Volume 14 Issue 4 (October 2025)
The Application of Adapted Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy for Developing Lexical and Semantic Skills in Preschool Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
adapted aba therapy autism spectrum disorder early intervention language acquisition lexical and semantic development...
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent challenges in language acquisition, particularly in the lexical and semantic domains. This study examined the effectiveness of an adapted Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) intervention in improving lexical and semantic language skills among preschool-aged children with ASD. A total of 3- to 6-year-old children participated, divided into experimental and control groups across two specialized centers. The experimental group received an adapted ABA-based program emphasizing discrete trial teaching, functional communication strategies, visual supports, and targeted reinforcement techniques. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using a structured methodology that evaluated active and passive vocabulary, semantic categorization, and contextual language use. Results from paired t-tests showed statistically significant improvements in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < .05). Despite these gains, generalization of language skills across social contexts remained limited. These findings highlight the value of individualized behavioral interventions and support their inclusion in early childhood programs for children with ASD.
Open Schooling in Science Education: A Systematic Literature Review
open schooling science education systematic literature review...
Open schooling is a recent educational approach that has been recently introduced in European policies, so the literature on its transfer to the education system is still limited. The aim of this study is to configure an overview of how open schooling has been implemented in science education in terms of its definition, the topics addressed, the pedagogical aspects considered, and the benefits obtained for the teaching-learning processes. A systematic literature review was carried out using the PRISMA 2020 methodology, in which 27 documents published between 2015 and 2024 were analysed. Open schooling is defined mainly as an approach in which students, teachers, and other stakeholders, especially students’ families, collaborate to provide solutions to real-life issues in search of the community’s well-being. The open schooling experiences usually addressed environmental and health issues through scientific practices and contextualization mainly, developing activities of data collection, synthesis and analysis, dissemination, and information and communication technologies with the students. Companies and local businesses are the preferred stakeholders involved, followed by experts and researchers. Questionnaires are the preferred instruments for data collection, and the documents analysed report benefits for students’ learning and motivation and also for teachers and schools.
Generative AI-Assisted Phenomenon-Based Learning: Exploring Factors Influencing Competency in Constructing Scientific Explanations
constructing scientific explanations factors generative ai microsoft copilot phenomenon-based learning...
Developing students' competency in constructing scientific explanations is a critical aspect of science learning. However, limited research has been conducted to explore the role of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) in fostering this competency. Moreover, the factors influencing this competency development in the Gen AI-assisted learning environment remain underexamined. This study aimed to compare students' competency in constructing scientific explanations before and after participating in phenomenon-based learning with Microsoft Copilot and to investigate the factors influencing the development of this competency. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design was employed with 23 eighth-grade students from an all-girls school in Thailand. The research instruments included lesson plans for phenomenon-based learning with Microsoft Copilot, a competency test for constructing scientific explanations, and a mixed-format questionnaire. The results from the Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks Test revealed a statistically significant improvement in students' competency in constructing scientific explanations after the learning intervention (Z = 4.213, p < .001). Thematic analysis identified four key factors contributing to this development: (a) the role of Microsoft Copilot in enhancing deep understanding, (b) connecting theories to real-world phenomena through learning media, (c) collaborative learning activities, and (d) enjoyable learning experiences and student engagement. These findings suggest that the integration of Gen AI technology with phenomenon-based learning can effectively enhance students’ competency in constructing scientific explanations and provide valuable insights for the development of technology-enhanced science education.
Teachers’ Perceptions and Practices of Assessment in Primary Schools
formative and summative assessment primary education professional teacher development purpose of assessment teachers’ practice...
This study examines teachers’ perceptions of assessment and their relationship with instructional practice in primary education. It examines whether teachers perceive assessment as a tool to support student learning and development or as a mechanism for ensuring educational quality through teaching evaluation and exam preparation. The research is based on a survey conducted with 396 primary school teachers in Croatia, including both lower and upper grades. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, multiple regression analysis, and one-way ANOVA were employed to analyze the data. The findings indicate a statistically significant correlation between teachers’ perceptions of assessment and the assessment strategies they implement in the classroom. Formative assessment is widely supported, yet summative methods remain prevalent. Lower primary teachers apply formative strategy more frequently than their upper primary counterparts. Teachers with mentor status demonstrate a stronger inclination toward student-centered assessment practices and report applying them more consistently. The results highlight the prevalence of a hybrid assessment model in which teachers balance formative and summative approaches, seeking to meet institutional requirements while simultaneously supporting student development. The findings underscore the need for continuous professional development and systemic support to empower teachers in adopting assessment practices that effectively enhance student learning and elevate educational quality. Training programs should be designed to address the specific needs of primary teachers, recognizing differences between lower and upper levels, as well as subject-specific requirements in grades 5 through 8. A targeted approach would facilitate the effective integration of contemporary assessment strategies into everyday teaching, supporting student progress and educational improvement.
Reflective Reading Practices: Reading Journals as a Tool to Boost EFL Comprehension and Engagement
efl reading skills engagement reading comprehension reading journals...
This study examined the impact of reading journals on the development of English as a foreign language (EFL) reading comprehension and engagement, while also analyzing participants' perceptions of the learning process. A mixed-method design was applied to a sample of 80 second-year senior high school students (aged 15–18) with A2 proficiency. Using a quasi-experimental approach, participants were divided into an experimental group that kept journals and a control group that followed traditional instruction. Data were collected through pre- and post-tests, student questionnaires, and thematic analysis of the journals. Results showed significant improvements in reading performance among students in the experimental group. Students also reported better vocabulary retention, improved ability to identify main ideas, and greater confidence. Reflections revealed increased engagement, critical thinking, and autonomy. However, learners faced challenges such as complex grammar, summarization, and time constraints. Overall, the findings suggest that reading journals can be an effective strategy to support EFL reading comprehension and foster deeper interaction with texts.
Computational Thinking Through Scaffolded Game Development Activities: A Study with Graphical Programming
computational thinking game development graphical programming tiered scaffolding...
This study investigates the effectiveness of scaffolded game development activities in enhancing computational thinking (CT) skills among young learners using a graphical programming environment. While prior research highlights the value of block-based programming in CT education, few studies explore how structured scaffolding supports learners in completing full game projects. Grounded in Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development and Wing’s CT framework, this study involved 310 participants aged 10 to 15, including their teachers, in a tiered sequence of programming tasks using mBlock programming platform. Learners progressed from basic to more complex programming constructs, namely, loops, conditionals, variables, and debugging, which are included in the development of a complete Pac-Man or Snake game. Quantitative results demonstrated significant improvements in CT skills across all age groups. Qualitative data revealed increased learner engagement, reduced programming anxiety, and enhanced interest in computational problem-solving. The findings suggest that scaffolded game development is a promising strategy for early CT instruction, offering both cognitive and affective benefits. This work contributes to current literature by demonstrating how structured support and creative programming tasks can jointly promote CT proficiency and learner motivation in foundational computing education.
Parents’ Knowledge of Sexuality Education for Young Children: A Scoping Review of Studies in Asian Countries
asia children parents’ knowledge parents’ understanding sexuality education...
Sexuality remains a sensitive topic in many Asian societies. Despite the growing recognition of the importance of sexuality education, it remains a controversial issue in certain Asian contexts. Parents play an important role in addressing their children's sexual curiosity and fostering healthy attitudes and values regarding sexuality. This scoping review analysed 17 articles published in 2014-2024 in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases, aiming to explore parental knowledge of childhood sexuality education and the associated factors that might influence their understanding. Findings reveal that parents' knowledge is only moderate on average, with significant gaps in understanding and communication skills. Key results indicate that cultural, demographic, and socio-economic factors affect parents’ knowledge, with variations across different topics. Research also highlights the significant role of intervention programs in advancing their understanding. This review of the literature over the past decade builds powerful support for sexuality education of children in the Asian context and also emphasizes the value of cultural sensitivities in promoting the development of sexuality education worldwide. Ultimately, this study contributes to the global discourse on improving sexuality education by offering valuable information for policymakers, educators, and practitioners working to design effective sexuality education programs.
Evaluating the Impact of Augmented Reality on Learning Outcomes in K-12 Special Education: A Systematic Review
augmented reality disability special education student engagement technology education...
This systematic review synthesizes research on the application of Augmented Reality (AR) technology in K–12 special education to evaluate its impact on learning outcomes and identify implementation trends, benefits, and challenges. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, a search of the Scopus, IEEE, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases on 20 March 2024 for English-language peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2024 yielded 16 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of these studies reveals a growing research interest, particularly after 2019, with a concentration of research in developing nations like Indonesia and Malaysia. The findings consistently show that AR technology interventions, predominantly targeting students with learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through 3D objects and game-based applications, positively impact academic achievement, motivation, and skill development. Despite these promising outcomes, this review concludes that a significant gap remains between the technology's potential and its current practice, hindered by challenges such as high costs, technical complexity, and a narrow research focus. Therefore, future work should prioritize developing cost-effective, user-friendly AR technology and expanding research to include a wider range of disabilities and educational contexts to ensure equitable and effective access for all students.
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Teachers' Spiritual Leadership Questionnaire: A Students' Observation-Based Items
altruistic love faith/hope psychometric validation teachers’ spiritual leadership questionnaire vision...
This study aims to develop and validate the Teachers' Spiritual Leadership Questionnaire (TSLQ) to assess teachers' spiritual leadership from students' perspectives. Grounded in the principles of spiritual leadership—Vision, Hope/Faith, and Altruistic Love—the TSLQ explores how teachers inspire, influence, and guide students toward both academic and holistic development. The study addresses the lack of assessment tools in educational settings and introduces a structured validation process to ensure the instrument's accuracy and reliability. The questionnaire was developed and refined through several stages using expert input, literature review, and statistical validation methods. A total of 402 students participated, and their responses were analyzed using factor analysis to examine the tool's structure and effectiveness. Findings confirmed that the TSLQ is valid and reliable, with strong alignment between items and the three key dimensions of spiritual leadership. The results supported the model's overall strength, indicating that the questionnaire effectively captures the intended constructs. The study concludes that the TSLQ is a sound instrument for understanding spiritual leadership in the classroom and can help educators and researchers better assess its impact on students' academic and personal growth. Further research is recommended to test the tool in different cultural and educational settings and to explore additional dimensions of spiritual leadership. This new tool offers valuable insights for enhancing teaching practices and promoting a supportive and values-driven learning environment.
Predictors of Post-18 Educational Aspirations and Expectations for the COVID-19 Generation
covid-19 online school engagement post-18 educational expectations university aspirations...
This study used data from the COVID Social Mobility and Opportunities (COSMO) Study, to examine young people’s university aspirations and post-18 education expectations during COVID-19 in relation to their demographic and socio-economic position, school engagement, education disruption, and attitudes to education. Through a series of binary regression analyses, the findings showed the important role school engagement (in the form of online lesson attendance, schoolwork and teacher contact) played in young people’s university aspirations and post-18 education plans, especially at the height of the pandemic. Education disruption and locus of control were found to contribute to young people’s aspirations and post-18 expectations. The findings also highlighted the influence of gender, ethnicity and socioeconomic position regarding university aspirations and expectations, laying bare the obstacles in accessing learning faced by disadvantaged young people at a crucial time in their education. The findings contribute to continued debates about educational aspirations in the post COVID-19 world and have policy implications especially as this generation of young people are still in education. They may also contribute to discussions on ways of supporting this COVID-19 generation through fiscal changes and widening participation policies that extend to post-18 education and early career development.
Evaluating the Impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder Programs on Self-Regulation and Social Interaction: Perspectives from Families
autism spectrum disorder programs self-regulation social interaction...
The current study sought to evaluate the impact of programs used to enhance the self-regulation and social interaction for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), as perceived by their families. The descriptive approach was used to collect and analyze data and derive conclusions after developing the study instruments. The study sample consisted of 150 families of children with ASD enrolled in special education centers in Amman, Jordan. The study participants were purposefully selected to respond to the two provided measurement scales. To measure the impact of the intervention programs, the researchers developed the Self-Regulation Behavior Scale and the Social Interaction Scale, ensuring the validity and reliability of both scales. The results of the study indicated that from the families’ perspective, programs for children with ASD had a moderate impact on enhancing self-regulation and a high impact on social interaction. Additionally, the findings of the study revealed statistically significant differences in the degree of improvement in self-regulation and social interaction behaviors related to the child’s gender and the severity of their disorder. However, no statistically significant differences were found related to the child’s age and gender in their level of improvement in self-regulation and social interaction behaviors.
The Dangerous Child: Swedish Teachers’ Stories About School Violence in a Rebellion Group on Facebook
child agency formula story school violence teacher perspectives teacher agency...
This qualitative article explores a Swedish teachers’ rebellion group (TRG) on Facebook with the aim of exploring teachers’ stories about violence in school. Facebook groups for teachers, such as the TRG, are common sites where teachers discuss and share professional matters and both public stories and subjective experiences. In this article, we focus on narratives about children who are perceived by the teachers as dangerous in various ways. The concept of the formula story, together with child and teacher agency, helps us to explore the symbolic and emotional aspects at stake when the teachers discuss the dangerous child in the TRG. In the analysis, an ambivalent image of the dangerous child emerges where child and teacher agency intersect with each other and with other human and non-human actors. This image challenges contemporary ideas and ideals about children and childhood as well as the teaching profession. The conclusion broadens our notions of the child and reflects upon the outcomes of applying agency to the context of school violence.
Improving Students’ Higher-Order Thinking Skills: A Comparison Between Flipped Learning and Traditional Teaching Approach
flipped learning higher education higher-order thinking skills student outcome sqirc...
Higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) are important for students to improve their ability to analyze, solve problems, and use critical thinking. This research aims to measure the use of flipped learning to enhance students’ higher-order thinking skills. The scaffolding, questioning, interflow, reflection, and comparison (SQIRC)-based flipped learning model is used in this research. It is a combination of online and face-to-face learning that provides opportunities for students to be more active and independent in learning. This model can improve students’ critical thinking skills, as seen from learning outcomes. This research is a quasi-experimental study using 43 students in the Introduction to Accounting course, divided into a control group and an experimental group. In the Introduction to Accounting course, HOTS is essential because this course emphasizes theory and requires the application of the theory in solving problems in accounting records. The results found that implementing the SQIRC-based flipped learning model increased student learning outcomes from pre-test to post-test, and the learning outcomes of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group.
Augmented Reality to Enhance Chemistry Learning Outcomes in Vietnamese Lower Secondary Schools: A Quasi-Experimental Study on Acid-Base–pH–Oxide–Salt Topics
augmented reality chemistry education lower secondary quasi-experimental study...
Augmented Reality (AR) technology is emerging as a promising tool in education, offering immersive and interactive learning experiences that enhance students’ understanding of abstract scientific concepts. This quasi-experimental study investigated the impact of AR on student learning outcomes in chemistry topics, including acids, bases, pH, oxides, and salts, among lower secondary students in Vietnam. A total of 191 students participated in the study, divided into two groups: the experimental group (n = 94) received AR-integrated lessons. The control group (n = 97) received instruction through traditional methods, including lectures and discussions. Data were collected at three points: prior to the intervention (Test 0, baseline) to establish group equivalence; during the intervention (Test 1) to monitor interim changes; and after the intervention (Test 2) to evaluate overall impact. These were complemented by semi-structured surveys and interviews to assess students’ academic performance, conceptual understanding, and active engagement in the lessons. Mixed-effects ANCOVA revealed a significant Group × Time interaction, F(1,188) = 9.93, p = .002, partial η² = .050, indicating that the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvement than the control group. The large between-group effect size (partial η² = .231) confirms substantial practical significance of the AR intervention. Qualitative findings indicated that the use of AR enhanced students’ motivation, engagement, and conceptual understanding by enabling them to visualize three-dimensional molecular structures and conduct simulated experiments in a safe, controlled environment. Despite challenges such as limited technological infrastructure and the need for specialized teacher training, the study demonstrates that AR holds considerable potential for transforming chemistry education in Vietnam. These findings underscore the importance of continued research, targeted professional development, and supportive policies to optimize the integration of AR into diverse educational settings, ultimately improving students’ interest and learning outcomes.
Global Inclination of Learning Poverty: A Bibliometric Analysis of a Decade of Published Literature (2014-2023)
children’s skills learning loss literacy numeracy visual analysis...
This bibliometric analysis examines global trends and scholarly discussions on learning poverty, with a focus on numeracy and literacy skills among young learners over the past decade (2015-2023). All data is retrieved from the Scopus database, and quantitative methods were employed to evaluate the impact and influence of literature in this area. In conducting the bibliometric analysis, the study utilised Microsoft Excel for descriptive statistics, Harzing’s Publish or Perish for citation metrics, and VOSviewer to visualize networks related to the co-occurrence of keywords and co-word analysis. The analysis findings indicate a substantial increase in research output on learning poverty, particularly after 2020, driven by the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The key themes identified in the literature include the expansion of educational inequalities, the impact of the digital divide, and the role of educational technologies in addressing learning losses. Co-occurrence and co-word analyses reveal a strong focus on COVID-19, educational inequality, and the integration of advanced learning technologies in recent research. These findings underscore the critical importance of targeted interventions and equity-focused policies to combat learning poverty. The analysis also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, acquire essential literacy and numeracy skills. Furthermore, the study emphasises the need for resilient and adaptable educational systems to better prepare for future challenges, particularly in the face of global crises such as pandemics. Essentially, the conclusions discuss the sustained efforts to address educational disparities and promote equitable learning opportunities for all.
Evaluating Generative AI Tools for Improving English Writing Skills: A Preliminary Comparison of ChatGPT-4, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot
ai tools english writing skills generative ai...
This preliminary study examines how three generative AI tools, ChatGPT-4, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot, support B+ level English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students in opinion essay writing. Conducted at a preparatory school in Türkiye, the study explored student use of the tools for brainstorming, outlining, and feedback across three essay tasks. A mixed methods design combined rubric-based evaluations, surveys, and reflections. Quantitative results showed no significant differences between tools for most criteria, indicating comparable performance in idea generation, essay structuring, and feedback. The only significant effect was in the feedback stage, where ChatGPT-4 scored higher than both Gemini and Copilot for actionability. In the brainstorming stage, a difference in argument relevance was observed across tools, but this was not statistically significant after post-hoc analysis. Qualitative findings revealed task-specific preferences: Gemini was favored for clarity and variety in brainstorming and outlining, ChatGPT-4 for detailed, clear, and actionable feedback, and Copilot for certain organizational strengths. While the tools performed similarly overall, perceptions varied by task and tool, highlighting the value of allowing flexible tool choice in EFL writing instruction.
Mapping the Scientific Landscape of the Flipped Classroom Model in K-12 Education During 2014-2024
bibliometric analysis flipped classroom general education...
This article aims to establish a research map of the flipped classroom (FC) model in general education for the period 2014-2024, exploring publication trends, influential authors, organizations, countries, and prominent research topics, while also identifying academic gaps in this field. The study focuses on three main aspects: (1) publication trends and influential authors, organizations, and countries; (2) key research topics and academic gaps; (3) international collaboration networks in FC research. The research employs a bibliometric analysis method, utilizing the Scopus database and the VOSviewer visualization tool, to synthesize information and identify research trends. The results indicate that research on FC in K-12 education increased sharply from 2019, reflecting the impact of digital transformation in education during and after Covid-19. The United States, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are the leading research centers. Authors such as Bergmann, Bishop, and Hew have been highly influential. Prominent research trends include self-regulated learning, learner satisfaction, gamification, and the application of artificial intelligence. The international collaboration network in this field is growing, with strong participation from institutions from Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. The study recommends expanding the scope of analysis beyond Scopus and using qualitative methods and systematic reviews to further evaluate the FC model. The research will provide policymakers, teachers, and researchers with useful evidence for improving programs, enhancing professional development, and promoting digital transformation in general education.
Self-Determination Theory to Explore Physics Teachers’ Identities: Innovative or Traditional?
identity physics teacher self-determination theory...
This study explored how the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) framework shaped physics teachers’ professional identities. Through a qualitative case study design, the researcher analyzed the teaching practices, interactions, and pedagogical preferences of two experienced physics teachers. The data sources included classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, informal conversations, and teaching materials. The male teacher adopted a traditional, authority-based approach, while the female teacher employed a student-centered, autonomy-supportive, and relationship-based teaching approach. These findings revealed that teacher identity differed significantly according to the level of meeting the three basic components of SDT: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. The teacher, who gave her students the right to choose experimental activities, collaborated with science centers and included parents in the process, developed a more flexible, participatory, and supportive structure. The other teacher allowed limited student participation in decision-making processes and created a more control-oriented classroom atmosphere. These results showed the importance of addressing autonomy-supported approaches in science teacher education.
Exploring the Role of the Frequency of Housework in Students' Academic Development: A Longitudinal Study from Hungary
adolescent skills fixed effects regression housework hungary longitudinal study...
Our study examines the link between adolescents’ skills (mathematics, reading literacy, and physical fitness) and the frequency with which they participate in housework. We utilize a large longitudinal dataset of Hungarian adolescents (N = 37,461), making this, to our knowledge, the first European study on this topic. We use a rich set of background variables and fixed effects estimators to account for time-varying and time-invariant individual characteristics. Contrary to most of the literature we find cognitive skills to have no practically significant relationship with housework frequency. This discrepancy can be attributed to methodological choices (i.e., the use of the fixed effects estimator) or sociocultural differences in housework duties between the regions studied. Investigating heterogeneous effects on cognitive skills, we find girls’ literacy scores to be slightly affected by daily housework (-.02 SD), unlike boys’. The difference is more pronounced for children with highly educated parents and working mothers (-.06 SD). Substantially lower mathematics scores are detected for children who almost never participate in housework and have unemployed mothers (-.19 SD). Children who have chores to do almost every day and whose mothers are on parental leave also show signs of worsened mathematics ability (-.1 SD). Fitness levels of students who rarely engage in housework are significantly lower (-.04 SD), suggesting that some participation in household tasks contributes to physical well-being. This effect is pronounced for children of tertiary-educated parents (-.05 SD). Overall, findings suggest that household chores are cognitively neutral for most adolescents, have small physical-fitness benefits when performed in moderation, and become academically detrimental only at the extremes within specific family contexts.
Factors Contributing to Higher Education Students' Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence: A Systematic Review
ai acceptance artificial intelligence higher education systematic review...
The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into the field of higher education is causing widespread public discourse. However, existing research is fragmented and lacks systematic synthesis, which limits understanding of how college and university students adopt artificial intelligence technologies. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review following the guidelines of the PRISMA statement, including studies from ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycARTICLES, SOC INDEX, and Embase databases. A total of 5594 articles were identified in the database search; 112 articles were included in the review. The criteria for inclusion in the review were: (i) publication date; (ii) language; (iii) participants; (iv) object of research. The results of the study showed: (a) The Technology Acceptance Model and the Unified Theory of Technology Acceptance and Use are most often used to explain the AI acceptance; (b) quantitative research methods prevail; (c) AI is mainly used by students to search and process information; (d) technological factors are the most significant factors of AI acceptance; (e) gender, specialty, and country of residence influence the AI acceptance. Finally, several problems and opportunities for future research are highlighted, including problems of psychological well-being, students’ personal and academic development, and the importance of financial, educational, and social support for students in the context of widespread artificial intelligence.