and cultural competence in healthcare settings. Full article

We have evaluated a new pedagogical approach, pure question-based learning, or rather, a modern, digitized version of a really old approach: the Socratic method of learning. The pedagogical approach was evaluated and improved using a design-based research methodology. An online course was developed with pure question-based learning to explain its predecessor: question-based learning. The course was successively taken by students, researchers, and practitioners, and discussed in four group seminars. Feedback from each iteration was integrated into the next version and the course is still in use, see link below. Results from the design-based research process were positive ($n\approx 78$ participants, over four iterations) with the main negative results coming from the unfamiliarity of the format and feelings of exam-like stress during the first encounter. While pure question-based learning is new, it builds upon well-tested pedagogical methods. The method has several potential advantages: learning can be broken down into smaller modules, there is less passive learning for the students, less learning material needs to be created and AI could be used for this creation. Full article

The current diverse opportunities available worldwide have caused an increase in the pursuit of changing jobs in the Philippines for greener pastures, leading to a decrease in organization efficiency due to career shifts or intentions for shifting. With the evident movement of workers, this study aimed to establish a model for determining the factors that influence job-seeking Filipino workers to shift careers and seek greener pastures by holistically analyzing variables using the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Value-Belief-Norm. A total of 210 valid responses among employees who shifted careers were collected through online surveys via social media platforms using purposive sampling. Partial least square structural equation modeling as the main multivariate tool was utilized to assess the hypothesized relationships. The findings of this study revealed that self-transcendence values in shaping personal norms and ascription to responsibility affected the intention to career shift or greener pasture-seeking behavior. In addition, subjective norms affected attitude, while organizational commitment negatively affected intention for greener pastures. It was seen that the factors that affect intention behavior the most among Filipinos were better opportunities, financial stability, workplace environment, and work–life balance—a notion that connects with the Protestant Work Ethics. It was evident that self-perception of a better career, growth, and overall profit merged to influence the intention of a career shift. It could be suggested that job rotation and job enhancement may reduce these intentions and lead to satisfaction among employees. Moreover, job roles may be reevaluated to identify (dis)satisfaction among employees, so the spearheading team may evaluate what actions are needed. Enhancement of skills and development through seminars and training may also be considered. Full article

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions on face-to-face interaction, digital communication methods have undergone unprecedented breakthroughs, especially in the realm of higher education. The glaring differences between face-to-face seminars and the physical distance of participants in online seminars raise questions about the meaning of embodied presence of subjects in various formats. The understanding of body and lived body is often based on a dichotomous interpretation, in which the body-as-object is instrumentally subordinated to the mind. To revalorize the body, recent theories of education and Bildung-theoretical approaches, in particular, emphasize not only discursive, but also embodied, practices and increasingly focus on the potential of the body-as-subject as a medium for the subjective configuration of interactive situations. As the embodied perspective poses different challenges for qualitative research, it seems appropriate to validate the methodological approach. Utilizing a three-step method, we provide a phenomenological heuristic strategy through which our instrument underwent critical and intersubjective reflection. Ideally, subsequent research endeavors can expand upon and refine this methodology to further explore the concepts of embodiment and embodied presence in higher education. Full article

Based on the importance of communication and teamwork in veterinary practice, we explored the impact of a blended learning course designed to enhance interprofessional communication skills among veterinary students and apprentice assistants. The blended learning course design included online modules, synchronous (online) seminars, and simulation training sessions. The asynchronous online elements should complement the varied schedules of different professions and meet the individual needs of participants, especially considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The course structure, evaluations, and outcomes were documented, showing a positive impact on knowledge gain concerning communication and self-assessment in communication skills. In the pretest, the participants scored 43.18% correct answers to a knowledge test, whereas 71.50% correct answers were given in the posttest. Some participants indicated an improvement in the self-assessment of their skills. For example, before the training only 13.64% answered the question “How prepared do you feel regarding your communication skills for entering the profession?” with “Very good” or “Good”, versus 50.00% in the posttest. There were also only 22.73% of participants who agreed to having sufficient understanding of the roles of other professional groups, while in the posttest, 81.82% agreed. The evaluations highlighted positive feedback on the organization, learning environment, and overall course structure. However, challenges such as limited resources, especially time and financial constraints, influenced the implementation and ongoing development of the course. Subsequent runs of the course could gather more data to further improve the teaching of veterinary interprofessional communication. This ongoing data collection would allow continuous insights into and adjustments to the teaching methods, ensuring maximum benefit for veterinary students and apprentice assistants. Full article

The integration of interprofessional collaboration is becoming increasingly crucial in veterinary care settings, emphasising the need for interprofessional education (IPE) in veterinary programmes. This study explores the readiness for interprofessional learning among German veterinary students, apprentices and related occupations before and after an interprofessional communication course. It assesses the impact of this course on the participants’ attitudes using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS). The course, offered in two iterations, combined asynchronous online modules, live seminars and practical training elements. The RIPLS was administered before and after the course to gauge attitude shifts towards interprofessional learning. Statistical analyses, including McNemar, Cohen’s Kappa and exact Fisher tests, were employed to compare pre- and post-test responses. Despite challenges in participant linking, significant findings emerged between the student and apprentice groups in specific areas of the RIPLS, notably in the “Professional Identity” subscale post-course. However, correlations between face-to-face contact and RIPLS ratings were not observed, suggesting a need for more integrated interprofessional learning experiences. While some limitations in sample size and profession distribution hinder generalisability, this study indicates a high receptiveness to interprofessional learning in veterinary education, emphasising the potential for attitude changes with more interactive participation and programme adjustments. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, comprehension, and practices concerning forensic odontology among dental students and faculty at a Dental School in Cyprus. An online, cross-sectional, descriptive survey, employing an adapted, self-administered questionnaire, was disseminated to all dental students and faculty at the School of Dentistry, European University Cyprus, in November 2022. The survey assessed participants’ demographic information and explored their awareness with questions alluding to knowledge, attitudes and practices in forensic dentistry. Of those surveyed, 47 faculty members and 304 students responded, yielding response rates of 66.2% and 80%, respectively. Statistical analysis, including Kendall’s tau test and χ² test were employed to examine correlations and associations, with Cramer’s V used to measure the strength of significant associations. The predetermined significance level was α = 0.05. Awareness levels were assessed through participants’ responses to specific questions in the survey. It was revealed that 87% of faculty and 65% of students were familiar with forensic odontology. A noteworthy 94% of faculty and 85% of students recognized teeth as DNA repositories. A high percentage, 98% of faculty and 89% of students, acknowledged the role of forensic odontology in the identification of criminals and deceased individuals. Awareness of age estimation through dental eruption patterns was evident in 85% of faculty and 81.6% of students. A substantial proportion (80% of faculty) maintained dental records, while 78% of students recognized the importance of dental record-keeping in ensuring quality care. Interestingly, 57% of students and 64% of faculty were aware of the possibility of dentists testifying as expert witnesses. The majority, 95.7% of faculty and 85% of students, concurred that physical harm, scars, and behavioral alterations predominantly indicate child abuse. The findings, revealing robust awareness among respondents, underscore the importance of enhancing faculty engagement in relevant seminars to further strengthen their knowledge. Additionally, emphasizing improved record-keeping practices for potential forensic applications emerges as a crucial aspect. These insights have implications for refining dental education in Cyprus and enhancing forensic practices by promoting ongoing professional development and emphasizing meticulous record-keeping within the dental community. Full article

Currently, academia is grappling with a significant problem—a lack of engagement. Humankind has gone too far into exploring entertainment options, while the education system has not really kept up. Millennials love playing games, and this addiction can be used to engage and motivate them in the learning process. This study examines the effect of digital game-based learning on student engagement and motivation levels and the gender differences in online learning settings. This study was conducted in two distinct phases. A game-based and traditional online quizzing tools were used to compare levels of engagement and motivation, as well as to assess the additional parameter of gender difference. During the first phase of the study, 276 male and female undergraduate students were recruited from Sophomore Seminar classes, and 101 participated in the survey, of which 83 were male and 18 were female. In the second phase, 126 participants were recruited, of which 107 (63 females and 44 males) participated in the anonymous feedback surveys. The results revealed that digital game-based learning has a more positive impact on student engagement and motivation compared to traditional online activities. The incorporation of a leaderboard as a gaming element in the study was found to positively impact the academic performance of certain students, but it could also demotivate some students. Furthermore, female students generally showed a slightly higher level of enjoyment toward the games compared to male students, but they did not prefer a comparison with other students as much as male students did. The favorable response from students toward digital game-based activities indicates that enhancing instruction with such activities will not only make learning an enjoyable experience for learners but also enhance their engagement. Full article

The academic situation due to the COVID-19 lockdown forced teachers to transform conventional lessons to a fully online mode. The experimental component of chemical engineering degrees is an essential part of the courses, wherein the students usually attend a pilot plant and develop practical skills in a hands-on way. The present study shows the different methodologies developed and implemented during three academic years in the experimental component of two courses: fluid mechanics and heat transfer. Therefore, the year 2018–2019 represents a conventional scenario, in which the lessons and evaluation were conducted in a traditional mode (face-to-face). Later, the cessation of on-site teaching in the middle of the year 2019–2020 compelled the teaching staff to adapt methodologies to a distance mode. This transformation was based on the creation of new learning material: explanatory videos, online seminars, solved exercises and online tests. Finally, the end of the lockdown in the year 2020–2021 allowed the return to a mixed mode (face-to-face lessons in addition to online lessons), which enabled the redesign of the experimental part of the courses. After the end of the courses, the usefulness of the implemented methodologies was evaluated by means of collecting academic marks and student surveys. The results show that, in general, the yields were similar during the three years studied, except in the lockdown period of the fluid mechanics course in which it was slightly higher than the others. With regard to the opinion of the students, their feedback about the transformations made was generally positive. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has struck educational experience systems around the globe. This paper investigates and evaluates the student participants’ perceptions who joined the international exchange seminar on global citizenship and peace held at a University in Hiroshima, Japan. Approximately seventy students and faculty members from nine to ten different universities from around the globe joined this summer program in August 2021 (online) and 2022 (face-to-face). This study is a mixed-method study. The first part consists of a quantitative analysis of BEVI data obtained from the students in the seminar before COVID-19 and after. The research concludes that there are no changes in the effects of what students learn. The second part consists of qualitative data. The data shows the perceptions of students of online teaching versus hybrid teaching. It compares the differences in participants’ perceptions reported in students’ feedback on the programs during and post-COVID-19. Our results confirm prominent differences exist in the students’ perceptions of their learning experience during the pre-pandemic and post-pandemic periods. The findings indicate based on lessons learned post-pandemic, universities need to strive and define the meaning and purpose of international seminars, which enable students to experience a high level of intercultural social interaction online and face-to-face. As the world becomes more interconnected, virtual environments, such as the ones presented within the International Seminar in Hiroshima, Japan, are vital to facilitating intercultural teaching environments and the implications within this paper indicate that these virtual mediums can promote inclusion, leading to a more sustainable world. Full article