Relationship between problem-based learning experience and self-directed learning readiness

Tun Hussein Onn University of Malaysia (UTHM) has been implementing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) to some degree in various subjects. However, to this day no empirical data has been gathered on the effectiveness of PBL as a methodology to develop self-directed learning (SDL) skills. The purpose of this study is to investigate self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) among UTHM students exposed to vaiying PBL exposure intensity. SDLR was measured using the modified version of Self-Directed Learning Readiness (SDLRS). Participants in this study were first-year undergraduate students at UTHM. The instrument was administrated to students in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Technical Education (N=260). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the independent /'-test for equal variance for hypotheses testing. The results of this study indicate that overall SDLR level increase with PBL exposure up to exposure intensity twice, beyond which no increase in SDLR was observed with increase in PBL exposure. Within the same academic programme, results did not show a statistically significant difference of SDLR level between groups exposed to varying PBL exposure intensity. However, significant difference was found in some dimensions of the SDLR for the Technical Education students. Within the same education background, results did not show a statistically significant difference of SDLR level between groups exposed to varying PBL intensity. However, significant difference was found in some dimensions of the SDLR for students with both Matriculations and STPM background. A statistically significant difference of SDLR level was found between Electrical Engineering and Technical Education students for exposure once and in some SDLR dimensions. No statistically significant difference was found between students from different academic programme for exposure twice or thrice. The data supports the conclusion that SDLR level increases with increase in PBL exposure intensity up to a certain extent only, beyond which no increase of SDLR can be observed. The data also suggest that only certain dimensions of the SDLR improve with increased exposure to PBL

Relationship between problem-based learning experience and self-directed learning readiness

Tun Hussein Onn University of Malaysia (UTHM) has been implementing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) to some degree in various subjects. However, to this day no empirical data has been gathered on the effectiveness of PBL as a methodology to develop self-directed learning (SDL) skills. The purpose of this \ud study is to investigate self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) among UTHM students exposed to vaiying PBL exposure intensity. SDLR was measured using the modified version of Self-Directed Learning Readiness (SDLRS). Participants in this study were first-year undergraduate students at UTHM. The instrument was administrated to students in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Technical Education (N=260). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the independent /'-test for equal variance for hypotheses testing. The results of this study indicate that overall SDLR level increase with PBL exposure up to exposure intensity twice, beyond which no increase in SDLR was observed with increase in PBL exposure. Within the same academic programme, results did not show a statistically significant difference of SDLR level between groups exposed to varying PBL exposure intensity. However, significant difference was found in some dimensions of the SDLR for the Technical Education students. Within the same education background, results did not show a statistically significant difference of SDLR level between groups exposed to varying PBL intensity. However, significant difference was found in some dimensions of the SDLR for students with both Matriculations and STPM background. A statistically significant difference of SDLR level was found between Electrical Engineering and Technical Education students for exposure once and in some SDLR dimensions. No statistically significant difference was found between students from different academic programme for exposure twice or thrice. The data supports the conclusion that SDLR level increases with increase in PBL exposure intensity up to a certain extent only, beyond which no increase of SDLR can be observed. The data also suggest that only certain dimensions of the SDLR improve with increased exposure to PBL

Enhanced Soil Chemical Properties and Rice Yield in Acid Sulphate Soil by Application of Rice Straw

Swampland development such as acid sulphate soil for agricultural cultivation has various problem, including high soil acidity, fluctuated and unpredictable water flooding and the presence of toxic elements such as Fe which resulting in low crop yields. The research was conducted at the experimental station Belandean, Barito Kuala regency in dry season 2007.  The objective of research was to study the effect of rice straw on the dynamic of soil pH, the concentration of iron and sulphate and yield on tidal land acid sulphate soil at two different water inlet channel. This research was designed in RCBD (Randomized Completely Block Design) with five treatments (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 Mg ha-1) and four replications. Dolomite as much as 1 Mg ha-1 was also applied.  This research was divided into two sub-units experiment i.e. two conditions of different water inlet channel. The first water channels were placed with limestone and the second inlet was planted with Eleocharis dulcis.  The results showed that (i) rice straw application did not affect the dynamic of soil pH, concentration of iron and sulphate, and (ii) the highest yield was obtained with 7.5 Mg ha-1 of rice straw

Water Management “Tabat System” in Carbon Dioxide Mitigation and Vulnerability to Fire On Peatland

The conservation measures of peat or peat maintain under natural conditions many proposed to address the increase in carbon emissions from land use change and efforts to minimize of fire, but it can not entirely implemented due to peat land has the potential for development of the agricultural commodities is supported by extensive area. Peatlands can be productive agricultural land with appropriate methods. Water management is required to regulate groundwater levels which is suitable for plants, nature conservation and restore hydrological conditions, such as reducing the vulnerability to fire. The percentage of water content vertically and functional groups of organic materials that have both hydrophilic and hydro phobic properties can be an indicator of vulner ability to fire. This research was conducted by survey method and then field sampling on land use rubber. Water management carried out with the installation of water-gate in the drainage channels (Tabat System). There are two experimental units in peatland, namely: 1) the drainage channel is equipped with the water-gate/Tabat (KST), Tabat size adjusted to the channel dimensions, and 2) there are no water-gate on the drainage channel (KNT). The parameters are observed of CO2 fluxes, ground water levels, water content and functional groups of organic matter. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of “tabat system” in mitigating CO2 emission sand vulner ability tofire. The results showed that the water management “tabat system” can reduce CO2 emissions by 47.6%, reducing hydrophobic properties of peat (0-50 cm soil depth) of 6.6% and is able to prevent loss of water-holding ability of fibric peat by 26.6%. This indicates that water management measures is required as one effort to maintain of peat to remain moist condition, so that changes in peat properties of hydrophilic become hydrophobic can be prevented, and reduce peat vulnerability to fire.Keywords: Carbon dioxide emissions, Peatland, Vulner ability to fire, Water management [How to Cite: Siti Nurzakiah, Nurita and Dedi Nursyamsi. 2016. Water Management “Tabat System” in Carbon Dioxide Mitigation and Vulnerability to Fire On Peatland. J Trop Soils 21: 41-47. Doi: 10.5400/jts.2016.21.1.41]

Ameliorant Application on Variation of Carbon Stock and Ash Content on Peatland South Kalimantan

Carbon stock on peatlands are large and will be easily emitted if the land is opened or drained, therefore the measurements of  carbon stocks and ash content are important to know the amount of emissions and agricultural sustainability in peatlands. This study aimed to determine carbon stock and ash content on peatlands in the Indonesia Climate Change Trust Fund (ICCTF) located in South Kalimantan on the geographic position S. 03°25’52" and E. 114°47’6.5". The experiment consisted of six treatments of ameliorant materials namely; mineral soil, peat fertilizer A, peat fertilizer T, manure, ash, and control.  The results showed that the variation of peat soil properties was very high at this location. Peat thickness ranged from 36-338 cm, and this led to high variations in carbon stocks ranged between 161.8 – 1142.2 Mg ha-1. Besides ash contents of the soil were also highly varied ranged from 3.4 – 28.5%. This natural variation greatly affected the ICCTF study design. Mineral soil treatment had a mean carbon stock (961.3 ± 61.5 Mg ha-1) which was higher and different from other treatments. High ash content was obtained in the ash treatment (18.6 ± 2.5%) and manure (15.7 ± 3.6%).  It is recommended that the analysis of plant responses and greenhouse gas emissions using a single regression analysis and multiple regression with ash content as one of the independent variables are needed.Keywords: Ash content, carbon stock, peatland,  peat thickness[How to Cite: Nurzakiah S, F Agus, and H Syahbuddin. 2013. Ameliorant Application on Variation of Carbon Stock and Ash Content on Peatland South Kalimantan J Trop Soils, 18 (1) : 11-16. doi: 10.5400/jts.2013.18.1.11][Permalink/DOI: www.dx.doi.org/10.5400/jts.2013.18.1.11] 

Land Suitability Analysis for Settlement Areas in Tilamuta District, Boalemo Regency

Tilamuta Subdistrict which is the capital of Boalemo Regency is directed as a Regional Activity Center (PKW) which has a function as a government center, urban settlement area, education area and trade and service area, but only about 35 percent of the total area of Tilamuta Subdistrict can be maximized as a function. built area. The purpose of this study was to determine the suitability of land for urban settlement areas in Tilamuta District. The analytical technique used is the overlay method using a Geographic Information System (GIS) from slope data, rainfall, morphology, soil type, land use and spatial pattern planning directions in Tilamuta District, which is then scored to determine the classification of land suitability of the area. settlement. The results showed that there were 4 land suitability classifications, namely: suitable (402 ha), quite suitable (4202 ha), less suitable (5223 ha), not suitable 8831 ha

Water Management “Tabat System” in Carbon Dioxide Mitigation and Vulnerability to Fire on Peatland

The conservation measures of peat or peat maintain under natural conditions many proposed to address the increase in carbon emissions from land use change and efforts to minimize of fire, but it can not entirely implemented due to peat land has the potential for development of the agricultural commodities is supported by extensive area. Peatlands can be productive agricultural land with appropriate methods. Water management is required to regulate groundwater levels which is suitable for plants, nature conservation and restore hydrological conditions, such as reducing the vulnerability to fire. The percentage of water content vertically and functional groups of organic materials that have both hydrophilic and hydro phobic properties can be an indicator of vulner ability to fire. This research was conducted by survey method and then field sampling on land use rubber. Water management carried out with the installation of water-gate in the drainage channels (Tabat System). There are two experimental units in peatland, namely: 1) the drainage channel is equipped with the water-gate/Tabat (KST), Tabat size adjusted to the channel dimensions, and 2) there are no water-gate on the drainage channel (KNT). The parameters are observed of CO2 fluxes, ground water levels, water content and functional groups of organic matter. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of “tabat system” in mitigating CO2 emission sand vulner ability tofire. The results showed that the water management “tabat system” can reduce CO2 emissions by 47.6%, reducing hydrophobic properties of peat (0-50 cm soil depth) of 6.6% and is able to prevent loss of water-holding ability of fibric peat by 26.6%. This indicates that water management measures is required as one effort to maintain of peat to remain moist condition, so that changes in peat properties of hydrophilic become hydrophobic can be prevented, and reduce peat vulnerability to fire.Keywords: Carbon dioxide emissions, Peatland, Vulner ability to fire, Water management [How to Cite: Siti Nurzakiah, Nurita and Dedi Nursyamsi. 2016. Water Management “Tabat System” in Carbon Dioxide Mitigation and Vulnerability to Fire On Peatland. J Trop Soils 21: 41-47. Doi: 10.5400/jts.2016.21.1.41][Permalink/DOI: www.dx.doi.org/10.5400/jts.2016.21.1.41]&nbsp

Enhanced Soil Chemical Properties and Rice Yield in Acid Sulphate Soil by Application of Rice Straw

Swampland development such as acid sulphate soil for agricultural cultivation has various problem, including high soil acidity, fluctuated and unpredictable water flooding and the presence of toxic elements such as Fe which resulting in low crop yields. The research was conducted at the experimental station Belandean, Barito Kuala regency in dry season 2007.  The objective of research was to study the effect of rice straw on the dynamic of soil pH, the concentration of iron and sulphate and yield on tidal land acid sulphate soil at two different water inlet channel. This research was designed in RCBD (Randomized Completely Block Design) with five treatments (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 Mg ha-1) and four replications. Dolomite as much as 1 Mg ha-1 was also applied.  This research was divided into two sub-units experiment i.e. two conditions of different water inlet channel. The first water channels were placed with limestone and the second inlet was planted with Eleocharis dulcis.  The results showed that (i) rice straw application did not affect the dynamic of soil pH, concentration of iron and sulphate, and (ii) the highest yield was obtained with 7.5 Mg ha-1 of rice straw.Keywords: Acid sulphate soil, rice straw, rice yield, soil chemical properties[How to Cite: Nurzakiah S, Nurita and L Indrayati. 2012. Enhanced Soil Chemical Properties and Rice Yield in Acid Sulphate Soil by Application of Rice Straw. J Trop Soils 17 (1) : 31-36. doi: 10.5400/jts.2012.17.1.31] [Permalink/DOI: www.dx.doi.org/10.5400/jts.2012.17.1.31

Adaptabilitas Varietas Inpara di Lahan Rawa Pasang Surut Tipe Luapan Air B pada Musim Kemarau

Tidal swamp lands are marginal lands with considerable potentials for rice farming. The key solution to overcome swampy lands constraints are nutrient and water managements as well as the use of adaptive rice varieties. Inpara (inbred swampy land rices) varieties have been released by the Indonesian Agency for Agricultural Research and Development (IAARD) which are adaptive to swampy land conditions. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the adaptability of Inpara varieties in tidal swamp lands with type B overflow. The field experiment was carried out in Karang Bunga village, Barito Kuala District, South Kalimantan Province, in the  dry season  from April to August 2016. The research was arranged in randomized complete block design, with 3 replicates. The varieties tested, i.e., Inpara 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and check varieties Margasari, Ciherang, and Mekongga. The results showed that the adaptability varied among varieties tested. Inpara 3, 4, 6, 8, and 9 had high yield and good adaptation on tidal swamp land yielded 3.475-4.299 ton ha-1. These varieties produced between 38.5 to 71.3% higher than Margasari and 51.4 to 87.2% higher than Mekongga. Inpara 3, 4, 6, 8, and 9 could be used as a main varieties in the tidal swamp lands.Keywords: rice, swampy land, variet

Estimation of the Potential Carbon Emission From Acrotelmic and Catotelmic Peats

Agricultural development on peatland in Indonesia has been constrained by the presence of environment issues in relation to the release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) to the atmosphere. This study was aimed to predict the potential carbon emission based on carbon stocks in acrotelmic and catotelmic peats with the reference of groundwater level of peatland.  The results showed that groundwater levels have played an important  role  in  carbon  release, which  has  close  relationship  with  water  regime  of  the upper  layer  of  peats  that influenced by oxidative and reductive conditions of the land.  From the layer that having groundwater level fluctuations during the period from rainy to dry season (acrotelmic peat), the emissions were mostly dominated by CO2 release, while from permanent reductive-layer (catotelmic peat) was not detected.  The decrease of groundwater level from -49.6 to -109 cm has clearly influenced carbon emission.  From each decreasing 1.0 cm groundwater level, CO2 emission measured during the period of February - October 2013 was calculated to yield about 0.37 Mg ha-1 yr-1.Keywords: Acrotelmic and catotelmic peat, carbon emission, groundwater level [How to Cite: Siti N, S Sabiham, B Nugroho and Di Nursyamsi. 2014. Estimation of the Potential Carbon Emission from Acrotelmic and Catotelmic Peats. J Trop Soils 19(2): 91-99. Doi: 10.5400/jts.2014.19.2.91]  [Permalink/DOI: www.dx.doi.org/10.5400/jts.2014.19.2.91] &nbsp