The purpose of this investigation (a quasi-experimental design called a non-equivalent design group (NEDG)) was to determine if allowing students in a science majors general Chemistry I course the choice in establishing the due dates that their homework was due to the instructor would improve course averages. This study covered two semesters with a total of 288 students participating with n = 158 in the fall and n = 130 in the spring. The students self-selected the homework group, VOICES, that best fit his/her needs which included (1) the instructor's homework schedule, (2) a student-customized schedule or a schedule that followed the exam schedule, or (3) all homework due by the last class day prior to the final exam. Online homework was assigned and graded with individual assignment and homework average grades collected and analyzed. No statistically significant differences were found among the VOICES groups with respect to final course average. Other results of this study replicated findings in the literature; namely, that there is a higher correlation between mathematics skills and course success. Course averages of students who had completed Calculus I or higher were statistically significantly higher than students with less completed mathematics coursework in all VOICES groups. Also, the percentage of successful students in the on-sequence semester (fall) was higher than the percentage of students in the off-sequence semester (spring). No differences were seen in any VOICES group's student demographics or high school chemistry preparation.

Vocational teachers need to equip their students with meaningful and relevant required workplace competencies. As a result, vocational teachers should always stay updated on their knowledge and skills regarding the development of science and technology in the world of work. More specifically, in the automotive vocational expertise domain, problem-solving abilities become the crucial skills students need to master. Hence, equipping prospective automotive vocational teachers with sustainable learning and problem-solving abilities is indispensable. In this case, the metacognition theory could facilitate students with learning-how-to-learn activities, which is an essential skill for sustainable learning and learning to teach and equip them with problem-solving abilities. Therefore, bringing the metacognition theory, supported by other relevant theories, into teaching and learning activities would be beneficial in dealing with those issues. This study aimed to design and develop a metacognition-based digital problem-solving worksheet. This digital worksheet was expected to facilitate students with learning-how-to-learn activities and equip them with problem-solving abilities effectively. There were four main research objectives and questions in this study, which were related to; 1) the practical problem that needs to be addressed, 2) the didactic design, 3) the usability, and 4) the effectiveness of the digital worksheet. Design-based research was used to answer the research questions. This is a multi-methods research design, which means many methods exist to achieve the research aim and objectives. This research design comprised six stages; analysis and exploration (stage 1), design and construction (stage 2), evaluation and reflection (stage 3), analysis and exploration (stage 4), design and construction (stage 5), and evaluation and reflection (stage 6). Stage 1 was used to explore the practical problem as the answer to the first research question. Stages 2 up to 5 were used to formulate the digital worksheet's didactic design as the answer to the second research question. Stage 6 was used to evaluate the usability and effectiveness of the digital worksheet as the answer to the third and fourth research questions, respectively. Firstly, in answering the first research question, three semi-structured interviews were used as the data collection techniques in the first research stage. The findings of this stage stated that sustainable learning, learning to teach, and problem-solving abilities became the needed competencies prospective automotive vocational teachers need to master. Additionally, the findings stated that automotive fault diagnosis learning was the highest-order thinking subject that had a practical problem on it. The quality of the instructional toolkit for this subject required to be improved since the existing toolkit was a conventional observation sheet and still allowed students to conduct trial-and-error stages. This was the practical problem that this research would address. Secondly, in answering the second research question, a focus group discussion, expert-based evaluations, user-based evaluations (formative usability evaluation), and final revisions were used in the second, third, fourth, and fifth research stages, respectively. The focus group discussion aimed to discuss the materials needed to develop the digital worksheet. Following that, expert-based evaluations and user-based evaluations were conducted to evaluate the initial digital worksheet based on the experts' and users' perspectives, respectively. Several revisions were done based on those evaluation results, and the digital worksheet's final didactic design was finally realized. The findings of the didactic design stated that the worksheet was in a digital form and used blended learning with flipped classroom strategy, so students need to have three different learning times; 1) before, 2) during, and 3) after classroom activities. Furthermore, constructivism learning theory, adult learning theory, metacognition theory, experiential learning theory, and reflection theory became the fundamental theoretical knowledge basis for developing this digital worksheet. Moreover, problem-based learning, automotive fault diagnosis procedures, and worksheet stages became the digital worksheet development's fundamental practical knowledge basis. There were seven stages that students need to do during the problem-solving learning; 1) introduction, 2) observing, 3) collecting information, 4) analyzing, 5) testing, 6) rectifying, and 7) checking all systems. There were many steps in every stage above, and many instructions and self-reflection questions in every single step. Additionally, in every step, the teachers had an opportunity to give feedback on the student's work, and the students could have discussions with other students at the end of every stage. The self-reflection questions on every instruction, the teacher's feedback on every step, and the discussion results at every stage were used to regulate the students' self-cognition. Thirdly, in answering the third and fourth research questions, a questionnaire survey and an experimental study were used as the final research stage, respectively. First, the survey of summative usability evaluation consisted of four elements: usefulness, ease of use, ease of learning, and satisfaction. The findings of this evaluation stated that the usability level and those elements' usability levels were all in very high categories. Additionally, it could be determined that the usefulness, ease of use, and ease of learning significantly influenced the students' satisfaction simultaneously and independently, except for the variable of ease of learning. Second, the effectiveness findings stated that the digital worksheet significantly effectively facilitated students' learning-how-to-learn activities and equipped them with problem-solving abilities.:ABSTRACT (EXECUTIVE SUMMARY) ABSTRAKT (ZUSAMMENFASSUNG) ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND DEDICATION TABLE OF CONTENT LIST OF FIGURES LIST OF TABLES LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY 1.1. Introductory of the Chapter 1.2. Research Background, State of the Art, and Motivation 1.3. Research Empirical Problems and Context Justification 1.4. Research Rationale 1.5. Research Aim and Objectives 1.6. Research Questions 1.7. Research Scope and Context Limitations 1.8. Research Significance 1.9. Definitions of the Important Terms 1.10. List of the Research Project Publication 1.11. Summary of the Chapter CHAPTER 2. LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introductory of the Chapter 2.2 Literature Review – Contextual Domain 2.2.1 Vocational Education 2.2.2 Education System in Indonesia 2.2.3 Vocational Education (SMK-MAK) in Indonesia 2.2.4 Problems and Challenges of Vocational Education in Indonesia 2.2.5 Vocational Teachers 2.2.6 Vocational Teacher Education 2.3 Literature Review – Theoretical and Conceptual Domain 2.3.1 Constructivism and Adult Learning Theory 2.3.2 Metacognition Theory – Metacognitive Learning Strategies (Learning-How-to-Learn) 2.3.3 Experiential Learning Theory - Reflection Theory 2.3.4 Problem-Based Learning Method – Problem-Solving Ability 2.3.5 Blended Learning Technique – Flipped Classroom Learning Strategy 2.3.6 Instructional Media and Technology – Learning Worksheet 2.3.7 Usability Evaluation in Instructional Media and Technology 2.3.8 The Research Theoretical and Conceptual Framework 2.4 Literature Review – Methodological Domain 2.4.1 Research Methodologies in Instructional Media and Technology Development 2.4.2 Design-Based Research 2.5 Research Hypotheses 2.6 Summary of the Chapter CHAPTER 3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3.1. Introductory of the Chapter 3.2. Research Paradigm, Philosophy, and Research Type 3.3. Research Design, Strategies, and Methods 3.4. Research Context and Participants 3.5. Research Data Collection Techniques and the Tools 3.5.1. Stage 1 – Semi-Structured Interview and the Protocol 3.5.2. Stages 2 & 4 – Focus Group and the Protocols 3.5.3. Stage 3 – Expert-Based Evaluation and the Questionnaires 3.5.4. Stages 4 & 6 – Survey and the USE Questionnaire 3.5.5. Stage 6 – Experimental Study and the Assessment Tools 3.6. Research Data Analysis Techniques 3.6.1. Stage 1 – Semi-Structured Interview 3.6.2. Stage 2 – Focus Group Discussion 3.6.3. Stage 3 – Expert-Based Evaluation (Survey Questionnaire) 3.6.4. Stage 4 – User-Based Evaluation (Survey Questionnaire and Focus Group Interview) 3.6.5. Stage 6 – Usability Evaluation (Survey Questionnaire) 3.6.6. Stage 6 – Effectiveness Evaluation (Experimental Study) 3.7. Summary of the Chapter CHAPTER 4. RESEARCH FINDINGS 4.1. Introductory of the Chapter 4.2. Finding 1: The Practical Problem 4.2.1. Stage 1 – First Semi-Structured Interview 4.2.2. Stage 1 – Second Semi-Structured Interview 4.2.3. Stage 1 – Third Semi-Structured Interview 4.3. Finding 2: The Didactic Design 4.3.1. Stage 2 – Focus Group Discussion 4.3.2. Stage 3 – Expert-Based Evaluation 4.3.3. Stage 4 – User-Based Evaluation 4.3.4. Stage 5 – Final Revision (The Didactic Design) 4.4. Finding 3: The Usability 4.5. Finding 4: The Effectiveness 4.5.1. Stage 6 – The Effectiveness Evaluation in Facilitating Students with Leaning-How-to-Learn Activities 4.5.2. Stage 6 – The Effectiveness Evaluation in Equipping Students with Problem-Solving Abilities 4.6. Summary of the Chapter CHAPTER 5. RESEARCH DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION 5.1. Introductory of the Chapter 5.2. Discussion 1 – The Practical Problem 5.3. Discussion 2 – The Didactic Design 5.4. Discussion 3 – The Usability 5.5. Discussion 4 – The Effectiveness 5.6. Overall Discussion – The Research Findings' Interpretations and Implications in Intercultural-Global Contexts and Theoretical Design Principles 5.6.1. The Research Findings' Interpretations and Implications in Intercultural-Global Contexts 5.6.2. The Research Findings' Interpretations and Implications in Theoretical Insights and Design Principles 5.7. Research Conclusion 5.8. Research Limitations and Further Research 5.9. Summary of the Chapter REFERENCES STATEMENT OF AUTHORSHIP APPENDICES

Lärare har en bred repertoar av representationsformer att välja mellan i undervisning av tals additiva del-helhetsrelationer. Studiens syfte var att undersöka hur lärare använder dessa i undervisningen. För att få svar på detta skapades frågeställningen: Hur synliggör förskoleklasslärare identifierade kritiska aspekter från tidigare forskning med hjälp av representationsformer i undervisningen av tals del-helhetsrelation. I studien observerades och intervjuades förskoleklasslärare om hur de undervisar om tals del-helhetsrelationer med hjälp av representationsformer. Variationsteorin användes för att analysera observationsprotokoll och transkriberade intervjuer om hur lärarna iscensätter kritiska aspekter inom tals del-helhetsrelationer. Resultatets utgångspunkt är fem kritiska aspekter som har identifierats i forskning och som iscensattes av lärarna. Resultatet visar att för synliggörandet av en del kritiska aspekter kan en representationsform anses vara mer gynnsam. Lärarna synliggjorde även de olika kritiska aspekterna på liknande sätt, genom att hålla samma aspekter invarianta medan andra varierade. Trots detta kunde lärarnas tillvägagångssätt skilja sig åt. Resultatet visar att lärarnas muntliga tal spelar en betydande roll i synliggörandet av kritiska aspekter. Gester var däremot inte av samma vikt. / Teachers have a wide repertoire of representations to choose from when teaching additive numbers’ part-whole relationships. The aim of this study was to investigate how teachers use these when teaching. The question of the research was: How can identified critical aspects from earlier research be enacted by preschool class teachers with the use of representations when teaching additive numbers’ part-whole relationships? Preschool class teachers were observed and interviewed about how they teach part-whole relationships of numbers with representations. The Variation theory of learning was used to analyze the protocol from observations and transcribed interview of the enactment of critical aspects within numbers’ part-whole relationships. The result is based on five critical aspects that have been identified in research and was enacted by the teachers. The result show that one representation can be more advantageous when some critical aspects are to be enacted. The teachers enacted the critical aspects in similar ways, by keeping the same aspects as invariant while other aspects varied. Despite this, the teachers’ approach when teaching could differ. The result show that teachers’ oral speech had an impact on the enacment of critical aspects. However, the use of gestures where not that important.

Undervisningsmodellen bianshi med ursprung i Shanghai anses vara en möjlig förklaring till kinesiska elevers goda matematikprestationer. Variationsteorin, en annan undervisningsmodell med ursprung i väst beskrivs ha flera likheter med bianshi. I forskning benämns bianshi och variationsteorin även som teoretiska ramverk. I Learning Study, en studie för undervisningsutveckling är det vanligt förekommande att variationsteorin används som teoretiskt ramverk. Antaganden om att bianshi är en framgångsrik undervisningsmodell skapade ett intresse att undersöka möjligheterna att använda bianshi som teoretiskt ramverk i en interventionsstudie som hämtat komponenter från Learning Study.Syftet med denna studie är att utforska bianshi som teoretiskt ramverk i en interventionsstudie. Det gjordes i jämförelse med variationsteorin. Tal som bråk var studiens undervisningsinnehåll. Studien grundar sig i två interventionsstudier. En med bianshi och en med variationsteorin som teoretiskt ramverk. Genomförandet av respektive modell hämtade delar av processen för en Learning Study. Urvalet bestod av två klasser i årskurs 4 som delades i fyra mindre grupper. Förtest, eftertest och lektionsobservationer stod för datainsamlingen.Studiens resultat visar en förbättring av elevgruppernas förståelse för tal som bråk, oberoende av vilken modell som var det teoretiska ramverket. Lektionsinnehållet relaterat till begreppsförståelse resulterade i större utveckling för de elever som undervisades med bianshi. Elevgrupperna med variationsteorin som undervisningsmodell visade en större förbättring kopplat till metoder. Därmed visade bianshi i jämförelse med variationsteorin både högre och lägre utveckling av bråk som tal. Resultatet i vår studie antyder att bianshi går att använda som teoretiskt ramverk i en interventionsstudie. Antagandet styrks av den positiva lärandeutvecklingen och möjligheten att implementera bianshi i samtliga steg av processen. / The teaching model bianshi, originating from Shanghai, is considered as a possible explanation for the exceptional mathematical performances by Chinese students. Variation theory of learning, another teaching model originating from the Western tradition is assumed to share several similarities with bianshi. In research, bianshi and the variation theory of learning are also referred as theoretical frameworks. In a Learning Study, an intervention study focused on educational development, variation theory of learning is common to be used as a theoretical framework. The assumption that bianshi is a successful teaching model created an interest in exploring the possibilities of using bianshi as a theoretical framework in an intervention study that incorporates components from Learning Study.The aim of the study is to explore bianshi as a theoretical framework in an intervention study. This was done in comparison with the variation theory of learning. The teaching content of the study was numbers as fractions. The study is based on two intervention studies. One using bianshi and the other using the variation theory of learning as a theoretical framework. The implementation of each model incorporated elements from the Learning Study process. The sample consisted of two fourth-grade classes, which were divided into four smaller groups. Data collection included pre-tests, post-tests and lesson observations.The results of the study present an improvement of the students’ understanding of numbers as fractions, regardless of which model was used as a theoretical framework. The lesson content related to conceptual understanding resulted in greater development for the students taught by bianshi. Student groups taught with the variation theory of learning as the teaching model showed greater improvement related to methods. Thus, compared to the variation theory of learning, bianshi showed both higher and lower development of fractions as numbers. Our study suggests that bianshi can be used as a theoretical framework in an intervention study. This is supported by the positive learning development and the opportunity of implementing bianshi in all steps of the process.

Paper one: The attitudes and reasoning of abusive behaviour in adolescents who have been exposed to domestic abuse Exposure to domestic abuse in childhood can go on to negatively affect every aspect of that individual’s life. During adolescence, the impact of exposure to domestic abuse may go beyond the borders of the family and the individual, and affect the development of intimate relationships. This study explores the attitudes and reasoning of eleven young people who have been exposed to domestic abuse and are displaying perpetrator behaviours. Results reveal a complex interaction between experiences and skill deficits at a crucial time of identity formation, resulting in the formation and maintenance of destructive attitudes and contradictory reasoning about abusive behaviour. The direct implications of this study, suggestions for further research, and for Educational Psychology Services are discussed. Paper two: An evaluation of an intervention for adolescents who have been exposed to domestic abuse and are displaying perpetrator behaviours Where domestic violence occurs, children and young people are likely to have been exposed to such abuse. Evidence suggests that this is likely to have a detrimental impact on them. There is an acute gap in provision for such individuals, despite evidence suggesting a link between exposure to domestic abuse in childhood, and involvement in abusive dating relationships in late adolescence and adulthood. There has been little research testing the effectiveness of intervention programmes which aim to reduce this risk. In this study a before and after design was used to evaluate a cognitive-behavioural intervention programme for young people who have been exposed to domestic abuse and are displaying abusive behaviours. This evaluation was based on the views of the young people on this programme. Results indicate that certain elements of the programme were more successful in achieving the programme aims. Considerations for the development of further programmes which target this client group are discussed.

Learners in South Africa underachieve in Mathematics. Amidst many other factors that influence the Mathematics scenario in South African schools, one major aspect of the Mathematics classroom culture is the Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT). For many learners the LoLT, namely English, is not their main language. The question arises of whether Setswana learners with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) are disadvantaged because the LoLT is English and if so, what could be done about it. The interaction between language and thought is discussed against the background of the learning theories of Piaget, Vygotsky and van Hiele, as well as the Network Theory of Learning. From this study the importance of language for conceptualisation becomes clear, especially that of the mother tongue. The circle is then narrowed down to take a look at the vital part that language plays in Mathematics and the problems that exist for the learner when negotiating meaning during the journey between natural language and the mathematical register. Focusing on the situation of the Setswana Mathematics learner with English as LoLT, the views of parents and teachers come under scrutiny as well as government policies regarding the LoLT. The techniques and strategies of teachers in the English Second Language Mathematics classrooms (ESL-classrooms) are investigated. In this regard code-switching is of importance and is discussed extensively. These theoretical investigations led to an empirical study. Firstly, a quantitative study was undertaken by means of a survey to investigate the language situation in schools where Setswana is the main language. Furthermore, the views of those teachers, who teach Setswana learners with English as LoLT, on how English as LoLT influences Setswana Mathematics learners' conceptualisation were investigated. A sample of 218 teachers in the North-West Province of South Africa was used in this survey. A complex language situation crystallises where no one-dimensional answer can be recommended. Code-switching has clearly made large inroads into the Mathematics classroom, but teachers' views on the expediency of using Setswana, especially for formal notes, terminology and tests, vary considerably. Secondly, a qualitative study was undertaken in two schools. The study investigated the possibility that notes in Setswana as well as in English, and the aid of an English/Setswana glossary of Mathematical terminology in daily tasks as well as in tests, would be of value to learners. It was clear from the sample that the new terminology is difficult for the teachers in question because they are used to the English terminology. Some learners also find the Setswana terminology difficult. However, the learners experience the use of the Setswana in the notes positively. It was clear from the interviews with the learners that by far the most of the learners in the sample felt that the Setswana/English notes as well as the glossary helped them to understand better. The learners oscillate between English and Setswana to understand the explanation given or the question asked. Most of the learners are of opinion that tests where questions are asked in both languages contribute to a better comprehension of what is asked. They also experience the glossary of English/Setswana terminology supplied in the test as an important aid. Recommendations comprise that the Setswana Mathematics register should be expanded and final examinations set in both Setswana and English. Furthermore, teachers should be educated to use new terminology effectively as a scaffold to ensure adequate conceptualisation, as well as to manage code-switching in a structured way. / Thesis (M.Ed.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2005.

Learners in South Africa underachieve in Mathematics. Amidst many other factors that influence the Mathematics scenario in South African schools, one major aspect of the Mathematics classroom culture is the Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT). For many learners the LoLT, namely English, is not their main language. The question arises of whether Setswana learners with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) are disadvantaged because the LoLT is English and if so, what could be done about it. The interaction between language and thought is discussed against the background of the learning theories of Piaget, Vygotsky and van Hiele, as well as the Network Theory of Learning. From this study the importance of language for conceptualisation becomes clear, especially that of the mother tongue. The circle is then narrowed down to take a look at the vital part that language plays in Mathematics and the problems that exist for the learner when negotiating meaning during the journey between natural language and the mathematical register. Focusing on the situation of the Setswana Mathematics learner with English as LoLT, the views of parents and teachers come under scrutiny as well as government policies regarding the LoLT. The techniques and strategies of teachers in the English Second Language Mathematics classrooms (ESL-classrooms) are investigated. In this regard code-switching is of importance and is discussed extensively. These theoretical investigations led to an empirical study. Firstly, a quantitative study was undertaken by means of a survey to investigate the language situation in schools where Setswana is the main language. Furthermore, the views of those teachers, who teach Setswana learners with English as LoLT, on how English as LoLT influences Setswana Mathematics learners' conceptualisation were investigated. A sample of 218 teachers in the North-West Province of South Africa was used in this survey. A complex language situation crystallises where no one-dimensional answer can be recommended. Code-switching has clearly made large inroads into the Mathematics classroom, but teachers' views on the expediency of using Setswana, especially for formal notes, terminology and tests, vary considerably. Secondly, a qualitative study was undertaken in two schools. The study investigated the possibility that notes in Setswana as well as in English, and the aid of an English/Setswana glossary of Mathematical terminology in daily tasks as well as in tests, would be of value to learners. It was clear from the sample that the new terminology is difficult for the teachers in question because they are used to the English terminology. Some learners also find the Setswana terminology difficult. However, the learners experience the use of the Setswana in the notes positively. It was clear from the interviews with the learners that by far the most of the learners in the sample felt that the Setswana/English notes as well as the glossary helped them to understand better. The learners oscillate between English and Setswana to understand the explanation given or the question asked. Most of the learners are of opinion that tests where questions are asked in both languages contribute to a better comprehension of what is asked. They also experience the glossary of English/Setswana terminology supplied in the test as an important aid. Recommendations comprise that the Setswana Mathematics register should be expanded and final examinations set in both Setswana and English. Furthermore, teachers should be educated to use new terminology effectively as a scaffold to ensure adequate conceptualisation, as well as to manage code-switching in a structured way. / Thesis (M.Ed.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2005.

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / Research in the area of pre and inservice teacher education have focused on the development of a meta-awareness on English teachers learning process and how this knowledge affects their social and discursive practices and their social relations in the teaching contexts in which they work (see MAGALHÃES & FIDALGO, 2008; BARCELLOS, 2006, CASTRO, 2006; PAIVA, 2005; CRISTÓVÃO, 2005a; MAGALHÃES, 2004; VIEIRA-ABRAHÃO, 2004; MOTTA-ROTH, 2006b; for instance). As a result of these investigations, this knowledge can be appropriated by language teacher programs (JOHNSON, 1996, p. 47) in the configuration of a critical and empowered second language teacher education (FREIRE, 2003b). Following this perspective, this work tries to evaluate how a collaborative practice of intervention can contribute to qualify pre and inservice language teacher education linguistically and pedagogically. To do that, we initially investigate the profile of preservice teachers and the concepts of language, teaching and learning built along their language teacher program. Then a focus group (two pre and one inservice teacher) was established in order to develop a collaborative practice of intervention which could ultimately generate reflection on concepts of learning, teaching practice and identities built along the preservice training practice in a State school. The reflective actions and the analysis of the discourses produced during these actions are theoretically supported by collaborative research of intervention (MAGALHÃES & FIDALGO, 2008; MAGALHÃES, 2004), Critical Discourse Analysis (FAIRCLOUGH, 2003, 1989) and socio-cultural theory of learning (VYGOTSKY, 2001, 1995). The discourse analysis shows that, through the practice of intervention, participants could develop a meta-awareness on behaviorist concepts of learning which underly their discourse and teaching practices at the beginning of the reflective process. The practice of intervention also helped them give their first steps on building a sociocultural learning perspective (concepts and teaching practice). This reconfiguration had an impact not only on the way they act in the classroom, but also in the constitution of their identities as teachers of English, as they gradually personify social roles which demand a critical and socially-situated attitude from themselves and from their students. By the end of the intervention practice, they point out the importance of teacher s engagement in reflective ongoing processes, taking responsibility for their role in the configuration of these processes. / Pesquisas na área de formação pré e em serviço têm priorizado o desenvolvimento de uma metaconsciência acerca do processo de aprendizagem de professores de inglês e de que maneira esse conhecimento afeta suas práticas sociais e discursivas e suas relações sociais nos contextos de ensino em que atuam (ver MAGALHÃES & FIDALGO, 2008; BARCELLOS, 2006, CASTRO, 2006; PAIVA, 2005; CRISTÓVÃO, 2005a; MAGALHÃES, 2004; VIEIRA-ABRAHÃO, 2004; MOTTA-ROTH, 2006b; por exemplo). Como resultado dessas investigações, esse conhecimento pode ser apropriado pelos currículos de licenciatura (JOHNSON, 1996, p. 47) na configuração de uma formação crítica e democrática (FREIRE, 2003b). Dentro dessa perspectiva, este trabalho procura avaliar em que medida uma prática de interferência colaborativa pode contribuir para qualificar o processo formativo lingüístico-pedagógico do professor de inglês pré e em serviço. Para tanto, procuramos inicialmente investigar o perfil do aluno de Letras e as concepções de linguagem, ensino e aprendizagem que constrói em diferentes pontos de sua trajetória universitária. Em seguida, um grupo focal (duas professoras em pré e uma em serviço) foi estabelecido no sentido de desenvolvermos uma prática de interferência colaborativa que, em última instância, pudesse gerar a reflexão acerca das concepções de aprendizagem, da prática pedagógica e das identidades construídas ao longo do programa de estágio curricular supervisionado, vivenciado pelo grupo, em uma escola pública. As ações reflexivas e a análise dos discursos produzidos no decorrer delas são ancoradas teoricamente pela pesquisa de interferência colaborativa (MAGALHÃES & FIDALGO, 2008; MAGALHÃES, 2004), pela Análise Crítica do Discurso (FAIRCLOUGH, 2003, 1989) e pela perspectiva sociocultural de aprendizagem (VYGOTSKY, 2001, 1995). A análise do discurso das participantes mostrou que, por meio da prática de interferência colaborativa, puderam desenvolver uma metaconsciência acerca da concepção behaviorista que subsidiou seu discurso e sua prática pedagógica no início do processo reflexivo, bem como dar os primeiros passos na configuração de uma perspectiva de aprendizagem sociocultural (conceitos e prática pedagógica). Essa reconfiguração teve impacto não somente no modo como vivenciaram suas ações em sala de aula, mas igualmente na constituição de suas identidades como professoras de inglês, uma vez que gradualmente personificam, em sala de aula, papéis sociais que demandam uma postura crítica e socialmente situada em relação a si mesmas e a seus alunos. Ao final do processo de investigação, apontam a importância de o professor estar inserido em um processo reflexivo crítico e continuado, assumindo sua parcela de responsabilidade na configuração desse processo.

Computing education has struggled with student engagement and diversity in the student population for a long time. Research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education suggests that taking a social, long-term perspective on learning is a fruitful approach to resolving some of these persistent challenges. A longitudinal study has been conducted, following students from two computing study programmes (CS/IT) over a three-year period. The students reflected on their experiences with CS/IT in a series of interviews. Drawing on social identity theory, the analysis has focused on describing participation in CS/IT, doing, thinking, feeling in relation to CS/IT, as negotiated among different people. Phenomenographic analysis yields an outcome space that describes increasingly broad ways in which the students experience participation in CS/IT over the years. Two further outcome spaces provide nuanced insights into experiences that are of increasing relevance as the students advance in their studies; participation as problem solving and problem solving for others. Problem solving defined as solving difficult (technical) problems seems predominate in the learning environment. Problem solving for others brings the user into perspective, but first in the human computer interaction (HCI) course in year three. Students react with scepticism to HCI, excluding HCI from computing, some are students who commenced their studies with broader interests in computing. Demonstrating (technical) problem solving competence is the most vital indicator competence in the two study programmes and the students adapt their reflections on who they are as computing students and professionals accordingly. People showing broader interests in computing risk being marginalised. I identify a gap between conceptions of computing as interdisciplinary and important for society and constructions of computing as technical. Closing the gap could improve retention and diversity, and result in graduates that are better prepared to contribute to societal development.

The dissertation is focused on the issue of disciplinary reading in the Czech Republic, which is explored through the approaches of geography teachers. The theoretical basis of the dissertation discuss the key concepts (disciplinary reading, teacher's approach, text and its difficulty) and put the studied issue into the broader context of teacher's professional learning. The research carried out within the dissertation draws on the questionnaire survey; uses the grounded theory method to analyze data. The research is divided into two parts, the first research tries to reveal in the teachers' statements how they approach the inclusion of the disciplinary reading in geography teaching, what factors prevent them from implementing the disciplinary reading and what they help. The second research is aimed at revealing the perspectives used by geography teachers to assess the difficulty of texts useful in geography teaching. Based on a paradigmatic model, a typology of geography teachers' approaches to disciplinary reading was developed. The resulting types are four and reflect different forms of the two typology categories. Typology is based on how the teacher links reading with the achievement of geographic goals, as well as the character of pupils' activities defined by levels of thought operations and...