68,366 results on '"Action Research"'
Search Results
2. Effective Principles of Teaching English as a Foreign Language: Useful Ideas and Guidelines
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Mahmoud M. S. Abdallah
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The global status of English as a lingua franca necessitates effective English language teaching (TEFL) to meet the demands of the global economy and social development. This article explores key principles for effective TEFL, grounded in a sophisticated theoretical framework that integrates cognitive, sociocultural, and constructivist perspectives. It emphasizes the importance of understanding learner needs, focusing on meaningful communication, and implementing Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) and Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT). Differentiated instruction and technology integration are highlighted as essential strategies to cater to diverse learner profiles and enhance engagement. The article also underscores the significance of cultural awareness in language instruction, advocating for the inclusion of cultural elements to prepare students for real-world interactions. Effective assessment practices, combining formative and summative approaches, are crucial for monitoring progress and informing instruction. Continuous professional development (CPD) is emphasized as vital for teachers to remain current and effective, involving action research, participation in professional learning communities, and reflective teaching practices. By adhering to these principles, educators can create dynamic and inclusive classrooms that promote successful language acquisition.
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- 2024
3. The Best Method Is That There Should Be No Specific Method: The 'Post-Methods Era' in Language Teaching and Learning
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Mahmoud M. S. Abdallah
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This article explores the concept of the post-methods era in language teaching, which advocates for moving beyond rigid, prescriptive methodologies. The author argues that no single method can address the diverse needs of all learners and contexts. Instead, teachers should adopt an eclectic and context-sensitive approach, drawing on a range of methods to suit specific situations. Key characteristics of this era include a focus on the learner, the importance of context, authenticity in language use, and the teacher as a reflective practitioner. The article highlights the limitations of traditional methods and the influence of sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics in shaping modern language teaching. Practical implications for teachers include informed eclecticism, needs analysis, materials development, action research, and continuous professional development. While the post-methods approach offers flexibility and adaptability, it also presents challenges, particularly for novice teachers and in systems reliant on traditional methods. The article concludes that ongoing research and dialogue are essential for refining effective language teaching practices in this era.
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- 2024
4. QR Code Enriched Writing and Speaking Practices: Insights from EFL Learners at Tertiary Level
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Sibel Sögüt and Serap Atasever Belli
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This study examined experiences and viewpoints of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners' regarding the integration of QR codes into writing and speaking practices at the tertiary-level L2 learning. Employing an action research design, researchers collected qualitative data through online interviews, a survey of open-ended questions, and learners' written reflections during class hours and brief field notes. Inductive thematic analysis was used for data analysis to form codes and themes. As a result, the learners identified QR codes as time-saving, useful, and enjoyable pedagogical tools for writing and speaking practices. The facilitative role of QR codes was centered on increasing motivation and interaction with classmates during different phases of productive skill-based activities, particularly in the idea-generation steps. The learners reported that QR code-based mobile learning practices make learning environments more participatory, safe, inclusive, and cooperative. The study presents instructional implications for transforming conventional student-teacher interaction into a peer-learning-oriented and autonomous atmosphere in higher education.
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- 2024
5. Studies in Teaching: 2024 Research Digest. Action Research Projects Presented at Annual Research Forum (Winston-Salem, North Carolina, June 27, 2024)
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Wake Forest University, Department of Education and Leah P. McCoy
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This document presents the proceedings of the 28th Annual Research Forum held June 27, 2024, at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Included are the following eight action research papers: (1) College Athletics and the High School Athlete: Perspectives of High School Coaches (Michael Goehrig); (2) The Influence of Blogging on Self-Efficacy in Students' Writing (Jayna Palumbo); (3) Impacts of Environmental Justice Topics on Student Perception of their Identity in STEM (Samantha G. Reese); (4) Historical Thinking in Small Group Cooperative Learning (Sam Schectman); (5) The Effect of Adaptation on Student Engagement with Shakespeare (Savannah Smith); (6) Story Maps and Reading Comprehension in Second Grade Students (Emma Stein); (7) Poetic Composition's Influence on Student Attitudes Toward Poetry (Rachel Thomas); and (8) Student Engagement with Graphic Novels (Taylor Whitman). Individual papers contain references, tables, and figures.
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- 2024
6. Bridging Learning Value Gaps in a New Project Economy
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Katrenia Reed Hughes, Khushboo Kapadia, and Brandon Sorge
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The current study used Blomquist's Project Management Self-Efficacy assessment to collect data about student's perceived project management competence before taking a graduate level project management course. The research utilized the PMSE assessment to measure actual and retrospective pre-course project management self-efficacy. No industry is immune to the need for skilled project managers. Our question is "how do you know…they know…what they say they know?" In recent years, PMI's focus was The Project Economy. In the new project economy individuals need to transform ideas into reality and deliver value to stakeholders by collaborating in teams to successfully complete projects and support organizational value streams. Findings showed that individuals with previous project management experience were more likely to overestimate their skillset before taking the class than those without previous project management experience. This gap in project management skill insight puts employers at risk for missed opportunities and unrealized cost savings. Through the application of project management tools and templates, the students learn project life-cycle approaches used in industry today and demonstrate application through completion of actual projects in a team-based setting. The real-world application of ideas allows students to bridge the gap between their conceptual knowledge and their ability to effectively manage a project.
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- 2024
7. Changing Attitudes towards Research through a Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience
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Keith Brazendale, Michael Rovito, and Jeanette Garcia
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Studies show undergraduate students typically view the idea of research negatively, with students reporting feelings of anxiety, difficulty, detachment, and reduced perceptions of relevancy to their own life. Course-based undergraduate experiences (CUREs), where students have an opportunity to engage in authentic research experiences, can reach large number of students in a convenient fashion, thus, are well-positioned to shift student perceptions of research. The purpose of this study is to explore changes in attitudes towards research in a large sample of undergraduate students' after completing one semester of a CURE, either in-person or online due to COVID-19. This study used a within-subjects pre-posttest design. Data collection took place over eight semesters from fall 2019 through spring 2022 at a large metropolitan public university in the southeast region of the United States. Students enrolled in the CURE were asked to complete the Attitude Towards Research scale at the beginning and end of the semester covering the following factors: usefulness of research (F1), anxiety (F2), affect indicating positive feelings about research (F3), life relevancy of research to the students' daily lives (F4), and difficulty of research (F5). Wilcoxon signed rank tests for paired data were conducted and Mann-Whitney U tests assessed whether there were any differences between students who completed the course face-to-face versus online. Across all eight semesters, 1,003 students (74% female, 91% Seniors) provided valid pre-posttest data. Statistically significant improvements were observed across all semesters (online and face-to-face) for research anxiety, positive attitude towards research, research relevance to own life, and research difficulty from the ATR scale (p<0.05). For usefulness of research for profession (F1), statistically significant differences were observed in four out of the eight semesters (p<0.05). Changes in students' attitudes towards research did not differ between course modality (face-to-face versus online) except for F1. The mean change in F1 was different between students taking a face-to-face (mean: 0.22, ±SD 1.02) versus online version (mean: 0.07, ±SD 0.72) of the course (z = 2.35, p = 0.02). Findings from this study demonstrate the potential of a CURE at reducing anxiety, lowering perceived difficulty, enhancing overall impressions, and students' overall attitudes toward research and research-based education. Continued consideration and evaluation of how and what is delivered in CUREs to students is required to advance the pedagogy of research methods.
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- 2024
8. Seeing the Bigger Picture: An Investigation into the Impact of Process Mapping on the Management of Change in a University Library
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Angela Jones-Evans
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This paper examines the impact of process mapping on the management of change in an academic library in a UK higher education institution. Book ordering has been highlighted by a group of subject librarians as being time-consuming and inefficient, detracting from their ability to respond to new challenges and opportunities. An action research approach is used to bring the subject librarians together to draw book ordering process maps, identify on the maps where perceived problem areas lie and discuss potential solutions. Analysis of the empirical data suggests that process maps used in an action learning setting are impactful in terms of demonstrating readiness for change, showing where change is needed and creating a vision for change. The value of investigating the impact of process mapping through the lenses of different change models is discussed and the applicability of this approach to other professional services settings in higher education is explored.
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- 2025
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9. Hear, Act, Connect, Support: Youth Recommendations for Educators Who Administer School Climate Surveys
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Addison Duane, Kamryn S. Morris, Amia Nash, Tiffany M. Jones, and Valerie B. Shapiro
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School climate surveys are commonly used to solicit youth perspectives about their experiences in schools. However, to move climate surveys from solicitation towards a more youth-centered, partnered practice for school improvement, guidance is needed from the youth themselves about how and in what ways they hope adults respond to their survey responses. In the present study, we analyzed data from four focus groups conducted with middle school and high school students. Findings reveal that, following the administration of climate surveys, youth want adults to: recognize their voices, take action based on their responses, cultivate opportunities for connection, and increase mental health supports. These student-generated insights can help inform how adults in schools--from educational leaders to licensed mental health professionals--use student data to inform decision-making.
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- 2025
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10. A Scoping Review of Action Research in Higher Education: Implications for Research-Based Teaching
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Ida Bruheim Jensen and Kenan Dikilitas
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Several scholars argue for a closer association between research and teaching in higher education, but it is unclear how research-based teaching can be actualized. Action research (AR) offers designs that position students as actors of the research processes, for example by doing research themselves or co-researching. Therefore, AR and research-based teaching can be considered mutually nested pedagogical and methodological processes. In this scoping review, we explored studies methodologically framed as AR which involve higher education students in the Humanities and Social Sciences as participants. We focused on (1) the research characteristics and (2) how the students were positioned in the identified studies. By reviewing 218 studies in line with inclusion criteria, we found three student positions: students as researchers, as learners and active contributors to research, and as source of information. We discuss implications for teachers/researchers who adopt AR and how they can develop research-based teaching involving students as researchers.
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- 2025
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11. The Student Voice for Social Justice Pedagogical Method
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Carla Briffett Aktas, Koon Lin Wong, Wing Fun Oliver Kong, and Choi Pat Ho
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Creating a socially just pedagogy from a grassroots level could help address issues of educational injustice. This paper focuses on the creation of the student voice for social justice (SVSJ) pedagogical method that is based on Nancy Fraser's political social justice framework. The resulting approach, developed through participatory action research, involves students in higher education acting as co-investigators and co-constructors in pedagogical planning and implementation. The results of this study indicate that student voice is an essential component of the approach and should include diversity appreciation, student autonomy/freedom, and student identity. Student-centred learning, educators' roles, and shared power are also important considerations to produce a framework for student empowerment. These findings expand Fraser's framework and SVSJ provides insights for education practices at pedagogical and individual levels (such as students and lecturers) that can ensure more socially just learning experiences.
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- 2025
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12. Youth Participatory Action Research as a Multidimensional Strategy for Organizational Learning, Field Building, and Youth Development. Research Brief
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Stanford University, John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities (JGC), Ella Johnson Gray, and Victoria Zhaolin Ren
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Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) is traditionally valued for its developmental benefits for youth, such as enhancing leadership and critical thinking skills. However, this brief evidences that YPAR's potential extends significantly beyond individual growth, serving as a powerful mechanism for organizational development and academic field-building. We explore how YPAR facilitates local insights into organizational practices from a youth perspective and contributes uniquely to the broader academic discourse, effectively bridging the research-practice gap.
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- 2024
13. Student Satisfaction as a Predictor of Progression and Retention in Undergraduate Nursing: A Qualitative Action Research Study
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Leah M. Jones Schneblin
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This study sought to understand if a decline in student satisfaction occurs in undergraduate nursing students, and if students recover from such a decline. The purposes of this study were to examine overall undergraduate nursing satisfaction, explore the potential decline in satisfaction as students' progress through nursing school, and to describe the impact of student satisfaction on retention, at a private, not-for-profit health sciences and nursing school. The study used a qualitative approach, with one-on-one semi-structured interviews with nursing students in their final semester of nursing school to explore usage of student services, connection with staff, faculty, and peers, and sought to determine if students were happy as they prepared to graduate. Although some of the students in the study had more tumultuous academic journeys, each of the students in the study ultimately did find connection and reported they were happy with their selection of college and career choice. Limitations of the study include small sample size and niche area of study, investigating only undergraduate, Bachelor of Science in Nursing students.
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- 2024
14. The Effectiveness of Inquiry-Based Learning to Improve the Analytical Thinking Skills of Sixth-Grade Elementary School Students
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Wipaporn Sasanti, Chulida Hemtasin, and Tawan Thongsuk
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This analysis dissects a piece of information into its parts and determines how they interact in constructing a concept. This study focuses on enhancing the analytical thinking skills of grade 6 students in science and technology courses by implementing inquiry-based learning management. The aim is to meet the minimum requirement of 70 percent and assess student satisfaction with the approach. This work follows a classroom action research approach involving planning, action, observation, and reflection steps. The target group comprises 25 grade 6 students studying in the first semester of the 2022 academic year at an elementary school in Northeast Thailand, selected through purposive sampling. The research tools include six 5E inquiry-based learning plans, an analytical thinking skills test, and a satisfaction questionnaire. Data collection involves implementing the learning plan in two operational cycles, conducting analytical thinking tests, and administering satisfaction questionnaires. The collected data are analyzed to determine achievement levels and satisfaction ratings. The statistics used are mean, standard deviation, and percentage. The findings from the first operational cycle indicate that 76.0% of students did not meet the evaluation criteria. After the second operational cycle, the mean score improved, and all students met the assessment criteria of 70.0%. Overall, the inquiry based learning approach has the potential to enhance analytical thinking skills, and student satisfaction levels were generally positive. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating effective learning management strategies, such as analytical thinking, to improve students' higher-order thinking skills.
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- 2024
15. Research Readiness Worksheet: Learner's Guide to Writing Research for Grade 7 Learners of Biñan Integrated National High School
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Janina Yahzmin N. Limbag
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One of the most important qualities of learners is the ability to conduct research. Students who grasp this subject acquire critical thinking abilities, which will eventually help them to function a valuable human being in the future. Proficiency in doing research is a prerequisite for academic achievement. The purpose of this study is to assess grade 7 students' preparedness or level of readiness in conducting school-based research which is essential due to the demands for higher grade level. This study utilizes qualitative methodologies, including survey questionnaires to assess students in writing research and the challenges they encounter.
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- 2024
16. Teaching for a Sustainable Future: Implementing Education for Sustainability in a Moroccan High School
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Safaa El Youssfi, Ismail Ben Filali, and Mohamed Merouane El Hammoumi
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This article shares the first author's experiences at a high school in Fez, Morocco, while implementing education for sustainable development (ESD) in the curriculum. In this action research project, the researcher aimed to embed ESD in the current school curriculum and evaluate whether the strategies and methods used affected the students' attitudes and behaviour towards the environment. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data. A questionnaire was administered to 60 high school students aged between 16 and 18 immediately after the ESD training. In-depth interviews were then conducted with 44 respondents who completed the questionnaire. The results of the study suggest that formal education, class activities and extracurricular activities can contribute to reshaping students' attitudes and behaviour towards the environment, reflecting not only academic but also personal and social growth. The findings reveal that there are multiple effective ways to embed ESD in a high school curriculum. The study also provides a pedagogical framework for teachers aiming to integrate ESD into their curriculum. While the research involved a limited sample, it could serve as a background for future studies to investigate a larger population.
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- 2024
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17. Flexible Action Learning Management Process to Promote Cross-Cultural Literacy of Junior High School Students
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Charin Mangkhang, Phisit Singkhaimuk, Nitikorn Kaewpanya, Onsiripim Borihantanachot, and Chatchawal Buttong
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The objectives of this research are (1) to study the process of flexible action learning management to promote cross-cultural literacy of junior high school students. (2) To propose guidelines for flexible action learning management to promote crosscultural literacy of junior high school students. It is action research. The sample consisted of 15 social studies lecturers and teachers, and 7 educational experts, totaling 22 participants selected through purposive sampling. The research tools included a document analysis form for cross-cultural literacy, an unstructured interview form, and an evaluation form for assessing the quality of the flexible action learning management process. The results of the research found that: 1) Study the process of flexible action learning management to promote cross-cultural literacy of junior high school students, it was found that teaching and learning for students to have cross-cultural literacy is necessary to enable students to know the history of and the differences of each culture Focuses on providing students with a good level of knowledge about culture. Including having creative ideas They can also become more aware of cross-cultural literacy. and be able to adapt to the current world situation that is both culturally diverse Including adapting to be able to live with the world that "Globalization" has had a great influence on society. 2) Propose guidelines for flexible action learning management to promote cross-cultural literacy of junior high school students, it was found that the researcher had synthesized a flexible action learning management process to promote cross-cultural literacy called The PLPP Model of flexible action learning management process consists of (1) Plan, (2) Learn, (3) Practice and (4) Progress and there are results for evaluating suitability included at a high level.
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- 2024
18. Community-Engaged Knowledge Mobilization for Health Equity: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of the City Symposium Series
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C. Nadine Wathen, James Shelley, Makayla N. Gomes, Aya Moham, and Jennifer C. D. MacGregor
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Finding ways to move knowledge-to-impact is a key priority for research funding agencies, universities, and academics. However, academic engagement with the broader community is not without tensions and challenges, including arriving at mutual benefit and relevance, and addressing power dynamics and often incompatible communication practices. This study used a mixed-methods approach to examine a unique event series of public dialogues that brought together diverse community and academic perspectives around health equity issues. Findings suggest the series successfully merged strategies from both the knowledge mobilization and citizen engagement/public involvement domains to spark conversations in one community regarding health equity and social justice. We provide initial descriptive evidence that the format was successful in achieving its proximate goals, and was appreciated by those who participated and attended. We position this type of activity as a promising strategy to effectively bring academic research to the broader local community.
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- 2024
19. Community-Based Explorations and Visual Literacies: A Key Interplay to Enhance Writing Skills in Early High School Students
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Johanna Marcela Sabogal Bedoya and Norma Constanza Durán Narvaez
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This paper presents the outcomes and findings of a qualitative study aimed to describe the effects of combining visual literacies with Community-Based Pedagogies (CBP) to enhance writing skills in early high school learners. The data was gathered through community mapping reports, a needs analysis instrument, students' artifacts, a focus group, and teacher's field notes. This action research revealed how students, through systematic and consistent work, were smoothly guided in the writing process with the help of visual elements that served as triggers or supporters to produce short texts in which their voices were relevant by exploring their context and portraying their realities. The triangulation of the different instruments within the grounded analysis (Saunders et al., 2012), indicated a rise in the students' quantity and quality of the writing production in the foreign language and a learners' genuine interest in writing assuming an active role. Based on the available findings, they contribute significantly to nurturing English language teaching practices in public schools by boosting students' writing skills through the cognizant use of information about the surrounding contexts combined with visual stimuli as a valuable source.
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- 2024
20. Arguing for Access: Teachers' Perspectives on the Use of Argumentation in Elementary Mathematics
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Cathy Marks Krpan and Gurpreet Sahmbi
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This study investigates teachers' perspectives on the use of a mathematical argumentation teaching strategy in elementary mathematics in which students disprove mathematical statements they already know to be false. Mathematical argumentation is a process through which students develop an argument about a mathematical concept and rationalize its truth or untruth through mathematical reasoning but is if often underused in mathematics. In this study we focused on a argumentation tasks which involved providing students with number statements which they already knew to be false, and inviting them to argue, using visuals, numeric notation, and/or written explanations, why it was false. Through practical action research, seven teachers from two different schools implemented this approach in their mathematics programs to one hundred and thirty-one students over the course of five months. Findings indicate this approach was easy to implement, improved student engagement, supported learners who struggled and deepened students' mathematical knowledge. We believe that this approach can be used as a precursor to more formal proofs and provide more access for teachers and students in exploring mathematical proofs in elementary classrooms.
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- 2024
21. The Effect of Flipped Classroom Audiovisual Content on Students' Talking Time and Speaking Skills in an Adult EFL Class
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Javier Rojas Serrano
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This action research report explores the effect of a "flipped learning" strategy on adult EFL students' speaking skills. Flipped learning, or inverted learning, reverses the traditional educational model where students learn in class and practice out of it; flipped learning promotes the students' learning of concepts and theories out of the classroom that is later practiced and applied in class under the teacher's guidance. The primary hypothesis was that by flipping grammar explanations, students would be more prepared and have more time to interact in English and use the structures in class. This research revealed that flipped learning helped to increase student talking time in class and accuracy in grammar use. Furthermore, it shows evidence that using flipped audiovisual materials poses advantages and challenges that can potentially boost learning inside and outside the classroom.
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- 2024
22. Synergies between Creative Strategies and Participatory Behaviors in Workplace Training
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Teresa Varela
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This article reflects on analyzing and understanding the articulation between creative processes in art education and the development of training for a culture of social and cultural citizenship. The methodology of projects developed in Workplace Training over two academic years involved two 12th-grade secondary specialized art classes. The realization of the projects, based on the action-research methodology, sought the student's participation and involvement in the decision-making of the activities as co-authors in their learning and cooperation with the teachers. Direct observation and interviews with the participants were the main instruments for the data collection. The analysis data used the NVivo program. This study argues on the sociocultural theories of creativity (Glaveanu, 2013; Beghetto, 2016), citizenship and educational contexts (Eça, 2010; Caetano & Freire, 2014), and the context of Art Education (Eça et al., 2012; Eça, 2014; Ramirez, 2016). The main results revealed an interdependent relationship between creative processes and citizenship practices, increased knowledge, and capacities capable of promoting collaborative creativity (Burnard & Dragovic, 2015). These results will allow this relational dynamic to develop and transform through social interactions and situated contexts, with evidence of communication between all those involved, with openness to social and cultural diversity, to generate other possibilities for synergy.
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- 2024
23. Evaluation of Units Established for Curriculum Support: A Collaborative Action Research
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Sükran Tok, Sevda Dolapçioglu, and Kudret Öztürk
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The curriculum includes educational activities that determine the struggle for survival and sustainability of a university's departments. Approaches that seek more flexible solutions and have a post-positivist understanding are needed to manage this system. One of these approaches is action research, first used by Kurt Lewin (1946) to solve social problems. In this study, four offices were established to make the curriculum at a state university in Turkey more Support office operations, collaboration, consultation, continuous improvement cycle, and problem identification (needs assessment). This research, which lasted for two years, has provided important services to participants in addressing current difficulties in office operations.
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- 2024
24. Reclaiming Civic Life in Schools: Lessons on Contesting Anti-Black Adultism through Acts of Solidarity
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Ryan Oto and Amina Smaller
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In this article, we illustrate and address how anti-Blackness and adultism work together in an interlocking form of oppression we call anti-Black adultism. Situated in Amina's (youth author) lived experiences of school, we offer counter-stories that show the ways that educators employed anti-Black adultism to render Amina's civic life incompatible with the academic learning of school and imposed adult-framings of academic success on her as a way to control her in school. We then detail our shared experiences in an affinity group space and youth research project to offer the ways that anti-Black adultism can be disrupted through acts of solidarity. We conclude with lessons for adults to trouble anti-Black adultism to sustain intergenerational work toward racial justice in schools.
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- 2024
25. The Intersection of Student Assessment and Faculty Learning
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Lorry-Ann Austin, Alana Hoare, Kimberley Thomas-Francois, Thomas Pypker, and Le Anh Nguyen Cao
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The primary aim of institutional learning outcomes assessment is the creation of a culture of assessment where faculty use evidence-based data to validate and improve teaching and learning for the benefit of students. Faculty are key to these processes and yet, they are often woefully disengaged from them. This paper presents findings from an action research project that utilized a collaborative self-study approach to engage faculty in the strategic assessment of institutional learning (SAIL). SAIL is an immersive professional development opportunity that bridged quality assurance with meaningful improvements in the classroom. Findings indicated that cross-disciplinary dialogue about assessment increased faculty awareness of the (mis)alignment between course, program, and institutional learning aims while also identifying and informing potential gaps in curriculum and program design. SAIL is an excellent mechanism to engage faculty in an immersive assessment of student achievement that may then lead to meaningful improvement in teaching and learning.
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- 2024
26. Reimagining Brave Spaces in Philadelphia: Intergenerational Community Partnerships for Change
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Faith Applegate, Jen Fre, Ariana Jiménez, and Nina Wang
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This piece documents the collaboration between a team of four University of Pennsylvania students and seven youth partners from across the Greater Philadelphia area who came together to discuss, understand, and take action toward civic issues impacting their communities. As youth arrived at the Civic Engagement Summer Program, a joint Philadelphia Youth Network and Netter Center for Community Partnerships High School Voter Project iteration, alongside adult facilitators, they navigated the complexities of civic literacy discussions and spaces. Together, the adult facilitators and youth participants engaged in dialogue about local government, pervasive gun violence impacting their communities, and voter registration inequities. This piece centers the following inquiries: What happens when educators consider the self-efficacy youth have with regard to addressing civic issues in their communities? What out-of-school civic literacy spaces and experiences might youth need to feel empowered to use their voices? What are the ways in which youths' existing literacies and knowledge inform the way they talk about the issues they wish to address? What role do local universities have in working with youth through educational forums to learn more about the roles voting and local government play in ameliorating community issues, such as gun violence? Furthermore, this piece considers how these questions arose as the collaborative worked toward shared goals together (Plummer et al., 2019). To address these collaborative inquiries, the team highlights five aspects of the Civic Engagement Summer partnership that enabled facilitators and youth to build trust: sustaining community partnerships, highlighting youths' existing funds of knowledge (Moll et al., 1992), cultivating civic efficacy, reimagining critical civic literacy alongside youth, navigating intergenerational relationships and learning, and centering relationships (Campano, Ghiso & Welch, 2018; Plummer et al., 2019). With youths' consent, this article shares the history of the Civic Engagement Summer, and the discussions and experiences sparked by the 2023 iteration.
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- 2024
27. Improving Primary School Students' Multiplication Ability Using 'Smart Suitcase' Media Assisted by Mathematical Worksheets
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Sri Rejeki, Yoppy Wahyu Purnomo, Mohammad Archi Maulyda, Yasyifa Nurul ‘Aini, and Dea Ayu Ninda Asyifa
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In mathematics, there are four basic operations that students must master from the elementary school level, namely addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. However, some students experience difficulties or misunderstandings in interpreting multiplication as repeated addition. This research aims to improve the learning outcomes of second-grade students on multiplication material in elementary schools. This research used the teacher action research approach with 20 second-grade students at Kepuhan Sewon Public Elementary School as participants. Apart from that, this research used two data collection methods, namely providing mathematical worksheets and observations carried out by special observers. Data analysis was carried out by looking at the students' average scores, reflecting through focus group discussions with observers, and filling in observation sheets by the teacher. Furthermore, the results of this research are presented in the form of teacher observation sheet scores and mathematical worksheets work results. The score results on the observation sheet show an increase in scores from learning in cycle 1 to cycle 2. In addition, the average score of students' mathematical worksheets after intervention in the form of smart suitcase media and mathematical worksheets always increases with pre-cycle details (82), cycle I (93), and cycle II (94). Thus, the use of smart suitcase media assisted by mathematical worksheets has direct implications for improving the learning outcomes of second-grade students in the material of multiplication of integers.
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- 2024
28. Enhancing Students' Conceptual Understanding on Bioenergetics through BEEP Cards
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Camille Lozano Espino
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The study examined the effectiveness of BEEP Cards (BioEnergetics Enhancement Play Cards) on students' conceptual understanding of bioenergetics. The study involved one group of grade 11 students (n=29) from a public secondary school in the Philippines. The study employed a mixed-method research design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data to answer the research questions. Specifically, a one-group pretest-posttest action research design was used in this study. The study used a six-week exposure to the use of BEEP Cards. The quantitative data were obtained from a researcher-made and expert-validated 25item pre- and post-test questionnaire while the qualitative data were secured from focus-group discussions. Dependent samples t-test was used to determine significant differences in students' conceptual understanding of the topic Bioenergetics. Findings revealed a significant difference in the students' conceptual understanding before and after six-week exposure to BEEP Cards. Additionally, responses from focus group discussions imply the effectiveness of BEEP Cards in enhancing students' conceptual understanding. Hence, the utilization of BEEP Cards was found to help enhance students' conceptual understanding and performance in Bioenergetics among the Grade 11 students in a public senior high school in Valenzuela City.
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- 2024
29. Islamic Moderation in Elementary School: Strengthening the Aswaja Annadhliyah Curriculum in Preventing Religious Radicalism
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Hamidulloh Ibda, Andrian Gandi Wijanarko, Farinka Nurrahmah Azizah, Martin Amnillah, and Ahmad Ro’uf
- Abstract
This action research aims to improve teachers' ability to enrich, redesign, develop, and test the "ahlussunah waljamaah" (Aswaja) Annahdliyah curriculum in strengthening Islamic moderation in 25 "madrasah ibtidaiyah" (Islamic elementary schools) in Kedu Caresidenan, Central Java, Indonesia. The method used was participatory action research modeled by Stephen Kemmis, Robin McTaggart, and Rhonda Nixon, an experimental type of action research. The research findings state that Islamic moderation through strengthening the Aswaja Annahdliyah curriculum is carried out by enriching and redesigning the curriculum in the aspects of objectives, content/materials, methods/activities, and assessment/evaluation. The form of strengthening the Aswaja Annahdliyah curriculum is carried out by developing a curriculum by providing material on the basic principles of Aswaja, Ukhuwah Nahdliyah, and Mabadi Khaira Ummah in the aspects of "fikrah" (thought), "aqidah" (belief), "harakah" (movement), and "amaliyah" (worship practices). As a result, teachers know the depth and breadth of the curriculum in terms of objectives, content, methods, and evaluation at the level of "fikrah," "aqidah," "harakah," and "amaliyah," determining basic competencies, operational verbs, materials, material enrichment, and selecting appropriate learning models, methods, strategies, and media. Future research needs to explore curriculum strengthening for Aswaja Annahdliyah at the high school or university level.
- Published
- 2024
30. Teaching Algebra to a Grade 7 Student: Action Research Intervention
- Author
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Gembo Tshering
- Abstract
Algebra is critical in shaping future mathematics success and is integral to the K-12 curriculum. Despite its inclusion, a common challenge arises as students' progress to higher grades without a solid foundation, resulting in challenging learning experiences. This action research study focuses on the algebraic learning experience of a Grade 7 student. The research explores various teaching and learning approaches, including consideration of cognitive development milestones, real-world applications, interactive learning, differentiated instruction, personalized learning plans, technology integration, and innovative assessment methods. Findings suggest that aligning instructional methods with cognitive development, incorporating real-world applications, facilitating interactive learning, offering differentiated instruction, personalizing learning plans, integrating technology, and utilizing innovative assessment approaches enhance the engagement and comprehension of algebraic concepts.
- Published
- 2024
31. The Effect of Teachers' Age on Their Beliefs about Action Research: Implications for Second Language Education
- Author
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Vahid Rahmani Doqaruni
- Abstract
Despite the growing body of studies on action research (AR) in second/foreign language (L2) education, little is known about teachers' beliefs about AR among different age groups. Hence, this study investigates whether L2 teachers' beliefs about AR vary by considering teachers' age. The Inventory on Teachers' Beliefs about Action Research (ITBAR) is a specifically designed questionnaire to investigate the matter and was distributed to 157 Iranian ELT teachers. Then 120 teachers were randomly divided into three age groups, namely starters (20-34 years), middle-aged (35-49 years), and seniors (50+). A one-way ANOVA test was used to test whether the difference among the groups was significant. The findings showed that teachers can experience age effects in the demanding teaching profession. According to the data, younger teachers had the highest mean scores for their beliefs about AR in comparison to their middle-aged and senior colleagues. This might be attributed to the different perspectives of these teachers toward professional development, the role of pre-service teacher programs, and the familiarity of senior teachers with the limitations of conducting AR in real classroom contexts. It is then suggested that designing collaborative AR projects between beginning and senior teachers and institutional support might lead to more fruitful and positive results.
- Published
- 2024
32. Configuring Collocations and Prepositions in Essay Writing through a Corpus-Based Strategy
- Author
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Leonardo Alba-López
- Abstract
The correct use of collocations and prepositions plays an essential role in writing. Previous research has demonstrated that students, who master these lexical elements, have a better language awareness, improve their reading and listening comprehension, and are more creative when making a composition. However, little specific work has been done in this regard in Colombia, especially with adolescents. This action research study explores the affordances of a corpus in English as a foreign language writing of fourteen students at the high school level. Surveys, teacher's journals, and classroom artifacts were used to collect data. Findings show that the corpus contributed positively to L2 writing in two ways. The participants could self-correct their mistakes associated with the use of collocations and prepositions, and the tool amplified participants' autonomy, decision-making, and data analysis skills. Although a corpus represents an alternative for error correction processes, it requires a well-structured instructional design process to deal with difficulties related to using commands derived from a corpus-based strategy.
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- 2024
33. Asynchronous Interaction in an Online Course: Examining Dynamics from the Action Research Perspective
- Author
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Ebubekir Kaba, Engin Kursun, Alper Aslan, and Yigit Emrah Turgut
- Abstract
This action research aims to investigate the determinants of asynchronous interaction among students, interaction between students and instructors, and interaction with course content in an online learning environment. The study involves fifteen graduate students from a state university as participants. The research employed multiple data collection instruments, including commission meeting reports, focus-group sessions, semi-structured interviews, observation forms, emails, video recordings, researchers' diaries, and system log records. The content analysis method was employed for data analysis. The findings revealed that in learner-learner interaction, instructional method, notifications, technical issues, and individual problems exert discernible effects. For learner-instructor interaction, feedback, instructional methods, and the utilization of diverse communication channels were identified as influential factors. Moreover, technical problems, time constraints, and system usability emerged as key elements shaping learner-content interaction. Notably, learners' personal preferences, encompassing attitudes toward the online course and time management, manifested both positive and negative effects across all interaction types. The study has concluded that assignments with open access, star-based scoring, and mobile notifications enhance learner-learner interaction. Instant feedback from instructors and notifications initiated by instructors enhances learner-instructor interaction. Overall, optimal system usability and minimal technical issues contribute substantively to augmenting learner-content interaction.
- Published
- 2024
34. The Contribution of Board Games to Pre-Kindergarten Students' Oral Production
- Author
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Leslie Werlinger B. and Maria-Jesus Inostroza A.
- Abstract
During the last decades, global interest in learning English as a foreign language has increased, encouraging countries to include it in school education. This trend was followed by the Chilean Ministry of Education, which suggests teaching English based on a communicative approach starting in early childhood education. To foster students' learning, it is imperative to acknowledge that children learn differently than older learners and that English as a foreign language teachers should be able to identify their needs and implement age-appropriate strategies. This article reports the action research findings that explore the contribution of board games, memory, and bingo on pre-kindergarten students' oral expression when participating in English lessons. A group of 19 children aged four from a private school in Concepción, Chile, took part in this study by playing online and board bingo, and memory games. Data were gathered by qualitative methods, such as an observation checklist, a semi-structured interview applied to thein co-teacher, and group interviews carried out with students at the end of the intervention. The group and semi-structured interview data were analyzed through the thematic data analysis technique, along with frequency data analysis used to process the observational checklists. The results show that students increased their English oral production when games were implemented in their lessons.
- Published
- 2024
35. Pedagogies of Well-Being: A Narrative Perspective to Explore Two English Student-Teachers' Experiences
- Author
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Diego Ubaque-Casallas
- Abstract
This article reports on a series of narrative events extracted from an action research methodology that explores teaching practices and pedagogical experiences to foster well-being in English language student-teachers. Although the study adopted an action research methodology, it does not account for the implementation of the pedagogical process per se. Instead, it resorts to its stages (i.e., planning, reflecting, and acting) to situate the narrative events regarding well-being. The study was conducted in a public university in Bogotá, Colombia, exploring the experiences of two student-teachers at the practicum stage. The purpose was to document narrative events concerning teaching practices and pedagogical experiences implemented to foster well-being. These experiences reveal that student pteachers engage in thought-affective pedagogies or pedagogies of well-being that coexist with traditional language pedagogy, although they are not cognitive-oriented pedagogies. Interestingly, student-teachers could engage in more human pedagogical practice to see the other not as a learning object but as someone who feels and requires attention and care.
- Published
- 2024
36. Why Teachers Integrate YPAR in Their Teaching: Cultivating Youth Wellbeing, Student Voice, and Social Justice
- Author
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Mary Frances Buckley-Marudas, Rosalinda Godínez, Karmel Abutaleb, Gray Cooper, Margaret Rahill, Drew Retherford, Sarah Schwab, Taylor Zepp, and Adam Voight
- Abstract
In this article, the authors share what they learned from considering a collection of narrative reflections written by six high school educators, all co-authors, who have integrated youth participatory action research (YPAR) into their instructional practice. Taken together, the written reflections shed light on teachers' reasons not only for pursuing YPAR but also for persisting with YPAR in their particular school context. The authors found that all teachers shared a commitment to social justice, yet their individual purposes for engaging with YPAR varied. Drawing on the teachers' written reflections, the authors delve into teachers' motivations for integrating YPAR into their teaching practice in order to conceptualize teachers' reasons for facilitating YPAR in school.
- Published
- 2024
37. Examining 5th Grade Students' Learning on Surface Area Calculations with Realistic Mathematics Education Approach
- Author
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Elif Ertem Akbas and Lütfiye Yildirm
- Abstract
The fact that the mathematics course is abstract, that it is not possible to associate it with daily life, and that it is impossible to concretize abstract expressions causes a prejudice against the this course and leads to a decrease in the academic achievements of students. It is seen that throughout history, various studies have been carried out taking this situation into consideration. A group of these studies is on realistic mathematics education. Realistic mathematics education is an approach that aims to concretize the abstract concepts of mathematics by relating them to real-life situations. The purpose is to make mathematics more understandable by concretizing it. In the study, the subject of calculating the surface area of prisms with the use of realistic mathematics education was taught, and the purpose of the study was to examine the effects of this application. The study group consisted of 20 5th grade students. While determining this group, maximum variety sampling strategy was preferred. In the study, action research, one of the qualitative research methods, was used, and the data were interpreted with the help of descriptive analysis and content analysis. The data collection tools in the study included semi-structured interview forms, video recordings, photos and activity sheets prepared by the students under the guidance of the researcher in accordance with the realistic mathematics education approach. When the findings were examined, it was seen that the students showed a positive development in the meaning and visualization processes; that they could reach mathematical inferences on their own; that they enjoyed the mathematics lesson; and that the realistic mathematics education approach gave positive results on learning. Based on these results, it was suggested that not only the application of the realistic mathematics education approach for different acquisitions but also the inclusion of these activities in the textbooks in accordance with the curriculum will result in improvements in favor of learning.
- Published
- 2024
38. Participatory Learning: Exploring Place-Based Pedagogy for Future Teachers
- Author
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Babita Maharjan, Binod Prasad Pant, and Niroj Dahal
- Abstract
Place-based knowledge, a legacy from our ancestors, is inherently sustainable. However, modern lifestyles have eclipsed this wisdom, leading to environmental issues such as land and water pollution. Similarly, the current pedagogical practices often fail to connect place-based knowledge. It resulted in a deviation of students' contextual learning. Thus, this paper explores the integration of place-based knowledge into pedagogy, fostering students' contextual engagement and promoting sustainable living. The guiding research questions for this study are how can integration of place-based knowledge in the pedagogical practice lead to contextualized learning and sustainability? and how can researchers, teachers, and community members incorporate place-based knowledge into pedagogical practices for contextualized learning and sustainability? This article identifies pertinent issues by subscribing to participatory action research and devises collaborative solutions with teachers, co-researchers, and the community. The study involved four teachers from a seventh-grade class in a school in Lalitpur, Nepal. The findings revealed that integrating place-based pedagogical practices helped students connect with their ancestors' knowledge about their local and its relationship with nature, thereby facilitating contextual knowledge construction. This study asserts that integrating place-based knowledge into pedagogical practices equips learners to effectively address present and future environmental issues.
- Published
- 2024
39. Daily 5 Implementation to Improve ELL Students' Performances
- Author
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Phu Vu and Lan Vu
- Abstract
This paper focuses on an action research project that integrated the "Daily 5" literacy framework into a fourth-grade classroom in a small rural town in Kansas. The study aimed to enhance the literacy skills of English Language Learners (ELL) using the Daily 5 method, which includes five key activities: Read to Self, Work on Writing, Read to Someone, Listen to Reading, and Word Work. The research involved a six-week intervention and used student performance data, including daily assignment scores and oral reading fluency, to assess the impact of this framework on ELL students. The findings indicated significant improvements in students' literacy skills, suggesting the effectiveness of the Daily 5 in this context.
- Published
- 2024
40. Participatory Culture for Social Justice: Students Deploying New Media as a Call to Action and Social Change
- Author
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Sarah McCorkle
- Abstract
This case study explores the teaching experiences of two university faculty members who guided their students through the development of digital media artifacts distributed online for an authentic audience. A sociology instructor guided her students in the creation of artifacts documenting issues of racial inequality on campus. Students presented university data on race and ethnicity, recorded videos depicting the personal narratives of students of color, and remixed media from university archives into an interactive map which displayed evidence of racism on campus. After sharing her classroom experience with colleagues in the law school, a second instructor was inspired to conduct a similar project. Law students developed artifacts to educate the public on the difficulties of immigration and the policy barriers which hamper lawful attempts to immigrate to the United States. Each class curated their artifacts online, invited others to explore the materials, and developed accompanying toolkits to encourage reuse of the materials in both formal and informal educational settings. Halverson's design principles for participatory media spaces are used to frame and make meaning of the faculty participants' experiences.
- Published
- 2024
41. The Experiences of Three Teachers Using Body Biographies for Multimodal Literature Study
- Author
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Cynthia Morawski and Jessica Sokolowski
- Abstract
The body biography, a visual and written life-size composition to study characterization, makes use of a variety of materials such as markers, crayons, and found material from wrapping paper to remnants of string and yarn. In this study, three teachers were invited to implement the body biography practice as part of their delivery of the English curriculum to answer the question, "What are the experiences of three teachers who applied the body biography practice to teach literature in their English classrooms in a secondary school?" The teachers and students appreciated the opportunity for multiple means of expression, inviting the rich literacy experience. As a result of the study, the three participating teachers came to reconsider their instructional agendas to include more multimodal options.
- Published
- 2024
42. Peer Critiquing in Scientific Inquiry: Enhancing Preservice Teachers' Reasoning, Epistemic Knowledge, and Scientific Argumentation through Innovative Teaching Strategies in an Undergraduate Science Content Course
- Author
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Esther Kataate Namakula and Valarie L. Akerson
- Abstract
The study explored the impact of peer critiquing on preservice teachers' understanding of the nature of science, scientific inquiry, and argumentation in an undergraduate science content course. The aim was to investigate innovative teaching strategies that enhance preservice teachers' comprehension of these key aspects. This study showcased implementing these strategies in which the preservice teachers actively critique and evaluate each other's work, fostering a culture of constructive feedback and reflection. Data were collected from 38 preservice teachers from three data sources that included a group argumentation of an assigned environment scenario of the endangered species, a peer critique of a video presentation of the scientific explanation of an individual environmental science topic, and finally a peer critique on someone else's scientific inquiry study that could either be observational or experimental. To achieve this goal, we used the class activities to incorporate new ideas within the classroom by documenting the preservice teachers' practices as they reflect upon their peers' practices. While video critiques indicated a general competency, there was a need for further development in analyzing scientific concepts. The final class critiquing session demonstrated preservice teachers' self-awareness and understanding of the importance of relevant research in scientific inquiry. Peer critiquing activities positively impacted preservice teachers' reasoning skills, as evidenced by their ability to construct well-reasoned arguments and analyze empirical evidence. By examining preservice teachers' experiences and outcomes, we seek to provide valuable insights and recommendations for educators striving to enhance preservice teachers' understanding of the nature of science and scientific inquiry through peer critiquing.
- Published
- 2024
43. How Assessment Choice Affects Student Perception and Performance
- Author
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Sanne Unger and Alanna Lecher
- Abstract
This action research project sought to understand how giving students a choice in how to demonstrate mastery of a reading would affect both grades and evaluations of the instructor, given that assessment choice might increase student engagement. We examined the effect of student assessment choice on grades and course evaluations, the two assessment options being a reading quiz or a two-minute video recording of themselves "recalling" what they could about the text (a "recall"). In Year 1, students were required to complete a multiple-choice reading quiz, with the option to complete a recall video for the opportunity to revise essays (revision tokens). In Year 2, students were allowed to choose whether they submitted a recall video or a quiz, with the option to submit the other to earn revision tokens. The data included student submissions, grades, and course evaluations. Students completed more recall assignments when the recall replaced the quiz requirement than during Year 1 when recalls only earned the students revision tokens. In addition, the instances of students completing both the quiz and recall increased in Year 2. Average course grades did not change from year to year, but students with higher course grades were significantly more likely to have completed recalls in both years. Student evaluations of the instructor were significantly higher for "responses to diverse learning styles" in Year 2 compared to Year 1. The study shows that letting students choose the assessment type they prefer can lead to increased student engagement and improve their perception of the instructor's responsiveness to learning styles, without causing grade inflation.
- Published
- 2024
44. Give Every (Wo)Man Thy Voice: An Examination of the Application of Participatory Action Research to the Pedagogical Practice of Socratic Seminars
- Author
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Ashley C. Hart and Jess Smith
- Abstract
In envisioning the future of literacy, students' voices are paramount. Students' engagement in classroom talk increases their learning and communication skills, but without intentional implementation, classroom talk can perpetuate hegemony in contemporary classrooms. To better explore this phenomenon, we developed a study in a southeast Texas high school to examine the experiences of lower socioeconomic status female students. The study used a Participatory Action Research (PAR) method, thus encouraging student voice. The findings indicated that female students respond well to Socratic seminar, which can encourage students to take ownership of their learning and be more engaged in classroom conversations. The key themes included (1) establishing space, (2) teacher impact and influence, and (3) teacher progression. The article ends with recommendations and suggestions for teachers to cultivate gender-inclusive and equitable classroom environments, such as honoring student perspectives, encouraging critical feedback, engaging in self-reflection, and transitioning to more student-led activities.
- Published
- 2024
45. Participatory and Place-Based Socioeconomic Knowledge Generation: An Experience in Community-Based Research Pedagogy
- Author
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Jessica Palka
- Abstract
This article uses fieldnotes along with student and practitioner feedback to recount the challenges, benefits, and broader learnings of engaging master's students in a participatory research seminar. The students developed research proposals about a real-world socioeconomic challenge with and for local practitioners. Proposals were consistent with the principles and practices of participatory action research (PAR). The planning, implementation, and assessment of this course was informed by feminist scientific philosophies of collaboration, situatedness, partiality, accountability, and a sensitivity to power dynamics. In line with both PAR and SoTL principles, there was an explicit emphasis on partnership, reflexivity, and broad forms of learning in both the classroom and practitioner meetings. The students were challenged by the unfamiliarity of the research approach, the need to navigate a new way of working directly with stakeholders, as well as the responsibility to the community that participatory approaches espouse. Despite the challenges, the students were eager to soak up local knowledges, reflect on their role as researchers, and contribute constructively if they could.
- Published
- 2024
46. Teachers' Doing Action Research, Learning and Changing: Claims and Practicality
- Author
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Firdissa Jebessa Aga
- Abstract
The study investigated the extent to which teachers who practiced action research changed in light of the new knowledge they gained from their research. A mix of qualitative and quantitative data were collected using a questionnaire, interviews, and focus group discussions from teachers of English as a foreign language at three Ethiopian public universities. The results showed that the teachers who did action research gained knowledge and skills for the betterment of themselves and their practices in various ways. The instrumental role of action research for enhancing the teachers' learning experiences, knowledge, skills, thinking, and teaching practices, as well as their students' learning, were highly valued by the teachers. A Pearson's correlation analysis showed there was a positive association between the teachers' actual practice of action research and their change (r = 0.38, P < 0.025). Action research and change progressed in the same direction. As the P-value was low (< 5%), the influence of chance was unlikely, and the obtained correlation coefficient was statistically significant. The results imply that action research as a practical philosophy of teachers is a powerful tool for personal and professional development for those who engage in the process and who have a stake in the results. This calls for revitalizing action research as part of teaching and learning, wherein teachers are empowered and committed to take initiative and base their teaching on action research results for the purpose of transforming themselves, their practices, and their learners.
- Published
- 2024
47. Inclusive Education Based on Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in Elementary School
- Author
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Hamidulloh Ibda, Andrian Gandi Wijanarko, Muhammad Naufal Hilmi, Sufi Saniatul Mabruroh, Arjaul Anzakhi, and Trifka Dila Fadhilah
- Abstract
This article describes inclusive education based on gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) in elementary schools. The research was conducted because the school work plan for inclusive education has not yet included gender equality, disability and social inclusion in elementary schools in Central Java, Indonesia. Elementary school managers still adhere to an exclusive and segregated paradigm, and they are not one hundred per cent inclusive in managing elementary schools. This impacts gender bias, injustice to children with disabilities, and the lack of social inclusion. The research used the participatory action research method through the empowerment of 20 school principals under the Educational Institution Ma'arif Nahdlatul Ulama of Central Java, Indonesia, with the stages of introduction, inculturation, team organizing, action planning, action, evaluation, and reflection. The research findings state that the inclusive education program based on GEDSI is a program prepared in the school work plan by including elements of gender justice, disability, and social inclusion in the standards of content, process, graduate competencies, educators and education personnel, facilities and infrastructure, management, financing, and assessment. The implementation of inclusive education based on GEDSI in 20 elementary schools is carried out through annual programs, semester programs and learning activities. The implementation of this program involves all stakeholders in the school, from the head to the students. Future research must explore inclusive education based on GEDSI in the curriculum and technical aspects of learning.
- Published
- 2024
48. Building Bridges: Strengthening University-School Relationships through Service-Learning
- Author
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Jason P. Edwards
- Abstract
This qualitative dissertation aimed to understand if an after-school kinesiology service-learning program changed the relationship between a large Research I institution and a local public school. Eight 7th- and 8th-grade students, three classroom teachers, and one administrator participated. Data collection methods included semistructured individual interviews, observational field notes, and reflective memos. Findings suggested that school staff perceived a positive relationship between the university and the school district but a complicated one between the university and the city. Participating teachers and school leaders believed the service-learning program positively impacted their students and helped strengthen the relationship between the university and the school. The study also highlighted the importance of effective communication in university-school partnerships and uncovered challenges in communication concerning the service-learning program. The middle school students perceived benefits from receiving academic support, and school participants felt that the relationships formed between the university and middle school students were impactful.
- Published
- 2024
49. Exploring the Multifaceted Roles of English for Specific Purposes Practitioners within the Transformative Paradigm in Higher Education
- Author
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Traithana Chaovanapricha and Wilawan Champakaew
- Abstract
This academic article, utilizing an analytical literature review, aimed to explore the multifaceted roles of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) practitioners. It was found that there were five key roles responsible by the practitioners: (1) teaching; (2) course designing and material providing; (3) researching; (4) collaborating; and (5) evaluating. Performing the teaching role, practitioners facilitate learning, integrate subject-specific content, and foster authentic communication. As course designers and material providers, ESP practitioners adopt language-centered, skills-centered, and learning-centered approaches, as well as the cyclical process of needs analysis, ensuring relevance and authenticity in their courses. ESP practitioners, in their role as researchers, actively participate in action research to develop their professional identities within the ESP context. Collaboration with subject teachers and colleagues also emerges as a crucial aspect, ranging from cooperation to team-teaching, with associated challenges. Lastly, ESP practitioners serve as evaluators, assessing teaching methods, materials, and student learning outcomes, emphasizing fair and constructive evaluation aligned with academic and professional achievements. The discussion highlights the dynamic and comprehensive nature of ESP practitioners' responsibilities, requiring ongoing adaptation and improvement in response to the evolving demands of ESP instruction. Moreover, clear national educational and language policies of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) countries should be emphasized to succeed in their ESP education.
- Published
- 2024
50. Integrated Learning, Integrated Lives: Highlighting Opportunities for Transformative SEL within Academic Instruction. Social and Emotional Learning Innovations Series
- Author
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Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), Heather N. Schwartz, Ally Skoog-Hoffman, Joe Polman, Olivia Kelly, Josefina Bañales, and Rob Jagers
- Abstract
The SEL Innovations series aims to help the field imagine new, more expansive and equitable approaches to social and emotional learning (SEL) and wellness to ensure that all children, adolescents, and adults feel safe, supported, and seen so that they can thrive. This is the second report in a series exploring innovations in SEL. The purpose of the report is to highlight the importance of systemic, integrated SEL in classrooms, where the goal is to foster supportive classroom environments wherein educators teach explicit SEL and integrate SEL throughout academic instruction by weaving deep academic learning with opportunities for students to understand their own emotions, empathize with diverse perspectives, solve problems constructively, and make decisions while considering the needs of others. The authors briefly explore the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) model for SEL before critically examining the literature around inquiry-based learning opportunities. The focus is on two inquiry-based approaches to learning, Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), which show promise as examples of integrated, systemic approaches to SEL by allowing students to be authors and co-designers in their own learning. Next, conditions necessary to enact inquiry-based approaches in the classroom are explored. Lastly, they share a set of case studies illustrating what inquiry-based learning opportunities, specifically PBL and YPAR, can look like in practice. In this way, the goal is to provide both inspiration and practical application for educators, program providers, and researchers looking to continue to move the conversation forward, integrate new strategies into their programs or practices, and expand their research agendas.
- Published
- 2023
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