SEARCH ARTICLE

22 Pages : 202-215

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).22      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).22      Published : Sep 2020

Investigating Sociocognitive Functions of Mother Tongue in a Postgraduate EFL Classroom in Pakistan

    Recent studies, however, have shown that MT serves a symbolic tool and can be way more effective in L2 learning than the exclusive use of TL. While many studies have examined the extent and functions of MT, only a few have explored the sociocognitive functions using Vygotsky's sociocultural (SCT) framework. The present study, therefore, adopted SCT to examine the amount and sociocognitive functions of MT. Classroom observations and stimulated recalls interviews were used to collect data from MBA students (n=6). Results showed that, learners MT use made up only 14% of the total amount of speech in L2 classroom. Most importantly, MT performed important functions, such as scaffolding, intersubjectivity and cognitive regulation. MT facilitated vocabulary learning in L2 through scaffolded help; created intersubjectivity by increasing motivation, reducing anxiety, and helped internalize L2 through cognitive self-regulation. A number of implications for classroom pedagogy and language policy have also been discussed.

    Mother Tongue, Second Language Learning, Sociocultural Theory, Medium of Instruction, Higher Education, Language Policy
    (1) Hassan Syed
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Sukkur IBA University, Airport Road, Sukkur, Singh, Pakistan.
    (2) Farhan Bhutto
    Lecturer, Department of English, Sukkur IBA University, Airport Road, Sukkur, Singh, Pakistan.
    (3) Tanweer Syed
    Lecturer, Department of Education, Sukkur IBA University, Airport Road, Sukkur, Singh, Pakistan.

37 Pages : 351-357

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).37      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).37      Published : Sep 2020

Information Communication Technologies Hauling Out University Students' Effective Learning during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study

    The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant improvements in the world's educational practices and has become a realization of the ideal of online education, whereas COVID-19 is a global problem that affects institutions of higher education (HEIs). The present study is based on the research question: what are the challenges and benefits of ICTs for hauling out university students' effective learning in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic? The study employed a qualitative research design, and a cross-sectional analysis approach was adopted to resolve the key research question. The research sample included 20 BS and MA level students, and during a session, an interview was conducted in the form of open-ended questions. The research concluded university students need internet access 24/7 within the premises and outside the university; in fact, they require free internet access. The study may suggest that the university may provide needy students with university data bundles and laptops.

    ICTs, Effective Learning, COVID-19
    (1) Rashid Minas Wattoo
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, University of Sialkot, Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Muhammad Latif
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Government College Women University Sialkot, Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Namra Munir
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, University of Education, Vehari Campus, Punjab, Pakistan.

36 Pages : 341-350

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).36      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).36      Published : Sep 2020

An Exploratory Study about the Role of Experiential Learning for Developing Professional Skills at Higher Education

    This study explores the learning experiences of postgraduate students pursuing master's degree in higher education. The assessment students enrolled in the course "Application of Computer in Research" observed through semi-structured observations. These observations contained 16 weeks (4 days a week). The observation tool was validated through five experts' opinions, and a mock observation was conducted in order to ensure the reliability of the tool. The researcher deeply observed the students' learning experiences daily by tasks, activities and discussions in which they were involved by the teacher—the analysis procedures controlled through coding, memos and themes generation. The study findings revealed that experiential learning provided students with some important skills that enhance their learning in a better way. The study contributed to the field of education at a higher level than postgraduates might be handled through active learning because active learning may indulge new visions, ideas for creative work and transferring those ideas through reflection by involving students in the activities in which they do the tasks by themselves.

    Experiential Learning, Learning Experiences, Postgraduates, Active Learning, Higher Education, Practical Approach
    (1) Sidrah Ilyas
    PhD Scholar, Institute of Education & Research, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Mahvish Fatima Kashif
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Hafiza Sadiya Iqbal
    Lecturer, Department of Education, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

49 Pages : 479-489

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-I).49      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-I).49      Published : Mar 2020

Effect of Cooperative Learning Approach on Students' Academic Achievement and Motivation at Secondary level

    This study discovers the effect of cooperative learning (CL) on students’ achievement and motivation toward computer science at secondary level. Nonequivalent control group design of Quasi-Experimental Research method was used. Two intact groups i.e. thirty students each, were selected as the sample of the study. Students Team Achievement Division (STAD) method of CL was applied on the experimental group while traditional method (lecture) of teaching was used for control group. Pre-test and post-test were conducted respectively by using teacher made test in computer science. Students’ Motivation toward Computer Science Learning (SMTSL) scale was adapted to explore student’s motivation toward computer science. This study significantly indicates that the posttest motivation and achievement scores of students were better than the pretest motivation and achievement scores toward computer science learning. The study promotes CL approach for computer science learning, and intervention should be given for a long time period to observe its effectiveness.

    Cooperative Learning, Students’ Achievement, Students’ Motivation, Students Team Achievement Division (STAD)
    (1) Aroona Hashmi
    Assistant Professor, Institute of Education and Research, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Mubushra Khalid
    Assistant Professor, Institute of Education and Research, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Tariq Hussain
    Assistant Professor, Institute of Education and Research, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

60 Pages : 596-608

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-I).60      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-I).60      Published : Mar 2020

Learner Autonomy and its Existing Practices: A Comparison between EFL Students of Various Disciplines in the Context of Pakistan

    Learner autonomy refers to a state where a learner seeks the understanding of the concepts more independently, takes charge of his own learning and becomes more motivated and self-supportive towards the learning procedures. The present study explored the existing practices of EFL learners with reference to autonomy practices, in the context of Punjab, Pakistan. The autonomy of the learners was examined through their use of foreign language learning strategies. The sample of the study consisted of 104 university students from arts and science groups. The results indicated that the students of science group were using more autonomous learning strategies as compared to the arts group.

    Learner Autonomy, English as a Foreign Language, Foreign Language Learning, Language Learning Strategies
    (1) Ayesha Butt
    Assistant Professor, TESOL, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Faisal Anis
    Assistant professor, Department of Education, University of Management and Technology Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Amna Yousaf
    Assistant professor, Department of Education, University of Management and Technology Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

19 Pages : 143-150

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-II).19      10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-II).19      Published : Jun 2019

Learning Engagement in Mathematics: A Test of an Active Learning Model

    This experimental study explored the effect of the 4WsHs active learning model on learning engagement in mathematics classes. The research design used for conducting this study was true experimental research design (pre-test post-test equivalent group design). A sample comprising 190 students selected from two public sector schools was divided into experimental and control groups using a matched random sampling technique. The newly developed active learning model was used as treatment for an experimental group while the same contents of mathematics were taught to the control group using a traditional method. After practice of three months, learning engagement of both groups was measured using a classroom observation checklist. The analyzed data revealed a significant superiority of students belonging to the experimental group over their counterparts in learning engagement. Hence, the newly developed active learning model proved to be effective for developing learning engagement among students.

    Learning Engagement, Active Learning, Secondary School Students, Mathematics Class, Teaching Mathematics
    (1) Syed Iftikhar Hussain Shah
    Ph.D Scholar, Hazara University, Mansehra, KP, Pakistan.
    (2) Muhammad Iqbal Majoka
    Associate Professor,Department of Education,Hazara University, Mansehra, KP, Pakistan.
    (3) Shaista Irshad Khan
    Secretary, Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Abbottabad, KP, Pakistan.

32 Pages : 240-247

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-I).32      10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-I).32      Published : Mar 2019

Reciprocal Peer Tutoring and Innovation of Initial Teacher Education in Pakistan: Looking Through an Experimental Lens

    The current quasi-experimental pre-test post-test study involved master level students enrolled in a teacher education program. The Learning performance test was administered together with survey instruments on intrinsic motivation, metacognitive awareness, and self-efficacy beliefs. Analysis of covariance of results points at a positive significant differential effect of reciprocal peer tutoring on student teachers’ learning performance. However, no interaction effect was observed in mediating variables. Post-reciprocal peer tutoring interviews were organized to analyze students and teachers’ reflections about reciprocal peer tutoring. Implications are presented to educational psychologists, teacher educators, and educational policymakers with recommendations to model collaborative learning approaches; such as reciprocal peer tutoring.

    Collaborative Learning, Peer Tutoring; Teacher Preparation; Learning Performance
    (1) Abid Shahzad
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Rafaquat Ali
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Muqaddas Butt
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education,University of Education, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

12 Pages : 106-118

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2021(VI-III).12      10.31703/gssr.2021(VI-III).12      Published : Sep 2021

Modeling and Predicting Commuters' Travel Mode Choice in Lahore, Pakistan

    The travel mode preference exists in both culture and theenvironment. The wide scale of people's mobility makesour cities more polluted and congested, eventually affecting urban assets.Understanding people’s mode choice is important to develop urbantransportation planning policies effectively. This study aims to model andpredict the commuter’s mode choice behaviour in Lahore, Pakistan. A surveywas conducted, and the data was used for model validation. The comparative study was further done among multinomial logit model (MNL),Random Forest (RF), and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classification approaches. It’s common in existing studies that vehicle ownership is rankedas the most important among all features impacting commuters’ travel modechoice. Since many commuters in Lahore own no vehicle, it’s unclear whatthe rank of factors impacting non-vehicle owners is. Other than thecomparison of predicting the performance of the methods, our contributionis to do more analysis of the rank of factors impacting the different types ofcommuters. It was observed that occupation is ranked as the most importantamong all features for non-vehicle owners.

    Travel Behavior, Machine Learning, Multinomial Logit Model, Random Forest, K-nearest Neighbor, the Travel Mode Choice
    (1) Fariha Tariq
    Department of City and Regional Planning, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Nabeel Shakeel
    Department of City and Regional Planning, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

08 Pages : 84-91

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2021(VI-IV).08      10.31703/gssr.2021(VI-IV).08      Published : Dec 2021

Teaching of English to Veterinary University Students: A Study to Examine Learner’s Intentions towards Online Learning during Different Waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan

    In the present era, knowing the students' intention towards online learning has become necessary due to the persisting situations of the COVID-19. The current study explores the teaching of English to Biological Science students through online to explore their intentions towards online learning due to different waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan. The study used a rational method that utilizes cross-sectional data.The study employed a random sampling technique to trace the respondents.By using the AMOS, the results of a study underline a positive significant effect of performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), social influence (SI), facilitating conditions (FC), and perceived usefulness (PU) on intention towards online learning (ITOL) among the Biological Science students. The findings of the study are significant as they provide valuable insights to comprehend the elements that influence online learning (OL)concerning the teaching of English as a second language.

    English, Vaternary University Students, Online Learning, COVID-19, Pakistan
    (1) Abdul Khaliq
    Assistant Professor, Department of Social and Allied Sciences, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Farzana Iqbal
    Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, The Govt Sadiq College Women University Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Rasheed Ahmad
    Visiting Lecturer, Department of English Literature, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.

39 Pages : 425-437

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2023(VIII-I).39      10.31703/gssr.2023(VIII-I).39      Published : Mar 2023

Investigate the Effectiveness and Student Satisfaction of Online Learning Platforms in Comparison to Traditional Classroom Settings

    This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and student satisfaction of online learning platforms in comparison to traditional classroom settings. A sample of 500 university students was surveyed to gather data on their experiences and perceptions of both learning modes. The study employed a quantitative data collection method. The questionnaires utilized Likert-scale items to measure satisfaction levels and effectiveness ratings. The statistics showed how online learning platforms compare to traditional classrooms in effectiveness and student satisfaction. Students were largely satisfied with both learning styles, with online learning platforms somewhat higher in satisfaction. The study also found that online learning platform accessibility, schedule flexibility, and multimedia resources affect student happiness. Regarding effectiveness, both online learning platforms and traditional classroom settings were perceived as effective by the majority of students. The findings can inform educational institutions and policymakers in their decision-making processes and help improve the design and implementation of online learning platforms.

    Student Satisfaction, Online Learning, Traditional Classroom Settings
    (1) Bakht Jamal
    PhD Scholar, Department of Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (2) Zainab Sajjad
    Lecturer, Department of Applied Psychology, National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (3) Humera Omer Farooq
    Assistant Professor, College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.