Reza Pishghadam; Taqi Al Abdwani; Haniyeh Jajarmi; Shaghayegh Shayesteh
Abstract
Aptitude testing is a valuable tool for assessing individuals’ potential and predicting their performance in various settings. However, current tests may not fully capture individuals’ range of abilities and tend to focus on specific cognitive constructs, ignoring non-cognitive ones. To address ...
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Aptitude testing is a valuable tool for assessing individuals’ potential and predicting their performance in various settings. However, current tests may not fully capture individuals’ range of abilities and tend to focus on specific cognitive constructs, ignoring non-cognitive ones. To address this gap, this article suggests incorporating cultural and emo-sensory constructs into general and foreign language aptitude testing. The newly developed Pishghadam Language-based General Aptitude Test (PL-GAT) measures a wide range of cognitive abilities, including attention, verbal and nonverbal reasoning, memory, and critical thinking, along with non-cognitive abilities, such as emotion, culture, and sense. Concurrently, this dual-purpose test provides an evaluation of individuals’ foreign language aptitude as well. The integration of these constructs provides a more accurate and comprehensive assessment of individuals’ potential, allowing them to understand their strengths and weaknesses better. Additionally, organizations can make more informed decisions when selecting candidates for academic or career purposes.
Haitham Y. Adarbah; Haniyeh Jajarmi
Abstract
In recent decades, content-based instruction (CBI) has been increasingly used worldwide with the aim of developing students’ English language competency, particularly in their area of specialization. However, its implementation has not been without problems, and researchers have been seeking and ...
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In recent decades, content-based instruction (CBI) has been increasingly used worldwide with the aim of developing students’ English language competency, particularly in their area of specialization. However, its implementation has not been without problems, and researchers have been seeking and suggesting ways to solve them. In this vein, this research describes the development and implementation of restructuring the teaching materials of General Foundation Programme courses (basic and applied mathematics modules) in Oman by using active learning through educational technology. The suggested restructuring of the teaching materials has two elements: 1) reorder the presentation of the course content for teaching specific learning outcomes within the context of broad conceptual themes; 2) incorporate active learning through technology and collaborative learning into every lecture. The new instructional design was assessed by a student survey and the comparison of their exam performance across three semesters in the academic years 2018-2020. The restructured courses significantly improved at-risk student engagement and satisfaction and increased academic performance.