Core pedagogical principles for teaching English to young learners: A review

This article examines five core pedagogical principles that underpin effective English language teaching for young learners through a qualitative literature review. The study synthesizes research on play-based and experiential learning, multisensory and physical approaches, task-based learning, meaningful context and authentic materials, and the integration of language skills. The review demonstrates that successful English instruction for children requires fundamentally different methods from those appropriate for older learners, emphasizing child-centered methodologies aligned with developmental characteristics, cognitive capacities, and natural learning processes. Evidence indicates that when pedagogical practices incorporate active engagement, physical movement, social interaction, and joyful learning experiences, children acquire linguistic competencies more effectively while developing positive attitudes toward English learning. The findings highlight implications for teacher education programs, which must provide specialized training in young learner pedagogy, child development, and age-appropriate instructional strategies rather than generic language teaching approaches. Educational policies must establish systemic conditions that enable effective implementation, including appropriate class sizes, high-quality materials, adequate teacher preparation, and realistic curriculum expectations. Practical integration of these pedagogical principles requires ongoing reflection, contextual adaptation, and teacher agency within collaborative professional learning communities. Future research should expand comparative studies across diverse contexts, conduct longitudinal investigations to track the long-term effects of different pedagogical approaches, and examine emerging technologies that integrate with developmentally appropriate practices. The article concludes that systematic application of research-informed, child-centered pedagogical principles is essential for creating learning environments where young learners joyfully engage with English while developing linguistic competencies and positive self-concepts as language learners

An analysis of factors affecting Mongolian students’ performance in science and mathematics: Evidence from PISA data

This study analyzes Mongolian students’ performance in science and mathematics using the PISA-2022 dataset. It identifies the main influencing factors and aims to contribute to education policy and planning. The research objective is to determine which variables are significant predictors of science and mathematics performance, based on the student characteristics and test scores collected from Mongolian students in PISA. The dataset included more than 7,000 students from 196 schools representing 4 regions and 12 strata in Mongolia, taken from the publicly available PISA 2022 dataset. Data mining and quantitative analysis methods were applied using Python programming, and some statistical calculations and data handling were conducted with Microsoft Excel. The results show that mathematics performance is the strongest predictor of science achievement. Reading literacy is also a strong predictor of both science and mathematics, although its effect on science is weaker than that of mathematics. Mother’s education level, the number of digital devices, and the number of books at home have moderate to weak effects. Regional differences slightly affect performance in both science and mathematics, but the effect size is small and not practically significant

Methods of protecting the population in the event of a radiation accident

This article aims to analyze effective methods for protecting the population during radiation accidents by identifying key risks and evaluating strategies that minimize harmful exposure. The study applies a descriptive and analytical approach, examining the causes, characteristics, and spread of radioactive contamination, as well as the protective measures implemented during such emergencies. The analysis reveals that timely evacuation, temporary sheltering, appropriate use of protective equipment, and proper radiation safety procedures significantly reduce the impact of radiation exposure. The findings also show that public awareness, efficient communication systems, and the integration of modern technologies such as early warning systems, monitoring devices, and predictive modeling play a crucial role in enhancing preparedness and response efforts. The practical implications of the study suggest that adopting a comprehensive and proactive protection framework can help authorities mitigate risks, prevent long-term health consequences, and minimize environmental damage during radiation accidents

Gender-credit constraints on sectorial firm performance in Nigeria: An empirical analysis using PSM approach

This study examines how gender-related credit limits influence the performance of firms in Nigeria's manufacturing, retail, and other service sectors. The primary objective is to assess how challenges in accessing credit, which are affected by gender, impact firm productivity and investment behavior. Methodology: Utilizing data from the 2014 Nigerian Enterprise Survey, which includes responses from 2,676 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the study employs a robust propensity score matching (PSM) technique. The analysis indicates that male-headed firms generally have better access to credit and tend to perform slightly better across the sectors analyzed. Specifically, in the manufacturing sector, firms facing female credit constraints exhibited lower average output and capital utilization compared to their male counterparts, although these differences were not always statistically significant. Similar trends were observed in the retail and other service sectors, where female-led firms with credit constraints consistently underperformed relative to male-led firms with better credit access. Implications: The findings underscore the importance of addressing gender bias in access to finance to promote equitable economic growth and reduce poverty in Nigeria. Policy measures should focus on developing gender-sensitive microfinance services, adopting innovative lending approaches such as cash-flow-based credit assessments, enhancing financial literacy, and implementing regulatory reforms aimed at closing the credit gap between genders

Potentials of azolla-cyanobacteria symbiosis as a biofertilizer in lowland rice production systems: A review

The reliance on chemical fertilizers seriously undermines ecosystem safety, soil health, and the essential reserves of organic matter. In contrast, biofertilizer Azolla significantly enhances rice yield while promoting soil fertility over extended periods. This literature review employs the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach, offering valuable insights for policymakers and researchers regarding Azolla’s numerous advantages, potential limitations, and innovative applications as an environmentally friendly modification for rice production. Significant findings highlight Azolla's remarkable ability for effective nitrogen fixation, which can even surpass the symbiotic relationship typically found in legumes when conditions are favorable. Notably, it can produce an additional 30–120 kg of nitrogen per hectare, thereby significantly increasing overall rice yield. Acting as a green manure in wet soil, Azolla accelerates the process of nitrogen mineralization and skillfully regulates floodwater pH levels, which helps to reduce ammonia volatilization losses and enhances the efficiency of nitrogen fertilizers. Furthermore, it substantially improves the chemical and physical properties of the soil, greatly enhancing microbial activity and facilitating the release of essential cations such as sodium, calcium, and magnesium. This multifaceted process leads to increased soil nitrogen content, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, and total nitrogen, ultimately benefiting rice nitrogen uptake. Therefore, applying Azolla is strongly advocated as a beneficial practice for sustaining crop productivity, enriching soil fertility, and promoting overall environmental sustainability

Impacts of soil degradation on the severity of soil-borne diseases and sustainable management strategies: A review

Land degradation is a significant environmental challenge that impacts over 1.5 billion people globally. Recent assessments indicate that approximately 23% of the Earth's surface is degraded, with alarming projections suggesting this could increase by up to 50% by 2050. Regions particularly vulnerable to severe degradation include Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, largely due to socio-economic and climatic changes. Soil degradation is classified into three main forms: physical, chemical, and biological. These forms often interact and influence one another in various ways. Notably, biological degradation is frequently overlooked, despite the critical role of soil biology in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Soil microorganisms are essential for facilitating vital nutrient cycles, including nitrogen, carbon, sulfur, and water, and they also play a crucial antagonistic role against soil-borne plant pathogens. The virulence, growth, motility, and survival of these pathogens are significantly affected by soil degradation, thereby impacting the prevalence and severity of soil-borne diseases. This paper provides insights into soil degradation, focusing mainly on biological degradation and the processes and human activities that contribute to it. It discusses the impacts of biological degradation and other forms on soil-borne diseases and explores their interactions, while also outlining specific management strategies for sustainable soil health improvement

Enhancing TPACK: Preservice mathematics teachers' experiences with digital and non-digital visualisation tools

This paper investigates how pre-service mathematics teachers interact with both digital and non-digital tools to visualize mathematical concepts and develop their technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK). Based on the TPACK framework, this study explores how preservice mathematics teachers (PSMTs) transformed their teaching approaches when visualization tools were adopted, along with the respective challenges and affordances involved. An interpretivist qualitative phenomenological design was employed, which included semi-structured interviews, reflective journals, and pre- and post-microteaching observations of six third-year Bachelor of Education students. The intervention focused on delivering graduate-level mathematics content using GeoGebra and physical manipulatives. Results demonstrate a significant difference in PSMT’s technological knowledge (TK), technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK), and technological content knowledge (TCK) before and after the intervention. Participants teaching practices shifted from from being traditional, teacher-centered to modern, student-centered approaches. Challenges such as limited technical proficiency and infrastructural barriers were initially evident; however, exposure and support during the intervention improved confidence, tool fluency, and pedagogical adaptability. The study emphasizes the importance of embedding a TPACK-based teaching approach into mathematics teacher training programs to enhance PSMTs readiness for technology-integrated instruction. Consequently, the study contributes to the growing scholarship on visualization in mathematics education and highlights the pedagogical shifts necessary to prepare future teachers for 21st-century learning environments

Primary school teachers’ perceptions of integrating Islamic education into science education

This mixed-methods study investigates how Saudi primary school teachers view the integration of Islamic values within science curricula in alignment with Vision 2030. Quantitative data were collected from 352 teachers using a structured survey and were complemented by ten in-depth interviews conducted in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. We examined two dimensions: teachers’ conceptual understanding of integration and the importance they assign to embedding Islamic ethics in science, and tested for differences by gender, teaching experience, and academic specialization. Inferential analyses showed no statistically significant demographic differences in conceptual understanding. By contrast, female teachers and those with more years of experience rated the importance of curricular integration significantly higher. Interview narratives illuminated these patterns, describing integration as a means to connect scientific inquiry with students’ moral development and cultural identity, deepening engagement and meaning. These findings point to practical priorities: targeted professional development that models integrative pedagogy; collaborative curriculum work between Islamic studies and science teachers; and supportive policy frameworks that institutionalize ethical reflection alongside scientific competencies. Future research should track cohorts over time and evaluate specific integrative interventions to determine their sustained effects on students’ learning and character development. Overall, the study contributes context-specific evidence from Saudi schools and refines theory on religion–science integration

On-the-job training effectiveness in business education: An evaluation of host training establishments in Nueva Ecija, Philippines

This study assessed the effectiveness of on-the-job training (OJT) among BSBA–Marketing Management trainees at Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Atate Campus. Guided by Memoranda of Understanding with Host Training Establishments (HTEs), four dimensions were examined: Supervision and Mentoring (SM), Learning Opportunities (LEO), Work Environment and Health Safety (WEHS), and Communication and Monitoring (CM). Using total enumeration, 59 students from the Classes of 2024 and 2025 were surveyed across government, retail, and service organizations in Nueva Ecija. Data were analyzed in JAMOVI using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation. Male trainees rated their experiences more positively than females, particularly on WEHS. No significant differences emerged by graduation year or organization type, though service-sector HTEs received slightly lower CM ratings. ANOVA revealed no significant group differences; however, correlations indicated strong positive associations among dimensions, notably between SM and CM (r = .810, p < .001). The findings support that integrated, well-structured programs enhance OJT outcomes and recommend continuing training on communication, supervision, and workplace safety, with emphasis on service settings, and consistent practice thereafter

Strategy development for enhancing teaching efficiency through administrator leadership: A qualitative study of educational institutions in the Roi Kaen-Sarasin provinces cluster

This research set out to investigate how leadership influence by managers impacts improving teaching performance in academic institutions across the provinces of Roi Kaen and Sarasin in Thailand. Using a qualitative approach, 20 participants, including teachers and administrators, were interviewed to identify key leadership traits, management practices, and institutional strategies. To ensure the validity of the interview content, three experts assessed the questions using the Content Validity Index (CVI). The findings emphasize transformational leadership, active communication, and professional development support as critical factors in enhancing teaching outcomes. Furthermore, emotional intelligence and empathy emerged as vital elements for fostering a positive work environment. A TOWS analysis will be used to summarize the findings of the research and derive four strategic options: Maxi-Maxi Strategy, Mini-Maxi Strategy, Maxi-Mini Strategy, and Mini-Mini Strategy. These strategies will help to combine internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats to form actionable plans that would improve teaching efficiency in the face of resource constraints and cultural barriers among other challenges. It is hoped that these management strategies, derived from Administrator Leadership experiences, will be adopted in practice to yield significant benefits as valuable guidelines for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of sustainable teaching development