The purpose of this study was to develop a valid and theoretically sound 21st century skills-based mathematics learning model. Plomp's research and development theory and Nieveen's criteria were used to ensure the quality and reliability of the model. The model development process includes Initial Investigation, Design, and Realization/Construction. Data were collected from six schools through various instruments such as observation sheets, documents, 21st century skills tests, and interview guides. Model validation involved the participation of five experts. A blended data analysis approach was used to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the findings. The result of this study is a 21st century skills-based mathematics learning model named Model 21-BML. The model consists of five interconnected core components: Learning Syntax, Social System, Reaction Principles, Support System, and Instructional and Accompanying Impacts. The uniqueness of this model lies in the seven integrated learning trajectories: Object translation, decomposition, cognitive construction, cognitive development, communication, reflection, and extension. After going through a rigorous validation process, the five experts confirmed the high validity of the 21-BML Model. This model not only enhances innovative mathematics learning theory, but also provides practical alternatives for mathematics teachers to encourage the development of 21st century skills in students. The model is expected to make a significant contribution in bridging the gap between traditional mathematics education and the competency demands of the modern era, as well.

This paper examined socio-scientific issues-related literature in science education over the past two decades, from 2004 to 2023, to enhance researchers' understanding of research trends. To this end, the Scopus database was utilized to search for articles on socio-scientific issues published from 2004 to 2023. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 288 articles were chosen for the data collection. The analysis was conducted utilizing VOSviewer software. The results show that the number of articles on socio-scientific issues in science education is steadily increasing. The most substantial growth in the number of articles was recorded in the last four years before 2024. The United States is the leader in the publication of articles. The number of citations demonstrates that the United States, Germany, and Sweden are the leading countries. The ten journals with the highest citations are ranked in the Q1 category. The research trends identified five clusters: a) decision-making, b) decision-making and argumentation practices, c) climate change, d) inquiry-based learning and the nature of science, and e) scientific literacy. Furthermore, the findings show that recent research in the context of socio-scientific issues has focused on STEM education. In light of the findings, I propose recommendations for future research.

This study analyses the impact of manipulative learning tools, specifically the Engino toy blocks, on the mathematical performance of pre-primary students, especially in understanding the sections of counting and addition. The research hypothesis states that students using Engino toy blocks will perform significantly better than those using traditional learning methods. An experimental design of randomly assigning the students was employed, involving 50 students divided equally into an experimental group (students who used Engino toys) and a control group (students who did not use Engino toys). Statistical analysis included mean comparison, standard deviation and independent t-test to analyse performance differences. Findings indicate that students in the experimental group performed better, showing a mean value increase of approximately 37% compared to the control group, and a p-value was also found to be less than the significance level of .05. The large effect size of 0.83 demonstrates a strong influence of using the toy blocks in their learning experience. These results highlight the effectiveness of Engino toy blocks in improving engagement and deeper understanding of the concepts in early mathematics education.

As skills-gap between available skills and in-demand skills in the Solar Energy Technology Sector (SETS) continues to expand due to rapid growth of the sector, the need for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to design and run critical Solar Energy Technology Training (SETechTra) modules has become imperative. Informed by the findings from SETechTra project – which includes extensive literature reviews, stakeholder interviews, observations, feedback from pilot model involving circa 1500 students from schools/colleges across four European countries, this article reports on a developed strategic undergraduate (UG) 30-credit module. The module is designed to embed in-demand skills in SETS within students enrolled upon wider Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses. The contents of the module comprise learning and teaching activities engineered to embed key identified academic, industrial, and entrepreneurial in-demand skills in SETS in STEM UG students. Formative and summative assessments are the implemented assessment strategy used to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the module in the pilot model. Analysis of feedback from the pilot model demonstrations indicates significant positive impact, giving a promising indication of wider applicability to HEIs across Europe interested in fast-tracking production of more SETS industry-ready graduates.