scholarly journals Effect of Combining Gamification and a Scavenger Hunt on Pre-Service Teachers’ Perceptions and Achievement

10.28945/4809 ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 20 ◽  
pp. 283-308
Author(s):  
Deema Alajaji ◽  
Abeer A Alshwiah
Keyword(s):  
Early Childhood ◽  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Teaching Strategy ◽  
Early Childhood Teacher ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Teachers Perceptions ◽  
Motivation For Learning

Aim/Purpose: To investigate the application of game elements to a non-gaming context (gamification), specifically on an early childhood teacher-training course. Background: This research proposes a teaching strategy that combines gamification elements via e-quizzing tools with the main principles of a scavenger hunt (SH). The purpose of this blend is to provide learners with an exciting learning environment. Methodology: A convenience sample of 41 students was selected from the Early Childhood Department of the School of Education in Imam Abdulrahman University (IAU), Saudi Arabia. The learners’ perceptions of gamification and the Quizizz e-tool were investigated using online scales, a focus group, and classroom observations. The teachers were also interviewed to gather their views on this strategy. Contribution: Gamification has been a focus of recent educational research, but many educators find it challenging to apply gamification effectively. Therefore, this research proposes a teaching strategy that combines e-quizzing gamification elements with the main principles of an SH to create an exciting learning environment. Findings: Gamification was found to improve trainee teachers’ perceptions of the selected teaching strategy. It also increased their motivation for learning and engagement with their peers, thereby proving Quizizz to be a useful gamification tool, despite some technical difficulties. Recommendations for Practitioners: This study recommends that teachers who utilize technology should do so for educational purposes and in new ways, rather than merely increasing the time spent using technology in the classroom. This will ensure that classes are more interesting, thereby eliciting enthusiasm from their students. Recommendation for Researchers: Further research is recommended to explore students’ development in the area of collaboration, synthesis of information, critical thinking, and problem-solving, as a result of gamification strategies in education. Impact on Society: The study participants expressed a willingness to apply this strategy later in their careers with other students and on other courses. The collaborative and problem-solving skills learned are likewise transferable to other contexts and lifelong learning. Future Research: Further research is recommended to explore students’ development of other skills such as collaboration, synthesis of information, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

scholarly journals A FLIPPED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: A DISRUPTIVE APPROACH FOR TRADITIONAL CLASSROOMS?

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (42) ◽  
pp. 83-93
Author(s):  
Byabazaire Yusuf ◽  
Mohammed Ahmed Taiye
Keyword(s):  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
21St Century ◽  
Cultural Sensitivity ◽  
21St Century Skills ◽  
Flipped Classroom ◽  
Flipped Learning ◽  
Problem Solving Skills

The primary purpose of this study was to examine whether a flipped learning environment was a disruption to the traditional instructional approach, particularly in consideration of the 21st-century skills that students must acquire before graduation. A flipped classroom is one in which students are introduced to content at home or outside classroom via technology, and practice working through it at school. A qualitative research design was employed to conduct the study through a focus group approach. Nine in-service teachers, who were participants in a flipped classroom pilot program in Malaysia, served on the focus groups. Data were collected through asynchronous virtual focus group discussions. The scissor-and-sort approach was employed in the data analysis process. Findings from the study indicated teachers believed that a flipped learning environment maximized student learning potential, allowed for collaborative learning, created an engaging learning environment and promoted higher order critical thinking and problem solving skills, all suitable for encouraging and practicing 21st century skills in the classroom. Therefore, this study showed that the flipped classroom approach disrupts the traditional learning environment in a positive manner and avails opportunities to equip students with the relevant skills of problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and creativity which are essential for life-long learning and participating in a competitive 21st-century learning environment.

How Students Learned in Creating Electronic Portfolios

2008 ◽  
pp. 245-256
Author(s):  
Shuyan Wang ◽  
Sandra Turner
Keyword(s):  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Learning Experiences ◽  
Electronic Portfolios ◽  
Technology Program ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Master Of Education ◽  
Depth Interviews

This case study investigated the learning experiences that occurred during students’ development of culminating electronic portfolios for a Master of Education in Computer Education and Technology program. The meaning that students gave to their learning experiences and the problems they encountered were also investigated in order to understand how students learn in a technology-enriched learning environment. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analyses from seven M.Ed. students before, during, and after developing electronic portfolios. Findings indicate that creating electronic portfolios supports students’ mastery of technology-related knowledge and promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students reported that they learned not only “by doing,” but also from peers through collaboration, from reflection on their artifacts, and from synthesizing their electronic portfolios.

Problem based learning (PBL) in Organic Chemistry

2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 64-69
Author(s):  
Amina Alobaidi
Keyword(s):  
Organic Chemistry ◽  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Concept Mapping ◽  
Problem Based Learning ◽  
Student Centered ◽  
Student Centered Learning ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Educational Methods ◽  
Online Communications

Background: PBL appears to answer many concerns regarding educational methods, encourages students to look for new solutions to relevant problems using available knowledge and resources. The process expands students' critical thinking and problem solving skills while enhancing their creative capabilities Objective: To develop a PBL modules for teaching of organic chemistry. Methods: This module was developed for implementation in the curriculum of Chemistry Departments in Colleges of Sciences and Education. This is an innovations to be developed for increasing the wide-ranging abilities of students. A series of strategies which are involved in PBL, concept mapping and online communications, are suggested and discussed in terms of encouraging student-centered learning.  

Growing Healthy Minds, Bodies, and Communities: Early childhood teachers’ perceptions of a nutrition-integrated pilot curriculum

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-24
Author(s):  
Alicia Cooper Stapp ◽  
Gerogianna Mann ◽  
Laurel Lambert ◽  
Kenya Wolff
Keyword(s):  
Early Childhood ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
Early Childhood Teachers ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Learning Collaborative ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Teachers Perceptions ◽  
Hands On Learning ◽  
Flexible Schedule

Abstract Objective: Healthy eating behaviors are often developed early in life, yet nutrition is rarely emphasized in early childhood education. Integration of nutrition into academic content is warranted, still, its ability to positively impact teaching and learning has been understudied. Therefore, this study explored the feasibility of application in the classroom and the perceived usability of a nutrition-integrated pilot curriculum. Design: Early childhood teachers’ perceptions of four nutrition-integrated lessons were explored through a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through pre- and post-focus groups, lesson observations, and teacher feedback. Focus group transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis and supplemented with observations and lesson feedback. Setting: This pilot study took place in Northwest Mississippi at three preschools which are part of the Mississippi Early Learning Collaborative. Participants: A non-probability convenience sample was utilized to acquire participants. Ten early childhood teachers and 132 Pre-K4 students participated in the study. Results: Three themes emerged and were categorized accordingly: (a) preconceived concern of the unknown versus experienced reality; (b) promoting buy-in and engagement through hands-on learning experiences; and (c) manifestation of perceived prioritization. Conclusions: Nutrition-integrated lessons were reported to be creative, facilitate positive food behaviors, and highly engaging for teachers and children. Concerns for new and unfamiliar curriculum were noted but could be alleviated with more detailed instructions. Future nutrition-integrated curriculum efforts should include detailed video instructions and offer a gradual and flexible schedule allowing teacher autonomy in how to prioritize implementation.

Clinically oriented physiology teaching: strategy for developing critical-thinking skills in undergraduate medical students

2004 ◽  
Vol 28 (3) ◽  
pp. 102-104 ◽  
Author(s):  
Reem Rachel Abraham ◽  
Subramanya Upadhya ◽  
Sharmila Torke ◽  
K. Ramnarayan
Keyword(s):  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Student Performance ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Teaching Strategy ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Thinking Skills ◽  
Critical Thinking Skills ◽  
Undergraduate Medical Students ◽  
Life Problems ◽  
Motivation For Learning

Medicine is an applied science, interpreting evidence and applying it to real life by using clinical reasoning skills and experience. COPT (clinically oriented physiology teaching) was incorporated in physiology instruction aiming to relate the study of physiology to real-life problems, to generate enthusiasm and motivation for learning, and to demonstrate the vocational relevance of physiology among students by integrating clinical experience with teaching. COPT consisted of two elements: 1) critical-thinking questions (CTQ) and 2) clinical case studies. After a few topics were taught, CTQ and case studies were given as an assignment. Answers were discussed in the next class. Two exams, each of which contained CTQ and recall questions, were conducted, one before ( exam 1) and one after ( exam 2) the implementation of COPT. Analysis of student performance in the examinations revealed that the students did better in exam 2 ( P < 0.0001). Feedback from students indicated that this method was useful and challenging.

scholarly journals Educational puzzles for understanding gastrointestinal physiology.

1999 ◽  
Vol 276 (6) ◽  
pp. S1 ◽  
Author(s):  
C M Bailey ◽  
C T Hsu ◽  
S E DiCarlo
Keyword(s):  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Active Learning ◽  
Small Group ◽  
Deductive Reasoning ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
Small Group Discussion ◽  
Educational Tools ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Gastrointestinal Physiology

We developed four innovative, creative, and fun educational tools to promote active learning, enhance problem-solving skills, and encourage small group discussion. Furthermore, the tools encourage deductive reasoning and critical thinking rather than passive memorization of material. The tools include crossword puzzles, hidden messages, word scrambles, and word searches. These tools were developed using two computer programs: the Crossword Construction Kit and The New Puzzle Factory. Instructors are encouraged to optimize the value of the tools by using the additional options presented at the end of each of the puzzles. The additional options encourage students to become active learners by creating their own tools. Although the principles of these four tools can be adapted to many disciplines, these specific games focused on gastrointestinal physiology. Our goal was to create tools that can be used either inside or outside the classroom to complement and enhance the lecture.

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