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Utilization of Social Media Networks for Teaching Effectiveness in Tertiary Institutions of Cross River State, Nigeria: Implications for Learning and Practice in an Environment of Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Get PDFAim: This study examines the use of social media networks for teaching effectiveness in public tertiary institutions of Cross River State, Nigeria: Implications for learning and practice in an environment of students with intellectual disabilities. Four study objectives were stated to guide the research. Four research questions were formulated, and one hypothesis statement was made. A literature review was carried out based on the variables under study, as research gaps were also stated.
Method: The study utilize7d the descriptive survey research design. The study population comprised 2,800 academic staff of public tertiary institutions of Cross River State. The sampling techniques adopted for this study were the stratified random sampling technique and the accidental random sampling technique. A total sample of 560 respondents was selected from 2,800 academic staff of public tertiary institutions in Cross River State using 20% of the entire population. A validated 25-item four-point modified Likert scale questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The face and content validity of the instrument was established by experts in Test and Measurement from the University of Calabar, Calabar-Nigeria. The reliability estimates of 0.89 for the instruments were established using the Cronbach Alpha method. A descriptive analysis of frequency count, percentages, mean, and standard deviation was used to test the research questions.
Results: The results obtained from the data analysis revealed that there was a statistically significant joint relationship between the predictor variables (Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp) and teachers' teaching effectiveness in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria.
Conclusion: From the findings of this study, one can conclude that there was a statistically significant joint relationship between the predictor variables (Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp) and teachers teaching effectiveness in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria. Key statistical measures, including mean scores, standard deviation, and inferential tests such as Multiple Linear regression, indicate a positive correlation between social media utilization and improved instructional delivery. The findings suggest the need for inclusive digital strategies to maximize learning outcomes, emphasizing the importance of accessible and adaptive teaching approaches. These insights have critical implications for policy formulation, curriculum design, and pedagogical practices in higher education.
Recommendation: Based on the result of the study, it was recommended that since the utilization of social sites by teachers improves teaching effectiveness, learning institutions should enact regulations that will govern the proper and positive use of the various types of social media sites among teachers in institutions to promote teachers' teaching effectiveness
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Remediation Programs among Children with Neuro-Developmental Disorder (Dyslexia)
No full textBackground: Recent studies highlight that children with reading and learning disabilities experience greater difficulties in cognitive processes than normal children. Meanwhile, previous research provides evidence that psychological interventions can enhance reading and learning skills. However, the application of cognitive interventions for this population is still lacking.
Objective: The study attempted to improve reading skills in dyslexic children by using cognitive remediation programs and to explore the efficacy of Cognition Enhancement Training (COGENT) and PASS Reading Enhancement Program (PREP).
Methods: One group pre-test and post-test research design has been used in this study. Initially, 147 children in class V of 10-11 years were purposively selected from three schools in the Cuttack district of Odisha. In the screening process, the Test of Word Reading Efficiency (TOWRE) test was applied among children, and 14 children were identified as dyslexic. The Word Reading Mastery Test-Revised (WRMT-R) was used to evaluate the effectiveness of intervention programs. A correlated sample t-test was used to examine the significant increase in scores after interventions.
Results: The t-test value for word identification was 13.88 (p <0.01), and for passage comprehension was 14.38 (p <0.01) of WRMT-R. The intervention of COGENT & PREP significantly enhanced reading skills such as phonetic decoding efficiency, phonological awareness, phonological memory, rapid naming, reading mastery, and planning ability after receiving these programs.
Conclusion: The COGENT and PREP remediation programs have been statistically proven to enhance the reading skills of dyslexic children
Communication Development in Children with Intellectual Disabilities: Implications for Education and Psychology
No full textThis article discusses communication disorders in children and adolescents with mild intellectual disability and the relationship between communication, social interaction, and development. A theoretical and methodological framework is developed, including a structural-functional communication model, and the psychological models associated with communication disorders are presented. This study demonstrates that communication disorders are influenced by three main factors: emotional needs, regulative, and cognitive, which are suggested to reflect predominant communication styles. Data were collected using clinical observations, standardized diagnostic tools, and formal psychological measures. For example, standardized tests included the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, CELF, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, aiming better to understand the child's communication and adaptive behavior. The findings suggest that it is important to consider family dynamics and composition when looking at the development of communication disorders. In addition, age-related differences and dominant communication styles were presented in what educating children/adolescents with disabilities looks like in inclusive education. Some practical interventions discussed included differentiated instructional approaches, speech and language therapy, peer-mediated interventions, and evidence-based social skills intervention programs. The goal of the intervention is to improve speech and language skills, improve the child's social interaction, and improve children's academic performance in school settings where they support the need for inclusion while meeting the needs of the child.
In conclusion, the study validates the hypothesis regarding the significant role of social emotions in preschool children's communication process. The methodology developed for developing social emotions in preschool children effectively enhances emotional spheres and normalizes peer relationships. The article underscores the need for understanding the psychodynamic and poly-structural continuum of communication disorders, providing a theoretical basis for optimal conditions in the socialization of children with mild intellectual disability
Approaches to Speech Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Get PDFBackground: The article analyzes methods of correcting speech disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It is based on a literature review and practical cases on this issue.
Methods: The study used observation methods of behavior, speech, and communication of children with ASD, questionnaires from parents, educators, and correctional teachers, and experimental research based on the information obtained. The main methods of correction of speech disorders in children with ASD are highlighted, which include speech therapy, alternative and augmentative communication (AAC), therapy using games and imitation techniques, the use of behavioral techniques, and multisensory approaches. Traditional and innovative means for implementing the outlined methods of correction of speech disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders are outlined. A methodology for determining the effectiveness of the use of methods for the correction of speech disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders is proposed.
Results: Criteria and indicators for evaluating the outlined methods of correcting speech disorders have been developed. The main criteria include speech development, development of communication and social skills, reduction of stereotypical and repetitive forms of speech, emotional and behavioral regulation, use of alternative means of communication, and individual progress. Based on the developed criteria, a survey was conducted among parents, educators, and therapy specialists on the effectiveness of using the outlined methods of correcting speech disorders. The effectiveness of the use of traditional and innovative means of correction of speech disorders in the context of the implementation of the outlined methods of speech correction in children with ASD was experimentally tested. The effectiveness of the above methods was tested for different groups of children with ASD, including preschool, school, and adolescent age. In the course of the test, the control group used traditional means, and the experimental group used a combination of traditional and innovative means of correcting speech disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Conclusion: The positive influence of the combination of traditional and innovative means of correction of speech disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) on the development of language skills is noted
Milk Quality and Prolactin Hormone Levels of Murrah Buffalo Fed with Local Forage and Urea Molasses Block at Kapau Village Agam Regency West Sumatra
Get PDFFeeding is one of the main factors in the success of a Murrah buffalo farming business. Good quality feed will increase Murrah buffalo's productivity, including the quality of milk produced. Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) milk has the advantage of 6-8% fat and 3-8% protein compared to 3-4% fat and protein content in cow's (Bos taurus) milk. This study aims to improve milk quality and prolactin hormone levels in Murrah buffaloes by providing local forage-based feed and urea molasses block. This research is an experimental study with a Latin Square Design (LSD), using four female Murrah buffaloes as the research sample with the following feeding: P1 = basal feed (10% of body weight); P2 = 30% sweet potato leaves + 30% cassava leaves + 40% P1 + urea molasses block; P3 = 40% sweet potato leaves + 40% cassava leaves + 20% P1 + urea molasses block; P4 = 50% sweet potato leaves + 50% cassava leaves + urea molasses block. The parameters measured in this study were protein, amino acids, fat, milk fatty acids, and Murrah buffalo Prolactin Hormone levels. The results obtained in the study in order are as follows: protein (2.37-3.83%); amino acids (2.54-8.45%w/w); fat (5.86-9.22%); prolactin (1.61-1.99ng/ml). The results showed that feeding 50% sweet potato leaves, 50% cassava leaves, and urea molasses block can improve milk quality and prolactin hormone levels in Murrah buffaloes
Endocrine Manifestations in Children and Adolescents with Thalassemia Major - A Prospective Cohort Study
No full textBackground: Thalassemia major is a widely prevalent genetic hemoglobinopathy marked by inadequate erythropoiesis and persistent hemolytic anemia. Although frequent blood transfusions are life-saving, such therapy leads to accumulated iron excess, which impacts multiple organs, including the endocrine glands. Despite progress in iron chelation therapy, endocrinopathies continue to be a considerable source of morbidity in individuals with thalassemia major.
Objective: This article explores the endocrine manifestations in children and adolescents with thalassemia major and identifies associated risk factors.
Methods: This study included 51 children and adolescents with a thalassemia major attending the clinic. The researchers recorded a detailed history of each participant, made an anthropometric assessment, and conducted a clinical examination. Furthermore, laboratory investigations were performed to measure each participant's complete blood count, serum ferritin, glucose parameters (FBS, PPBS, HbA1c), thyroid function (T3, T4, TSH), serum calcium, and gonadotropin levels (LH, FSH) in children >13 years of age.
Results: Within the study population, 74.5% had initiated transfusions before one year of age, and 88.2% received monthly transfusions. Growth retardation was evident, with 23.5% and 29.4% having weight and height, respectively, below the third centile. Endocrine abnormalities included diabetes (25.5%), hypothyroidism (9.8%), hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (25% with low LH and 12.5% with low FSH) in children >13 years of age (n=8), and hypocalcemia (21.6%). Serum ferritin was elevated (> 1500 ng/mL) in 90.2% of patients. Significant associations were observed between HbA1c levels and chelation therapy (p < 0.001), as well as hypogonadism and chelation therapy (p = 0.005). Multiple endocrinopathies (> 2) were observed in 11.7% of patients.
Conclusion: Endocrine complications are common in pediatric thalassemia major patients, and glucose metabolism abnormalities are the most prevalent. Age, transfusion burden, and chelation therapy significantly influence the risk of endocrinopathies. Regular monitoring of endocrine function and appropriate interventions are essential for improving the quality of life and reducing morbidity in these patients
Effect of Nutrients on Cognitive Function during Childhood to Adolescence: A Review
No full textBackground: Cognitive functioning and development include making decisions, processing information, and responding properly to the environment. People with healthy brains can identify their skills and modify their cognitive, mental, emotional, and behavioral functions to cope as best they can with various life situations.
Methods: Studies from the last 15 years included from various search engines like Google Scholar, Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus
Result: The health of the brain is affected by many situations, including illnesses, injuries, mood disorders, substance addiction, and aging-related changes in the brain. There is evidence of numerous changeable lifestyle factors, even though some cannot be changed: Food and exercise, social interaction and mental activity, as well as alcohol and tobacco use, can all help stabilize or enhance deteriorating cognitive performance.
Conclusion: Each macronutrient and micronutrient plays a critical role in supporting cognitive function, and their combined effects may be synergistic due to the interrelated nature of their physiological and biochemical actions
A Refined Population Mean Estimator Using Median and Skewness: Applications to Breast Cancer and Brain Tumor Data
Get PDFEstimators are essential to sampling theory because they allow researchers and statisticians to calculate estimates of population parameters from observed data. In every survey activity, the experimenter aims to use methods that will improve the precision of population parameter estimations throughout both the design and estimation phases. When auxiliary data is used in the estimating, design, or both processes, these estimated precisions can be attained. By linearly merging the central value of the data under consideration with the skewness coefficient provided by Karl Pearson, this study created a new, improved predictor for calculating the average of a population. Estimators are crucial to sampling theory because of their capacity to produce estimates of population parameters from observed data.
In this work, a novel modified ratio-type estimator was constructed by linearly merging Karl-Pearson's coefficient of skewness with the median value. Simple random sampling (SRS) was the technique employed in this present study. We conduct a numerical analysis from the standpoint of real estate. Additionally, we do some real data analysis on two distinct cancers: the brain tumor dataset and the breast cancer dataset. The results of the simulation study, real data application in the medical field, and numerical investigation show that the suggested estimator achieves lower error when the median value and Karl Pearson's coefficient of skewness are combined. Furthermore, compared to the other estimators under consideration, the one proposed in this study achieves better precision
The Role of Emotion Regulation in the Vicarious Trauma Risk Reduction among Psychotherapists
Get PDFThe relevance of the study is determined by the increasing risk of vicarious trauma among psychotherapists because of their high emotional and professional stress. The study explores the link between emotion regulation training and vicarious trauma risk, well-being, and professional functioning in psychotherapists. The study employed the methods of testing and questionnaire survey (Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL)). The following statistical methods were also used: descriptive statistics, Shapiro-Wilk test, paired t-test, Wilcoxon test, effect coefficients, multiple regression analysis, 95% confidence intervals. The reliability of the instruments was tested using Cronbach α.
The intervention was associated with improvements in emotion regulation, stress reduction, and vicarious trauma symptoms (all p < 0.001). However, the absence of a control group precludes definitive causal attributions, as changes may reflect external factors (e.g., natural recovery, concurrent supervision). Despite this limitation, effect sizes (Cohen’s d = 0.55–0.70) and 12-month stability suggest clinical promise warranting future RCTs. Changes remained stable over the year, but some indicators showed partial regression. The women demonstrated higher levels of well-being, while gender differences on other parameters were minimal (p = 0.041). Furthermore, findings are contextually bound to urban psychotherapists in Kyiv due to purposive sampling; generalizability to rural settings or distinct healthcare systems requires verification
Mechanical, Thermal, and Morphological Analysis of 3D-Printed Polylactic Acid–Polyester Urethane Blends with Varied Infill and Material Compositions
Get PDFMultimaterial 3D printing allows for the production of intricate parts with customized mechanical properties, enhancing the versatility of material extrusion additive manufacturing. Typically, 3D printing machines are fed with commercially available filament feedstock, which limits the 3D printing of multiple materials. Hence, this study introduces in-house prepared filaments for creating polymer blend structures with improved properties. In this study, polylactic acid and thermoplastic poly ester urethane (PEU) blends with different composition ratios were processed by varying the infill densities to evaluate their impacts on their thermal, mechanical and morphological properties. The effects of infill percentage on the mechanical, thermal and morphological behaviour were investigated. The results indicate that increasing the infill percentage tends to significantly increase the elastic modulus and tensile strength. The maximum strain increased as the infill percentage increased. Overall, the mechanical results indicated that, without sacrificing any tensile strength, the composite with 25% PEU exhibited better toughness than did the neat PLA and could be printed similarly to that of PLA. Furthermore, scanning electron images revealed that the blends had a homogeneous structure with a fibrillar morphology. These results indicate that 3D printing is an effective technique for creating next generation 4D materials