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The Impact of Cultural Based Activities in Foreign Language Teaching at Upper-Intermediate (B2) Level
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
108-113
Received:
30 March 2013
Published:
10 June 2013
Abstract: This Study is conducted to find out the influence of cultural based activities in foreign language teaching through conducting number of lessons continued approximately 10 weeks in Language School at Süleyman Demirel University. We have tried to find out the attitudes of students towards teaching/learning foreign language through cultural based activities and the effects of these cultural based activities applied in English lessons on developing communicative and linguistic competence in L2. Among them were used: games, role plays, dialogues, discussions, comparisons of home and host cultures, video and authentic materials that can help and encourage students to sustain their interest and work. Through practicing various cultural based tasks and exercises, the students explored communicative skills. The tasks conducted both for the teachers’ and students’ insights into how cultural based activities can be used not only to develop students’ confidence and language skills but also to expand their sense of awareness of intercultural concerns in L2.
Abstract: This Study is conducted to find out the influence of cultural based activities in foreign language teaching through conducting number of lessons continued approximately 10 weeks in Language School at Süleyman Demirel University. We have tried to find out the attitudes of students towards teaching/learning foreign language through cultural based act...
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Need for a Continuing Education Program for Toxoplasmosis
Katia Denise Saraiva Bresciani,
Daniel Fontana Ferreira Cardia,
Lucilene Granuzzio Camossi,
André Luiz Baptista Galvão,
Amanda Leal de Vasconcellos,
Rodrigo Rabelo dos Santos,
Thais Rabelo dos Santos,
José Antonio Soares
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
114-118
Received:
12 May 2013
Published:
20 June 2013
Abstract: The Toxoplasma gondii infection is very important from the point of view of public health and affects almost all homeothermic animal species, including birds and mammals. In this study, thirty teachers from elementary schools in the northwest area of the state of São Paulo, Brazil, were interviewed about toxoplasmosis. Their students frequented of first to fourth series of the fundamental teaching. The questionnaire with closed questions were: 1) is the cat the main transmitter of toxoplasmosis in humans?; 2) If the cat can transmit toxoplasmosis, how happens?; 3) “If the dog can transmit toxoplasmosis, how happens?”; Is there any other way to acquire toxoplasmosis?; If there are other means of transmission, which can be? After this stage, lectures of short duration were supplied about this disease and reapplied the interview form. The data were analyzed with base in descriptive statistics. We found that there was an assimilation of the concepts on the control of toxoplasmosis by the teachers. In conclusion, there is the need of implanting one continuing education program for the community in general directed to the improvement of basic concepts of toxoplasmosis control.
Abstract: The Toxoplasma gondii infection is very important from the point of view of public health and affects almost all homeothermic animal species, including birds and mammals. In this study, thirty teachers from elementary schools in the northwest area of the state of São Paulo, Brazil, were interviewed about toxoplasmosis. Their students frequented of ...
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Perceptions of Civil Society on Structured Collaboration for Improving the Governance of Adult Education for Poverty Reduction
Olivia Adwoa Tiwaah Frimpong Kwapong
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
119-126
Received:
14 May 2013
Published:
30 June 2013
Abstract: Adult educators work to alleviate poverty in developing communities. Proper management of available resources through an inter-sectorial coordinated approach contributes to widen access to interventions. A descriptive analytical survey among respondents from a developing country has revealed existence of some form of collaboration that could be enhanced by drawing a common budget for collaborative activities, using radio as a communication media, concentrating policy-making at the local level and building a coordinating team that is representative of all partners in development from the local beneficiary communities.
Abstract: Adult educators work to alleviate poverty in developing communities. Proper management of available resources through an inter-sectorial coordinated approach contributes to widen access to interventions. A descriptive analytical survey among respondents from a developing country has revealed existence of some form of collaboration that could be enh...
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Perceptions of ESL Student Tutors on Challenges Faced in Peer Tutoring
Ming Sing Chai,
Siew Fong Lin
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
127-131
Received:
27 May 2013
Published:
30 June 2013
Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to discover the tutor’s perceptions of challenges faced when performing simulation-based tasks. 50 Diploma in Business Administration students with mixed English proficiency in an institution of higher learning formed 10 groups in this study. The observations, interviews and diary entries used revealed that the tutors experienced a number of difficulties during the peer-tutoring sessions. They range from problems in the areas of communication, time management, group management, interest sustenance and lack of knowledge. It is important for instructors to be aware of the problems that student tutors face in the course of tutoring. The knowledge will enable them to improve and refine future peer-tutoring sessions which in turn, benefit both tutors and tutees.
Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to discover the tutor’s perceptions of challenges faced when performing simulation-based tasks. 50 Diploma in Business Administration students with mixed English proficiency in an institution of higher learning formed 10 groups in this study. The observations, interviews and diary entries used revealed that the tut...
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Computerized pre-Listening Activities and the Comprehension of English Narrative Texts.
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
132-137
Received:
27 May 2013
Published:
30 June 2013
Abstract: This study investigated 60 female and male learners in 3 groups of 20 who were selected by a Nelson test, to determine whether computerized pre listening activities, the use of key vocabulary and pictures, have a significant effect on the comprehension of English narrative texts. Also, was there any significant difference between the two computerized pre- listening activities in terms of their effect on comprehension of English narrative texts? To do this, a computer assisted language learning (CALL) software, RFLX 2013, was employed for the purpose of the study. All participants listened to four different narrative passages via a computer. Each experimental group was exposed to one of two computerized pre listening activities. After listening, subjects answered a five item true-false test and a five item multiple-choice test. Finally an ANOVA and a t-test were used to analyze the data. The results of this study showed that both types of computerized activities have significant effects on the listening comprehension of English narrative texts. Using multimedia software can help listeners to make a bridge between what they already know and what they are supposed to learn.
Abstract: This study investigated 60 female and male learners in 3 groups of 20 who were selected by a Nelson test, to determine whether computerized pre listening activities, the use of key vocabulary and pictures, have a significant effect on the comprehension of English narrative texts. Also, was there any significant difference between the two computeriz...
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Incidental and Intentional Vocabulary Learning: A Case Study of Meaning-Given, Meaning-Inferred with MC, and Pure Meaning-Inferred Methods on the Retention of L2 Word Meanings in a Chinese University
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
138-148
Received:
8 June 2013
Published:
30 June 2013
Abstract: This paper reports a case study investigating and comparing three word-learning methods [i.e. Meaning-Given, Meaning-Inferred with Multiple Choices (Meaning-Inferred with MC as below), and Pure Meaning-Inferred] in two modes of learning (i.e. incidental and intentional learning, ICL & ITL respectively as below) in terms of the retention of L2 word meanings in a Chinese University. Findings suggest that the mode of ITL led to significantly higher retention than the mode of ICL did. However, in terms of different word-learning methods, different results appeared. It has been suggested that it is crucial for teachers to balance the use of the two learning modes, input more modifications directing students to process the lexical information more elaborately, and put more emphasis on the functions of rehearsal and reactivation of new lexical information.
Abstract: This paper reports a case study investigating and comparing three word-learning methods [i.e. Meaning-Given, Meaning-Inferred with Multiple Choices (Meaning-Inferred with MC as below), and Pure Meaning-Inferred] in two modes of learning (i.e. incidental and intentional learning, ICL & ITL respectively as below) in terms of the retention of L2 word ...
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Integrating Geography Information System in Teaching Geography in Malaysian Secondary Smart Schools
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
149-154
Received:
11 June 2013
Published:
10 July 2013
Abstract: In 1996, Malaysia initiated a plan to make the country the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub of the region. To facilitate this, the government established the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) plan; this initiative is based on a belief that there will be growing demand for a computer-literate work force, as well as for professionals in ICT. As part of this initiative, the Malaysian Government also established the Smart School System in 1999. The Smart School Programme emphasises the use of technology tools as an important aid in learning and teaching: computers are the main instruction (teaching) tool. Significantly, the integration of ICT in teaching has given greater priority to Science, Mathematics, and English. Therefore, Geography has become what students perceive as a ‘dry’ subject with little use of technology. Unlike in Malaysia, in developed countriesGeography receives more attention and has become a key subject at both the primary and secondary level; as a result, Geographic Information Systems(GIS)are widely accepted and integrated intothe secondary and primary schoolGeography curriculum. However, the integration of GIS in Geography education in Malaysia is still regarded as a myth,for reasons of lack of ability, human resources, ground facilities, and ICT provision. Thus, this article will discuss the potential to integrate GIS in a Malaysian Secondary Smart School, which is well known for being the most sophisticated and well-equipped with ICT in the country. A content analysis was performed based on articles from local and foreign pub-lications regarding the integration of GIS in Geography teaching. The content analyses, which include articles, theses and conference papers, discuss the opportunities to integrate GIS in teaching Geography. The analysis showsthat Secondary Smart Schools in Malaysia have adequate ICT facilities and well-trained human resourcesfor GIS. Thus, a plan for integrating GIS in Geography education is not a myth and will become a reality if the Malaysia Ministry of Education is ready to implement it.
Abstract: In 1996, Malaysia initiated a plan to make the country the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub of the region. To facilitate this, the government established the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) plan; this initiative is based on a belief that there will be growing demand for a computer-literate work force, as well as for professionals ...
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Teacher Reflectivity in a Community of Practice Focusing on Classroom Research to Improve Learning with Understanding in Students
Graciela Roig,
Antonia Rivera
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
155-162
Received:
20 June 2013
Published:
20 July 2013
Abstract: A community of practice focused on classroom research, used as a teacher professional development strategy, was created to promote deep reflections about student learning with understanding. This research, conducted in the southeast region of Puerto Rico, studied a community of practice in classroom research. The community of practice was formed by ten teachers who participated in an intervention geared to help them prepare a research proposal, conduct classroom research and present their findings in a professional research congress. A predominantly qualitative approach was used, mainly based on teachers’ written reflections, individual interviews, focus groups, documents and observations. Results indicated that teachers considered that the environment of the community of practice promoted their own learning, encouraged them to explore new teaching strategies and assessment techniques, and achieved learning with understanding of their students. They also greatly valued the time they had to reflect over their teaching-learning practices, both individually and collectively.
Abstract: A community of practice focused on classroom research, used as a teacher professional development strategy, was created to promote deep reflections about student learning with understanding. This research, conducted in the southeast region of Puerto Rico, studied a community of practice in classroom research. The community of practice was formed by...
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A Survey on the Factors Influencing Lower-Level l2 Listeners’ Strategies Use and Proficiency Level
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
163-168
Received:
3 May 2013
Published:
20 July 2013
Abstract: This paper aims to identify the factors that cause EFL learners’ lower listening proficiency level and how these factors influence students’ performance in their listening process. Questionnaire and interview questions were designed to investigate 33 non-English majors and other EFL learners’ strategy use and proficiency levels from four aspects: the learners, the language, the language environment and the teacher. Interviews were conducted and long-term observations carried out for further information. Results show that learners themselves are the main factor that influences their listening proficiency level, personality, language and the teachers’ way of teaching also can have a negative influence on their proficiency level of listening. Thus teaching of English listening not only needs to take the training of the learners’ listening strategies into serious consideration, but also requires teachers’ modification of their teaching to suit the special requirements of students in various levels. The results may have pedagogical implications to facilitate both the college English teachers’ teaching of listening and to improve the EFL learners’ proficiency levels in listening.
Abstract: This paper aims to identify the factors that cause EFL learners’ lower listening proficiency level and how these factors influence students’ performance in their listening process. Questionnaire and interview questions were designed to investigate 33 non-English majors and other EFL learners’ strategy use and proficiency levels from four aspects: t...
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Student Teachers’ Perceptions of Teaching Practice Assessment in Egerton University, Kenya
Patricia Wambugu,
Anne Barmao,
Joel Ng’eno
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
169-175
Received:
10 July 2013
Published:
10 August 2013
Abstract: eaching practice is a key component of the undergraduate teacher training programme. It is during this period that the student teacher gets to translate the skills and theory learnt into reality through actual classroom teaching. Since the inception of the Bachelor of Education (Science), Bachelor of Education (Arts) and Bachelor of Science (Agriculture Education) programmes at Egerton University, the teacher trainees have always proceeded for teaching practice at the end of their third year of training. Although research on teaching practice in Egerton University has been done, there is need to replicate and investigate the current state of the perceptions of student teachers towards teaching practice assessment. It was with this in mind that the study was undertaken. The study investigated the student teachers’ perceptions of teaching practice assessment. Three teaching practice zones namely; Kericho/Bomet, Uasingishu,/Keiyo and Nyeri/Kirinyaga were randomly selected. From the zones 68 students were selected using stratified random sampling technique based on gender and subject area specialization. The study adopted descriptive survey research design and it used a questionnaire which had a reliability coefficient alpha of 0.906 to collect data. The collected data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that the student teachers’ perceptions towards teaching practice assessment were favorable. The findings also indicated that there were no statistically significant differences in their perceptions by area of specialization. However there was a statistically significant difference in perceptions of teaching practice between male and female student-teachers at alpha level of 0.05. The findings may be used to enhance teaching practice assessment.
Abstract: eaching practice is a key component of the undergraduate teacher training programme. It is during this period that the student teacher gets to translate the skills and theory learnt into reality through actual classroom teaching. Since the inception of the Bachelor of Education (Science), Bachelor of Education (Arts) and Bachelor of Science (Agricu...
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The Effect of Blended Learning on Developing Critical Thinking Skills
Khaled Nahs Raqas Alotaibi
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, July 2013
Pages:
176-185
Received:
15 July 2013
Published:
10 August 2013
Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of blended learning on developing critical thinking skills of a sample of students at Teachers' College in King Saud University. The study sample included 58 students who were divided randomly into two groups; one was an experimental group with 27 students and the other was a control group with 31 students. The following tools were used: E-courses, Watson - Glaser Critical Thinking Test (short form.)The researcher taught the experimental group using blended learning via Blackboard, while the control group was taught using traditional education. The results showed that: There were no statistically significant differences between the experimental group and the control group in critical thinking skills.
Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of blended learning on developing critical thinking skills of a sample of students at Teachers' College in King Saud University. The study sample included 58 students who were divided randomly into two groups; one was an experimental group with 27 students and the other was a control group with 31 s...
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