Search Results (2,755)

In an increasingly globalized world, the development of language skills and intercultural empathy has become crucial for effective communication and collaboration across diverse societies. Virtual worlds offer a unique and immersive environment to address these needs through innovative educational approaches. This study explores the impact of multi-user interactions, group work, and simulations within virtual worlds on language learning and the development of intergroup empathy. Two distinct research projects were conducted, involving 241 participants aged 19–45. The language learning study engaged 116 participants in diverse interactive experiences, while the intercultural study had 125 participants collaborating in multicultural groups and participating in perspective-taking simulations. Both studies employed qualitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, and observations. The findings suggest that the combination of networking strategies, collaborative learning, and simulations within virtual worlds contributes to improvements in learners’ language proficiency, confidence, and empathy towards diverse social groups. Participants reported increased motivation and engagement, which was attributed to the immersive and interactive nature of the virtual environments. These studies highlight the importance of collaboration and reflection in facilitating language acquisition and intercultural understanding. Technical challenges were identified as potential barriers to implementation. The results demonstrate the potential of virtual worlds to enhance language education and foster empathy in diverse societies, offering valuable insights for educators and researchers. However, the findings may be limited by the specific contexts and sample sizes of these studies, warranting further research to explore the generalizability and long-term impact of virtual world interventions and not exaggerate the main conclusions. Full article

Building information modelling (BIM) is an appreciated technology in the field of architecture and construction management. Collaboration of information in BIM has not been fully utilized in the structural engineering stream as many engineers keep on working with previous prevailing design approaches. Failure to adequately facilitate automation in design could lead to structural defects, construction rework, or even structural clashes, with major financial implications. Given the inherent complexity of large-scale construction projects, the ‘manual design and detailing’ of structure is a challenging task and prone to human errors. Against this backdrop, this study developed a 4D building information management approach to facilitate automated structural models for professionals designing all the elements required in reinforced concrete (RC) structures like slabs, beams, and columns. The main contribution of this study is to obtain structural models directly from architecture models automatically, which reduces effort and possible errors in the previous prevailing approaches. The framework enables execution of all the model design works automatically through coding. This is achieved by executing a script which is beneficial for integrated project delivery (IPD). The 3D structural model in BIM software presented in this study extracts and transfers the geometrical data and links these data in Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) files using integration facilitated by Python 3.6 and IFCopenshell. The developed automated programme framework offers a cost-effective and accurate methodology to address the limitations and inefficiencies of traditional methods of structural modelling, which had been carried out manually. The authors have developed a novel tool to extract structural models from architectural models without proprietary software, greatly benefiting BIM managers by enhancing 3D BIM models. This advancement toward Open BIM, crucial for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry’s future, is accessible to educators and beginners and highlights BIM’s effectiveness in improving structural analysis and productivity. The core finding of this study is to generate a structural model from an architecture model by automating the script with Python integration of IFC and IFCopenshell. The merits of the developed framework are reduced clashes, more economical structural modelling, and fully automated smart work as functions of the IPD. Full article

The research described in this case study features a cohort of five exchange students from post-secondary institutions in Norway and the United States who collaboratively engaged in a project-based learning experience infused with aspects of place-based education, lesson study, and the pedagogical technique “students as partners”. The students were tasked with crafting an interdisciplinary lesson combining mathematics and environmental science to address a localized problem in the Southeastern United States. This study reflects on how the students participated in project-based learning as well as the instructional practices that supported student engagement. Students identified an increase in understanding of interdisciplinary and multicultural Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, a broader understanding of instructional practices, and exposure to educational research. Data were collected throughout the study using a variety of techniques, including discussion posts, collaborative documents, and reflections to gauge student experience and project progress. The results provide evidence to support the use of project-based learning in postsecondary STEM classrooms and emphasize the benefits of engaging students in curriculum development. Full article

Monitoring the learning process during task solving through different channels will facilitate a better understanding of the learning process. This understanding, in turn, will provide teachers with information that will help them to offer individualised education. In the present study, monitoring was carried out during the execution of a task applied in a self-regulated virtual environment. The data were also analysed using data fusion techniques. The objectives were as follows: (1) to examine whether there were significant differences between students in cognitive load (biomarkers: fixations, saccades, pupil diameter, galvanic skin response—GSR), learning outcomes and perceived student satisfaction with respect to the type of degree (health sciences vs. engineering; and (2) to determine whether there were significant differences in cognitive load metrics, learning outcomes and perceived student satisfaction with respect to task presentation (visual and auditory vs. visual). We worked with a sample of 31 university students (21 health sciences and 10 biomedical engineering). No significant differences were found in the biomarkers (fixations, saccades, pupil diameter and GSR) or in the learning outcomes with respect to the type of degree. Differences were only detected in perceived anxiety regarding the use of virtual laboratories, being higher in biomedical engineering students. Significant differences were detected in the biomarkers of the duration of use of the virtual laboratory and in some learning outcomes related to the execution and presentation of projects with respect to the variable form of the visualisation of the laboratory (visual and auditory vs. visual). Also, in general, the use of tasks presented in self-regulated virtual spaces increased learning outcomes and perceived student satisfaction. Further studies will delve into the detection of different forms of information processing depending on the form of presentation of learning tasks. Full article

This study underscores the crucial role of architectural education and oversight in managing reused historic houses as tourist accommodations in a sustainable manner. It employs a unique methodology to establish authenticity and sustainability principles in conservation and tourism development, specifically in the reused accommodation business, and to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of current practices in Iran. Focusing on two reused houses in Isfahan City, which were honored in the conservation category of the Memar Awards, the most prestigious Iranian architecture award, this study assesses and contrasts their post-conservation life under the influence of architect and non-architect managers. Data were collected through on-site observations, documentation reviews, and questionnaires and then evaluated using a mixed-methods approach that complies with the criteria set by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This study’s findings both emphasize the significance of management’s impact on preserving and enhancing conservation outcomes and identify the primary factors contributing to the unsustainability and failure of this project in Iran. As a result, a model has been developed for a successful project of this type to preserve the values of cultural heritage buildings and their surroundings, if effectively implemented. This model applies to similar cases in different contexts, making this study’s findings highly relevant and valuable. Full article

Design plays an integral role in shaping our everyday lives by providing and mediating the objects and relationships we surround ourselves with. As we find our lifestyles inherently unsustainable, design is therefore also implicated. If design is to fully address this issue and meaningfully contribute to future sustainable lifestyles, then it must undergo significant transformation. Part of this transformation must include design education. While many agree on the necessary transformation of design education, disagreements arise as to what this new education might entail and, significantly, how it might be implemented. This article explores how transformations happen in design education and to what extent such education should tackle significant societal issues, including sustainability, amid the increasing complexity and interdependence of modern-day challenges. It investigates practical issues around implementing such education, its challenges and opportunities, as well as how geographical location might help or hinder through aspects such as social or cultural tendencies, infrastructures or regulation and historical context. To this end, six in-depth interviews were conducted with educators at the forefront of this transformation in Scandinavia, most of whom have established courses and programs that address systemic problems and engage students in reflecting and designing to mitigate current challenges. The analysis of interviews utilised an emergent coding method. It led to four important findings that require attention when considering sustainable design education. The findings are (1) these transformations are often driven by impassioned and visionary individuals, (2) new variants of design must incorporate collaborations at all scales and in various formats, (3) increased responsibility arises from immersion in collaborative projects concerning long-term visions, values, and continuity in design beyond current practices and finally, (4) there are some unresolved tensions found in the balance of practical, reflective, and analytical skills needed. At a more abstract level, this paper positions design education as a significant force in transitioning to sustainable futures. Full article

Herbaria phycological collections have approximately one million 700 thousand specimens preserved in European herbaria, a significantly lower number when compared to vascular plants, due to factors such as greater sampling difficulty and fewer specialists. Several studies report that coastal systems have undergone dramatic ecological changes in the last 150 years, with macroalgae being a particularly affected group. Thus, macroalgal herbaria are essential sources for the study and conservation of this biodiversity, as well as a pillar that responds to several ecological questions. Despite having a large coastline, Portugal’s phycological collections are scarce, poorly developed, and practically inaccessible digitally. In 2021/2022, all the phycological specimens present at LISI were the focus of this exploratory project whose objective was to catalog them, taxonomically review the specimens and place them at the service of the scientific community through the incorporation of digitized vouchers into online databases. Three marine collections were constituted and studied, accounting for a total of 852 vouchers and more than 1800 specimens, being the Portuguese Marine Macroalgae Collection, the oldest digitized phycological collection available in Portugal. This project provides an opportunity for other educational institutions to embrace their long-neglected collections as well. Full article

The global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) has necessitated a paradigm shift in engineering education, emphasizing hands-on experiences and innovative learning approaches. This review article presents a comprehensive analysis of the design and fabrication process of an educational EV prototype, highlighting its significance in preparing future engineers for the rapidly evolving EV industry. The article delves into the historical development and recent trends in EVs, providing context for the growing importance of practical skills in this field. A detailed examination of the key components and systems in modern EVs, such as battery packs, electric motors, transmission systems, and chassis design, lays the foundation for understanding the complexities involved in EV prototype development. The methodology section explores the research approach, conceptual design, simulations, material selection, and construction techniques employed in the creation of an educational EV prototype. The evaluation and testing phase assesses the prototype’s performance, safety, and reliability, offering valuable insights into the lessons learned and areas for improvement. The impact of such projects on engineering education is discussed, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning experiences and interdisciplinary collaboration in preparing students for future careers in the EV industry. The article concludes by addressing common challenges faced during EV prototype projects and providing recommendations for future educational initiatives in this field. Full article

Citizen science is considered one of the most appropriate tools to raise public awareness of environmental issues. With the aim of improving knowledge on river environments, this article presents a web application for mobile phones and other portable devices that allows, through the active participation of society, the collection of detailed and systematic information on the main problems facing rivers. The initiative uses a web viewer (Tagus Web Viewer—TagusWV) developed as a pilot project in the Tagus River basin (Spain). This web viewer allows information on river pressures to be collected and the aggregated data to be visualised and extracted for interpretation and analysis. Pressure is defined as any use or activity, legal/illegal, authorised/unauthorised, that has an impact on water quality, morphology, river dynamics or the ecosystem. The data are mainly collected by different groups of citizens. In addition to contributing to the environmental education of citizens involved in a river environment, the data provided in the TagusWV are of particular interest to river managers. The tool is designed to be relevant for any river basin in the world, by simply loading the map, the names of the rivers and the corresponding locations. Full article

Despite the increased use of diagnostic imaging in Africa, the completion of the Radiology Request Form (RRF) remains suboptimal, often relying on paper-based communication. To examine the practices surrounding RRF completion in the African continent, on 25 March 2024, we conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles describing the practice in African settings. Non-African studies, studies involving non-human subjects, and articles examining the practice of the RRF for interventional usage were excluded. Our search involves PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online. The included studies were 3004, of which 30 met the inclusion criteria. These studies span eight countries and highlighted several shortcomings, including the usage of informal forms, unconventional abbreviations, illegibility, inaccuracy, and the lack of important fields from institutional forms, commonly the last menstrual period and the referrer’s contact details. We also found widespread non-compliance in all RRF fields; half of the studies did not have an adequately filled form. Incomplete RRFs lead to delayed imaging, increased workloads for radiographers and radiologists, and potential misdiagnoses due to insufficient information. It will also impede the application of radiation protection principles. To address these challenges, empowering radiographers and radiologists and encouraging best practices is essential. Regular audits and educational initiatives aimed at clinicians are recommended. While transitioning to a paperless communication system might help, implementing nationwide quality improvement projects to standardise radiology request forms is currently more feasible. Full article

Rural education is a strategic sector for rural revival projects. The presence and state of rural schools is an indicator on the sustainability of rural communities in its economic, social, and ecosystemic interactions. This study explores the Chilean case as it shows a movement in student mobility towards rural schools. Based on new data from the Ministry of Education, the study shows that primary school students indicate a shift in tutors and families’ preferences for rural schools, as rural schools’ enrolment has increased by 1% in the 2015–2020 period. In the context of a market-based education system, the data indicate a process in which rural systems are seen as viable alternatives for families. There is a clear landmark in rural mobility during the pandemic years; however, the study concludes that there is no indication of a catalyst for migration different from previous years or signs of rural revival yet. We suggest that further studies should be conducted to map how this trend may be replicating in different countries and geographies, as well as to ponder its implications for rural communities and its capacity to harbor urban out-migration. Full article

Cyberbullying is a growing problem in the Italian educational sector, with a prevalence of 17%. This study analyzes its impact on the psychosocial well-being and academic performance of Italian adolescents. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 502 students from six schools in different Italian regions, using the European Cyberbullying Intervention Project Questionnaire (ECIPQ) to assess cyberbullying, in addition to collecting data on satisfaction, friends, and academic performance. Chi-square and ANOVA analyses were conducted to identify significant associations between the variables. Results: The analyses showed significant associations between cyberbullying and gender and in psychosocial well-being, with significant differences in personal satisfaction and body satisfaction. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in academic performance or in the ability to make new friends, although victims showed a significantly lower ability to make new friends compared to those who were neither victims nor aggressors. Conclusions: Cyberbullying has a significant impact on students’ psychosocial well-being, especially on personal satisfaction and school happiness, making it essential to implement interventions that promote safe school environments to mitigate these negative effects. Full article

Forest education has evolved significantly in recent decades due to global phenomena such as climate change and globalization, which are transforming the skill sets and competencies that should be provided by university-level education on forests. This evolution has placed pressure on educational institutions to adapt and meet these emerging needs. Previous research has identified gaps in the coverage of specific teaching topics within forest education, yet assessing the global state of education has been challenging because of the absence of comparable data. To address this gap, the Global Forest Education Project was initiated in 2020. The project developed a survey aimed at evaluating the state of forest education across all levels worldwide. In this study, we used data from this survey and conducted an analysis focusing on the perceived adequacy of teaching content and the availability of educational resources at the university level. The study revealed global concerns regarding the comprehensive coverage of the various teaching themes. Although there was some variation in coverage across different regions, the trends appeared to be consistent globally. The perceived availability of resources for education varied significantly by region, including factors that likely impede the ability of educational programs to modernize and meet new educational requirements. These findings indicate that there is a need to reevaluate and improve the coverage of many of the teaching themes in forest education. Moreover, it is evident that education providers in certain regions require increased funding to ensure sufficient resources to address these needs efficiently. Full article

Student performance prediction (SPP) is a pivotal task in educational analytics, enabling proactive interventions and optimized resource allocation by educators. Traditional SPP models are often hindered by their complexity and lack of interpretability. This study introduces a novel SPP framework, the Belief Rule Base with automated construction (Auto–BRB), designed to address these issues. Firstly, reference values are derived through data mining techniques. The model employs an IF–THEN rule-based system integrated with evidential reasoning to ensure both transparency and interpretability. Secondly, parameter optimization is achieved using the Projected Covariance Matrix Adaptive Evolution Strategy (P–CMA–ES), significantly enhancing model accuracy. Moreover, the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) is then applied to fine-tune the balance between model accuracy and complexity. Finally, case studies on SPP have shown that the Auto–BRB model has an advantage over traditional models in terms of accuracy, while maintaining good interpretability. Therefore, Auto–BRB has excellent application effects in educational data analysis. Full article

Background: The increase in childhood obesity rates represents a serious public health problem. The project “EpPOI: Education to prevent childhood obesity” is aimed at a multidisciplinary approach to raise awareness of the importance of preventing childhood obesity through lifestyle education. Methods: Two actions by experts were performed: an intervention with children in schools and a meeting for both parents and school staff. Participants completed a questionnaire structured as a Likert scale. Results: The sample size was 96 people, and awareness of the childhood obesity problem as well as the need for obesity prevention was high among respondents. We also found great interest among participants in having more information on pediatric nutrition and physical activity, with a positive correlation with age. Furthermore, the multivariate regression model configured interest in having more information on nutrition and physical activity as an independent and statistically significant predictor of awareness of childhood obesity as a current issue. Conclusions: The results highlight the need to act on childhood obesity through lifestyle prevention strategies early in life. Full article