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“It could be exciting”: Factors affecting Virtual Reality implementation in secondary education
No full textThis thesis explores the perceptions and experiences of secondary educators in Western Australia regarding the implementation of Virtual Reality (VR) in their teaching practices. Although VR is increasingly recognised for its immersive and engaging learning potential, its integration in secondary schools remains limited. Adopting an exploratory qualitative approach, this study draws on two phases of data collection, an online questionnaire and follow-up semi-structured interviews, to examine the pedagogical, technological, and contextual factors influencing VR adoption.
The study is framed by the TPACK-X model, which considers the interplay of educators’ content, pedagogical, technological, and contextual knowledge. Findings reveal that while VR is valued for enhancing student engagement, supporting inclusive practices, and making abstract concepts more accessible, integration is often constrained by cost, limited content, infrastructure challenges, and gaps in teacher confidence and training. The study also highlights how leadership support, strategic planning, and access to professional learning can positively shape educators’ capacity to embed VR meaningfully into curriculum delivery.
This research contributes to the field of educational technology by offering new insights into the lived realities of VR implementation in schools. It provides evidence-based recommendations for teachers, school leaders, policymakers, and technology developers seeking to foster more sustainable, equitable, and pedagogically sound uses of immersive technology in secondary education
Talking about relational youth work: Why language matters
Get PDFThe literature on youth work emphasises the importance of ‘relationship’ to good practice, moreover, the characteristics of the youth-work relationship have been posited as a defining feature of youth work in the British-influenced tradition. Despite this, little attention is paid to the choice of language used to describe how professional youth workers relate to young people, or how language choices reflect political framing of youth work and of power relationships within their practice. Language choice has implications for how youth workers perceive their professional identity, for how accountability is construed, and for inter-professional working. In this article we undertake a thematic analysis to identify, analyse and critique various language options, drawing on international literature, with an application focus on Irish and Australian contexts. We address the question, ‘what language choices offer most precision and clarity about youth work professional relationships in different contexts?’ We identify three main ways the relationship between youth workers and young people has been framed: as collaboration; as transaction; or, as rights-based entitlement. We conclude with discussion of how different relational language choices in youth work should be selected to be congruent with the youth work context, power relationships and purposes
Antecedents of domestic visitor’s memorable experiences and gender difference: A heritage tourism context
No full textThis study explores the interplay between visitor engagement, authenticity, and destination image in shaping memorable tourism experiences (MTE) within the realm of domestic heritage tourism, as well as the potential moderating role of gender in these relationships. Data were collected in the historic city of Kashan, Iran through a self-administered questionnaire and a combination of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and multi-group analysis was employed to test the hypotheses. The results strongly support the influence of visitor engagement, authenticity, and destination image on various dimensions of MTE. Additionally, noteworthy gender differences emerged, revealing that authenticity has a more pronounced impact on meaningfulness, knowledge, and involvement for female tourists. Moreover, distinct gender disparities were observed in the effects of destination image on these three dimensions. These findings make a valuable contribution to the tourism and MTE literature by emphasizing the significance of gender-specific perceptions and attitudes within the context of heritage tourism
A comprehensive science mapping of tourism and hospitality research: Tribes, territories and networks
Get PDFThis study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliographic analysis of the field of tourism and hospitality research by mapping the contributions of researchers, research institutions and evolution of research topics and collaboration networks. Metadata from 27 SSCI and 30 ESCI tourism and hospitality journals were collected from Web of Science. Data analysis was conducted utilizing R package of Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny, adhering to the guidelines of bibliometric analysis. The study identified topics of sustainability and IT technology applications in tourism and hospitality as the recent research fronts. An increasing number of Chinese origin researchers emerged in the author collaboration network, followed by Korean origin researchers. Authors and universities in China started to form distinctive clusters in the author and institutional collaboration networks. The results offer a holistic understanding of the field of tourism and hospitality research, and can help researchers develop personal strategies in research career planning and development
Assessment of the psychometric properties of the mask usability scale: A measure of the perceived usability of N95 respirators among healthcare students and staff
Get PDFAim: To test the reliability and construct validity of the Mask Usability Scale in healthcare students and staff. Design: A methodological study involving repeated measures. Methods: The study included two batches of participants: (1) 283 university nursing students and (2) 1753 participants composed of students (61%) and clinical staff (39%). All participants underwent N95 respirator fit tests and user seal checks. They also responded to the Mask Usability Scale, which comprises 11 items evaluated using Likert scales. The internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach\u27s alpha and item–total correlation test. Test–retest reliability was evaluated by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The factor structure was initially identified through exploratory factor analysis (EFA), laying the groundwork for the model. This approach was followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to ensure the model fits with the standardised solution. Results: Excluding items 9, 10 and 11, the study showed satisfactory internal consistency, evidenced by a Cronbach\u27s alpha of 0.842 for the eight-item scale from the combined samples. Factors, such as ‘Heat’, ‘Breathability’, ‘Tightness’ and ‘Ease in talking’ showed moderate to strong correlations. The test–retest reliability in the batch one sample was acceptable with ICCs ranging between 0.69 and 0.71 for different models. The EFA and fit indices supported a two-factor structure. The first factor ‘Comfort and Usage’ included ‘Heat’, ‘Breathability’, ‘Tightness’, ‘Ease in talking’ and ‘Prolonged use’, which were keys for the usability of N95 respirators. The second factor ‘Suitability’ encompassed ‘Itchy’, ‘Easily displaced’ and ‘Ear soreness’. The variance explained by the first and second factors was 49% and 12%, respectively, with a strong inter-factor correlation. The CFA results were satisfactory with fit metrics (NFI = 0.967, IFI = 0.969, TLI = 0.952, CFI = 0.969, RMSEA = 0.078 with 90% CI [0.069, 0.086] and p \u3c 0.001) and a chi-squared to df ratio of 13.58. Conclusion: The eight-item mask usability scale exhibited satisfactory internal consistency and construct validity in both healthcare student and staff samples. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: The primary concern in the purchase policy of N95 respirators for clinical use is to strike the right balance between usability and fit rate (passing % of fit testing). Our study solidified the concept of quantifying the usability of respirators. With that mask usability scale measurement, a provision of benchmark and reference for the design and selection of respirators would be possible. This validated scale has significant implications for senior management in clinical settings and respirator manufacturers regarding the N95 respirator purchase policy and design. Impact: The results indicated the psychometric properties of mask usability scale in measuring the usability of N95 respirators. This scale is particularly valuable for assessing the perceptions of healthcare students and staff of factors, namely, ‘Heat’, ‘Breathability’, ‘Tightness’, ‘Ease in talking’, ‘Prolonged use’, ‘Itchy’, ‘Easily displaced’ and ‘Ear soreness’ concerning the use of N95 respirators. Reporting Method: We adhered to EQUATOR guidelines following the STROBE statement. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution. Trial Registration: ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN40115047
Exploring parent self-efficacy in children\u27s digital device use: Understanding shame and self-stigma through a mixed-methods approach
Get PDFThis study utilized a mixed-methods approach to explore the relationship between shame, parental self-stigma, and parental self-efficacy in managing children\u27s digital device use, while considering societal pressure and social media influence. Data was collected via an online survey administered to parents of school-aged children. The sample included 394 predominantly female Australian parents. Quantitative analyses, including confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling, were complemented by qualitative thematic inductive content analysis. Results indicated a significant mediation effect of self-stigma on the relationship between shame and self-efficacy. Qualitative analysis revealed themes of societal pressure, judgement-based pressure, and social media pressure, highlighting contextual influences on parent self-stigma and self-efficacy. The convergence of quantitative and qualitative findings emphasizes the pivotal role of shame in influencing parental self-efficacy in the digital realm. This comprehensive approach enriches our understanding by illustrating how societal pressures and online influences contribute to feelings of shame and self-stigma among parents. Recommendations include establishing clear digital device guidelines for parents and implementing targeted interventions to mitigate parental shame and self-stigma, thereby enhancing parental self-efficacy in managing children\u27s digital device use. These findings contribute to understanding the psychological dynamics of parenting in the digital age and offer insights to support parents in navigating this evolving landscape
Investigating falls risk awareness in hospitals using the Self-Awareness of Falls Risk Measure (SAFRM): Empirical research quantitative
Get PDFAim: The overarching aim of this study was to explore patients\u27 falls risk awareness in hospitals using section A of the validated Self Awareness of Falls Risk Measure (SAFRM). Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study design. Setting: Three rural/regional hospitals in the State of Victoria, Australia. Methods: Using a purposive sampling strategy, patients were eligible to participate if aged ≥ 40 years, English-speaking, and have ambulatory capacity prior to hospital admission. Participants were excluded from the study if they returned a Standardised Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE) score \u3c 18. Falls risk awareness data was collected from both patient and health professionals using section A of the SAFRM. Patient demographic data was collected from patient medical records. Results: A total of 77 patients (72.9 years ±11.2) and 58 health professionals were recruited. Patients had a significant difference in falls risk awareness when compared to their clinician (z = −2.08, p = 0.038). Regression analyses showed that patients were more likely to overestimate their falls risk if they used anticoagulant medication and if their highest education level was less than or equal year 11. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed a three-factor solution from section A of the SAFRM, which were labelled Physical Activity Awareness, Cognitive Awareness and Balance Awareness. Conclusions: There was a significant difference in patients\u27 falls risk awareness compared to a health professional. The independent associations of variables with falls risk awareness, such as age, education level and medication use, further our understanding of the differences in falls risk awareness. The findings also establish that the 15-item section A SAFRM is a reliable and feasible falls risk perception measure for use in hospitals, with future research recommended to evaluate the proposed three-factor model with the addition of tailored hospital falls education. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: The findings from this study establish a significant difference in patients\u27 falls risk awareness compared to their health professional. Section A of the SAFRM is a reliable tool for nurses and other health professionals to establish the presence of a falls risk disparity. The ability to empirically measure this disparity and to determine an under- or overestimation of falls risk is a useful addition to clinical practice. The SAFRM facilitates a person-centred approach to falls prevention by providing opportunities for the clinician to collaborate with the patient and tailor fall prevention strategies. Impact: Problem: Inpatient falls in hospital settings. Main Findings: There was a significant difference in patients\u27 falls risk awareness compared to a health professional. Section A of the Self-Awareness of Falls Risk measure is a reliable and feasible tool to identify under- or overestimation of falls risk perception in hospitals. Patients were more likely to overestimate their falls risk if they used anticoagulant medication and if their highest education level was less than year 11. The findings for a three factor-model Physical Activity Awareness, Cognitive Awareness and Balance Awareness could inform future hospital falls education. Impact: Registered nurses, health professionals, inpatients. Reporting Method: STROBE checklist for cross-sectional studies. Patient or Public Contribution: This study involved the collection of data from patient participants and registered nurses
Nursing student reflections on a research internship: A reflective discussion following the Gibbs\u27 reflective cycle
Get PDFBackground: Evidence-based practice underscores the importance of utilising research-based skills in the delivery of care. However, entry-to-practice nursing curriculums in Australia currently do not provide students with practical research opportunities. Acknowledging this gap, an Australian university initiated a two-month summer research internship that aim to expose undergraduate nursing students to clinical research under the mentorship of a nursing academic. Aim: To understand the opportunities and challenges of a research internship and its contribution to developing research knowledge and skills for future nursing practice and leadership. Design: A reflective discussion following the six stages of the Gibbs\u27 Reflective Cycle. Settings: A two-month research internship at an Australian University was held over the summer. Participants: Two successful nursing students (FO and BM) who were both students in the Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry) program. Methods: Following the Gibbs\u27 Reflective Cycle, a description of the internship experience was outlined, alongside feelings encountered. The opportunities and challenges of the internship are explored, evaluated, and analysed with related literature to inform an overall conclusion. To support other nursing students pursuing similar research endeavours during their professional transition, an action plan was developed. Results: The optional summer research internship proved to be a valuable experience for participating nursing students. FO and BM were granted co-authorship on their respective research projects, providing opportunities at international nursing and midwifery conferences and several avenues for career advancement. Conclusions: Nursing research internships contribute to students\u27 personal and professional development. This paper highlights the need for universities to provide innovative educational opportunities to students that enrich evidence-based nursing practice and inspire further opportunities
The effect of perceived brand betrayal on brand hate, avoidance-like and attack-like strategies: A comparative study of customers with/without past negative experiences
Get PDFThis study explores the impact of perceived brand betrayal on two types of brand hate and their subsequent effects on consumer behavioral responses. It also investigates how these relationships vary between customers with/without past negative experiences. Data about luxury hotels were obtained using an online survey in Iran. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used for data analysis. The findings indicate that perceived betrayal positively influences passive and active brand hate, leading to negative behavioral responses. Moreover, a significant difference was found between the two groups of customers with/without past negative experiences regarding the effect of perceived betrayal on active hate and the effect of active hate on negative behavioral responses. By applying appraisal theory, this study provides a unique contribution by examining avoidance and attack strategies as behavioral consequences of service failures and comparing their impacts on customers with/without past negative experiences
The various forms of anger about climate change in Australia and their relations with self-reported actions, intentions, and distress
Get PDFAction on societal issues is often precipitated by feelings of anger. This has been demonstrated reliably for responses to social inequality, but less for other issues. We build on nascent research documenting the links between climate anger, pro-environmental action, and psychological distress, by focusing on the contents of eco-anger. Using a sample of 5244 Australians, we found that 48.6% reported being at least ‘somewhat’ angry about climate change. Content analyses of the focus of this anger revealed diverse reasons for people\u27s anger. The most common focus was others\u27 inaction and apathy on climate change, followed by anger directed at deniers, and at big polluters. Altogether, we identified 13 major categories of anger in our corpus of data. In further exploratory analyses, we examined the correlations between anger forms, self-reported pro-environmental behaviour, collective action intentions, and distress. Our findings suggest that behavioural engagement with climate change could depend, in part, on why people are angry