Virtual laboratory (VLab) has been observed for its function for the merit of online course delivery. It is believed that the existence of VLab may enhance students’ academic achievements. However, the study which researches its impact on the students’ independence is still limited. This systematic review study aims to determine students’ self-regulated learning (SRL) on the use of VLab by implementing PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Study Design). Further, we examined whether the strategies of SRL, such as cognitive, metacognitive, motivational, behavioral, and contextual strategies owned by students at higher education levels, increased because of leveraging the VLab. We identified 267 articles from Scopus and the Web of Science databases, then utilized the PRISMA guidelines to specify the 249 eligible articles. As a result, only 20 articles passed the criteria of the feasibility stage (1) higher education level, (2) informing online learning, (3) containing materials discussing VLab, and (4) representing the concept of SRL. However, the finding showed that all interventions had positively affected students’ performance. Based on the analyzed data, we confirm that VLab can be considered for providing the learning experience since it bridges the gap between students’ prior knowledge and experience and provides an active social experience.

AI-supported teaching practices have emerged as a game-changer for the continuous professional development of educators. Utilizing advancements in AI and avatar technologies, this novel paradigm fosters a transformative approach in teacher education. By melding the strengths of microteaching with AI's analytical prowess and the immersive nature of avatar-guided simulations, this method ensures a comprehensive, adaptable, and inclusive learning environment for pre-service teachers. Drawing from firsthand experiences and academic discourse, this article sheds light on the potential, challenges, and future prospects of integrating AI-supported practices in teacher training.

This study proposes a transformative approach to integrate modern technology and online assessments in higher education, emphasizing the shift from traditional methods to advanced-conceptualized digital platforms. It explores the potential of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and mobile applications to reshape education by offering scalability, real-time feedback, and personalized learning experiences. These technologies provide opportunities to create immersive learning environments and enable students to engage with content more interactively. Through a survey conducted with 367 sophomores from four faculties at Universitas Terbuka, digital readiness, challenges, and expectations were assessed. The survey results indicated a diverse range of digital proficiency among students, highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement in digital skills. Preliminary findings indicate significant differences in digital readiness and expectations for interactive and flexible learning environments among faculties. Students from technology-oriented faculties exhibited higher readiness and adaptability to digital tools compared to those from humanities and social sciences faculties. The study underscores the need for targeted strategies to enhance digital competencies and support systems, ensuring equitable access to digital learning tools. Additionally, it identifies key barriers such as limited access to reliable internet and insufficient digital literacy training, which must be addressed to fully realize the benefits of online education. For instance, students reported difficulties in accessing advanced educational software due to limited bandwidth, which impacts the efficacy of online learning platforms. These insights provide practical recommendations for educators, developers, and policymakers to optimize digital learning experiences and address emerging educational challenges, setting the stage for future transformative practices in higher education. The findings advocate for a comprehensive institutional policy that promotes continuous digital skills development and infrastructure investment to support inclusive and innovative learning experiences.

This paper describes an investigation of the interaction between teaching method and school locality in aligning student environmental beliefs, attitudes and intentions. Data for this study were collected from 236 adolescent upper secondary school students and chemistry teachers in Indonesia who were completing environmental topics from the local science curriculum. Analysis of surveys and interviews revealed a complex relationship between the beliefs, attitudes, and intentions exhibited by students and the location of the schools they attended. More active learning approaches seemed to promote cohesion between beliefs, attitudes and intentions, with participation in community issues having a greater impact on student ecological affinity than field research projects. The results of the study are discussed with regard to the concept of environmental citizenship whereby participating in local environmental issues can enhance strategies to create democratic and responsible citizens.

Initiated during the Covid-19 pandemic, this study examines the development and use of virtual laboratories at 'Universitas Terbuka' to facilitate science practicums. Initially a response to pandemic restrictions, these virtual labs proved to be invaluable due to the widespread geographic distribution of students across the Indonesian archipelago. As the world transitions to a new normal, with possibilities for on-site practical experiences resuming, this paper discusses how virtual labs can continue to ensure equitable access to practical science education. This aspect of equal opportunity in education, whether online or on-site, is termed 'scalable practicum' in this study. By using a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, the paper evaluates the effectiveness of these virtual labs in providing hands-on scientific experimentation experiences that are both accessible and flexible. The findings suggest that, even beyond pandemic constraints, virtual labs remain a feasible and efficient alternative to traditional in-person labs, significantly enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. This paper emphasizes the adaptability of virtual labs to various learning contexts and their importance in the evolving landscape of science education. The study concludes by recommending further research with a broader demographic to thoroughly evaluate the long-term viability and impact of online scalable practicums in science learning.

This study investigates the pivotal role of immersive 360-degree video and its perceived advantages on the enhancement of oral communication skills within the framework of the ELC650 course, 'English for Professional Interaction'. The research involved twenty-four students enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Language (Arabic Communication Professionals) (Hons) program. The distribution of questionnaires immediately after the students watched the video aimed to assess the role of immersive 360-degree video and its perceived advantages of this technology in preparing students for conducting assessments within a meeting discussion. Employing a cross-sectional design, the study collects both closed-ended and open-ended responses through the distributed questionnaires. The latter serves as a crucial means of triangulating the data, offering real-time insights into the students' understanding of professional interaction and assessment practices using 360-degree video. The study's findings on the use of 360-degree video in education can inform government decisions and contribute to achieving SDG 4, which aims to improve the quality of education. It is important for government and learning institutions to recognize and embrace the role of 360-degree video in enhancing learning quality, specifically in fostering communication skills within the area of professional interaction in English. Other than that, this study holds implications for refining curriculum design, shaping instructional strategies, and optimizing the integration of innovative technologies in language education, particularly for students specializing in Arabic communication.