Supporting students with learning disabilities to explore linear relationships using online learning objects

The study of linear relationships is foundational for mathematics teaching and learning. However, students’ abilities connect different representations of linear relationships have proven to be challenging. In response, a computer-based instructional sequence was designed to support students’ understanding of the connections among representations. In this paper we report on the affordances of this dynamic mode of representation specifically for students with learning disabilities. We outline four results identified by teachers as they implemented the online lessons

Apoyo a estudiantes con problemas de aprendizaje para explorar relaciones lineales mediante el uso de objetos de aprendizaje en línea

The study of linear relationships is foundational for mathematics teaching and learning. However, students’ abilities to connect different representations of linear relationships have proven to be challenging. In response, a computer-based instructional sequence was designed to support students’ understanding of the connections among representations. In this paper we report on the affordances of this dynamic mode of representation specifically for students with learning disabilities. We outline four results identified by teachers as they implemented the online lessons.El estudio de las relaciones lineales es fundamental en la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de las matemáticas. Sin embargo, las habilidades de los estudiantes para conectar distintas representaciones de las relaciones lineales han demostrado ser un reto. Ante esto, hemos diseñado una secuencia de enseñanza basada en ordenadores para fomentar en los estudiantes la comprensión de las conexiones entre estas representaciones.Presentamos las potencialidades de este tipo de representación dinámica para estudiantes con dificultades de aprendizaje, destacando cuatro resultados identificados por maestros al implementar las lecciones en línea

A Taste of Research: Preliminary Insights from an Undergraduate Research Training Cadetship Project in a Western Australian University Offering Experiences Outside the Classroom

[EN] This paper assessed the impact of a Student Research Cadetship Program aimed at providing undergraduate students with extracurricular research opportunities within the School of Medical & Health Sciences at Edith Cowan University. This preliminary evaluation, comprising two studies, explored the outcomes, benefits, and challenges experienced by students and academic staff. Study 1 analysed outputs from cadetship projects between 2016-2023 (n= 80 students; 42 academics). Notably, cadets contributed to over 60 research outputs, with 30% of cadets transitioning to postgraduate studies following competition of the program. Study 2 focused specifically on the 2023 program, highlighting positive impacts on academic staff and cadets, showcasing improved skills, heightened confidence, and increased career aspirations. Despite challenges in resource allocation, the program has gained traction, offering valuable research experiences for students and enhancing research outputs. The program serves as a model for other disciplines, emphasising the need for sustained institutional commitment and resource allocation.Fox-Harding, C.; Kendall, K.; Porter, T.; Fleay, B.; Beatty, S.; Wallace, R. (2024). A Taste of Research: Preliminary Insights from an Undergraduate Research Training Cadetship Project in a Western Australian University Offering Experiences Outside the Classroom. Editorial Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/HEAd24.2024.1715

Social security cuts and life expectancy: a longitudinal analysis of local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales

Background The UK Government’s ‘welfare reform’ programme included reductions to social security payments, phased in over the financial years 2011/2012–2015/2016. Previous studies of social security cuts and health outcomes have been restricted to analysing single UK countries or single payment types (eg, housing benefit). We examined the association between all social security cuts fully implemented by 2016 and life expectancy, for local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales. Methods Our unit of analysis was 201 upper tier local authorities (unitary authorities and county councils: 147 in England, 32 in Scotland, 22 in Wales). Our exposure was estimated social security loss per head of the working age population per year for each local authority, calculated against the baseline in 2010/2011. The primary outcome was annual life expectancy at birth between the calendar years 2012 and 2016 (year lagged following exposure). We used a panel regression approach with fixed effects. Results Social security cuts implemented by 2016 were estimated to be £475 per head of the working age population in England, £390 in Scotland and £490 in Wales since 2010/2011. During the study period, there was either no improvement or only marginal increases in national life expectancy. Social security loss and life expectancy were significantly associated: an estimated £100 decrease in social security per head of working age population was associated with a 1-month reduction in life expectancy. Conclusions Social security cuts, at the UK local authority level, were associated with lower life expectancy. Further research should examine causality