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To equip students with 21st-century skills, teachers must have both deep STEM content knowledge and the confidence to implement and teach appropriate STEM content. Many elementary teachers have inadequate STEM background knowledge, low confidence, and STEM self-efficacy for implementing STEM in the classroom; as a result, teachers' classroom practices are affected. The study examined how elementary teachers perceive their ability to implement STEM in the classroom. The STEM Efficacy Survey was sent to a randomized pool of 100 elementary educators, and 18 of them agreed to participate in the study. This instrument was designed to elicit responses related to the teachers' previous background in STEM, their beliefs about their ability to implement STEM, and their actual STEM implementation in the elementary classroom. The results revealed that participants were confident in their understanding of the engineering design process and problem-based learning. However, teachers were unwilling to apply the engineering design process in the classroom. From this research, the researchers concluded that higher levels of training in STEM education may influence how teachers perceive their ability to implement STEM in the classroom. Further research should focus on exploring how STEM training affects teachers' self-efficacy in STEM implementation.

The aim in this study was to determine the effectiveness of STEM-based robotic coding education for primary school students in terms of their decision-making skills. Mixed method research was conducted. Pretest-posttest control group designs were used in the quantitative phase, and a case study was performed in the qualitative phase of the research. The study sample consisted of 65 third graders. Pretesting of the experimental and control group students was performed using the decision-making skills scale. STEM-based robotic coding training was given to the experimental group for 6 weeks. Afterwards, the decision-making skills scale was applied as a posttest to both the experimental and control groups. The quantitative data were analyzed with paired and independent samples t-tests. A statistically significant increase was observed in the experimental group students' decision-making skills in favor of the posttest. There was no significant difference between the pre- and posttest scores of the control group students. An interview with 15 experimental group students was conducted to collect qualitative data, and the interview results were analyzed using content analysis. The robotic coding education positively affected the students' decision-making and problem-solving skills and their willingness to share ideas.

This research aimed to investigate the impact of learning strategies with learning styles on learning performance in disaster mitigation. Problem Based Learning (PBL) and Direct Instruction (DI) are the strategies used. The learning styles used as moderator variables are kinaesthetic, visual and auditory. The research subjects included two junior high schools, SMPN 1 Sidoarjo and SMPN 1 Maospati, with a total of 122 students. The two-way ANOVA analysis technique was used to process the data obtained statistically. This research indicates that PBL strategy with visual learning style is superior to DI strategy with other learning styles in terms of learning achievement in disaster mitigation. This research has shown that considering the specific learning strategy and learning style of students contributes to positive learning outcomes in disaster mitigation.

Student's critical thinking skills that are currently still low are important to develop because they affect the way students think in solving problems. The problem-based learning model with the inquiry method used to help improve student's critical thinking skills. The iSpring learning media used can help students understand the material. The research results were obtained from the output of the paired sample t-test, a significance value < 0.05, so it was concluded that there was a difference between before applying the learning model and after applying the learning model. The results of the questionnaire responses to the media also resulted in positive responses from students.

Metacognition is one of the key learning skills in the 21st century, with a strong potential to help students succeed in science learning. Until now, this metacognitive awareness is less empowered by lecturers in learning. This study aimed to analyze the problem-based learning (PBL) reading-questioning-answering (PBLRQA) model's effect on metacognitive awareness in pre-service teachers. This research is a quasi-experiment with a pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design. Determination of the research sample class was carried out by random sampling. Each learning model was represented by PBLRQA and PBL class. The number of classes used was 2, totaling 57 students. The instrument used was the metacognitive awareness inventory (MAI). This inventory comprised 52 statement items divided into planning, monitoring, evaluating, and revising skills. An important finding in this research is that students' metacognitive awareness in learning with PBL and PBLRQA is not significantly different. Thus, the PBLRQA and PBL models can still be used in students' science learning to encourage metacognitive awareness, so that academic success can be achieved.

One of the skills needed in the 21st century is critical thinking skills that need to be developed for secondary school students. Currently, upper-secondary students' critical thinking skills are still low. To overcome the problem, websitebased E-module learning media was developed using a STEM approach with a Problem-Based Contextual Learning model with virtual experiments using PhET. The aim of developing this website-based E-Module media is to improve students' thinking skills on thermochemistry learning materials. The development model is 4-D. Data collection in this study was gained from three schools representing schools in the high, medium, and low categories in Surakarta, Indonesia. In this research,216 students were involved as the subjects at the development module implementation stage. The results of expert validation of the material, language, and media modules are suitable for use with a score of 90.03% categorized as very good. In the feasibility test, the score was 87.98% categorized as very good. The score for critical thinking skills was 79.18% in the critical category. N-Gain score was 0.70 categorized as high criteria. The result of the independent sample t-test sig 0.023, Critical thinking skills were conducted using E-Module. The results are higher than conventional media and effective in improving students' critical thinking skills.

Low literacy levels are believed to be one of the causes of environmental damage problems. It is felt that the current implementation of the problem-based learning model is still not optimal in increasing students' environmental literacy, especially regarding sustainable issues. This research aims to (1) produce a sustainable issue-based learning model, and (2) test the level of validity and reliability of the model. The research was carried out at Malang State University and PGRI University Semarang involving biology learning experts, educational technology experts, and environmental experts as research subjects. The instrument in this research is an expert validation sheet. Validation results were analyzed using the average score while reliability was analyzed using percentage agreement. The research results show that the development of PBIB syntax including orientation, concept strengthening, observation, investigation, report, and reflection is classified as valid with a score of 3.87, while the reliability is 3.88 (reliable). This research indicates that the PBIB model can be used in learning and potentially increase students' environmental literacy.

"Kurikulum Merdeka" is a learning experience framework that offers flexibility and focuses on essential content, character development, and students' competencies. Teachers had the discretion to develop their modules to choose, design, and organize the learning contents for students, based on their needs. By using that module, there is more flexibility and independence either for teachers and students, while enhancing the relevance, interactivity, and effectiveness of learning. This research aims to develop problem-based teaching modules on biology based on "Kurikulum Merdeka" as a reference in the learning process. This research and development, referring to Borg and Gall's model, consists of (1) research and information collection, (2) planning, (3) developing a preliminary form of the product, (4) preliminary field testing, and (5) main product revision. The participants in this development research are teachers as learning experts and students of a senior high school in one of the districts of East Lombok as a subject in limited trials. Data collection used closed questionnaires to determine the feasibility and ideality of the instrument. Data analysis using quantitative descriptive analysis involves analyzing the results of instrument feasibility and ideality from experts and students. The results show that the developed module was included in the very feasible and ideal learning resources. The readability test of the worksheet after limited trials was included in the good category for the biodiversity content, and quite good for the virus and ecosystem content. Therefore, the problem-based teaching module on biology content in phase E of grade XI of senior high school is considered feasible.

Student academic stress can impact class participation. Integrating psychological treatment into learning strategies can help manage academic stress. The objective of this research is to enhance students' metacognitive and self-efficacy by reducing their learning difficulties and cognitive anxiety. This will be achieved by integrating Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) into learning strategies, which will help to alleviate academic stress during the learning process. The study is designed as a quasiexperimental study using a pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design. The study was conducted at Bandung City State High School with the participation of 70 class XI MIPA students from two different classes, 35 in the experimental class and 35 in the control class. Both classes utilized problem-based learning (PBL), with the experimental class receiving the IBSR technique at the beginning of learning and various stages of core PBL activities. A questionnaire rating scale with 8 scales was used to collect data on academic stress, learning difficulties, cognitive anxiety, and student self-efficacy. Additionally, students' metacognitive abilities were measured using an open-ended essay. After two weeks of learning, the IBSR psychological intervention in the experimental class had lower student learning difficulties and cognitive anxiety than the control class. The IBSR psychological intervention in the experimental class on students' self-ability and metacognitive abilities also had higher results than the control class. The research suggests that teachers should consider psychological interventions when implementing learning innovations that improve student learning performance.

Creativity in biology education is a crucial aspect that enhances students' understanding of the subject. It consists of several indicators (fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration), which can also be used as measuring tools for creativity. This study aimed to determine the influence of the Problem-Oriented Project-Based Learning (POPBL) model in fostering creativity among high school students. The experiment was conducted in April until June 2023. The participants of this study consisted of 10th-grade students from State High School 1 Grogol. The cluster random sampling technique selected X6 as the control and X7 as the experimental classes. This was a quasi-experiment with a Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design, in which two groups were chosen randomly where the classes had previously been tested for equality first. The analysis employed was an analysis of the covariance test. The statistical analysis revealed that students' creativity in the experimental group was significantly higher than in the control group. Based on this study, we conclude that the POPBL model significantly improved student creativity. We suggest that with higher creativity, students will be able to solve the problems they face in life better.

The cultural challenge of educating Haitian rehabilitation professionals was identified by a Canadian francophone university which collaborated in the implementation and organization of international internships. Ethical cross-border internationalization should ensure reciprocity for partners. With this as a central value and in a context of pedagogical resource scarcity in Haiti, an intercultural educational partnership involved Haitian and Canadian university students situated in their respective countries in a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) course. Teachers and students applied principles of decolonization of health pedagogy principles were applied by teacher and students throughout this cross-border virtual synchronous PBL course. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility and to identify facilitators and obstacles to conducting a cross-border virtual synchronous PBL course and its perceived benefits in the development of professional competencies. Five Canadian students and five Haitian students, all volunteers, took part in a 3-week cross-border virtual synchronous PBL course. Deductive qualitative content analysis of the transcripts from a 120-minute focus group discussion held one week after the course and a logbook kept during the project was conducted. The criteria deemed important to successfully replicate this project relate to: 1) The attributes of the students and teachers involved; 2) pedagogical preparation activities; and 3) the use of multiple communication strategies and connectivity plans. In addition to the acquisition of course content not readily available in Haiti, the student interactions inherent in the PBL method supported the acquisition of competencies such as collaboration, communication, and change agent advocacy promoted by the Canadian association of occupational therapy which contribute greatly to strengthening the students' professional identity.

The personnel preparation of early intervention/early childhood special educator (EI/ECSE) candidates is a pivotal stage in supporting the development of professionals who can effectively work with young children with and at-risk of developmental disabilities, their families, and other service providers. This process encompasses a multifaceted approach to equip candidates with knowledge, skills, and attitudes/dispositions to successfully work within the field. This compilation article includes multiple authors of each section who share strategies, assignments, tools, and experiences to center the Initial Practice-Based Standards for Early Interventionists/Early Childhood Special Educators (Division for Early Childhood [DEC] of the Council for Exceptional Children [CEC], 2020; hereafter referred to as the EI/ECSE Standards) and DEC's Recommended Practices (RPs). These strategies are shared through a "spiraling curriculum" framework, and progress from an awareness level to reflection of candidates' own practice. In addition, this article shares related resources to consider in planning for innovative coursework and practicum/student teaching opportunities. Specific examples of spiraling experiences to deepen learning through opportunities to introduce content aligned to RPs and EI/ECSE Standards are included.

Educational robotics (ER) is a constructivist approach to education that promotes experiential learning through actual activities for teaching and learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. Empirical findings have indicated that primary school students have limited interest in learning mathematics due to the inability to rationalize real-world applications without practical application. Therefore, this study aims to determine the implications of using ER to evaluate their effect on primary school students' mathematics learning achievement, interest, and attitude. A total of 40 respondents from year five participated in this quasi-experimental study that explored the difference between using ER and PowerPoint hands-on methods as instructional approaches to complement teaching and learning. The findings indicated that ER improved mathematics learning achievement and perceived interest with a high effect size, and students also indicated a positive attitude toward using ER to aid in learning mathematics.

Students showed poor performance in applying higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) in solving Additional Mathematics problems. Therefore, this study examined the effects of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and Collaborative Learning (CL) assisted by Geometer's Sketch Pad on the four levels of HOTS of Form Four students, namely Applying, Analysing, Evaluating and Creating. In addition, the effects of PBL-CL on the four collaborative skills (CS) constructs, namely Academic Benefits, Social Benefits, Generic Skills, and Negative Aspects, were also examined. A PBL-CL module was developed as a guide for teachers. A HOTS test and CS questionnaire were developed to assess the level of HOTS and collaborative skills of students, respectively. This study used a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test control group research design involving 270 Form Four students in Sabah, Malaysia. The assessment of HOTS involved three intervention groups, namely PBL-CL, PBL and Conventional Learning (Conv) group, while the assessment of CS involves two intervention groups, namely PBL-CL and PBL groups. The results showed that the PBL-CL group produced significantly higher post-test mean scores compared to the PBL and Conv groups in all four levels of HOTS and also produced a significantly higher post-test mean score than the PBL group in all four CS constructs. This shows that the PBL-CL method has a positive effect in helping the development of HOTS and CS of Form Four students. Therefore, Additional Mathematics teachers are strongly recommended to integrate PBL-CL in their classroom to increase the level of HOTS and CS among students.

The quality of educational work is inextricably linked to many factors at the system, school, teacher, and student levels. This research was carried out within the project 'Education of Teachers as a Factor of Providing High-quality Life-long Learning in the Learning Society/The Society of Fast Socio-economic Changes and Unsure Future', funded by the Slovenian Research Agency. This paper provides a basic overview of the characteristics of open instruction, an umbrella term that combines active and learner-centred didactic strategies. The empirical section focuses on the use of didactic strategies. The survey was carried out with 1,536 primary school pupils in Grades 7 and 9 and 263 of their teachers. Both pupils and teachers cited problem-based learning and research-based learning as the most commonly used didactic strategies, while project-based learning was the least frequently used. Despite the agreement on the most and least frequently used didactic strategies, there are statistically significant differences between pupils' and teachers' perceptions of all selected didactic strategies. Teachers reported that they used these strategies more often than was perceived by their pupils. We also found a statistically significant impact of better learning performance on the perception of certain didactic strategies. The results of the study raise new research questions, especially in the design of more detailed analyses of the use of didactic strategies in pedagogical practice.

This study aimed at testing the effectiveness of an e-module based on ProblemBased Learning combined with Socratic Dialogue on the topic of environmental change in improving school students' critical thinking skills. This research was a quasi-experimental study and used a non-randomised control group, pre-test/posttest design. The sampling technique was cluster random sampling. The sample in this study was two experimental classes (n = 72) and two control classes (n = 72). The data collection instruments included multiple-choice tests and a questionnaire. The test results were analysed using the t-test and the N-gain score test. The results showed significant difference in students' critical thinking skills between the experimental and control classes. Students who used the e-module showed better critical thinking skills. Students who used the e-module showed a greater increase in critical thinking skills after the learning process, compared to students who did not use the e-module. Thus, it can be concluded that the e-module based on PBL combined with Socratic Dialogue effectively improved students' critical thinking skills.

The lecture technique still dominates in biology education, and there are not enough hands-on, interactive, creative, and problem-solving learning activities to encourage students to apply their problem-solving skills. The purpose of this study is to examine how the problem-based learning (PBL) model and students' metacognition skills affect their ability to solve environmental pollution issues. A total of 60 X MIPA students from SMA Muhammadiyah 16 Jakarta comprised the total sample of the research, collected using the quasi-experimental approach. For the study, two groups were utilized: the experimental group (X MIPA 1) and the control group (X MIPA 2). A 2 x 2 factorial design with a pretest-posttest control group was employed for the investigation. The instruments used in the study were classified as tests or non-tests. The test instrument is an essay designed to collect data on problem-solving ability and metacognition ability, while the non-test instruments are student worksheets that refer to the PBL stage, and the observation sheet is designed for instructors and students. Data analysis using ANCOVA with a significance level of 0.000 < [alpha] = 0.05 indicates that H0 was rejected. The interaction between the PBL learning model and students' metacognition skills also has an impact on their capacity to address environmental pollution-related issues.

Education in the 21st century has experienced many advances that are adjusted to the demands of the times. Thinking skills are in high demand in the 21st century, especially critical thinking and creative thinking skills for students. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of POPBL model learning in improving critical and creative thinking skills of high school students. This type of quasi-experimental research was carried out with a nonequivalent control group design. The population of this study was students of class XI MIPA SMAN 1 Cluring with two classes XI MIPA 1 and XI MIPA 2 as samples. The data collection method is in the form of tests of critical thinking skills and creative thinking. The data analysis used is an analysis of covariance test. The results showed that POPBL was effective in improving the critical thinking and creative thinking skills of SMAN 1 Cluring students. The implementation of POPBL learning shows interaction between students at work as well.

The growing awareness of the increasingly complex environmental changes requires an educational approach that fosters critical thinking. Through the implementation of PBL, students will gain a deeper understanding and develop an attitude of environmental care, particularly towards their surroundings. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PBL-based student worksheets on environmental change material to train critical thinking skills based on the completeness of learning outcomes and student responses. This research employs the 4D model of development, encompassing the stages of defining, designing, developing, and disseminating. Nonetheless, this study is confined to the third stage of development. The validation used includes material validation media validation. The data at the development stage is sourced from expert validators and subsequently analyzed using the descriptive analysis method. The validation results affirm that the developed worksheet is deemed suitable for implementation. Therefore, it is highly recommended to implement the learning process using this worksheet. Its utilization can significantly contribute to fostering student competency levels. Furthermore, disseminating its benefits widely would further amplify its positive impact across various educational settings.

This study examines the effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL) technology in forming a foreign language professionally oriented competence of students of non-linguistic specialities. It was conducted with 60 students divided into experimental and control groups, who were taught a professionally oriented foreign language. The experimental group used PBL technology, while the control group used traditional teaching methods. The pre-and-posttests results showed that both groups demonstrated significant improvements in learning a professionally oriented foreign language. However, the experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in retention of acquired knowledge compared to the control group. In addition, PBL technology was very interesting for the participating students, and it motivated them to study foreign languages in a somewhat more professional manner. This study provides empirical data confirming the effectiveness of PBL technology as an innovative tool in teaching a professionally oriented foreign language and in the formation of foreign-language professionally oriented competence of students of non-linguistic specialities.

In recent years, there has been a growing concern in science education on the enhancement of preschoolers' knowledge and motivation for concepts by implementing efficient teaching methods. This study explored the development and effectiveness of the E-sky Module in increasing the development of preschoolers in Project-based Learning (PBL) activities conducted both within and outside of preschool. This study employed the Design and Development Research (DDR) approach, incorporating many research methods. During the qualitative interviews conducted in the needs analysis phase, three different themes related to the difficulties encountered by teachers when conducting early science projects were meticulously recorded and analysed. Based on a quantitative analysis completed by three experts in the field, this E-sky Module has been determined to have a substantial level of validity and a satisfactory level of reliability. This is evidenced by a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of (p < 0.82) observed. Moreover, throughout the evaluation phase, four distinct themes were effectively reported, suggesting that this module significantly contributed to the comprehensive development of preschoolers. Hence, future studies should explore the potential of enhancing knowledge acquisition through promoting motivation and the emergence of conducive learning environments in the context of PBL.

This article describes a study conducted in the discipline of "science education in nature", offered 100% in the distance learning mode, for undergraduate students in biological sciences and pedagogy. The aim was to develop a challenge that would stimulate students creativity and engagement. Through the virtual learning platform, students exchanged information and collaborated with each other. The challenge resulted in a significant increase in student engagement and facilitated the connection between theory and practice. The findings highlight the importance of strategies that promote engagement in distance learning, especially in the discipline in which it was applied. The challenge-based approach stimulates creativity, critical thinking, and the development of essential skills for teacher education in this field.

Preliminary research showed that the learning process could have been more optimal, and this led to the research to develop a TEFA Model with the PBL concept as a valid, practical, and effective method of improving the problem-solving and communication skills of Automotive Vocational Education students. The process involved using the Research and development approach through the application of 4D development procedures of Defining, Designing, Developing, and Disseminating. The study resulted in the TEFA-PBL model with seven learning syntaxes. The syntaxes were: (1) troubleshooting the problem, (2) organizing the order, (3) collaborative problem solving, (4) executing an order, (5) quality control, (6) presentation and discussion, and (7) assessment. Furthermore, scenarios were generated to guide the learning activities of lecturers and students directed towards achieving fundamental and global 21st-century automotive vocational skills such as good problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills. The syntax and scenarios of the learning model produced were feasible, valid, and practically applicable to produce graduates with ready-to-use and competitive skills. It, therefore, signifies that the TEFA-PBL model developed is an innovative solution to improve the quality of automotive vocational learning at different levels, especially universities, to produce graduates with ready-to-use and competitive skills.

Education plays a very important role in improving the quality of human resources. In higher education, students need learning that is innovative and not monotonous so that learning goals can be achieved. In this research, what will be discussed further is the development of learning methods by combining 2 methods, namely Cooperative Based Learning (CBL) with Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in the Advanced Financial Management course. This research method uses Pretest - Posttest Design. The data population is 711 students collected from 17 classes taking Advanced Financial Management courses at Putra Indonesia University YPTK Padang. The sampling technique uses probability sampling. The data that will be used as a sample are observations of 117 students collected from 3 classes. The CPBL method is implemented by grouping students into groups of 4-5 people to discuss each case in the material. Data will be analyzed based on the completeness of learning outcomes and calculating N-Gain. From the data processing, the results obtained were that by combining these 2 methods, it was successful in improving student learning outcomes and the students' completeness test scores were also proven to be very successful in being upgraded. The effectiveness of the collaboration between these 2 methods reaches the high category of the N-Gain test. This is a new variation in making learning calculations that use many formulas more challenging, increasing students' enthusiasm for learning and providing satisfactory learning results. This method is worth utilizing and can be used in all courses that involve calculations and case questions.

This meta-analysis evaluated how well learners' conceptual understanding, environmental attitudes, and pro-environmental behavior were improved by the Socio-Scientific Issues (SSI)-based approach based on the literature (2017-2021). The research analyzed various studies on the efficacy of SSI-based techniques, such as argumentation, case-oriented approaches, and problem-based learning. The findings showed a strong positive influence on learners' understanding of intricate environmental concerns and their propensity for sustainable conduct. While the study found that the SSI-based approach fosters critical thinking and involvement in several noteworthy ways, it also uncovered potential publication biases in certain aspects. Furthermore, the research stressed the necessity of context-specific strategies and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve the robustness and application of SSI-based interventions in climate change education. The results highlight how the SSI-based approach can cultivate proactive, environmentally conscientious, knowledgeable citizens ready to address urgent global concerns.

This article discusses how a new APRS service-learning model was implemented in a new service-learning project in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) orthopedics curriculums at three Hong Kong institutions. The APRS model adopting flipped learning approach consists of four cyclic stages, including Application, Practice, Reflection and Self-regulated learning. Qualitative and quantitative findings in this study reveal that TCM students gained confidence in applying discipline knowledge/skills and improved in various areas, including cross-cultural competence, communication, problem-solving and collaboration. Drawing evidence from this study, possible factors contributing to positive impacts on student learning in the APRS model are the "strong connectivity" (including clear alignment with programme, profession, institutional missions and traditional Chinese philosophy "xiushen"), "reinforced motivation" (student autonomy and buy in) and "structured organisation" (strong network among participating parties and use of a centralised electronic platform). The APRS service-learning model is a culture-based approach helping students reconnect Confucian "xiushen" to the discipline knowledge and the real-life application in the Hong Kong context. This model may also be applicable to other Asian contexts where the Confucian culture prevails.

Transferable skills are embedded within assessments throughout Higher Education such as organisation, timekeeping and working as part of a team (during groups assessments) amongst some of the skills. Despite this, there is little evidence to suggest that students are fully aware of the importance of reflective practice upon their personal development as a possible transferable skill. In this study, we aimed to assess if and what students understood by the term 'reflective practice', and whether they identify its practice and benefits within their studies and for their potential future careers. Quantitative data, was collected during the first teaching block of the 2021-2022 academic year using specific reflective based questions in a paper-based questionnaire, with results indicating that students who undertook our foundation route, which instilled reflective practice-based assessments were more used to reflective practice than standard degree entry students, and emphasised skill development through reflection; confidence to tackle new task (38%), time management (25%), effective communication (25%) and prioritising tasks (13%). The data also suggested that across all levels of our degrees, students preferred to reflect once feedback of an assessment was received (60%) and after personal tutor meetings (43%), meaning, we as an institution should adapt our practice to develop this further. Embedding reflective practice early in a student's educational curriculum, could therefore enhance how students approach their course, by providing them with key reflective based skills which they can transfer to their journey within Higher Education and their career.

This study focuses on the development and evaluation of a challenge-based hybrid learning approach utilizing a virtual board games platform to enhance international standard student competency. Our research applies educational management theories to challenge-based learning, providing learners with diverse opportunities for engagement, investigation, and action. Through the integration of virtual board game platforms, students actively participate in learning activities aimed at elevating their skills to international standards. The study underscores the effectiveness of hybrid learning management, blending face-to-face and online elements, including board games as challenges, as the most suitable approach. Experts unanimously advocate for this approach, especially in advancing students' capacities in creative problem-solving and critical thinking at an international level. Notably, scholars emphasize the significance of assessing students' abilities to meet global benchmarks, positioning challenge-based learning as the predominant educational approach at the advanced level. This study provides empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of challenge-based hybrid learning using a virtual board game platform in fostering advanced competencies. And explores the integration of virtual board games in hybrid learning environments, offering a nuanced understanding of how educational management theories can be applied practically. Furthermore, it emphasizes the critical role of assessing students' creative problem-solving and critical thinking abilities in competency evaluation. In conclusion, this study advances the discourse on hybrid learning methodologies, substantiates the effectiveness of challenge-based learning utilizing board games, and underscores the importance of evaluating students' competencies at an international standard.

This study examined problem-based learning in blended learning classrooms for practicing mathematical problems in an emergency situation, such as Covid-19. For this purpose, a three-week program was framed in contrast to traditional teaching, aiming at enrichment and not remediation, for a group of fifty students' studying mathematics in a science program. The formative experiment research method was used for this study and practiced at public sector Higher Secondary School in Jehangira, district Swabi. The data were collected through a self-developed questionnaire verified by experts and were analyzed by using simple frequency distribution. Findings were mostly positive, indicating that students found problem-based learning productive in practicing mathematics, for example, solved samples helped them in answering similar problems, course work was completed timely, and use of smartphones with peers in groups helped them in better understanding the problems. The findings also revealed some concerns such as poor availability of network/internet services or non-affordability of having smart phone or internet packages, and parents' unwillingness for allowing smartphones and using the internet.

In today's educational environment, the convergence of emerging technologies and active methodologies has become a fundamental driver of change in university education. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, machine learning, and data analytics, are redefining the dynamics of higher education. Active methodologies, such as problem-based learning, collaborative learning, and flipped learning, center the pedagogical focus on the student, encouraging active participation and problem-solving. The combination of emerging technologies and active methodologies creates a powerful synergy, enabling the effective implementation of personalized and immersive learning experiences. This convergence not only enhances learning, but also prepares students to be autonomous learners, critical thinkers, and 21st century problem solvers.

The present study was designed to understand and optimize self-assessment accuracy in cognitive skill acquisition through example-based learning. We focused on the initial problem-solving phase, which follows after studying worked examples. At the end of this phase, it is important that learners are aware whether they have already understood the solution procedure. In Experiment 1, we tested whether self-assessment accuracy depended on whether learners were prompted to infer their self-assessments from explanation-based cues (ability to explain the problems' solutions) or from performance-based cues (problem-solving performance) and on whether learners were informed about the to-be-monitored cue before or only after the problem-solving phase. We found that performance-based cues resulted in better self-assessment accuracy and that informing learners about the to-be-monitored cue before problem-solving enhanced self-assessment accuracy. In Experiment 2, we again tested whether self-assessment accuracy depended on whether learners were prompted to infer their self-assessments from explanation- or performance-based cues. We furthermore varied whether learners received instruction on criteria for interpreting the cues and whether learners were prompted to self-explain during problem-solving. When learners received no further instructional support, like in Experiment 1, performance-based cues yielded better self-assessment accuracy. Only when learners who were prompted to infer their self-assessments from explanation-based cues received both cue criteria instruction and prompts to engage in self-explaining during problem-solving did they show similar self-assessment accuracy as learners who utilized performance-based cues. Overall, we conclude that it is more efficient to prompt learners to monitor performance-based rather than explanation-based cues in the initial problem-solving phase.

Human dissections in the current medical curriculum are conducted using a checklist approach to prioritize the exposure of anatomical structures. In this setting, anatomy educators are labored to enhance their engagement during the dissection. To address this issue, we considered the current medical education pedagogies and identified a novel approach of studio-based learning (SBL) for application in a Human Dissection Workshop. This study aimed to (1) evaluate students' perceptions of SBL, (2) appraise the impact of SBL on anatomical knowledge learning, and (3) interpret the results of a validated questionnaire. Workshop participants were recruited from Year 2 medical students at the Chinese University of Hong Kong from the 2020 and 2021 cohorts. Fifty-one students participated in the workshop (N = 24 [2020], N = 27 [2021]), and 50 of them completed the postworkshop questionnaire rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Nineteen items were validated using a factor analysis. The interpretation of the questionnaire results demonstrated the different learning outcomes of the workshop, which included (1) enhancing students' knowledge and spatial understanding of anatomical structures, (2) strengthening students' appreciation of gross pathologies and clinical relevance, and (3) promoting higher-order thinking skills. To our knowledge, this is the first study to introduce SBL in medical education. The successful implementation of the workshop reflects the promising potential of SBL for enhancing human dissection and supplementing the medical curriculum.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, restricted access to in-person facilities and traditional experiential learning activities meant that new, online solutions were needed to facilitate student learning/development across the disciplines of Allied Health and Engineering. Purpose: This article describes research conducted as part of an interdisciplinary Dietetic/Electronic Engineering project to evaluate student experiences of online problem-based learning (PBL) activities in addressing this necessity. Methodology/Approach: The authors implemented a specific, health technology-based assignment using an online PBL approach to evaluate and develop the effectiveness of this approach for students' experiential learning. Surveys and observations were used to evaluate the project effectiveness. Findings/Conclusions: Participating students reported on their experiences of working in interdisciplinary teams, focusing on aspects such as knowledge gained, collaboration, perspective, facilitation and experiential learning. Students identified enhanced learning and research skills as some key benefits. Drawbacks identified included difficulties associated with the online environment, such as synchronisation and remoteness. Implications: The use of interdisciplinary assignments highlights the many advantages/benefits which experiential pedagogies have in supporting students to integrate and apply their knowledge to a real-world problem space. The ability to connect student engagement and motivation to the development of critical thinking skills appears to enhance problem-solving in the student work.

Teaching based on active methodologies emphasizes the importance of giving students a leading role in the learning process. With the implementation of the European Higher Education Area, universities have undergone a reform that significantly increased student involvement in the teaching-learning process. The University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) responded to this change by introducing its own educational model: IKD i[superscript 3]. The general objective of this research is to explore the effect of the IKD i[superscript 3] strategy on the teaching staff of the UPV/EHU. The study aims to identify the active methodologies adopted by the teaching staff and the reasons behind the use (or not) of these methodologies. A total of 403 teachers participated in the study, and their opinions were gathered freely to accurately represent their viewpoints. The results reveal that teaching staff at the UPV/EHU utilize active methodologies, with the most frequent being problem-based learning, cooperative learning, and the case study method. The reasons for incorporating these methodologies vary and include both benefits for students and advantages related to teaching, while the rationale for not using active methodologies is based on the lack of training, time constraints, and having a large number of students. Interestingly, the teachers who expressed these arguments were primarily those who were not familiar with or actively participating in the IKD i[superscript 3] educational model. We believe that while our findings validate the UPV/EHU's IKD i[superscript 3] educational model, they also highlight the importance of universities not only having an educational model but also fostering a culture that encourages the active engagement of teaching staff. This commitment is essential to effectively develop and implement such a model.

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) education can combat online misinformation by enhancing users' fact-checking skills. This action research study designed and implemented a problem-based learning MIL project for journalism undergraduates. The objectives are (a) to design a MIL project by using a problem-based learning methodology; (b) to implement the MIL project and to assess its effectiveness in improving students' fact-checking skills; and (c) to identify the challenges and limitations of implementing the project. Analysis shows that the MIL project successfully improved students' MIL skills, including critical analysis, media production, and personal growth. Despite facing challenges like time constraint and limited generalizability, the study suggests that the MIL project could be replicated in other journalism programs to enhance MIL skills and cultivate critical thinking to fight misinformation.

Background: In scientific inquiry learning, students often have difficulties conducting hypothetical reasoning with multiple intertwined variables. Concept maps have a potential to facilitate complex thinking and reasoning. However, there is little investigation into the content of student-constructed concept maps and its association with inquiry task performance. Objectives: This study explored students' concept mapping style and its association with task performance in computer-based inquiry learning. Methods: An exploratory study was conducted with 80 Grade 11 students, who collaboratively constructed concept maps in a free style to support inquiry learning with a virtual ecosystem. Student-constructed concept maps was analysed by firstly identifying different types of propositions formed in the maps and then determining the style of each concept map based on the dominant type of propositions in the map. Finally, the association between the concept map style and inquiry task performance was explored. Results and Conclusions: Two major concept map styles were identified: (1) knowledge-oriented concept maps (KCMs) mainly representing problem-related subject knowledge as a set of concepts and their relationships, and (2) problem-oriented concept maps (PCMs) mainly representing problem situation as a sequence of changes and their causal relationships. Compared with those constructing KCMs, the students constructing PCMs formed higher-quality propositions in their maps and performed better in hypothesising, reasoning, and drawing conclusions in the inquiry task. Implications: Besides KCMs, students in inquiry learning can be encouraged to construct PCMs to foster effective thinking and reasoning; that is, constructing a concept map to represent the problem situation as a sequence of changes and the causal relationships between the changes.

Self-explanation prompts in example-based learning are usually directed backwards: Learners are required to self-explain problem-solving steps just presented ("retrospective" prompts). However, it might also help to self-explain upcoming steps ("anticipatory" prompts). The effects of the prompt type may differ for learners with various expertise levels, with anticipatory prompts being better for learners with more expertise. In an experiment, we employed extensive modelling examples and different types of self-explanations prompts to teach 78 automotive apprentices a complex and job-relevant problem-solving strategy, namely the diagnosis of car malfunctions. We tested the effects of these modelling examples and self-explanation prompts on problem-solving strategy knowledge and skill, self-efficacy, and cognitive load while learning. In two conditions, the apprentices learned with modelling examples and received either retrospective or anticipatory prompts. The third condition was a control condition receiving no modelling examples, but the respective open problems. In comparison with the control condition, modelling examples did not promote learning. However, we observed differential effects of the self-explanation prompts depending on the learner's prior knowledge level. Apprentices with higher prior knowledge learned more when learning with anticipatory prompts. Apprentices with less prior knowledge experienced a greater increase in self-efficacy and a higher germane cognitive load when learning with retrospective prompts. These findings suggest using different self-explanation prompts for learners possessing varying levels of expertise.

Fostering students' critical thinking skills is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. One viable solution to address this is the implementation of project-oriented problem-based learning (POPBL) through the SR-STEM project. This research aims to describe the implementation, effectiveness, and student perception of the POPBL model through the SR-STEM project in enhancing critical thinking skills in renewable energy materials. The study adopts a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. The participants are 74 senior high school students in the academic year 2022/2023. Data collection employs observation sheets, written tests, and questionnaires. The data are analyzed descriptively and inferentially and using confirmatory factor analysis. The key findings of the study are as follows: (1) the model demonstrates a high level of feasibility; (2) the learning model effectively improves students' critical thinking skills; and (3) the learning model exhibits a positive correlation with student achievement, perceived control, and affective perception. This research suggests introducing innovative learning approaches to enhance students' critical thinking skills, particularly in renewable energy materials, to promote Education for Sustainable Development. Moreover, it highlights the significance of considering factors that influence the effective implementation of lessons.

According to extensive research, problem-based learning (PBL) in STEM education improves student learning outcomes and supports them in gaining practical skills necessary for upward future careers. Despite current efforts to promote PBL-STEM activities in education, their uptake in life science remains low. Several types of research involving college instructors indicate that instructor guidance of PBL-STEM activities is one of the crucial aspects for its successful usage in educational settings. However, to our knowledge, little research has been undertaken on the effectiveness of participants' PBL-STEM learning in coping with problems and dilemmas encountered during the STEM learning process. This research intends to investigate the efficacy and provide experiential references to demonstrate the existing gaps by a transdisciplinary approach. The effect on participants' professional learning interest, comprehension capacity, problem-solving ability, self-efficacy, and cooperation abilities is related to five dependent variables. Our findings from paired t-test analysis demonstrate that STEM participants had a significant difference before and after experiencing PBL-STEM learning objectives. In the light of a one-way ANOVA, STEM learner participation in this course was more important than gender and age in improving STEM literacy through classroom activities. In line with feedback interviews, students who engaged in experiential learning favored reciprocal advantages and mutual benefits within their groups through teamwork, practical application, and information acquisition. Given that the participants in this study were early adopters of PBL-STEM, any future research should aggressively encourage these students to create and implement solutions in the classroom based on their ideas.

In the years 2015-2018, the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research and the Italian Ministry of Defense proposed the joint initiative "Space for Your Future. The ISS: Innovatio, Scientia, Sapientia" in partnership with the Italian Space Agency. It was a competition addressed to secondary school students and aimed at developing innovative experiments to be conducted on the International Space Station, whose acronym (ISS) is the same of the Latin words "Innovatio, Scientia, Sapientia". Regardless of the odds of winning, "Space for Your Future" became a successful STEM educational project implemented in numerous schools. We illustrate how that Astronomy contest fostered a valid constructivist learning, a fruitful participatory science, and vast scientific research. We discuss, in particular, the activities of two teams of pupils from the Scientific High School "Giovanni Battista Grassi" in Latina (seat of the Planetarium "Livio Gratton") who participated within the thematic area No. 3 "Test the Sciences in Space". They all worked on chemical tests, suitable for the ISS microgravity, under the tutoring of Francesco Giuliano (Province Manager of the IYA 2009 and the IYC 2011 in Latina). The key reference is a talk given in the 104th annual congress of the Italian Physical Society at the University of Calabria (September 17-21, 2018) together with an invited lecture held in the 13th European Researchers' Night by Frascati Scienza (September 28, 2018).

This paper explores the dualistic nature of experiential learning (EL) definitions in higher education, advocating for a balanced integration of broad and narrow constructs. Through case study and collaborative inquiry, diverse disciplinary perspectives--from engineering to performing arts and urban education--are examined to understand EL's application and impact. The paper highlights the importance of accommodating both overarching frameworks for universal applicability and specific definitions for disciplinary depth. It proposes that broad definitions enhance inclusivity and adaptability, while narrow constructs ensure targeted learning experiences and skill development. The findings suggest that EL is a versatile pedagogical tool. It is adaptable to varied academic landscapes and yet maintains its essence of active, reflective engagement with the world. Finally, the paper argues that both broad and narrow definitions of EL are necessary to ensure EL remains a transformative educational pedagogy, and proposes a framework for describing, rather than defining, EL.

This comparative study investigated the effect of supplementing problem-based learning (PBL) with video resources on students' academic achievement in physics, a unit of simple machines. It was carried out in the Ugandan Government and private lower secondary schools. The quasi-experimental design employed a cluster sampling design with 947 students selected from 12 Sheema District, western Uganda schools. Four belonged to the traditional group, four to the PBL group, and four to the video-based PBL group. In the traditional group, the teacher delivered the content, while in the PBL group, students were organized into groups to discuss and present a problem; in the video-based PBL group, students watched YouTube videos related to the functionality of simple machines as part of the PBL approach. SPSS v.25 was used for analysis. The analysis of variance revealed that all groups showed a positive impact after teaching and learning activities (p < 0.001, d = 2.07). Specifically, students (including those in traditional instruction, PBL alone, and video-based PBL groups) from government schools possessed similar performance both before and after instruction, whereas students from private schools demonstrated more significant (p < 0.001, d = 0.19) improvement after receiving instruction. In conclusion, the results showed that PBL is an effective way of teaching physics despite the type of school when supplemented with video resources. Thus, teachers were recommended to use it in their daily routine.

Background: Developing teamwork skills is a central objective of engineering education. Psychological safety and conflict management are pivotal components of teamwork, yet despite their significance, research in engineering project-based learning (PBL) contexts is scant. Understanding students' experiences with psychological safety and its interaction with conflict is crucial to inform PBL pedagogy. Purpose: This study delves into first-year engineering students' experiences of psychological safety and conflict, including their evolution in a PBL course. Methods: Throughout the semester, we collected data from 82 students via written reflections and focus groups. Employing a thematic analysis underpinned by the team conflict dynamics model, we characterized students' experiences with psychological safety and conflict. Findings: At the semester's outset, psychological safety was notably lacking. Students often hesitated to share ideas due to apprehensions about peer reactions and fears of negative judgments. As the semester advanced, consistent positive affirmations nurtured psychological safety, increasing students' confidence and readiness to discuss ideas openly and engage in healthy task conflict. Notably, process conflicts arising from absenteeism, poor communication, and procrastination were prevalent across teams. When unresolved, these conflicts eroded psychological safety, intensifying stress, exacerbating frustrations, and provoking relationship conflict. Conclusions: Our study underscores the intertwined nature of psychological safety and conflict in shaping the first-year design experience in student teams. We urge faculty to recognize their pivotal role in fostering an inclusive culture and highlight pedagogical strategies that can bolster psychological safety at the onset, encourage healthy task conflict, and monitor unhealthy process and relationship conflicts.

Critical thinking is a common and important learning outcome in college curricula. Case-based and problem-based learning can be used to assess and foster critical thinking skills. HNF 250--Contemporary Issues in Human Nutrition is a critical thinking course developed during the redesign of a nutritional sciences major program. Course assignments were designed to assess the course and nutritional sciences major learning outcomes. The nutrition and health claim assignment is scaffolded across the academic semester as three assignments: (1) bibliography assignment; (2) poster presentation; and (3) paper. Course lectures and materials have been designed to prepare students for completion of each assignment. The assignments have been modified over time based on classroom observations and student performance. In 2021, the course learning outcomes were examined by assessing several assignments including the nutrition and health claim poster and paper. Course learning outcome benchmarks using these assessments generally included 80% of students achieving an 80% for each criterion. Results revealed that students were not meeting most of these assessment benchmarks during the 2021 iteration, although benchmark data from other course assessments were more satisfactory. It is possible that the transition from a virtual to an in-person format negatively influenced student performance on these course learning outcomes. This course and the nutrition and health claim assignment example can provide a course design and learning outcome assessment framework for other higher education critical thinking courses.

The Learning Forward Academy is Learning Forward's flagship deep learning experience, committed to increasing educator and leader capacity and improving results for students in the ever-changing landscape of education. For over 30 years, the academy has supported the problem-based learning of teachers, teacher leaders, instructional coaches, principals, regional leaders, superintendents, and others whose jobs involve supporting the learning of other adults and students. The academy brings together educator leaders with expert coaches to create successful and sustainable change in their educational systems. Over the professional learning program's 2 and a half years, participants learn about and implement several system improvement tools, such as root cause analysis and theory of change, and work together on their individual problems of practice. At the core of the academy is an understanding that educational improvement is iterative and requires continuous assessment, adaptation, and refinement, as well as ongoing learning among all educators in a system. This article examines how a principal was able to use the lessons she learned at the academy to improve reading grade levels and combat chronic absenteeism at her school in New Jersey.

This article, co-authored with a group of undergraduate secondary music student teachers, shares their experiences as they learned about additional support needs and inclusive practice through a series of 10 problem-based learning (PBL) sessions. Drawing from their reflections on the weekly sessions, the paper explores the students' learning experiences through the themes of motivation, self-directed learning, critical skill development and collaboration. The students' accounts indicate a deep engagement with the process of PBL and recognition of growth in their understanding and knowledge relating to inclusive practice and additional support needs. The process has supported their development in ways that may help them to navigate the complexities of inclusive education and support their own professional practice as they embark on their careers.

Learning analytics dashboards (LADs) are often used to display real-time data indicating student learning trajectories and outcomes. Successful use of LADs requires teachers to orient their dashboard reviews with clear goals, apply appropriate strategies to interpret visualized information on LADs and monitor and evaluate their interpretations to meet goals. This process is known as self-regulated learning (SRL). Critical as it is, little research investigates teachers' SRL in LAD usage. The present study addressed the gap by examining teachers' SRL and sought to understand how teachers' SRL relates to their use of LADs. To this end, a case study was designed in which ten participants were invited to use a LAD for asynchronous online problem-based learning. Think-aloud techniques and process mining methods were applied. The findings show that teachers were cognitive regulation in the early stage of LAD usage and became more metacognitive regulated later. The comparison of SRL between the good and the weak regulators indicates that the good self-regulators enacted more monitoring and evaluation events. Thus their regulator pattern was more non-linear. The qualitative analysis of think-aloud protocols reveals that teachers with good SRL are more likely to use the LAD to diagnose issues in student learning and collaboration. The study highlights the importance of SRL for teachers' success in using LAD for data-driven instructions. The study also reinforces the importance of fostering teachers' SRL, which accounts for teachers' professional success in the digital era.

A qualitative case study focused on understanding what steps are needed to prepare the cybersecurity workforces of 2026-2028 to work with and against emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Conducted through a workshop held in two parts at a cybersecurity education conference, findings came both from a semi-structured interview with a panel of experts as well as small workgroups of professionals answering seven scenario-based questions. Data was thematically analyzed, with major findings emerging about the need to refocus cybersecurity STEM at the middle school level with problem-based learning, the disconnects between workforce operations and cybersecurity operators, the distrust of Non-Traditional Training Programs, and the need to build digital security generalists' curriculum and training. Recommendations are also made for possible next steps.