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MAKRINA ZAFIRI

UNIVERSITY OF THESSALY, GREECE, FOREIGN LANGUAGES, Faculty Member

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1.Permanent at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki2. Academic Associate at the Hellenic Open University3. Teacher Trainer at the Greek National Institute of ASPAITE in Thessaloniki.I hold 2 degrees, one in English Language and Literature and one in Law, both from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki(AUTh).I hold 3 MA's, one in Theoretical and Applied Linguistics from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), one in the field of Sociology, Philosophy and History of Law from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh), and a third MA in Studies in Education from the Hellenic Open University (HOU).My PhD is in First and Second /Foreign Language Teaching in Greek Primary Schools from the University of Patra, Greece.
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Papers by MAKRINA ZAFIRI

Achieving Continuous Professional Development through Peer Observation and Self-Reflection: The Case of the Greek INSET for Teachers of English

by MAKRINA ZAFIRI and Nikoleta Koutsika

English Language Teaching, 2023

This study focuses on the impact of in-service training (INSET) to practicing teachers in Greece ... more This study focuses on the impact of in-service training (INSET) to practicing teachers in Greece and the possible reasons that might make such training less attractive to them. Observation for development is considered as an alternative to short-term training programs so that teachers can develop a deeper awareness of their teaching context, in close collaboration with their peers. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from a questionnaire and a focused interview; seventy respondents participated in the former tool and seventeen in the latter. Findings indicate no fundamental change in the trainees' beliefs or teaching practice. Theories of teacher training and development are used to explore what teachers expect from training, what the reality of INSET is both for the public and private sectors, and finally how self-reflection and peer-observation can be integrated into teacher education programs to boost teacher learning and development. It is argued that awareness-boosting training programs are essential in order for trainee-teachers to develop their own teaching theories.

THE APPLICATION OF GAMES FOR THE TEACHING OF GREEK TO BILINGUAL STUDENTS 1

KutBilim Journal of Social Sciences and Arts, 2022

This small-scale research study probed into primary school teachers' attitudes on using games to ... more This small-scale research study probed into primary school teachers' attitudes on using games to teach Greek as a foreign/second language to bilingual students. The research issues under consideration, are teachers' perceptions of games and how they should be implemented, and teacher training in bilingual education. For the needs of this research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with teachers of public primary schools in Greece, who had bilingual students attending their classes and whose second language was Greek. The aforementioned teachers who participated in the research applied games in their teaching. The findings of the study revealed that all teachers have a positive attitude towards using games in their classrooms, such as, board games, cognitive games, theatrical games, and role-playing and that, most of the time, their role (meaning the teacher's role) is that of a facilitator. Regarding their training in bilingual education, most evaluate it as incomplete in the sense that they emphasize upon the need for practical and experiential training. In conclusion, teachers believe that students prefer the application of games and play when learning a language compared to been taught the language through a traditional teaching method. Regarding the language lesson itself, teachers believe that games improve the learning skills of students who are learning Greek as a second/foreign language. However, given that this research was a small-scale research, it is important that we extend it to a larger and wider sample of teachers in order to draw safer conclusions.

Cultural Semiospheres in Contact in Foreign Language Teaching

Journal of Intercultural Communication Research

Improving the Writing Skills of EFL High School Learners through Alternative Methods of Assessment and Differentiated Instruction

International Journal of English Language Education, 2021

The study described in this article investigated EFL writing in the 1st Grade of a State Junior H... more The study described in this article investigated EFL writing in the 1st Grade of a State Junior High School. More particularly, the study examined whether the use of alternative assessment methods, such as self-assessment and peer-assessment checklists, in a differentiated class environment, can have a positive effect on learners’ writing skills. For the needs of this research an experimental and a control group were targeted. The teaching materials which were used in the research process were differentiated according to the principles of Differentiated Instruction and learners were assigned to write different writing genres.Findings revealed that differentiated instruction had an impact on the learners’ writings. However, there were limitations regarding the time that had to be allotted in the designing of the lessons and the instruction itself. Also, the instruction was limited to a small group of learners. However, the implications of the research brought to light the involvement...

The Application of Art in the Enhancement of Speaking Skills in Greek State Primary School Students of Pre-A1 Level

International Journal on Integrating Technology in Education, 2021

The findings show that visual arts-based instruction positively impacts learners' oracy abili... more The findings show that visual arts-based instruction positively impacts learners' oracy abilities, vocabulary development, and formulaic assimilation. Art has always been a potent medium for teachers of all subjects contributing to learners’ social, emotional, intellectual and physical evolution. However, it often becomes subjugated and considered as unnecessary and extracurricular. The particular research aims at exploring the ways Art can be integrated into the first grade of Greek State Primary School curriculum for English language learning and exploited for the benefit of young learners. More specifically, this research aims to investigate whether art, and particularly visual arts, can emerge as an invaluable tool which will enhance instruction for the learning of English as a foreign language, thus triggering motivation which will lead to young learners’ enhancement of their speaking skills. In addition to this, this research explores the effects of visual arts-based instr...

Differentiated Instruction and Portfolio Assessment: Motivating Young Greek-Romani Students in the English Class

World Journal of English Language, 2022

The socio-cultural changes taking place in Greek classrooms over the last years have rendered the... more The socio-cultural changes taking place in Greek classrooms over the last years have rendered the modification and revising of the existing teaching material critical. It is argued that in classes with cultural minorities, students’ needs should be put at the forefront, and teaching objectives should be adapted accordingly. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effectiveness of differentiated instruction and alternative assessment in the teaching of English to diverse population classes within a three-month period. The research focuses on the effect these approaches primarily have on triggering students’ motivation and, secondarily, on their overall linguistic development. In particular, the study examines the outcomes of two groups of diverse population students attending the third grade of primary school. The experimental group was taught through differentiated instruction, while the control group attended the traditional class. The tools employed were a needs analysi...

Investigating the Relationship of Working Memory and Inhibitory Control: Bilingual Education and Pedagogical Implications in Elementary School

International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2020

Present study aims to shed light on the relationship of working memory and executive functioning ... more Present study aims to shed light on the relationship of working memory and executive functioning in bilingual elementary school children when compared with monolingual population of the same age. The investigation of the relationship between working memory and language learning abilities of children, who are bilingual, is particularly important as it plays a key role in understanding the literacy and language competence of bilingual populations. The purpose of this study was to examine Verbal Working Memory and Executive Functions in 20 bilingual elementary school students who were compared to 20 monolingual school-age students in different cognitive tasks. The research results showed that bilingual students did not appear to perform better in Working Memory compared to the performance of monolingual students of the same age. Correspondingly, bilingual students performed better in the task of inhibitory control and cognitive change. The findings of the present study reinforce the hy...

Improving the Reading and Speaking Skills of A2 Level Students in a Private Language Institute Based on the Communicative Language Teaching Approach

INTED Proceedings, 2018

The present study examines whether the reading and speaking skills of A2 level students who atten... more The present study examines whether the reading and speaking skills of A2 level students who attend English lessons in a Private Language Institute could be improved through the application of communicative teaching material. To be more specific, an action research was carried out in an A2 level class of a Private Language Institute. New supplementary material was constructed based on the principles of the Common European Framework (CEFR) and the Communicative Approach. It is worth mentioning that the CLA has been chosen because it is in accordance with the principles of the CEFR. Two groups of A2 level students participated in this research, a control and an experimental group. The Conventional material, which is the coursebook used by the private institute, was applied to the students of the control group, while in the second group, also known as experimental group, the new material was taught which was adapted to the students&#39; needs. A pre-test, which was the same for both groups, was given out to the students of both groups in order to measure their reading skills. At the end of the 10 lessons, a post-test was handed out to both groups in order to measure the development of their reading skills and their language development. In addition to this, a semi-structured interview was conducted to all students who attended both classes so as to measure the students&#39; speaking skills.

A Study of Adult Learners’ Attitudes Towards Information and Communications Technology (Ict)

This study aims to find a seasonal streamflow forecast model simultaneous to all stations of SIN ... more This study aims to find a seasonal streamflow forecast model simultaneous to all stations of SIN using periodic autoregressive models with exogenous variables (PARX) using climate indexes. Comparing the results from PAR and PARX Models, this research analyzes the impact on forecasts by using climate information. The proposed models for streamflow forecast has been carried out using natural streamflow data from Operador Nacional do Sistema (ONS) and statistical techniques (such as multiple linear regression and stepwise method to choose explanatory variables). On 27 climate indexes utilized, 4 of them are suggested in this work. The performance analysis methodology is based on the ELECTRE method further the NASH coefficient, the mean absolute percentage error, the multi-criteria distance and correlation. Forecasts with one month lead, the PAR models present better results for most stations of SIN within seasons DJF, MAM, and JJA, while for SON season there is greater efficiency from PARX model. This kind of model shows better performance during dry season in the basins at Northern Brazil-Amazonas and Araguaia-Tocantins; Central-Eastern Brazil-Eastern Atlantic and the most rivers located in the Paraná basin.

Approaching Education through Edusemiotics

Rethinking Teacher Education via Collaborative Learning

International Journal of Teacher Education and Professional Development, 2021

This article focuses on peer online professional development methods for in-service English langu... more This article focuses on peer online professional development methods for in-service English language teachers. In the digital era, teacher education is in constant change, and online collaborative professional development methods using social media, digital platforms, and tools can be an interesting way in which to create a community of practice where English teachers can engage in generating and jointly developing digital learning content, new conceptions, and models of teaching within an environment of trust. The selected examples will demonstrate how English language teachers can take the role of a teacher-coach and actively engage other English language teachers in tech integration that is deeply embedded in subject matter, as opposed to offering stand-alone lessons on how to use technology. The flipped classroom approach will be liaised with concrete techniques of developing ICT skills and enriching teachers' practices. The methods presented can be used to deliver refresher...

Gender Stereotypes in Children's Play, Pro-social and Aggressive Behavior in the Kindergarten Class: The Kindergarten Teachers' Stance

This research paper focuses on the issue of gender stereotypes and, more particularly, on the way... more This research paper focuses on the issue of gender stereotypes and, more particularly, on the way in which kindergarten students choose the toys and games/activities that they play and the manifestation of specific behaviors which they express in the kindergarten class. The research questions attempted to answer to the correlation of gender stereotypes and the student’s choices of toys and games/activities, and the manifestation of pro-social and aggressive behaviors in students, as well as the teachers’ views on the influence which gender stereotypes exert on students and the way teachers attempt to solve related problems. As part of the research, semi-structured interviews with ten teachers who worked in Greek kindergarten schools were conducted, in order to explore their views and attitudes on the issues stated above. The results of this research show that kindergarten teachers spot differences in kindergarten students’ choices of toys and games/activities, as well as in the beha...

Evaluating the Reading Components of B1 Level Textbooks: The case of Connect B1 and Incredible 5

This study aims at evaluating two popular B1 level textbooks which are currently used both in For... more This study aims at evaluating two popular B1 level textbooks which are currently used both in Foreign Language Centers in Greece and in private tuition, namely Connect B1 and Incredible 5. They are evaluated with reference to the reading component based on criteria set in a preconstructed checklist and through interviews. Fifty respondents-teachers working both in the private sector and in the public sector completed the checklist. Eight interviews were also conducted. The evaluation aims at finding to what extent the reading component of the two books meets the criteria of the checklist, as well as to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the reading texts and tasks of the particular books in order to offer suggestions for improvement and, thus, to offer maximum gains both for students and teachers. This paper rounds off with the limitations of the research and proposals for further research.

Enhancing Young Learners’ Writing Skills Through the Application of Web 2.0 Tools and Educational Technology in Project-Based Teaching and Learning: An Action Research Study

International Journal of English Linguistics, 2021

This research probed into the application of educational technology and Web 2.0 tools in Project-... more This research probed into the application of educational technology and Web 2.0 tools in Project-Based Learning (PBL) to 6th grade Greek Primary School learners who are learning English as a foreign language. More particularly, this research probed into the teaching of writing skills to the aforementioned students through Web 2.0 tools and Project-Based Learning. Action research was conducted in which sixteen learners who attend a Greek State Primary School participated; they were involved in a five-month differentiated instruction program using Google Docs and blogs. Pre-tests and post-tests were distributed to the learners to investigate their level of writing skills according to criteria related to the learners’ overall ability to complete the writing tasks and the quality of writing production, namely spelling and punctuation, vocabulary range, accuracy and appropriacy, and to evaluate their improvement respectively. Qualitative research was also conducted: pre- and post-semi-st...

The Development of Oracy Skills in an Efl Context Using Youtube Videos: A Case Study

Proceedings of ADVED 2021- 7th International Conference on Advances in Education, 2021

The present study aims to examine the effectiveness of YouTube videos in the oracy skills of a yo... more The present study aims to examine the effectiveness of YouTube videos in the oracy skills of a young learner through the implementation of differentiated instruction. The research which was conducted was a case study and qualitative data were collected through the use of semi-structured interviews. Action research was also conducted through a series of ten YouTube-video based lessons grounded with the principles of differentiated instruction. The efficiency of the methods and approaches which were implemented were verified by the results of the pre-and post-listening and speaking test that was applied before and after the intervention of the ten lessons. To triangulate the study, qualitative research was conducted in the form of semi-structured interviews to the student and his mother before and after the intervention. The findings showed that there was an improvement in the student's performance as regards the listening, the speaking, and the grammar-lexis structure skills.

The Development of Speaking Skills using the Immersion Teaching Model: A Case Study of a 5th Grade Greek Primary Class in an EFL Context

Open Science Journal, 2017

This paper investigates the development of students’ speaking skills, using the Immersion Teachin... more This paper investigates the development of students’ speaking skills, using the Immersion Teaching Model (ITM) as a form of process differentiation. It aims to explore whether the ITM intervention in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context will have an impact on the students’ speech development and motivation, and will furthermore investigate its feasibility as a teaching approach. A 5th Grade class of a Greek state Primary school was used and action research was implemented. The research findings revealed enhancement of the speaking skills for the students that have at least an initial level of language speaking competence, but no difference was detected for the students of no speaking competence, indicating the need for further differentiation. However, the ITM intervention was proven feasible to use in the EFL classroom and highly affective to student motivation. The implications of the present research for the EFL context have shown that the ITM is flexible enough to acco...

Assessing the Reading and Writing Skills of A1 Learners through the Application of Differentiated Instruction and the Use of Portfolios: A Case Study

American Journal of Education and Learning, 2020

The main purposes that have triggered the present research are the potential benefits of implemen... more The main purposes that have triggered the present research are the potential benefits of implementing portfolios in a foreign language A1 class of students, as an alternative means of assessment. A case study was conducted in a Private Language Institute which examined the contribution of the portfolio in enhancing writing and reading skills. Alternative assessment, which is process oriented and is also an interactive and learner centered process, was expected to lead to increased motivation, learner autonomy and consequently to improved reading and writing performance (Burner, 2014). This research aimed at investigating how two groups of students, one of which formed the experimental group and was taught through differentiated instruction and the other which comprised the control group and was taught through the use of conventional books and materials which were used in the Private Language School, perceived and responded to the language goals. Feedback on portfolios aimed at demonstrating students&#39; strengths and weaknesses and encouraged them to learn by moving away from traditional &#39;&#39;paper and pencil&#39;&#39; tests (Smith, 1996). Although formative assessment lacks the status given by parents or teachers, compared to a grade, it may be more suitable in selecting evidence of knowledge, especially the ability of students to perform certain tasks. In this procedure, not only will students have to evaluate their own work, but the teachers will also be required to reflect on her practices and choices for future development.

The Application of Differentiated Instruction in Reading and Writing to a Boy with Autism in Early Childhood Education. A Case Study

Universal Journal of Educational Research, 2019

A number of research findings show that, because of the phenomenon of classroom heterogeneity, in... more A number of research findings show that, because of the phenomenon of classroom heterogeneity, in our days, there is a need for the application of differentiated instruction. The latter is a modern teaching approach, which has as its ultimate objective the provision of the best possible education for pupils with special educational needs, including autism. By applying differentiated instruction, the teacher can enhance the learning skills of students as well as contribute to their cognitive and socio-emotional development. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in the writing and reading skills of a boy with autism in early childhood education. To this end two types of research methodologies were applied, qualitative research (semi-structured interviews) and action research through a series of activities, based on the principles of differentiated instruction. The results of this research showed that the application of differentiated instruction has produced positive results, for the boy who has autism, in both reading and writing.

The Application of Differentiated Instruction to a High School Student With Dyslexia in the German Language A Case Study

International Journal of Learning and Development, 2019

In recent years, dyslexia has become an important issue in the field of foreign language teaching... more In recent years, dyslexia has become an important issue in the field of foreign language teaching and learning. In this research we will explore dyslexia in connection to teaching and learning a foreign language. More particularly, in this research, we will be probing into the teaching of German as a foreign language. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of the application of Differential Instruction, the application of the Grammar –Translation Method, the Audio-Visual Method, the Communicative Approach to language teaching as well as the Multisensory Method to a Greek student with dyslexia. The girl is in the first year of junior high school and is being taught German as a foreign language at school. The research method, which was applied, focused on qualitative research through the use of semi - structured interviews. This research is also a case study. Action research was conducted, for the needs of this small-scale research, through ten differentiated...

EFL at Greek Second Chance Schools: Examining the Learning Needs of Muslim Adult Learners

World Journal of English Language, 2019

Discussions pertaining to minorities and their issues in education have recently been particularl... more Discussions pertaining to minorities and their issues in education have recently been particularly heated in Greece, as changes which have occurred in Greece, Europe and at an international level, have triggered political and social turmoil and a reevaluation of cultural identities. The present paper attempts to contribute to this debate, concentrating on the Greek Muslim minority and their attempt to learn English as a foreign language (EFL) at Second Chance Schools (SCSs). The aim of this research is to explore Muslim individuals’ learning needs in relation to EFL at SCSs, the reasons which prompt them to learn the foreign language, as well as the difficulties they encounter in their quest for this knowledge. Therefore, both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were applied to increase the credibility and validity of the results. In addition, the issue was examined through the perspective of both learners and adult educators in order to present a more comprehens...

Achieving Continuous Professional Development through Peer Observation and Self-Reflection: The Case of the Greek INSET for Teachers of English

by MAKRINA ZAFIRI and Nikoleta Koutsika

English Language Teaching, 2023

This study focuses on the impact of in-service training (INSET) to practicing teachers in Greece ... more This study focuses on the impact of in-service training (INSET) to practicing teachers in Greece and the possible reasons that might make such training less attractive to them. Observation for development is considered as an alternative to short-term training programs so that teachers can develop a deeper awareness of their teaching context, in close collaboration with their peers. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from a questionnaire and a focused interview; seventy respondents participated in the former tool and seventeen in the latter. Findings indicate no fundamental change in the trainees' beliefs or teaching practice. Theories of teacher training and development are used to explore what teachers expect from training, what the reality of INSET is both for the public and private sectors, and finally how self-reflection and peer-observation can be integrated into teacher education programs to boost teacher learning and development. It is argued that awareness-boosting training programs are essential in order for trainee-teachers to develop their own teaching theories.

THE APPLICATION OF GAMES FOR THE TEACHING OF GREEK TO BILINGUAL STUDENTS 1

KutBilim Journal of Social Sciences and Arts, 2022

This small-scale research study probed into primary school teachers' attitudes on using games to ... more This small-scale research study probed into primary school teachers' attitudes on using games to teach Greek as a foreign/second language to bilingual students. The research issues under consideration, are teachers' perceptions of games and how they should be implemented, and teacher training in bilingual education. For the needs of this research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with teachers of public primary schools in Greece, who had bilingual students attending their classes and whose second language was Greek. The aforementioned teachers who participated in the research applied games in their teaching. The findings of the study revealed that all teachers have a positive attitude towards using games in their classrooms, such as, board games, cognitive games, theatrical games, and role-playing and that, most of the time, their role (meaning the teacher's role) is that of a facilitator. Regarding their training in bilingual education, most evaluate it as incomplete in the sense that they emphasize upon the need for practical and experiential training. In conclusion, teachers believe that students prefer the application of games and play when learning a language compared to been taught the language through a traditional teaching method. Regarding the language lesson itself, teachers believe that games improve the learning skills of students who are learning Greek as a second/foreign language. However, given that this research was a small-scale research, it is important that we extend it to a larger and wider sample of teachers in order to draw safer conclusions.

Cultural Semiospheres in Contact in Foreign Language Teaching

Journal of Intercultural Communication Research

Improving the Writing Skills of EFL High School Learners through Alternative Methods of Assessment and Differentiated Instruction

International Journal of English Language Education, 2021

The study described in this article investigated EFL writing in the 1st Grade of a State Junior H... more The study described in this article investigated EFL writing in the 1st Grade of a State Junior High School. More particularly, the study examined whether the use of alternative assessment methods, such as self-assessment and peer-assessment checklists, in a differentiated class environment, can have a positive effect on learners’ writing skills. For the needs of this research an experimental and a control group were targeted. The teaching materials which were used in the research process were differentiated according to the principles of Differentiated Instruction and learners were assigned to write different writing genres.Findings revealed that differentiated instruction had an impact on the learners’ writings. However, there were limitations regarding the time that had to be allotted in the designing of the lessons and the instruction itself. Also, the instruction was limited to a small group of learners. However, the implications of the research brought to light the involvement...

The Application of Art in the Enhancement of Speaking Skills in Greek State Primary School Students of Pre-A1 Level

International Journal on Integrating Technology in Education, 2021

The findings show that visual arts-based instruction positively impacts learners' oracy abili... more The findings show that visual arts-based instruction positively impacts learners' oracy abilities, vocabulary development, and formulaic assimilation. Art has always been a potent medium for teachers of all subjects contributing to learners’ social, emotional, intellectual and physical evolution. However, it often becomes subjugated and considered as unnecessary and extracurricular. The particular research aims at exploring the ways Art can be integrated into the first grade of Greek State Primary School curriculum for English language learning and exploited for the benefit of young learners. More specifically, this research aims to investigate whether art, and particularly visual arts, can emerge as an invaluable tool which will enhance instruction for the learning of English as a foreign language, thus triggering motivation which will lead to young learners’ enhancement of their speaking skills. In addition to this, this research explores the effects of visual arts-based instr...

Differentiated Instruction and Portfolio Assessment: Motivating Young Greek-Romani Students in the English Class

World Journal of English Language, 2022

The socio-cultural changes taking place in Greek classrooms over the last years have rendered the... more The socio-cultural changes taking place in Greek classrooms over the last years have rendered the modification and revising of the existing teaching material critical. It is argued that in classes with cultural minorities, students’ needs should be put at the forefront, and teaching objectives should be adapted accordingly. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effectiveness of differentiated instruction and alternative assessment in the teaching of English to diverse population classes within a three-month period. The research focuses on the effect these approaches primarily have on triggering students’ motivation and, secondarily, on their overall linguistic development. In particular, the study examines the outcomes of two groups of diverse population students attending the third grade of primary school. The experimental group was taught through differentiated instruction, while the control group attended the traditional class. The tools employed were a needs analysi...

Investigating the Relationship of Working Memory and Inhibitory Control: Bilingual Education and Pedagogical Implications in Elementary School

International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 2020

Present study aims to shed light on the relationship of working memory and executive functioning ... more Present study aims to shed light on the relationship of working memory and executive functioning in bilingual elementary school children when compared with monolingual population of the same age. The investigation of the relationship between working memory and language learning abilities of children, who are bilingual, is particularly important as it plays a key role in understanding the literacy and language competence of bilingual populations. The purpose of this study was to examine Verbal Working Memory and Executive Functions in 20 bilingual elementary school students who were compared to 20 monolingual school-age students in different cognitive tasks. The research results showed that bilingual students did not appear to perform better in Working Memory compared to the performance of monolingual students of the same age. Correspondingly, bilingual students performed better in the task of inhibitory control and cognitive change. The findings of the present study reinforce the hy...

Improving the Reading and Speaking Skills of A2 Level Students in a Private Language Institute Based on the Communicative Language Teaching Approach

INTED Proceedings, 2018

The present study examines whether the reading and speaking skills of A2 level students who atten... more The present study examines whether the reading and speaking skills of A2 level students who attend English lessons in a Private Language Institute could be improved through the application of communicative teaching material. To be more specific, an action research was carried out in an A2 level class of a Private Language Institute. New supplementary material was constructed based on the principles of the Common European Framework (CEFR) and the Communicative Approach. It is worth mentioning that the CLA has been chosen because it is in accordance with the principles of the CEFR. Two groups of A2 level students participated in this research, a control and an experimental group. The Conventional material, which is the coursebook used by the private institute, was applied to the students of the control group, while in the second group, also known as experimental group, the new material was taught which was adapted to the students&#39; needs. A pre-test, which was the same for both groups, was given out to the students of both groups in order to measure their reading skills. At the end of the 10 lessons, a post-test was handed out to both groups in order to measure the development of their reading skills and their language development. In addition to this, a semi-structured interview was conducted to all students who attended both classes so as to measure the students&#39; speaking skills.

A Study of Adult Learners’ Attitudes Towards Information and Communications Technology (Ict)

This study aims to find a seasonal streamflow forecast model simultaneous to all stations of SIN ... more This study aims to find a seasonal streamflow forecast model simultaneous to all stations of SIN using periodic autoregressive models with exogenous variables (PARX) using climate indexes. Comparing the results from PAR and PARX Models, this research analyzes the impact on forecasts by using climate information. The proposed models for streamflow forecast has been carried out using natural streamflow data from Operador Nacional do Sistema (ONS) and statistical techniques (such as multiple linear regression and stepwise method to choose explanatory variables). On 27 climate indexes utilized, 4 of them are suggested in this work. The performance analysis methodology is based on the ELECTRE method further the NASH coefficient, the mean absolute percentage error, the multi-criteria distance and correlation. Forecasts with one month lead, the PAR models present better results for most stations of SIN within seasons DJF, MAM, and JJA, while for SON season there is greater efficiency from PARX model. This kind of model shows better performance during dry season in the basins at Northern Brazil-Amazonas and Araguaia-Tocantins; Central-Eastern Brazil-Eastern Atlantic and the most rivers located in the Paraná basin.

Approaching Education through Edusemiotics

Rethinking Teacher Education via Collaborative Learning

International Journal of Teacher Education and Professional Development, 2021

This article focuses on peer online professional development methods for in-service English langu... more This article focuses on peer online professional development methods for in-service English language teachers. In the digital era, teacher education is in constant change, and online collaborative professional development methods using social media, digital platforms, and tools can be an interesting way in which to create a community of practice where English teachers can engage in generating and jointly developing digital learning content, new conceptions, and models of teaching within an environment of trust. The selected examples will demonstrate how English language teachers can take the role of a teacher-coach and actively engage other English language teachers in tech integration that is deeply embedded in subject matter, as opposed to offering stand-alone lessons on how to use technology. The flipped classroom approach will be liaised with concrete techniques of developing ICT skills and enriching teachers' practices. The methods presented can be used to deliver refresher...

Gender Stereotypes in Children's Play, Pro-social and Aggressive Behavior in the Kindergarten Class: The Kindergarten Teachers' Stance

This research paper focuses on the issue of gender stereotypes and, more particularly, on the way... more This research paper focuses on the issue of gender stereotypes and, more particularly, on the way in which kindergarten students choose the toys and games/activities that they play and the manifestation of specific behaviors which they express in the kindergarten class. The research questions attempted to answer to the correlation of gender stereotypes and the student’s choices of toys and games/activities, and the manifestation of pro-social and aggressive behaviors in students, as well as the teachers’ views on the influence which gender stereotypes exert on students and the way teachers attempt to solve related problems. As part of the research, semi-structured interviews with ten teachers who worked in Greek kindergarten schools were conducted, in order to explore their views and attitudes on the issues stated above. The results of this research show that kindergarten teachers spot differences in kindergarten students’ choices of toys and games/activities, as well as in the beha...

Evaluating the Reading Components of B1 Level Textbooks: The case of Connect B1 and Incredible 5

This study aims at evaluating two popular B1 level textbooks which are currently used both in For... more This study aims at evaluating two popular B1 level textbooks which are currently used both in Foreign Language Centers in Greece and in private tuition, namely Connect B1 and Incredible 5. They are evaluated with reference to the reading component based on criteria set in a preconstructed checklist and through interviews. Fifty respondents-teachers working both in the private sector and in the public sector completed the checklist. Eight interviews were also conducted. The evaluation aims at finding to what extent the reading component of the two books meets the criteria of the checklist, as well as to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the reading texts and tasks of the particular books in order to offer suggestions for improvement and, thus, to offer maximum gains both for students and teachers. This paper rounds off with the limitations of the research and proposals for further research.

Enhancing Young Learners’ Writing Skills Through the Application of Web 2.0 Tools and Educational Technology in Project-Based Teaching and Learning: An Action Research Study

International Journal of English Linguistics, 2021

This research probed into the application of educational technology and Web 2.0 tools in Project-... more This research probed into the application of educational technology and Web 2.0 tools in Project-Based Learning (PBL) to 6th grade Greek Primary School learners who are learning English as a foreign language. More particularly, this research probed into the teaching of writing skills to the aforementioned students through Web 2.0 tools and Project-Based Learning. Action research was conducted in which sixteen learners who attend a Greek State Primary School participated; they were involved in a five-month differentiated instruction program using Google Docs and blogs. Pre-tests and post-tests were distributed to the learners to investigate their level of writing skills according to criteria related to the learners’ overall ability to complete the writing tasks and the quality of writing production, namely spelling and punctuation, vocabulary range, accuracy and appropriacy, and to evaluate their improvement respectively. Qualitative research was also conducted: pre- and post-semi-st...

The Development of Oracy Skills in an Efl Context Using Youtube Videos: A Case Study

Proceedings of ADVED 2021- 7th International Conference on Advances in Education, 2021

The present study aims to examine the effectiveness of YouTube videos in the oracy skills of a yo... more The present study aims to examine the effectiveness of YouTube videos in the oracy skills of a young learner through the implementation of differentiated instruction. The research which was conducted was a case study and qualitative data were collected through the use of semi-structured interviews. Action research was also conducted through a series of ten YouTube-video based lessons grounded with the principles of differentiated instruction. The efficiency of the methods and approaches which were implemented were verified by the results of the pre-and post-listening and speaking test that was applied before and after the intervention of the ten lessons. To triangulate the study, qualitative research was conducted in the form of semi-structured interviews to the student and his mother before and after the intervention. The findings showed that there was an improvement in the student's performance as regards the listening, the speaking, and the grammar-lexis structure skills.

The Development of Speaking Skills using the Immersion Teaching Model: A Case Study of a 5th Grade Greek Primary Class in an EFL Context

Open Science Journal, 2017

This paper investigates the development of students’ speaking skills, using the Immersion Teachin... more This paper investigates the development of students’ speaking skills, using the Immersion Teaching Model (ITM) as a form of process differentiation. It aims to explore whether the ITM intervention in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context will have an impact on the students’ speech development and motivation, and will furthermore investigate its feasibility as a teaching approach. A 5th Grade class of a Greek state Primary school was used and action research was implemented. The research findings revealed enhancement of the speaking skills for the students that have at least an initial level of language speaking competence, but no difference was detected for the students of no speaking competence, indicating the need for further differentiation. However, the ITM intervention was proven feasible to use in the EFL classroom and highly affective to student motivation. The implications of the present research for the EFL context have shown that the ITM is flexible enough to acco...

Assessing the Reading and Writing Skills of A1 Learners through the Application of Differentiated Instruction and the Use of Portfolios: A Case Study

American Journal of Education and Learning, 2020

The main purposes that have triggered the present research are the potential benefits of implemen... more The main purposes that have triggered the present research are the potential benefits of implementing portfolios in a foreign language A1 class of students, as an alternative means of assessment. A case study was conducted in a Private Language Institute which examined the contribution of the portfolio in enhancing writing and reading skills. Alternative assessment, which is process oriented and is also an interactive and learner centered process, was expected to lead to increased motivation, learner autonomy and consequently to improved reading and writing performance (Burner, 2014). This research aimed at investigating how two groups of students, one of which formed the experimental group and was taught through differentiated instruction and the other which comprised the control group and was taught through the use of conventional books and materials which were used in the Private Language School, perceived and responded to the language goals. Feedback on portfolios aimed at demonstrating students&#39; strengths and weaknesses and encouraged them to learn by moving away from traditional &#39;&#39;paper and pencil&#39;&#39; tests (Smith, 1996). Although formative assessment lacks the status given by parents or teachers, compared to a grade, it may be more suitable in selecting evidence of knowledge, especially the ability of students to perform certain tasks. In this procedure, not only will students have to evaluate their own work, but the teachers will also be required to reflect on her practices and choices for future development.

The Application of Differentiated Instruction in Reading and Writing to a Boy with Autism in Early Childhood Education. A Case Study

Universal Journal of Educational Research, 2019

A number of research findings show that, because of the phenomenon of classroom heterogeneity, in... more A number of research findings show that, because of the phenomenon of classroom heterogeneity, in our days, there is a need for the application of differentiated instruction. The latter is a modern teaching approach, which has as its ultimate objective the provision of the best possible education for pupils with special educational needs, including autism. By applying differentiated instruction, the teacher can enhance the learning skills of students as well as contribute to their cognitive and socio-emotional development. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in the writing and reading skills of a boy with autism in early childhood education. To this end two types of research methodologies were applied, qualitative research (semi-structured interviews) and action research through a series of activities, based on the principles of differentiated instruction. The results of this research showed that the application of differentiated instruction has produced positive results, for the boy who has autism, in both reading and writing.

The Application of Differentiated Instruction to a High School Student With Dyslexia in the German Language A Case Study

International Journal of Learning and Development, 2019

In recent years, dyslexia has become an important issue in the field of foreign language teaching... more In recent years, dyslexia has become an important issue in the field of foreign language teaching and learning. In this research we will explore dyslexia in connection to teaching and learning a foreign language. More particularly, in this research, we will be probing into the teaching of German as a foreign language. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of the application of Differential Instruction, the application of the Grammar –Translation Method, the Audio-Visual Method, the Communicative Approach to language teaching as well as the Multisensory Method to a Greek student with dyslexia. The girl is in the first year of junior high school and is being taught German as a foreign language at school. The research method, which was applied, focused on qualitative research through the use of semi - structured interviews. This research is also a case study. Action research was conducted, for the needs of this small-scale research, through ten differentiated...

EFL at Greek Second Chance Schools: Examining the Learning Needs of Muslim Adult Learners

World Journal of English Language, 2019

Discussions pertaining to minorities and their issues in education have recently been particularl... more Discussions pertaining to minorities and their issues in education have recently been particularly heated in Greece, as changes which have occurred in Greece, Europe and at an international level, have triggered political and social turmoil and a reevaluation of cultural identities. The present paper attempts to contribute to this debate, concentrating on the Greek Muslim minority and their attempt to learn English as a foreign language (EFL) at Second Chance Schools (SCSs). The aim of this research is to explore Muslim individuals’ learning needs in relation to EFL at SCSs, the reasons which prompt them to learn the foreign language, as well as the difficulties they encounter in their quest for this knowledge. Therefore, both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were applied to increase the credibility and validity of the results. In addition, the issue was examined through the perspective of both learners and adult educators in order to present a more comprehens...

Η ΔΙΔΑΣΚΑΛΊΑ ΚΑΙ ΕΚΜΆΘΗΣΗ–ΚΑΤΆΚΤΗΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΜΗΤΡΙΚΉΣ ΚΑΙ ΔΕΎΤΕΡΗΣ–ΞΈΝΗΣ ΓΛΏΣΣΑΣ Η περίπτωση της ελληνικής ως δεύτερης–ξένης γλώσσας: Θεωρία και πράξη

ΕΚΔ. ΔΙΣΙΓΜΑ, 2023

Η ΔΙΔΑΣΚΑΛΊΑ ΚΑΙ ΕΚΜΆΘΗΣΗ–ΚΑΤΆΚΤΗΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΜΗΤΡΙΚΉΣ ΚΑΙ ΔΕΎΤΕΡΗΣ–ΞΈΝΗΣ ΓΛΏΣΣΑΣ Η περίπτωση της ελληνικής ως δεύτερης–ξένης γλώσσας: Θεωρία και πράξη

ΕΚΔ. ΔΙΣΙΓΜΑ

Transmitting Culture through Coursebooks: The Case of " Magic Book 1 " and " Magic Book 2 "

A b s t r a c t Teaching and learning a foreign language is not about learning language structure... more A b s t r a c t Teaching and learning a foreign language is not about learning language structures or learning new vocabulary and expressions, per se; it is also about understanding the essence o f the foreign language. More specifically, in learning a foreign language, a student expects to learn the grammar, the lexis, the phonetics / phonology o f the language but all these, and much-much more cannot be separated from the embedded culture that goes with the teaching and learning o f the foreign language. Being competent in a foreign language doesn't only mean linguistic competence; it also means 'knowing' and 'applying' the conventions o f the foreign language so as not to sound 'rude', 'awkward', etc. Thus, besides learning the grammar, syntax and lexis o f a foreign language, students also need to be able to appropriately apply the foreign language knowledge which they 'possess' within an appropriate context. Since the main aim o f learning a foreign language is (or at least should be) to use the language to communicate orally-verbally-with other speakers, who use the same code o f communication, it is imperative to 'know' and to 'apply' the culturally appropriate behaviour that goes with the specific foreign language, so as to avoid misunderstandings. How to teach culture, especially the teaching o f a foreign language culture, is another major issue. It requires a 'strong hold' on the part o f the foreign language teacher o f both the mother tongue culture, in other words the

Approaching Education through Edusemiotics

PUNCTUM, 2018

Achieving Continuous Professional Development through Peer Observation and Self-Reflection: The Case of the Greek INSET for Teachers of English

English Language Teaching, 2023

This study focuses on the impact of in-service training (INSET) to practicing teachers in Greece ... more This study focuses on the impact of in-service training (INSET) to practicing teachers in Greece and the possible reasons that might make such training less attractive to them. Observation for development is considered as an alternative to short-term training programs so that teachers can develop a deeper awareness of their teaching context, in close collaboration with their peers. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from a questionnaire and a focused interview; seventy respondents participated in the former tool and seventeen in the latter. Findings indicate no fundamental change in the trainees' beliefs or teaching practice. Theories of teacher training and development are used to explore what teachers expect from training, what the reality of INSET is both for the public and private sectors, and finally how self-reflection and peer-observation can be integrated into teacher education programs to boost teacher learning and development. It is argued that awareness-boosting training programs are essential in order for trainee-teachers to develop their own teaching theories.

Δυσλεξία και διαφοροποιημένη διδασκαλία με τη χρήση οπτικοακουστικών εργαλείων μάθησης από τα Web 2.0 Tools και ειδικότερα του Youtube στην Πρωτοβάθμια Εκπαίδευση

7ο Πανελλήνιο Συνέδριο Εκπαίδευση και Πολιτισμός στον 21ο αιώνα ΠΡΑΚΤΙΚΑ ΣΥΝΕΔΡΙΟΥ Τόμος Α΄, 2022

Η έρευνα καταγράφει τις απόψεις των εκπαιδευτικών για το πόσο η χρήση Η/Υ έχει ως αποτέλεσμα τη β... more Η έρευνα καταγράφει τις απόψεις των εκπαιδευτικών για το πόσο η χρήση Η/Υ έχει ως αποτέλεσμα τη βελτίωση
των γλωσσικών και μαθησιακών επιδόσεων, την ανάπτυξη κοινωνικών δεξιοτήτων μέσα από την συνεργασία
και, εν γένει, τη γνωστική εξέλιξη των δυσλεξικών μαθητών στην Πρωτοβάθμια Εκπαίδευση στην Περιφερειακή
Ενότητα Σερρών. Παράλληλα, αξιοποιήθηκαν τα ερευνητικά πορίσματα που αναδεικνύουν τον
διαμεσολαβητικό και υποστηρικτικό ρόλο της τεχνολογίας στη διαδικασία της μάθησης. Εφαρμόστηκε η
ποσοτική μέθοδος για τη διερεύνηση των στάσεων και των απόψεων των εκπαιδευτικών της Περιφερειακής
Ενότητας Σερρών. Το δείγμα αποτέλεσαν 66 εκπαιδευτικοί από το σύνολο της επικράτειας της ΠΕ Σερρών. Η
έρευνα διεξήχθη με εργαλείο το ηλεκτρονικό ερωτηματολόγιο σε τροποποίηση του αρχικού σχεδιασμού λόγω
της πανδημίας COVID-19. Το ερωτηματολόγιο απάντησε στο σύνολο των ερευνητικών ερωτημάτων και τα
ευρήματα της έρευνας υποστηρίζουν την αποτελεσματικότητα της χρήσης του Η/Υ με τη συμβολή
οπτικοακουστικών εργαλείων μάθησης από τα Web 2.0 Tools και, ειδικότερα του YouTube. Ο συνδυασμός
εικόνων, γραφικών, φαντασίας, περιέργειας και αλληλεπίδρασης στο YouTube λειτουργεί, έτσι, ώστε οι
μαθητές να θυμούνται τα ελκυστικά στοιχεία του βίντεο, το οποίο έχει ως σκοπό την προώθηση της γνωστικής
ανάπτυξης, την έρευνα περιεχομένου, την καθιέρωση ενεργού μαθησιακού περιβάλλοντος, ενσωματώνοντας
πρότερες γνώσεις, δεξιότητες και ικανότητες και, τέλος, τη βελτίωση των επιδόσεων μέσα από τη
διαδραστικότητα και τον ανεξάρτητο χειρισμό της εικόνας ή του ήχου. Η πολυχρηστικότητα του YouTube μπορεί
να προσφέρει ποικιλία σεναρίων μάθησης. Η παρακολούθηση εκπαιδευτικού βίντεο σχετικά με κάποια
δύσκολη έννοια της γραμματικής παρέχει, επιπλέον, οπτικοποίηση και κινούμενα σχέδια που είναι χρήσιμα για
την επεξεργασία γνωστικών πληροφοριών. Η ακρόαση βίντεο κατά την παρακολούθηση μίας σκηνής βοηθά
στην παροχή ενός πλαισίου με προτάσεις ή φράσεις που διαφορετικά θα ήταν δύσκολο να κατανοηθούν. Οι
υπότιτλοι βοηθούν τον μαθητή να κατανοήσει το βίντεο ακόμη και μόνο του. Η προσθήκη σχολιασμών επιτρέπει
την ενσωμάτωση πρόσθετων πληροφοριών ή ακόμη και ερωτήσεων στο βίντεο.

Πρακτικά 7ου Πανελλήνιου Συνεδρίου «Εκπαίδευση και πολιτισμός στον 21ο αιώνα» (Α' τόμος)-

7ο Πανελλήνιο Συνέδριο Εκπαίδευση και Πολιτισμός στον 21ο αιώνα ΠΡΑΚΤΙΚΑ ΣΥΝΕΔΡΙΟΥ Τόμος Α΄, 2022

Η έρευνα καταγράφει τις απόψεις των εκπαιδευτικών για το πόσο η χρήση Η/Υ έχει ως αποτέλεσμα τη β... more Η έρευνα καταγράφει τις απόψεις των εκπαιδευτικών για το πόσο η χρήση Η/Υ έχει ως αποτέλεσμα τη βελτίωση
των γλωσσικών και μαθησιακών επιδόσεων, την ανάπτυξη κοινωνικών δεξιοτήτων μέσα από την συνεργασία
και, εν γένει, τη γνωστική εξέλιξη των δυσλεξικών μαθητών στην Πρωτοβάθμια Εκπαίδευση στην Περιφερειακή
Ενότητα Σερρών. Παράλληλα, αξιοποιήθηκαν τα ερευνητικά πορίσματα που αναδεικνύουν τον
διαμεσολαβητικό και υποστηρικτικό ρόλο της τεχνολογίας στη διαδικασία της μάθησης. Εφαρμόστηκε η
ποσοτική μέθοδος για τη διερεύνηση των στάσεων και των απόψεων των εκπαιδευτικών της Περιφερειακής
Ενότητας Σερρών. Το δείγμα αποτέλεσαν 66 εκπαιδευτικοί από το σύνολο της επικράτειας της ΠΕ Σερρών. Η
έρευνα διεξήχθη με εργαλείο το ηλεκτρονικό ερωτηματολόγιο σε τροποποίηση του αρχικού σχεδιασμού λόγω
της πανδημίας COVID-19. Το ερωτηματολόγιο απάντησε στο σύνολο των ερευνητικών ερωτημάτων και τα
ευρήματα της έρευνας υποστηρίζουν την αποτελεσματικότητα της χρήσης του Η/Υ με τη συμβολή
οπτικοακουστικών εργαλείων μάθησης από τα Web 2.0 Tools και, ειδικότερα του YouTube. Ο συνδυασμός
εικόνων, γραφικών, φαντασίας, περιέργειας και αλληλεπίδρασης στο YouTube λειτουργεί, έτσι, ώστε οι
μαθητές να θυμούνται τα ελκυστικά στοιχεία του βίντεο, το οποίο έχει ως σκοπό την προώθηση της γνωστικής
ανάπτυξης, την έρευνα περιεχομένου, την καθιέρωση ενεργού μαθησιακού περιβάλλοντος, ενσωματώνοντας
πρότερες γνώσεις, δεξιότητες και ικανότητες και, τέλος, τη βελτίωση των επιδόσεων μέσα από τη
διαδραστικότητα και τον ανεξάρτητο χειρισμό της εικόνας ή του ήχου. Η πολυχρηστικότητα του YouTube μπορεί
να προσφέρει ποικιλία σεναρίων μάθησης. Η παρακολούθηση εκπαιδευτικού βίντεο σχετικά με κάποια
δύσκολη έννοια της γραμματικής παρέχει, επιπλέον, οπτικοποίηση και κινούμενα σχέδια που είναι χρήσιμα για
την επεξεργασία γνωστικών πληροφοριών. Η ακρόαση βίντεο κατά την παρακολούθηση μίας σκηνής βοηθά
στην παροχή ενός πλαισίου με προτάσεις ή φράσεις που διαφορετικά θα ήταν δύσκολο να κατανοηθούν. Οι
υπότιτλοι βοηθούν τον μαθητή να κατανοήσει το βίντεο ακόμη και μόνο του. Η προσθήκη σχολιασμών επιτρέπει
την ενσωμάτωση πρόσθετων πληροφοριών ή ακόμη και ερωτήσεων στο βίντεο.

Written Assignments and Dissertations in Distance Learning within the TESOL Context

by Dr Polyxeni (Peggy) Manoli and MAKRINA ZAFIRI

Research Papers in Language Teaching and Learning, 2019

The aim of this study was to explore the views and challenges of Greek adult learners pursuing a ... more The aim of this study was to explore the views and challenges of Greek adult learners pursuing a postgraduate degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) through a distance learning program at the Hellenic Open University. The data of the study were gathered through narrative research/inquiry, a form of qualitative research, in particular, through the personal narratives of students. They were analyzed through the thematic analysis method, according to which they were coded and segmented into themes or categories to help researchers make sense out of the text data. According to the findings of the study, it was revealed that almost all participants regarded academic writing as a complex, challenging and difficult skill that can be improved through practice and guidance. According to the students of the specific research, the major problems they faced were: intext citations and bibliographic referencing, plagiarism, language problems, lack of explicit guidelines on behalf of their tutors or conflicting feedback from different faculty members. Concurrently, students referred to specific practices which would help them improve their academic writing, such as the tutor assignment feedback and explanation, a guide or even a training course in academic writing skills, extensive practice in assignment writing, personal involvement in research on academic writing. Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης ήταν η διερεύνηση των απόψεων και των προκλήσεων των Ελλήνων φοιτητών, οι οποίοι διεκπεραιώνουν μεταπτυχιακό δίπλωμα στη διδασκαλία της Αγγλικής γλώσσας σε ομιλητές άλλων γλωσσών (TESOL) μέσω προγράμματος εξ αποστάσεως εκπαίδευσης στο Ελληνικό Ανοικτό Πανεπιστήμιο. Τα δεδομένα της μελέτης συγκεντρώθηκαν μέσω της αφηγηματικής έρευνας, μιας μορφής ποιοτικής έρευνας, και συγκεκριμένα μέσω του τύπου προσωπικών αφηγήσεων των φοιτητών. Αναλύθηκαν μέσω της μεθόδου της θεματικής ανάλυσης, κωδικοποιήθηκαν και ταξινομήθηκαν σε θεματικές ή