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18 pages, 343 KiB  
Article
How Environment, Cognition, and Behavior Shape Doctoral Students’ Academic Career Intentions: Insights from a Comprehensive Study
by Wanhe Li and Xiaohan Jiang
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15070990 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 230
Abstract
Although career choice is a kind of individual behavior, as the gatekeeper of the discipline, doctoral students’ academic career intention reflects the attractiveness of the academic labor market and determines the sustainable development of academic careers. An analysis of data (N = 1322) [...] Read more.
Although career choice is a kind of individual behavior, as the gatekeeper of the discipline, doctoral students’ academic career intention reflects the attractiveness of the academic labor market and determines the sustainable development of academic careers. An analysis of data (N = 1322) from a survey among Chinese doctoral students reveals that (1) environmental factors, such as departmental atmosphere and advisor support, cognitive factors like academic interest and research self-efficacy, as well as behavioral factors including research engagement and publication rates, significantly promote doctoral students’ academic career intentions; (2) female doctoral students and those from prestigious institutions show stronger academic career aspirations; (3) the influence of interest factors on doctoral students’ commitment to an academic career is particularly pronounced, especially in the field of fundamental science; (4) a clear understanding of career paths positively moderates the effect of interest on academic career intentions. Within increasingly severe competition in the global academic labor market, it is necessary to provide more support for doctoral students who are willing to engage in academic careers by enhancing career planning guidance for doctoral students and supporting them in making rational career plans and adequate preparations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)
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20 pages, 694 KiB  
Systematic Review
Conservative Treatment of Sesamoiditis: A Systematic Literature Review with Individual-Level Pooled Data Analysis
by Carlo Biz, Maria Chiara Maccarone, Valentina Bonso, Elisa Belluzzi, Stefano Masiero, Nicola Luigi Bragazzi and Pietro Ruggieri
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1215; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071215 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 465
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Sesamoiditis is a painful and functionally limiting condition that affects the sesamoid bones of the hallux, frequently seen in athletic populations. Despite its clinical relevance, there are no standardised guidelines for its conservative management. This systematic review aims to [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Sesamoiditis is a painful and functionally limiting condition that affects the sesamoid bones of the hallux, frequently seen in athletic populations. Despite its clinical relevance, there are no standardised guidelines for its conservative management. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative treatments for sesamoiditis by summarising individual-level data from published studies. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, ISI/Web of Science, and PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) up to December 2024 in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and following a protocol specifically devised for rare or underrepresented medical conditions. Eligible studies included case reports and case series involving patients aged ≥16 years who were conservatively treated for clinically and/or radiologically diagnosed sesamoiditis. Data on patient demographics, diagnosis, type and duration of treatment, pain- (Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS)) and function-related (Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS)) outcomes, and return to activity were extracted. Study quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Pooled effect sizes were computed where applicable. Results: Out of 2380 initial records, 11 studies comprising 59 patients (29 females) were included. Treatments varied widely, including orthotics, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and biologic approaches such as concentrated bone marrow aspirate (CBMA). VAS scores improved in 66% of cases. NRS scores returned to baseline in some patients after initial improvement, revealing recurrence. FAAM and FAOS subscales showed functional improvements, particularly in sports-specific domains. Return to activity varied: in a case series, 45.4% resumed pain-free sports participation, while others remained symptomatic. Conclusions: Conservative treatment options for sesamoiditis showed variable effectiveness with promising outcomes in selected patients. Corticosteroid injections and orthotics appeared beneficial, but high recurrence and limited functional recovery persisted in some cases. Standardised treatment protocols and high-quality prospective studies are needed to improve clinical decision-making and optimise non-surgical management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiotherapy in Musculoskeletal Pain: Assessment and Management)
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17 pages, 499 KiB  
Review
Incidence and Risk Factors of Dysphagia After Cardiac Surgery: A Scoping Review
by Christos Kourek, Vania Labropoulou, Emilia Michou and Stavros Dimopoulos
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4279; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124279 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 494
Abstract
Dysphagia is a serious complication following cardiac surgery, associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher healthcare costs. Variability in the incidence and risk factors highlights the need for consolidated evidence. This scoping review aimed to analyze the incidence of dysphagia after cardiac [...] Read more.
Dysphagia is a serious complication following cardiac surgery, associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher healthcare costs. Variability in the incidence and risk factors highlights the need for consolidated evidence. This scoping review aimed to analyze the incidence of dysphagia after cardiac surgery and identify the associated risk factors. A search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Sciences, and PEDro databases for observational studies reporting dysphagia incidence and risk factors in adult cardiac surgery patients. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale was used to assess the studies’ quality and out of 2920 studies identified, 15 met the inclusion criteria for inclusion in this review. Dysphagia incidence ranged from 2.7% to 60%, with higher rates observed when objective assessments such as FEES or VFSS were employed. Key risk factors included advanced age, prolonged intubation, cerebrovascular events, and complex operative procedures. Post-operative dysphagia was linked to complications like aspiration pneumonia, prolonged ICU/hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. In conclusion, dysphagia is a significant but under-recognized complication of cardiac surgery. Advanced age, prolonged intubation, and surgical complexity are major risk factors. Standardized assessment protocols and early interventions are crucial to mitigating its impact and improving patient clinical outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Emergency Care Units)
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20 pages, 2399 KiB  
Systematic Review
Interventions to Promote Civic Engagement Among Youth and Its Outcomes on Mental Health: A Scoping Review
by Marina Oubiña López and Diego Gómez Baya
Children 2025, 12(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12060665 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 1503
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Youth mental health significantly impacts future well-being, with nearly half of mental health disorders emerging during adolescence. Civic engagement is defined as active participation in the community to improve conditions for others or to help shape the community’s future. It offers [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Youth mental health significantly impacts future well-being, with nearly half of mental health disorders emerging during adolescence. Civic engagement is defined as active participation in the community to improve conditions for others or to help shape the community’s future. It offers a unique opportunity to enhance youth mental well-being, acting as a protective factor against mental health struggles. In this line, Relational Developmental Systems Theory posits that positive youth development is positively linked to civic engagement. The main objective of this literature-based paper is to identify, select, assess, and synthesize the existing literature on interventions promoting mental health in the youth through civic engagement, resulting in an up-to-date review. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a search was conducted using PsycInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science to gather studies published between 2018 and 2023, based on the combination of key terms: (“civic engagement” OR “social participation”) AND (“mental health” OR “psychological adjustment” OR “well-being”) AND (adolescen* OR teen* OR youth OR “young people”) AND (program* OR intervention OR training OR education). Data extraction and risk-of-bias assessments were performed. Results: Ten studies were included in this review which suggest that civic engagement programs improve youth mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety, reduced sadness, and increased resilience. These programs foster empowerment, sense of belonging, and social connections, while also enhancing interpersonal skills and career aspirations. Youth also gain valuable skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving, contributing to educational and vocational growth. However, challenges such as socio-economic barriers and attendance issues can impact some outcomes, with variations in effectiveness across programs. Conclusions: Youth civic engagement programs should integrate mental health support to mitigate the emotional costs of activism, ensuring greater participation and well-being. It is important to adapt these programs to local contexts and provide flexibility to strengthen participation and community impact. Future research should explore the role of cultural, gender, and socio-economic factors in shaping program outcomes and utilize randomized controlled trials to improve the validity and generalizability of findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Children’s Behaviour and Social-Emotional Competence)
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25 pages, 4393 KiB  
Article
Behavioral Analysis of Postgraduate Education Satisfaction: Unveiling Key Influencing Factors with Bayesian Networks and Feature Importance
by Sheng Li, Ting Wang, Hanqing Yin, Shuai Ding and Zhiqiang Cai
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15040559 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 464
Abstract
Accurately evaluating postgraduate education satisfaction is crucial for improving higher education quality and optimizing management practices. Traditional methods often fail to capture the complex behavioral interactions among influencing factors. In this study, an innovative satisfaction indicator system framework is proposed that integrates a [...] Read more.
Accurately evaluating postgraduate education satisfaction is crucial for improving higher education quality and optimizing management practices. Traditional methods often fail to capture the complex behavioral interactions among influencing factors. In this study, an innovative satisfaction indicator system framework is proposed that integrates a two-stage feature optimization method and the Tree Augmented Naive Bayes (TAN) model. The framework is designed to assess key satisfaction drivers across seven dimensions: course quality, research projects, mentor guidance, mentor’s role, faculty management, academic enhancement, and quality development. Using data from 8903 valid responses, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted to validate the framework’s reliability. The two-stage feature optimization method, including statistical pre-screening and XGBoost-based recursive feature selection, refined 49 features to 29 core indicators. The TAN model was used to construct a causal network, revealing the dynamic relationships between factors shaping satisfaction. The model outperformed four common machine learning algorithms, achieving an AUC value of 91.01%. The Birnbaum importance metric was employed to quantify the contribution of each feature, revealing the critical roles of academic resilience, academic aspirations, dedication and service spirit, creative ability, academic standards, and independent academic research ability. This study offers management recommendations, including enhancing academic support, mentorship, and interdisciplinary learning. Its findings provide data-driven insights for optimizing key indicators and improving postgraduate education satisfaction, contributing to behavioral sciences by linking satisfaction to outcomes and practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Behaviors in Educational Settings—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 5347 KiB  
Article
An Image Analysis for the Development of a Skin Change-Based AI Screening Model as an Alternative to the Bite Pressure Test
by Yoshihiro Takeda, Kanetaka Yamaguchi, Naoto Takahashi, Yasuhiro Nakanishi and Morio Ochi
Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080936 - 18 Apr 2025
Viewed by 647
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Oral function assessments in hospitals and nursing facilities are mainly performed by nurses and caregivers but are sometimes not properly assessed. As a result, elderly people are not provided with meals appropriate for their masticatory function, increasing the risk of aspiration and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Oral function assessments in hospitals and nursing facilities are mainly performed by nurses and caregivers but are sometimes not properly assessed. As a result, elderly people are not provided with meals appropriate for their masticatory function, increasing the risk of aspiration and other complications. In the present study, we aimed to examine image analysis conditions in order to create an AI model that can easily and objectively screen masticatory function based on occlusal pressure. Methods: Sampling was conducted at the Hokkaido University of Health Sciences (Hokkaido, Japan) and the university’s affiliated dental clinic in Hokkaido. Results: We collected 241 waveform images of changes in skin shape during chewing over a 20 s test period from 110 participants. Our study used two approaches for image analysis: convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and transfer learning. In the transfer learning analysis, MobileNetV2 and Xception achieved the highest classification accuracy (validation accuracy: 0.673). Conclusions: Therefore, it was determined that analyses of waveform images of changes in skin shape may contribute to the development of a skin change-based screening model as an alternative to the bite pressure test. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Therapeutic and Diagnostic Strategies for Oral Diseases)
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15 pages, 1588 KiB  
Article
The Epidemiology of Respiratory Syncytial Virus and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Retrospective Evaluation
by Paolo Solidoro, Antonio Curtoni, Cristina Costa, Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa, Alessandro Bondi, Francesca Sidoti, Nour Shbaklo, Filippo Patrucco, Davide Favre, Elisa Zanotto, Silvia Corcione and Rocco Francesco Rinaldo
Pathogens 2025, 14(4), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14040375 - 11 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 826
Abstract
Introduction: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the main etiological agent in pediatric lower respiratory tract infections. The limited availability of therapeutic options for severe clinical cases associated with RSV infection makes prophylactic interventions a priority for containment. The aim of the current study [...] Read more.
Introduction: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the main etiological agent in pediatric lower respiratory tract infections. The limited availability of therapeutic options for severe clinical cases associated with RSV infection makes prophylactic interventions a priority for containment. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the epidemiology of RSV in the Piedmont population and the consequences of containment measures applied during the pandemic on viral circulation in the immediate and medium-term post-pandemic phase. Methods: This study considered all biological samples analyzed for RSV at the City of Health and Science of Turin collected from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2023. Evaluation of the positivity rates of samples was performed and differences between pediatric and adult population swabs (nasopharyngeal, pharyngeal, nasal aspirates) and bronchoalveolar samples were reported. Results: This study analyzed 14,085 samples and highlighted a trend in Piedmont RSV infections characterized by a higher pediatric population involvement of 82% compared to the adult population at 17%. A higher number of URT infections (95%) compared to LRT infections (4.6%) was also identified. This study shows a peak in RSV cases from November to April between 2016 and 2020. Our data show no RSV positivity during the 2020/2021 winter season, a result most likely due to the influence of containment measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Our study provided an epidemiological panorama of RSV and its high prevalence in pediatrics and adults. Pediatrics had a higher prevalence, while adults presented a delayed trend of about one month compared to pediatrics. The effectiveness of infection control measures applied during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic to limit viral infections were proved. Future studies may further investigate the impact of the SARS pandemic on RSV epidemiology considering patients at a higher risk of severe symptoms. Full article
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20 pages, 932 KiB  
Article
From Seeds to Harvest in Seven Weeks: Project-Based Learning with Latina Girls and Their Parents
by Peter Rillero, Margarita Jiménez-Silva, Katherine Short-Meyerson and Kim Marie Rillero
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15020246 - 16 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 876
Abstract
This study examines the impact of a culturally responsive, garden-based STEM program designed for Latina girls (grades 5–6) and their parents. The “Our Plot of Sunshine” project integrates Family Project-Based Learning with garden education to create meaningful STEM engagement opportunities. Drawing on the [...] Read more.
This study examines the impact of a culturally responsive, garden-based STEM program designed for Latina girls (grades 5–6) and their parents. The “Our Plot of Sunshine” project integrates Family Project-Based Learning with garden education to create meaningful STEM engagement opportunities. Drawing on the science capital, science identity, and community cultural wealth frameworks, the program leverages families’ cultural and linguistic resources while developing science knowledge and identity. Nineteen families from low socioeconomic schools participated in three pilot implementations across two Western U.S. cities. Using a mixed-methods approach with repeated measures over 19 weeks, the study tracked changes in participants’ science identity, interest, and career aspirations. Results showed significant increases in science identity and career aspirations, with effects maintained at three-month follow-up. While interest/enjoyment showed positive trends, changes were not statistically significant. Parent ratings of program elements were consistently higher than daughter ratings, though both groups reported strong engagement. The successful integration of bilingual instruction emerged as a particularly valued program component. These findings suggest that family-centered, culturally responsive garden education can effectively support Latina girls’ STEM identity development and future orientation, while highlighting the potential of leveraging family and cultural resources in STEM education. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project-Based Learning in Integrated STEM Education)
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14 pages, 223 KiB  
Article
Awareness of and Challenges in Utilizing the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission for Healthcare Delivery: Qualitative Insights from University Students in Coastal Karnataka in India
by Rajesh Kamath, Muneera Banu, Nagaraj Shet, Varshini R. Jayapriya, Vani Lakshmi Ramesh, Selim Jahangir, Nahima Akthar, Helmut Brand, Vidya Prabhu, Vishwajeet Singh and Sagarika Kamath
Healthcare 2025, 13(4), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13040382 - 11 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3450
Abstract
Background: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to enhance healthcare delivery in India through digital integration. The ABDM, an essential part of India’s healthcare system, aspires to transform healthcare delivery through digitization, by emphasizing affordability, accessibility, and transparency. This qualitative study investigated [...] Read more.
Background: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to enhance healthcare delivery in India through digital integration. The ABDM, an essential part of India’s healthcare system, aspires to transform healthcare delivery through digitization, by emphasizing affordability, accessibility, and transparency. This qualitative study investigated the awareness, challenges, and perceptions of the ABDM among postgraduate students in coastal Karnataka, focusing on their experiences and interactions with digital health technologies. Methodology: A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 17 purposively selected participants from a health science university. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the NVivo 12 software for thematic analysis. Results: This study revealed that, while many students recognized the ABDM’s goal of establishing comprehensive digital health infrastructure to seamlessly integrate healthcare services and information systems, detailed knowledge about its functionalities, implementation processes, and challenges was limited. Participants highlighted the need for improved digital literacy and support to maximize the effective use of the ABDM. Conclusions: The successful implementation of the ABDM depends on overcoming major challenges such as poor awareness and concerns about data security. Addressing these issues will require focused educational campaigns, increased accessibility, and joint efforts by the government, healthcare providers, and technological partners. Full article
14 pages, 547 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of STEM Academic Interventions on College Readiness for Rural Students
by Janet B. Walton, Toni A. May and Carla C. Johnson
Trends High. Educ. 2024, 3(4), 1017-1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu3040059 - 27 Nov 2024
Viewed by 2055
Abstract
This study used a quasi-experimental cohort approach to investigate the impact of early academic interventions on rural students’ academic college readiness as measured by indicators of science, mathematics, and English language proficiency in the United States. The program, delivered by a higher education [...] Read more.
This study used a quasi-experimental cohort approach to investigate the impact of early academic interventions on rural students’ academic college readiness as measured by indicators of science, mathematics, and English language proficiency in the United States. The program, delivered by a higher education institution, implemented a range of academic supports for students, including tutoring and in-class and after-school support by credentialed instructors, with the aim of preparing students for success in secondary and post-secondary educational experiences. The American College Testing (ACT) Aspire scores in science, mathematics, English language comprehension, and reading for a cohort of 8th-grade students in their second year of program participation (n = 100) were compared to the scores of a cohort of non-participants (n = 86) from the same school. Students who had participated in the program were significantly more likely than non-participants to meet college readiness benchmarks in all content areas and scored significantly higher than the non-program cohort in terms of their average percentile ranks. More research is needed to understand how particular interventions or combinations of interventions implemented in middle school impact students’ college readiness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue STEM in Higher Education)
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15 pages, 7110 KiB  
Case Report
Absorbable Haemostatic Artefacts as a Diagnostic Challenge in Postoperative Follow-Up After Oncological Resection in Head and Neck Tumours: Systematic Review of Current Literature and Two Case Reports
by Giorgio Barbera, Guido Lobbia, Federica Ghiozzi, Alessandra Rovescala, Carlotta Franzina, Sokol Sina and Riccardo Nocini
Diagnostics 2024, 14(23), 2667; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14232667 - 27 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1376
Abstract
Objectives: This article aims to define the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics of non-resorbed oxidised cellulose-induced pseudotumours to raise awareness among surgeons and radiologists, to prevent misdiagnosis, and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures and delays in adjuvant oncological treatments. Methods: A systematic [...] Read more.
Objectives: This article aims to define the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics of non-resorbed oxidised cellulose-induced pseudotumours to raise awareness among surgeons and radiologists, to prevent misdiagnosis, and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures and delays in adjuvant oncological treatments. Methods: A systematic review of oxidised resorbable cellulose (ORC)-induced pseudotumours of the head and neck was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Two ORC-induced pseudotumour cases from the Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Verona are also presented. Results: In most cases, pseudotumours were monitored using ultrasound. Further investigations included CT, MRI, PET-CT, and scintigraphy. Ultrasound images showed stable, elongated, and non-homogeneous masses. In CT scans, pseudotumours showed a liquefied core, and none or only peripheral enhancement. In MRI, pseudotumours presented none or only peripheral enhancement, and a heterogeneous pattern in T2-weighted images. 18-FDG PET scans demonstrated an FDG-avid mass (SUV 7.5). Scintigraphy was inconclusive. Cytology indicated a granulomatous reaction without neoplastic cells. Where surgical excision was performed, a granulomatous reaction with the presence of oxidised cellulose fibres was confirmed. Conclusions: Surgeons should consider artifacts from retained oxidised absorbable haemostatic material when suspecting tumour recurrence or metastasis on postoperative imaging, especially if certain features are present. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a useful diagnostic tool, but surgical excision may be needed if FNAC is inconclusive or impractical. Collaboration between surgeons and radiologists is essential to avoid misdiagnosis and delays in treatment. Documenting the use and location of haemostatic material in operative reports would aid future understanding of these phenomena. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment in Otolaryngology)
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15 pages, 265 KiB  
Article
Mass Observation, Counterculture and the ‘Art of Living’
by Jill Marsden and Rebecca Harris
Humanities 2024, 13(6), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/h13060161 - 21 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1170
Abstract
Mass Observation was the most ambitious and controversial investigation into cultural life in Britain in the twentieth century. Buoyed by a democratic spirit yet riven by eclectic intellectual allegiances, the project, in its inception, revelled in contradictions, many of which have endured in [...] Read more.
Mass Observation was the most ambitious and controversial investigation into cultural life in Britain in the twentieth century. Buoyed by a democratic spirit yet riven by eclectic intellectual allegiances, the project, in its inception, revelled in contradictions, many of which have endured in its legacy. This paper revisits the early countercultural aspirations of Mass Observation in order to reflect on the significance of these contradictions for the fate of popular writing. It is argued that the tensions between art, philosophy and science, as articulated in the inaugural statements of Mass Observation, are illuminated by the anti-elitist agenda of the founders. Building on these insights, the paper revisits controversies in the use of Mass Observation data for research and calls upon the findings from a recent recreation of Mass Observation Diary Day (12 May 2024) to argue that Mass Observation’s ‘science of ourselves’ be reconsidered as creative cultural production and a contribution to the ‘art of living’. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Transdisciplinary Humanities)
18 pages, 312 KiB  
Article
Unlocking STEM Pathways: Revealing STEM Choices and Science Teachers Empowering Black Queer Students
by Arsene Frederic Jr., Madison Fitzgerald-Russell, William Shelton, Mario I. Suárez and Jason C. Garvey
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14111254 - 15 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1266
Abstract
Despite efforts to address racial disparities in STEM fields, little attention has been paid to the experiences and aspirations of queer and trans Black (QT Black) students in grades K-12. This study explored whether there were any significant differences in the choice of [...] Read more.
Despite efforts to address racial disparities in STEM fields, little attention has been paid to the experiences and aspirations of queer and trans Black (QT Black) students in grades K-12. This study explored whether there were any significant differences in the choice of STEM majors between QT Black students and non-QT Black students. We found that Black QT students are less likely to choose STEM majors. Additionally, we found significant differences in science teachers’ perceptions of teaching, comparing between QT Black and non-QT Black students. Finally, we found that several factors predicted science-teacher perception of collective responsibility, perceptions of content professional learning community (PLC), self-efficacy, perception of content teacher expectations, and perceptions of principal support for teachers of QT Black and non-QT Black students. Implications for research and practice are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivating Professional Teachers for Science Education)
23 pages, 3433 KiB  
Article
Fostering Sustainable Female Participation in STEM Through Ecological Systems Theory: A Comparative Study in Three African Countries
by Olusiji Adebola Lasekan, Margot Teresa Godoy Pena, Adeyinka John Odebode, Alfredo Pedro Mabica, Raul Abílio Mabasso and Oluwatosin Mogbadunade
Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9560; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219560 - 2 Nov 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4847
Abstract
This study explores factors influencing female engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields in Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda through Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. The research collected qualitative data from 81 women across these countries through open-ended surveys. Using content analysis, [...] Read more.
This study explores factors influencing female engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields in Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda through Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. The research collected qualitative data from 81 women across these countries through open-ended surveys. Using content analysis, the results demonstrate the critical role of personal interests nurtured by family, showing how direct interactions with family influence STEM engagement at a microsystem level. The mesosystem level reveals the supportive influence of community and school interactions, emphasizing the importance of relationships between different microsystems, such as family–school collaborations, in fostering female participation in STEM. The exosystem level identifies the impact of positive media portrayals and role models, illustrating how external environments indirectly affect perceptions and aspirations in STEM through media and societal influences. The macrosystem level underscores the persistent cultural norms shaping gender roles, reflecting broader societal and cultural values that influence gender diversity in STEM fields, with 63% of respondents in Mozambique, 57% in Nigeria, and 67% in Uganda indicating that societal views on gender roles discouraged participation. Lastly, the chronosystem level captures the temporal changes and progress in gender diversity in STEM, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policy reforms to address longstanding gender imbalances. Despite progress, significant gender imbalances remain, necessitating targeted interventions and policy reforms. The study proposes a sustainable, collaborative model to foster early interest and sustained participation of females in STEM, emphasizing the importance of seamless cooperation among families, educational institutions, communities, and government bodies. The findings aid in creating supportive environments for sustaining female STEM participation, promoting economic and social development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Full article
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22 pages, 313 KiB  
Article
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Aspirations Among Refugee Families: A Comparative, Multiethnic, Qualitative Analysis
by Meseret F. Hailu, Setrag Hovsepian, Mohammed Ibrahim, Bruno Atieh, Saida Mohamed, Nalini Chhetri and Eugene Judson
Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(11), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13110593 - 1 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1686
Abstract
In this original research manuscript, we examined how gender, race, and ethnic heritage shape the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-related and higher education aspirations of different communities of refugee youth and families participating in university–community organization partnerships. Families from various ethnic-based community [...] Read more.
In this original research manuscript, we examined how gender, race, and ethnic heritage shape the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-related and higher education aspirations of different communities of refugee youth and families participating in university–community organization partnerships. Families from various ethnic-based community organizations in Arizona (serving Bhutanese, Burundian, Congolese, Somali, and Syrian people) participated in this study. Using social cognitive career theory as our conceptual framework and a qualitative research approach, we conducted interviews and focus groups with 27 families over two years to better understand their experiences. We found that the youth and families in our study experienced the following: (1) a recognition of the value of STEM education; (2) the value of consistent support from parents and community members; and (3) appreciation for the practical interventions provided by the university–community partnership. Additionally, families communicated conflicting perceptions of the salience of race and gender. We concluded by discussing the implications of the study findings for higher education scholarship and practice. Full article
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