Performance and mathematical self-concept in university students using Khan Academy.

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have fueled innovative support techniques in the educational field that enhance students' educational training processes. The goal of this study was to measure the relationships between progress in that training, mathematical self-concept, and the new students' academic performance when they were supported by an online training, through the Khan Academy platform. A sample of 906 students distributed over four cohorts was analyzed through correlational and inferential quantitative methodology. The results show that students' academic performance was directly related to their mathematical self-concept, their progress in the online training, and other socioeconomic factors, such as being in receipt of grants, their parents' educational attainment, and access to technological devices at home, highlighting a technological gap in academic performance in favor of students with access to such devices. Further research is needed about the role of teachers and the methodology that accompanies learning through this technological tool.

Lab experience with seafood control at the undergraduate level: Cephalopods as a case study.

The correct labeling of seafood is important to protect nature and the rights of consumers. Given the certainty that the resources of the sea are not inexhaustible, only strict regulations and the implementation of sustainable fishing systems and reliable and traceable marketing systems can help ensure the long-term sustainability of fishery resources. Detecting mislabeling and seafood fraud is a useful resource for improving students' motivation and developing active learning methodologies in higher education. In the present study, we have proposed to the students a lab exercise consisting of exploring 25 different commercial cephalopod products from three major European supermarkets by using DNA barcoding and analyzing the results under the framework of EU and Spanish regulations. The problem is connected with the last theme (traceability) of the Conservation Genetics and Breeding course with the aim of providing students with a practical research lab experience about a real problem before going deeper into more theoretical contents. In this way, they can use the knowledge and the skills they acquired previously to better comprehend and think critically about the problem. Findings from students' answers to a survey revealed that the use of this approach generates useful information for communities, increases curiosity and feelings of benefit, and leads to high levels of satisfaction with lab practices compared with those in other courses. In conclusion, lab exercises focused on seafood control, in addition to being viable, can be used as a tool in classes to improve students' commitment to higher education.