Abstract

Abstract. An abstract of about 250-300 words should be presented immediately preceding the text. The abstract should concisely inform the reader of the manuscript’s topic, its methods, and its findings.

Potentials and challenges of technology-based Algebra learning: A classroom experience using Wizer.me

admin_irjstem Abstract , , ,

Potentials and challenges of technology-based Algebra learning: A classroom experience using Wizer.me
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The study seeks to explore the potentials and challenges associated with implementing Wizer.me in the context of algebra learning. Information was gathered through surveys and interviews involving 31 participants, including students and lecturers, employing a mixed-methodology to assess the platform’s engagement, understanding, and ease of use. The results show that Wizer.me enhances student engagement and understanding of abstract algebraic concepts through its interactive and visual features. However, some challenges were identified, including difficulties with the platform’s math symbol editor, which often required users to upload images as a workaround, and technical issues such as unstable internet connections that disrupted learning. Despite these challenges, lecturers appreciated features like immediate feedback and integration with Google Classroom, which streamlined task management and improved student interaction. This study underscores Wizer.me’s potential in supporting algebra learning while highlighting the need for technical improvements and training for both students and lecturers. Enhancing platform usability and addressing infrastructure barriers are recommended to optimize its effectiveness, particularly for teaching complex mathematical topics.

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Lived experiences of student mothers in one public secondary school

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Lived experiences of student mothers in one public secondary school
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of ten student mothers enrolled on modular distance learning in one public secondary school. The study revealed five themes focusing on the difficulties, coping mechanisms, and motivations of student mothers. The findings of the study drive a pervasive approach, strategies, and actions from the educational sector or educational leaders to redesign curricular or instructional framework, learning delivery modes, initiatives, and innovations that is inclusive, relevant, and responsive to the needs and situation of student mothers. Likewise, the study calls for the government agencies (Local Government Units, Barangay, women groups) unified actions towards empowering student mothers as productive citizens.

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Translanguaging as a strategy in English-medium instruction: A retrospective and prospective view

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Translanguaging as a strategy in English-medium instruction: A retrospective and prospective view
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This study is very relevant and useful for the school teachers to make EMI policy successful with the help of the techniques of translanguaging at school level in Nepal. The research objectives of this study attempted to explore retrospective and prospective views of teachers and to find out lived experiences of teachers on the use of translanguaging strategies while implementing EMI in Science, Mathematics and Social Studies Classes. Hermeneutic phenomenological research design was used to explore the lived reflections of secondary level non-English teachers on the use translanguaging strategies in EMI classes. Six teachers of Science, Social Studies and Mathematics subjects were selected as a sample from 3 community schools through judgmental non-random sampling method in this study. The results of this study revealed that teachers and learners have been using different translanguaging strategies in EMI classes such as L1 as a source of learning strategy, dual modes of medium of instruction, translation, code mixing, and code switching in EMI classes, and ICT as a strategy in EMI classes. Furthermore, it was found that there was lakh of instructional materials to support EMI policies in community schools. Translanguaging has been adopted by the Science, Social Studies and Mathematics teachers to make EMI policy of Government of Nepal successful and effective in community schools. The educational authorities of Local Government should organize workshop, seminar and short-term workshop and training on the techniques of translanguaging to implement the decision of English as a Medium of instruction in community schools in Nepal.

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AI in education: Unlocking college student engagement in the digital learning era

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , , , ,

AI in education: Unlocking college student engagement in the digital learning era
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This study investigated the relationships between independent variables Instructor Knowledge, Instructor Support, Ease of Access, Availability of AI Resources, Perceived Value, and Institutional Response and their impact on college student engagement in AI-driven educational contexts. Using a quantitative design, the study gathered data from 572 college students at universities in the Philippines through a structured Likert scale questionnaire on their perceptions and experiences of AI in education. Analysis through multiple regression revealed that Instructor Knowledge did not significantly influence engagement, suggesting that mere expertise may not suffice without strong interpersonal relationships. In contrast, strong Instructor Support positively correlated with student engagement, emphasizing the critical role that encouragement and guidance play in fostering student involvement. Although Ease of Access to AI tools approached significance, the availability of resources negatively correlated with engagement, indicating that an abundance of choices may overwhelm students and lead to disengagement. The Perceived Value of student feedback is positively related to engagement, underscoring the importance of institutions acknowledging and acting on student input to enhance their educational experiences. Furthermore, timely Institutional Response significantly promoted engagement by fostering transparent communication between students and institutions. These results imply that to enhance student engagement effectively, educational institutions should focus on strengthening instructor support, simplifying access to AI tools, curating resources thoughtfully, and actively responding to student feedback. This study offers important insights into AI-enhanced education, highlighting factors that can boost engagement, inform teaching practices, and influence future learning environments. By addressing these elements, institutions can create a more interactive and supportive educational experience for students in a digital learning landscape.

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Exploring Chinese international high school students’ motivations for pursuing degrees in the UK: An empirical investigation based on push-pull model

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Exploring Chinese international high school students’ motivations for pursuing degrees in the UK: An empirical investigation based on push-pull model
Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This study fills a gap in the existing research on the motivations of young Chinese students studying abroad, particularly focusing on those choosing to pursue education in the UK. This study interviewed 15 Chinese international high school students and 6 Chinese parents to explore the motivations of Chinese students to pursue university degrees abroad. This study applied a narrative inquiry approach and the classic push-pull model as the theoretical framework. The study identifies three micro-level push factors: parental expectations, the ability to pay tuition fees, and students’ academic performance. It also identifies three micro-level pull factors from the host country: opportunities to improve English skills, previous travel experience, and friends’ recommendations. At the macro-level, two push factors from the home country are identified: application supplements and differences in school curricula. Two macro-level pull factors from the host country include immigration opportunities and the natural environment. These findings provide fresh insights into the differences in motivations between Chinese students pursuing undergraduate versus postgraduage degrees abroad, enriching the theoretical framework of international student mobility research and offering practical references for educational policymakers and study abroad service providers.

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A Phenomenological study on the experiences of stop-out students input for the reintegration in state university and colleges in the Philippines

admin_irjstem Abstract , ,

A Phenomenological study on the experiences of stop-out students input for the reintegration in state university and colleges in the Philippines
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Dropout rates in recent years in the Philippines have reached alarming levels in higher education. This reflects one of the problems in the education system in the country. Among this population, there are students known as stop-outs, who temporarily pause their studies and eventually return to school within five academic years. This study explores the experiences of stop-out students at State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines, focusing on their reasons for pausing their studies, motivations for returning, and the challenges they face upon re-enrollment. The research aims to enhance understanding of the factors influencing this marginalized population and advocate for effective strategies to support stop-outs. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used, entailing in-depth semi-structured interviews with six participants (one male and five females) who had taken a break from classes for at least one semester and returned within the last five academic years. The data collection process adhered to ethical standards, including informed consent and confidentiality measures. Thematic analysis was utilized to evaluate interview transcripts, research memos, and observation notes, revealing significant insights into the participants’ lived experiences. The findings indicate that financial difficulties and personal circumstances were primary reasons for students becoming stop-outs. Motivation for returning to school is their personal aspirations that includes social environment, support, helping others, finishing academics and career progression. Upon returning, participants faced challenges adjusting to the school environment and expressed a need for support, including orientation programs, counseling services, and peer support groups to facilitate their reintegration. The insights gained from this research can inform policies and practices within SUCs aimed at enhancing student retention and success. By understanding the specific needs of stop-out students, educational institutions can develop targeted interventions that promote a smoother transition back to academic life, ultimately improving academic success and retention rates in higher education.

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Revolutionizing education: An extensive analysis of large language models integration

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Revolutionizing education: An extensive analysis of large language models integration
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Large Language Models have garnered significant attention from companies, universities, and research groups in recent times, driven by the abundance of data available for their training. However, little evidence has been conducted in the field of education, leaving a huge gap that needs to be filled. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the use of new areas of artificial intelligence in the field of education. We use the PRISMA method to analyze the relevant contents in detail to gather data, covering articles collected in the contemporary period between January 2019 and 2024. Results from 54 reviewed publications indicated that trends of utilizing LLMs in education have increased significantly since 2022 and arXiv preprint is the most common repository for declaring researchers’ ideas. The application of LLMs can support the achievement of learning objectives, enhance the quality and accuracy of assessments, and contribute to improving the educational environment as well as the practical application of various subjects. Seven limitations are identified and discussed, opening several avenues for future research agenda.

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Seismic vulnerability assessment of Palacio del Gobernador using fragility curve

admin_irjstem Abstract , , ,

Seismic vulnerability assessment of Palacio del Gobernador using fragility curve
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

Palacio del Gobernador is a 48-year standing 9-storey building located at Intramuros, Manila. Its location of about 10.4 km from the West Valley Fault makes it vulnerable to seismic activities that are expected to occur at the fault, including the “Big One.” This study assessed the seismic vulnerability of the Palacio del Gobernador by generating and analyzing its seismic fragility curves. The researchers generated the digital model of the building using SAP2000. The structural model was then subjected to a Pushover Analysis. Ground motion data of local and foreign earthquakes were collected from DOST-PHIVOLCS and PEER. These were subjected to Response Spectrum Analysis using PRISM in order to generate their response spectra. The results of the two analyses were used in the Capacity Spectrum Method using SAP2000 to generate damage rank frequencies. These values were then used to generate the seismic fragility curves. The values in these curves revealed that, under a 0.4g PGA ground motion, the Palacio del Gobernador has a 49-50% probability of no damage, 18-20% probability of slight damage, 9-11% probability of moderate damage, 6-7% probability of extensive damage, and a 5% probability of total collapse. In particular, the probability of reaching the exceeding extensive damage is under 10%, which is the reference value for 0.4g PGA ground motion based on Section 208.5.3.2 of the NSCP 2015. These findings indicate that the Palacio del Gobernador is resilient against extensive damage when subjected to an earthquake that is comparable to the “Big One” and does not require additional measures to mitigate potential earthquake damage.

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Menstrual hygiene management among secondary high school students

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Sarah Jane A. Poledario, Kristine A. Condes, Natasha Kay V. Chan, Aileen G. Sypongco
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

The purpose of this study was to assess secondary high school students’ knowledge, attitudes, habits, and other aspects related to managing menstrual hygiene. A quantitative descriptive correlational research design was employed for the 294 respondents aged 16-18The main method used to gather data was a modified structured survey questionnaire. SPSS v.26 was used to determine inferential statistics and descriptive statistics aided by MS Excel. The findings revealed that the extent of knowledge had a mean a of 4.31 (SD= 0.61), corresponding to excellent knowledge. While attitude resulted in a mean of 3.89 (SD= 0.63), a positive attitude and hygienic practices resulted in a mean of 4.23 (SD= 0.61), corresponding to very efficient practices. However, a few of them still need better and moderate knowledge and attitude, although there is no poor practice among them. With a given p-value of .031 for knowledge, .042 for attitudes, and .038 for practices. Significant differences in factors affecting menstrual hygiene management in terms of individuals with a p-value of .023, contextual with .044, sociobehavioral with .024, and finally, school infrastructure with .014 < 0.05 which has a significant difference when grouped according to demographic profiles of female students. The unfavorable conditions in which women had to manage their menstrual cycles while attending school underscored the urgent need for urgent infrastructure improvements related to water, sanitation, and hygiene. Furthermore, targeted educational interventions should be implemented to address the moderate levels of knowledge and attitudes observed and to ensure that all students have the necessary resources and information to properly manage their menstrual hygiene.

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Analyses of the readability and students’ comprehension levels of Biology textbooks frequently utilized in upper secondary schools across Kwara, Nigeria

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , , ,

Olamilekan Oluwaseun INUOJO, Ganiyu BELLO, Zakariyau Adebayo BELLO
Corresponding email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T

This research focused on evaluating the readability and understanding levels of Biology textbooks frequently utilized in upper secondary schools across Kwara, Nigeria. The population consisted of all biology textbooks used by senior secondary school students and all students who study biology in Kwara State, Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was utilized to select a sample of 3 textbooks from those recommended by the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development. Additionally, a total of 252 students (84 from senior secondary school one, 84 from senior secondary school two, and 84 from senior secondary school three) were selected using stratified sampling. Two instruments were employed: the Biology Textbook Readability Test (BTRT), an online readability calculator, and the Cloze Test of Readability for Biology Textbooks. The findings revealed that most of the textbooks were difficult and above the grade level for which they were designed. Furthermore, the textbooks were found to be confusing for the designated users. Based on these findings, it is recommended that biology textbooks be structured in a manner that aligns with the characteristics of the designated users. This entails writing textbooks with simpler words, reduced.

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