Evaluation Studies in Social Sciences

"His First Words Are to The Dentist": Assessing A Mixed-Ethnicity High-Functioning Autism Child with Unusual Language Development

Sook Huey Lee, Asma Perveen, Fatanah Ramlee — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Unusual speech development is a prevalent factor leading to autism evaluations. This case study presents the assessment procedure for a preschooler of mixed ethnicity who exhibited atypical speech, rigidity, and difficulty with transitions. The assessment results confirm a diagnosis of high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This case study illustrates the diverse modes of language acquisition in children with autism, suggesting that their speech development may differ from neurotypical peers. Future studies could investigate the language acquisition patterns of ASD children who engage in non-social language learning. Understanding the challenges faced by these individuals can play a crucial role in tailoring effective and culturally sensitive interventions to support their overall well-being and development.

A Critical Analysis on Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris Tamil Unit Student-Teacher Teaching Practice Experiences: A New Case Study Approach

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The experiences of undergraduates’ student-teachers from the Tamil unit program at Sultan Idris Education university who underwent teacher training are examined in this paper. A crucial part of teacher preparation is practical teaching experience. What the student-teacher has experienced in the teaching and learning environment is unknown, though. What experiences student instructors have while they are in the teaching practice phase is the topic that this study aims to discuss. Since this study is focused on the real-world experiences of student teachers, qualitative research was chosen as the method of inquiry. Additionally, experiential learning and reflective learning theory serve as the theoretical foundation for this investigation. In addition, it was noticed that they were not doing well in their teaching practices throughout the student evaluation. Five student-teachers participated in semi-structured interviews, and they also kept a reflective journal. Contextual information was obtained by document analysis using the student-teachers' reports. The data was analyzed and themes found using thematic analysis. Results showed that in certain schools, student-teachers were ill-prepared for the real teaching and learning environment. Additionally, at many schools, mentor teachers and other important individuals who play a crucial role in providing student support during teaching practice did not provide any assistance.

Trends of Stem and Connection of Cognitives for Career Interest

Rashidin Idris, Suppiah Nachiappan — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The Malaysian government must prioritise STEM education in schools, especially given recent statistics indicating a very low percentage of student involvement in the STEM field. STEM education is critical to a country's progress and development, so the Malaysia Education Blueprint (2013-2025) was launched to ensure that the country has skilled labour resources in the fields of science, technology, technical, and vocational education. The purpose of this study is to delve into the complicated role of the cognitive factor in STEM education, shedding light on its importance in learning and information processing, as well as its impact on students' academic performance. Despite extensive research into cognitive factors in STEM education, there is still a significant gap in understanding how cognition specifically shapes students' interest in STEM fields and careers, particularly in the Malaysian context. The present research seeks to fill this gap by delving into the nuanced relationship between cognition and STEM interest, presenting a cognitive conceptual framework emphasising the multifaceted nature of cognitive processes influencing STEM career interest. This research will benefit researchers studying STEM education trends and their relationship with cognitive abilities, as well as government agencies involved in STEM empowerment in schools.

Malcolm Knowles' Theory of Andragogy at Research Management and Innovation Centre Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (RMIC-UPSI): Work-Based Learning Model

Kesavan Nallaluthan, Md Nasir Masran, Vignes Thurasingam, Kaaminy Kanapathy — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This conceptual paper exposes the implementation of Malcolm Knowles' Theory of Andragogy in the context of Research Management and Innovation at the Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (RMIC-UPSI). The study focuses on developing a work-based learning model that aligns with the principles of andragogy, emphasizing the unique characteristics of adult learners engaged in work-based activities. The theoretical framework draws on Knowles' principles, emphasizing self-directed learning, practical application, and the relevance of the learning experience to adult learners. The study exposes an integration of work-based learning in Business Strategic Management subjects as per the course outline in proforma. Preliminary findings suggest that integrating andragogical principles into the research environment at RMIC-UPSI positively influences adult learners' motivation, engagement, and overall satisfaction with the requirements in the course outline learning process. Moreover, the work-based learning model demonstrates promise in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the RMIC-UPSI. This paper contributes to the broader discourse on adult learning in research-oriented settings, offering practical insights for institutions seeking to optimize their work base learning processes through tailored andragogical approaches at RMIC-UPSI. The implications of this study extend to educational institutions aiming to enhance the effectiveness of adult education programs, ultimately fostering a dynamic and adaptive research culture.

Challenges Faced by the Elderly during COVID-19

Beng See Lim, Juliana Rosmidah Jaafar, Kee Shing Ngu — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The COVID-19 has tremendously impacted the lifestyle of Malaysians in 2020 and the elderly has no exemption to that situation. The virus threats affected their routine activities and lifestyle. This study aimed to explore the challenges among the elderly in Seputeh, Kuala Lumpur during pandemic of COVID -19 by interviewing ten (10) participants aged 60 years old and above. This is a qualitative research method with thematic analysis was used to explore in-depth experience of the elderly. Based on the interview, the findings revealed six challenges that were faced by the elderly during pandemic: (1) Maintaining physical health; (2) Maintaining mental and psychological health; (3) Restricted accessibility to healthcare service; (4) Financial strain; (5) Adopting technology; and (6) Ensuring environmental safety. The implication of this study suggested the importance of social support from family and community, as well as financial security among elderly during the period of health crisis like pandemic. Social support could be promoted via intervention strategy to recognize and address the risk of social isolation and loneliness among elderly. It could involve self- monitoring via telehealth and understanding the barriers faced by elderly in learning technology. Future study could explore on the coping strategies by the elderly to overcome the challenges faced in the pandemic.