Evaluating students experiences using a virtual learning environment: satisfaction and preferences

Educational technology research and development - Virtual learning environments (VLEs) are web-based software systems that enable students to interact with their teachers and classmates, access...     

Raising the language awareness of pre‐service English teachers in an EFL context

This study investigates the challenges that non‐native pre‐service English teachers (Haluk, Gaye, Selin, Öznur and Serkan) experience in their target language use when they do their practicum in actual language classrooms. This study found that the common difficulties the student teachers encounter related to certain grammatical structures, explaining unknown words to students, modifying language according to students’ level, and authenticity of the classroom language. During this study, the target language awareness training session was offered by the university supervisor in order to improve the student teachers’ target language use in the classroom. The training sessions included classroom observations, feedback sessions, semi‐structured interviews, retrospective protocols and discussion meetings with the student teachers. The findings indicated that the language awareness training had a positive impact on the target language use of the pre‐service English teachers. Furthermore, this study discusses the curriculum and the requirements of the language teacher education programme in an EFL setting and makes suggestions for the professional development of non‐native pre‐service language teachers.     

Examination of Designed Materials in Digital Environment on Concept Teaching in Special Education

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of digital materials designed for the use of teachers and students in teaching concept skills to students in need of special education. The concept of the long term was included in the study. As a research model, a single-subject research model and a multiple-probe model were used. The participants of the study consisted of 4 students from different disability groups with the appropriate sampling method. In the study, data forms prepared by the researcher were used as data collection tools. According to the data obtained from the data forms, it was observed that 4 students who participated in the study learned the concept in different time intervals by using digital materials. In general terms, it was observed that all of the students learned the long concept, which is the concept to be taught. By using digital materials, it is concluded that students who are in need of special education support students’ individual learning skills independently of time and place and this was supported by teachers’ opinions.     

Validation of the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale–Short Form across different age groups in the Turkish context

A short 12-item version of the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale–Short Form (CAAS-SF) was validated across three different age groups in the Turkish context. Scale scores demonstrated adequate to high internal consistency and 4-week test–retest reliability, good fit with the original four-factor model, factorial invariance across gender and age groups, strong convergence with the 24-item version, negative associations with trait anxiety and work stress, and positive associations with career decision self-efficacy. It was concluded that the Turkish version of the CAAS-SF appears to be a valid and reliable measure for assessing career adaptability and using it in career education and counseling process.