The education of gifted students is often characterized by high expectations, ambitious goals, and significant effort invested in learning. Their experiences of success and failure are shaped by a variety of factors, including personal, family, school, cultural, and social influences. This article examines how gifted students perceive and experience their own successes and failures, as well as how these experiences are perceived and responded to by their peers. Using qualitative methods, the study involved semi-structured interviews with thirty gifted students from seventh to ninth grades across ten elementary schools in Slovenia. The findings indicate that gifted students experience a range of emotions in response to success, from satisfaction to anxiety, while their reactions to failure often involve frustration and self-criticism. Peer responses to their success and failure vary significantly, ranging from supportive encouragement to jealousy and social exclusion. These findings highlight the complex interpersonal dynamics at play within school environments. Understanding and addressing these dynamics is crucial for creating inclusive, supportive, and stimulating learning environments that nurture both the academic and social-emotional well-being of gifted students.

This article deals with the European Union's educational policies during the Covid-19 pandemic when several cracks and vulnerabilities in its Member States' education systems were exposed across the European Union (EU). In this sense, and with this exceptional period as a reference, we propose to research whether the Community's educational policies reflect a reinforcement of the commitment to education as one of the pillars of European integration. Other studies have not yet addressed the possible impact of this exceptional period on the design of European educational policies as integration mechanisms. Namely, whether there would be a pause in the integration process or, on the contrary, its strengthening and, if so, in what respect. For this research objective, several documents from the most important European institutions were examined. Its results allow us to verify the intention to renew education as an essential element of European integration and as an instrument to promote the EU as an economically stable and socially integrated community.

: In this study, we present a didactic experience carried out in a public university with 60 students enrolled in the 2nd year of the Primary Education Teaching Degree. This experience consisted of implementing a teaching and learning sequence in which proportionality problems (mathematics content) and pure substances and mixtures (experimental science content) were addressed together in an ecodidactic garden context. This work presents the results obtained through the analysis of the students' responses. Our findings suggest that pre-service teachers have difficulties similar to those of primary and secondary students in the use of measuring instruments and conversion units, as well as in the calculation of proportions in mathematics and conceptual errors at a microscopic and macroscopic level in experimental sciences. This study highlights the need to design and implement strategies to support students in their formative process in relation to the contents of proportion and matter. As an added value in our work, we emphasize the interdisciplinary connection between mathematics and experimental sciences, offering a more real-life perspective of science.

STEM/STEAM education is an interdisciplinary pedagogical approach that cultivates skills in science (S), technology (T), engineering (E), arts (A), and mathematics (M) while also fostering 21st century skills like teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity in learners. Enhancing STEAM and 21st century skills for engineering students facilitates their swift adaptation to STEM/STEAM employment demands in the 4.0 industrial revolution and the ongoing digital transformation in Vietnam. This study aims to investigate the effect of STEAM project-based learning on the 21st century skills of 47 mechanical engineering technology students at a public university in Vietnam. The findings of a one-group pretest-posttest design and an analysis of engineering student groups’ STEAM project-based learning products revealed that there was a significant improvement in students' 21st century skills at a 95% confidence level. Among the three 21st century skills studied, engineering students’ collaboration skill showed a moderate effect size, while problem-solving and creative thinking skills demonstrated a large effect size after implementing STEAM project-based learning in the “Workplace Skills” course. Some significant limitations were identified, including (a) the lack of a comparison group, which may have influenced the difference between the pretest and posttest; and (b) the sustainability of 21st century skills developed through STEAM project-based learning in the “Workplace Skills” course was not investigated. Therefore, studying the effect of other factors on engineering students’ 21st century skills and exploring their sustainability were main recommendations for further research.

Critical thinking is highly valued as an integral skill for promoting students’ development, and problem-based learning (PBL) is widely used as an essential method to facilitate the development of critical thinking. However, since individual studies cannot determine the precise overall effect size of PBL on the development of critical thinking, it is difficult to systematically analyze the various influencing factors that hinder PBL from achieving sufficient effectiveness. Therefore, this study adopts a meta-analysis method to examine PBL in depth, aiming to clarify the crucial methods and elements of applying PBL to enhance critical thinking and address the shortcomings of existing studies. This study investigates two primary questions: first, the efficacy of PBL in enhancing critical thinking skills in comparison to traditional pedagogical approaches, and second, the influence of moderating variables on the effectiveness of PBL. To address these questions, a total of 25 studies were selected for meta-analysis. The findings revealed an overall effect size of 1.081 under the random-effects model, with a confidence interval of [0.874, 1.288] and p < .05, indicating that PBL significantly outperforms traditional methods. The analysis demonstrated that the effectiveness of PBL is not significantly influenced by learning stage, sample size, or measurement tools, thereby broadening the applicability of PBL and challenging preconceived limitations associated with its implementation. However, the results also indicated that PBL effectiveness is moderated by teaching methods and subject types, which offers critical insights for educators seeking to adapt their instructional strategies when employing PBL.

This study investigated the relationships between conflict management strategies and family functioning among university students from diverse ethnic backgrounds in the multicultural context of Kosovo. A cross-sectional design was used with 362 university students (183 female, 179 male) comprising Kosovo Turks (58.6%), Albanians (23.8%), and Bosnians (17.7%). Data were collected using the Conflict Management Strategy Scale and Family Assessment Device. Path analysis was used to examine relationships between conflict strategies and family functioning dimensions. Students preferred compromising strategies most (M = 3.68) and withdrawing least (M = 2.98). Family functioning was healthy in problem-solving, communication, roles, affective responsiveness, and general functioning (scores < 2.0), but unhealthy in affective involvement (M = 2.29) and behavioral control (M = 2.12). Significant ethnic differences emerged in communication (F(2,144) = 3.158, p = .045, η² = .020) and behavioral control (F(2,149) = 4.109, p = .018, η² = .018), but not in conflict strategies. Path analysis revealed that withdrawing strategies negatively affected family functioning (β = .113-.143), while smoothing strategies had positive effects (β = -.139 to -.220). However, conflict strategies explained only 1.6-4.3% of the variance in family functioning (R² = .016-.043), indicating small effect sizes. While statistically significant relationships exist between conflict management strategies and family functioning, effect sizes are modest. Ethnic variations in these relationships emphasize the importance of cultural considerations for family counseling practices. The findings suggest that conflict management training may have a limited direct impact on family functioning, highlighting the need for comprehensive, culturally sensitive intervention approaches.

Teachers' professional performance is strongly influenced by their psychological well-being, their ability to adapt to unstable and uncertain situations (especially in wartime), and their capacity to use effective strategies to manage and overcome stress. This study explored the relationships between teachers' psychological well-being, coping strategies, and intolerance of uncertainty. The Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being (PWB Scale), The Mental Health Continuum–Short Form (MHC-SF), The Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale–Short Form (IUS-12), Brief COPE Inventory (Brief COPE) were administered with a sample of 1936 teachers of primary and secondary school from Poland (n=927) and Ukraine (n=1009). The results showed that the psychological well-being of Polish and Ukrainian teachers is positively correlated with problem-focused coping (in particular, with active coping, positive reframing, planning, and use of instrumental support) and emotion-focused coping (such as the use of emotional support, humor, acceptance, and religion). A negative correlation was found between teachers' psychological well-being and avoidant coping (such as denial, substance use, behavioral disengagement) and intolerance of uncertainty (prospective anxiety, inhibitory anxiety). A multiple regression analysis was used to identify statistically significant predictors of psychological well-being for teachers in Poland and Ukraine. As a result, both common and distinct factors that influence teachers' psychological well-being were identified, considering the socio-cultural differences that arise from the unique characteristics of the education systems in each country and the sensitivity of teachers' well-being to various socio-political changes. The findings can be used in developing programs that support teachers' psychological well-being and create conditions conducive to enhancing their professional functioning.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Globalization, digitalization, and evolving national regulations have intensified the need for rigorous quality-assurance systems to secure accreditation in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). This study asks: What theoretical contributions underpin HEI accreditation, and how have research themes evolved? Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Bibliometric Analysis via Biblioshiny and Vantage Point, we examined 1,252 documents indexed in Scopus® (781) and Web of Science™ (471) from 2012 to May 2025. Findings delineate three production phases—Foundation Consolidation (2012–2017), Expansion and Diversification (2017–2020), and Sustained Transformation and Innovation (2020–2025)—and three thematic perspectives: (a) Teaching and Learning Quality, (b) Technology and Sustainability as Quality Catalysts, and (c) Governance, Management, and Accountability. Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) identified three Motor Theme clusters—[1] Sustainable Development and Institutional Change, [2] Technological Pedagogy and Student Experience, and [3] Governance and Regulation—led by Spain, the United States, Chile, Colombia, the UK, Australia, and India. Conclusions underscore accreditation’s dual role as a strategic lever for institutional improvement and a competitive mechanism, with emerging focus on competency, e-learning, employability, machine learning, and sustainability. Future research should explore cross-border accreditation dynamics; the impact of AACSB and NAAC standards on business-school curriculum design and program quality; accreditation’s pedagogical effects; and leadership practices for effective implementation.

This study examines the emotional labor of early childhood educators and its relationship with interactions involving children and parents, with a focus on emotional regulation and demographic influences. This study aimed to investigate the impact of emotional regulation strategies and demographic variables on educators’ emotional well-being during professional interactions. A quantitative approach was adopted, with data collected through structured questionnaires. The analysis concentrated on emotion suppression and surface acting in relation to well-being. Results indicated that teachers experienced considerable emotional burden, with emotion suppression being more prevalent than surface acting, particularly in interactions with parents. Fifty-three percent of educators reported a high emotional burden in parent-related suppression, compared to 38% in interactions with children. Additionally, 38% reported high suppression in self-regulation, while 29% experienced no burden from surface acting. Emotion suppression in parent interactions had the most significant impact on well-being (standardized coefficient = 0.4044, p < .001), followed by education level (coefficient = 0.1646, p < .001). Factors such as generation, teaching experience, salary, and certification were not statistically significant. The model explained 18.7% of the variance in emotional well-being. These findings align with existing literature that highlights the emotional burden of teaching and the psychological toll of unaddressed regulation challenges. Therefore, culturally and contextually appropriate suppression-management training, together with enhanced institutional support, is essential to reduce the emotional burden on Indonesian early childhood educators.

This study examined the effect of workplace spirituality and person-organization fit on faculty turnover intention in Indonesian universities, with employee engagement as a potential mediating variable. The research involved 1026 faculty members from both public and private universities in Indonesia, with at least one year of teaching experience. A quantitative survey design was employed. Data were collected through questionnaires administered directly to respondents or via online communication channels. The findings revealed that both workplace spirituality and person-organization fit significantly reduced faculty turnover intention. Furthermore, it has been proven that employee engagement acts as a mediator in this relationship. Universities that foster workplace spirituality and ensure a good person-organization fit can enhance faculty engagement, ultimately leading to lower turnover intentions. To increase engagement and reduce turnover, this research highlights the importance of fostering workplace spirituality within universities and ensuring that faculty members are well-suited. It contributes to knowledge of faculty retention strategies in higher education. The study acknowledges its limitations, including a cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported information. Future research using longitudinal designs is recommended.