External validity is an important parameter that needs to be considered for decision making in health research, but no widely accepted measurement tool for the assessment of external validity of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exists. One of the most limiting factors for creating such a tool is probably the substantial heterogeneity and lack…

This article provides a conceptual framework for considering both the theoretical and methodological factors that underpin the successful validation of a competency framework. Drawing on educational assessment literature, this article argues that a valid competency framework relates to an interpretive judgement of the credibility of the claims…

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) cites evolution as a core concept of biology, yet studies have found that biology students often exhibit low acceptance of evolution. As such, much of evolution education research aims to identify the causes of evolution rejection and develop instructional strategies to increase…

In order to embed blended learning environments in a strategic and sustainable manner, a multi-actor, multidimensional approach is necessary. This paper reports the results of a 3-round Delphi study involving 28 experts which focuses on the refinement and validation of a layered maturity model that assesses key aspects of blended practices in…

Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) facilitate competency-based assessments. India is on the verge of implementing competency-based training for postgraduate programs. MD degree in Biochemistry is a unique program available exclusively in India. Postgraduate programs in most specialties have started working toward EPA-based curriculum, in…

As part of a 5-year study to develop and validate an instrument for measuring success in long-standing community-based participatory research (CBPR) partnerships, we utilized the Delphi method with a panel of 16 community and academic CBPR experts to assess face and content validity of the instrument's broad concepts of success and measurement…

Delphi method which is a technique and structured approach used to review and collect opinions of a group of experts, has its own weaknesses. The Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM), derived from modifications of Delphi Method introduced by Kaufman and Gupta in 1988, is considered by many researchers as more superior in providing evidence of human…

This study develops and validates an English communicative competence model for Korean high school students, in response to the need to redefine the relevant concepts and components of competence that are demanded by the rapidly evolving future society. Drawing on Celce-Murcia's (2008) theoretical model on communicative competence, this research…

Introduction: Overcoming misinformation is essential considering stigma and discrimination in the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This report presents the preliminary results of a health education strategy based on the massive open online course (MOOC) on Zero Discrimination in Brazil. Methods: Case study describing the development of the MOOC and its…

Distracted users can fail to correctly distinguish the differences between legitimate and malicious emails or search engine results. Mobile phone users can have a more challenging time identifying malicious content due to the smaller screen size and the limited security features in mobile phone applications. Thus, the main goal of this research…

Physics inquiry can be interpreted as the construction of a cogent argument in which students apply inquiry knowledge and knowledge of physics to the systematic collection of relevant, valid, and reliable data, creating optimal scientific support for a conclusion that answers the research question. In learning how to devise, conduct and evaluate a…

Using Delphi methodology, we created measurement instruments for specific training tasks included in Marine Emergency Duties training. Six Marine and Offshore Safety and Survival instructors rated items important for immersion suit and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) donning tasks. Consensus was reached, and an item was included on the…

National attention on whole-of-school approaches to decrease children's sedentary behavior and increase physical activity includes movement integration (MI) in classrooms. The purpose of this study was to describe instrument development, reliability, and validity of the System for Observing Student Movement in Academic Routines and Transitions…

Introduction: Performance standards drive current instructional practice. Disability-specific curricula is a critical component in preparing children for postsecondary transition. Currently, no standards govern instruction in orientation and mobility (O&M) skills for children with visual impairments. Standards for O&M would provide…

Virtual three-dimensional (3D) anatomical models have become popular in the education of students in graduate and undergraduate-level anatomy courses, including anatomy and physiology. There is a need for more research on the effectiveness of these models on student learning, especially in anatomy and physiology, and on the validation of the…