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The Journal of Effective Teaching, Vol. 15, No.1, 2015, 20-33 ©2015 All rights reserved.

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Enhancing Teaching Effectiveness and Student Learning Outcomes

Allison Paolini1 Kean University, Union, New Jersey 07083

Abstract

This manuscript addresses how post-secondary educators can enhance their teaching ef- fectiveness and student learning outcomes through student assessment. Highlights will include evidence-based practices, teaching style, methodology, and the use of assessment data for university instructors. Primary focus will be data obtained from key stakeholders to improve teaching practices to better meet the needs, expectations, and goals of their students, programs, and institutions, including consideration of implications for institu- tional program assessment on a broader scale. Keywords: Assessment, feedback, data, student outcomes, teaching effectiveness.

Assessment of effective teaching at all levels as a function of student learning outcomes has become a major focus of discussion across the U.S. Graduation rates among African- American, Hispanic, Native American, and low-income students are lower than other so- cio-ethnic groups in the U.S. (NCATE, 2010). Forty-five states are now implementing common core state standards to better align the K-12 curriculum across the country, and many areas are tying teacher evaluations to student achievement. Unlike K-12 education, higher education lacks uniform measures to assess the quality of classroom instruction. Some proponents of assessment advocate for common final exams in large multi-section introductory courses in departments at postsecondary institutions (Chingos, 2013). Since no universal college-level assessment measures exist, however, we must focus on aspects of instruction that positively correlate to teaching effectiveness, and use student feedback and program benchmarks to assess that efficacy.

Literature Review Teaching Excellence Effective instructors commonly pride themselves on having positive student interactions in and out of the classroom, provide prompt feedback, and encourage teamwork amongst students (Hammer, Piascik, Medina, Pittenger, Rose, Creekmore, Soltis, Bouldin, Schwarz, & Scott, 2010). The most impactful teachers also obtain and implement con- structive feedback, and use different techniques to encourage active learning oriented to- wards students becoming self-directed, independent, and critical thinkers (Hammer et al.,

1 Corresponding author’s email: paolinia@kean.edu

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2010). Exceptional instructors are culturally sensitive, respectful, passionate, and charis- matic. They challenge students to work to their potential by setting high, yet reasonable expectations, emphasizing open communication, and asking higher-order thinking ques- tions that stimulate discussion. Committed to their craft, they practice teaching as an art that requires modification and mastery. Evaluating Teaching Excellence Three predominant sources for teaching excellence assessment include students, col- leagues, and the teacher. Students complete evaluations at the end of the semester to pro- vide formative and summative feedback about the course and its outcomes. Colleagues provide constructive feedback for their peers by acknowledging strengths, as well as are- as for further improvement. Self-evaluation requires self-reflection and enables the in- structor to assess his or her growth over time in order to highlight and acknowledge im- provement (Hammer et al., 2010). Best Practices According to researchers from Flinders University (2013), several aspects of teaching in Australia warrant evaluation, including a myriad of best practices that educators can use to enhance student-learning outcomes. The primary evaluative aspect is assessing the quality of classroom teaching. University instructors must be skilled, knowledgeable, in- formed, and prepared in order to create optimum learning experiences (Flinders, 2013). The most effective teachers deliver concrete, explicit, and engaging instruction, imple- ment evidence-based classroom management and teaching strategies, and build strong relationships with their students (Macsuga-Gage, Simonsen, & Briere, 2012). Instructional Delivery. Teachers must prioritize the material they address to ensure that

e- quence information to cover basic material before introducing new topics. Additionally, they organize activities in strands, presenting content through small segments of instruc- tion over several days, rather than planning one activity to address the entire concept. They assign students activities that promote understanding of skills and knowledge (Macsuga-Gage et al., 2012). They focus on engaging students to build their communica- tion and social skills, learn how to work interdependently, and enhance their self- efficacy. Effective instructors use specific praise, reinforcements, and constructive feed- back to give students a holistic understanding of a topic. Utilize empirically supported classroom management practices. Mastery instructors engage in self-management and consultation, tracking their usage of classroom manage- ment skills and developing action plans to modify their practices based on data (Macsu- ga-Gage et al., 2012). Through consultation, instructors work with colleagues to collect and implement data to gauge student strengths and weaknesses, and then use protocols to turn weaknesses into strengths. The most effective teachers monitor progress and assess how their changed practices have impacted student outcomes (Macsuga-Gage et al., 2012).

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Building positive relationships with students. To connect with students and impact their lives personally and professionally, teachers must be student-centered and demon- strate respect for their background, ideologies, beliefs, and learning styles. The best in- structors use differentiated instruction, display cultural sensitivity, accentuate open com- munication, offer positive feedback on -Gage et al., 2012), and foster student growth by allowing students to resubmit assignments pri- or to assigning a grade. Emphasizing quality over quantity. According to Weimer (2006), teaching content and methods are inextricably linked and co-dependent; teaching material impacts student learning more than the number of topics covered in class. Emphasizing quality helps stu- dents gain a mastery understanding of topics through engaging in discussion and activi- ties that help them grasp and retain materials (Weimer, 2006). Instead of teaching a vast amount of information over a semester, instructors are encouraged to spend time on top- ics that are most relevant and critical to targeted student-learning objectives for that course and program (Weimer, 2006). Challenging Course Curricula Emphasizing Higher Order Thinking Skills. Essential targets for instruction include encouraging students to focus on the most compelling course concepts, develop higher-order and critical thinking skills, and demonstrate the application of their knowledge. Research has shown that students put less effort into dif- ficult courses compared to less rigorous courses, find them to be less meaningful, and are less confident that they can do well in the class (Lynch, 2008). To challenge students and create a stimulating, engaging environment, instructors need to assist them in thinking outside of the box in critical and creative ways. Connecting cur-

rtunities for them to innovatively employ their knowledge to solve relevant issues are also effective teaching practices (Lynch, 2008). Experiential activities such as role playing, completing case studies, cooperative group work and thought-provoking discussion questions all allow students to apply their

can ensure that assignments address and contribute to identified outcomes for the major. They can also use techniques to foster maximum learning (asking higher-order critical thinking questions, problem based learning, case studies, computer based learning), criti- cal reflection (logs, journals, collaborative learning), and inquiry (small group learning) (Lynch, 2008). Faculty and Student Interaction. Faculty and student interaction refers to the degree of responsiveness, helpfulness, concern, approachability, compassion, and understanding

Research shows that students are more likely to interact with instructors and be more academically successful if their instructors possess leadership skills, and are sociable, intelligent, objective, and supportive (Furnham & Chamorro-Premuzik, 2005). In accordance with Komarraju, Musulkin, & Bhattacharya (2010), researchers found that students who believed that their instructors were respectful and available reported higher

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levels of confidence in their academic skills and increased levels of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Students who felt that faculty lacked interest in them reported feeling less motivated (Komarraju et al., 2005). Faculty who encourage students to come to office

genuine personal and academic interest in students report stronger student outcomes (Cox, McIntosh, Terenzini, Reason, & Louvsky-Quaye, 2010). Numerous techniques can increase positive interactions between faculty members and students. Instructor availability fundamentally impacts student success and educator ef- fectiveness. Students who feel that their instructors are understanding and communicate frequently will be more likely to succeed academically (Bain, 2004). Instructors who communicate openly, respond quickly to email, clearly address expectations, provide stu- dents with substantial constructive feedback produce positive student outcomes. Provid- ing assignments that students find relevant, timely, relatable, and encourage personal in- vestment can build trust amongst class members and instructors (Bain, 2004).

– efficacy and self-esteem. Showing empathy and sensitivity towards students who may be struggling personally or academically can strengthen the student/instructor relationship (Bain, 2004). If students sense that instructors care about them and are invested in their success, they are more likely to feel hopeful about their chances of succeeding and be more willing to engage. Developing a strong rapport with students stimulates student mo- tivation, classroom discussion, and rates of satisfaction, better communication, and trust. Instructors who take the time to know their students create a more productive and proac- tive classroom experience (Weimer, 2010). Supporting student success is vital for student persistence, learning, and satisfaction (Weimer, 2010). Active mentorship can connect students to opportunities for counseling, peer mentoring, and writing. Student retention depends on teachers effectively communi- cating concepts, expectations and identifying resources for support. of using such support often correlates to the quality of relationship they have developed with the faculty members who are encouraging them to reach out. Differentiating Instruction. d- agogical competence that ensures that each student achieves the intended learning target (Burton, 2003). Effective instructors utilize a variety of learning modalities to differenti- ate instruction for an array of student learning styles. Some argue that schools are respon- sible for adapting to the developmental needs of every learner (Coffey, 2007). Due to the increasing heterogeneity of students, attention is increasingly paid to ensuring that all students receive an appropriate education through auditory, visual, and kinesthetic mate- rials (Humphrey et al., 2006). Instruc and use additional techniques if students struggle to understand course content and appli- cations. Congruent teaching implies that a teacher models his or her pedagogical theories, and can be used in addition to differentiated instruction to stimulate student learning and

Congruent instruction

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is innovative in that it allows students to introduce a variety of educational principles in classroom practice (Loughran & Berry, 2005). Learning is Culturally Learning outcomes describe the measurable skills, abilities, knowledge, or values that students should have amassed upon finishing a program (USC, 2010). Culturally relevant teaching empowers students socially, emotionally, intellectually, and politically by creating a connection be-

(Ladsen- them apply classroom content outside of school. According to Anderson & Burns (2013), one strategy that instructors can use to assess relevance is to ask students to write a one- minute paper on the topics that they found most significant during the class. This allows students to consider what they deemed relevant, and to explore the depth of their knowledge (Anderson & Burns, 2013). Course Organization and Planning. Bain (2004) states that organization and planning

ity to clearly communicate course expecta- tions, create course assignments that aid student learning, prepare lessons that demon- strate knowledge of course content, and emphasize relevant course concepts. Benton, Duchon, and Pallett (2013) conducted a study on the relationship between stu- dent self-reported ratings on their perception of learning and performance based upon course organization and importance of material. Students who rated themselves as excep- tional found the course to be organized, perceived the material to be relevant, and per- formed better on exams and coursework than students who rated their progress as being moderate or less (Benton et al., 2013). This study substantiates the importance of struc- turing courses to foster positive learning outcomes. Research also shows that students excel when they feel the instructor is prepared, knowl- edgeable, and organized (ETS, 2013). It is essential for educators to provide detailed syl- labi with course information, objectives, assignments, course policies, grading rubrics, due dates, and a tentative schedule. Teacher preparation, knowledge of subject matter, and organization play an instrumental role in student success (Bain, 2004). Well-prepared and organized instructors produce higher-achieving students, who score higher on apti- tude and achievement tests, demonstrate higher grade point averages, and complete as- signments in a more comprehensive and detailed manner (Teitel, 2004). According to the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE, 2010), two components are essential ingredients for teacher preparation: knowledge of the subject matter, and the ability to effectively disseminate knowledge. Data results from this scale enable instructors to make changes regarding their preparedness, course struc-

connect the materials and assignments to enhance student-learning outcomes (NCATE, 2010). A direct correlation likely exists between course organization, planning and stu- dent success; the more organized and planning-oriented an instructor is, the more likely students will be to view him or her as knowledgeable and learn the material in a struc-

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tured manner. In contrast, receiving a low score on the Course Organization and Planning scale may indicate that the course lacks cohesion and clarity. The instructor may not have effectively disseminated information about course requirements and their impact on stu- dent learning. Low scores on this scale may ind scope or delivery of the course (ETS, 2013). Instructors can use the following suggestions to improve course organization: Course objectives are derived from an approved program or major. Well-organized cours Such objectives are achieved via course content, assignments, readings and supplemen- tary materials, and frequent classroom discussions. Organization is pivotal for instructors to disseminate information in a clear and orderly manner. Creating a semester agenda, which highlights relevant topics and activities to be covered during a given class, gives students a clear and detailed syllabus with course re- quirements, timelines and expectations. Identifying challenging course curricula that encourage students to work collaboratively equips students to creatively and/or critically apply knowledge to solve relevant problems or questions. Such learning is more likely to be retained over time.

ake connections from the lesson to

typically focus on content, the absence of emphasis on pedagogy may explain why stu- dent learning may not meet expectations. To enhance student learning and help students meet expectations, instructors can prompt them to gain proficiency in research skills by assisting them in moving beyond using per- sonal opinions as the sole basis for responses. Recognizing that critical thinking involves assessment, examination, and reflective reasoning of existing information, ideas, beliefs, and speculations, effective instructors encourage students to gain proficiency in locating and retrieving scholarly information on the assigned topic. By integrating scholarly research into their instruction, instructors can respectfully chal-

reply sup- ported by peer-reviewed literature. Instructors can mandate the use of peer-reviewed

e- sponse, and limit the overuse of direct quotations. Instructors can choose not respond to students in an authoritative manner that limits dis- cussions, and be more flexible and open-minded to keep discussions moving. They can solicit opposing views by encouraging students to make a justified argument for or

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against a topic, and offer questions that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. By -provoking questions, instruc-

tors move students beyond defining a topic to making an evaluative value judgments based on in-depth interpretation of relevant information. Communication. Effective communication is a fundamental component of good teach-

in student learning outcomes. According n-

knowledge), character (honesty and integrity), and caring (ability to express concern . Research shows a significant and positive re-

la with perceived teaching effectiveness and student motivation (Meyers, 2004). Students who perceive instructors as highly credible see them as more effective and competent, and report higher levels of motivation.

i- g questions

to provoke critical thinking skills (ETS, 2013). According to Sidelinger (2010), perceived instructor clarity and non- g- ness to participate in class and engage in self-regulated learning. Sidelinger (2010) also found that students who take ownership of their assignments, communicate effectively with their instructor, and feel engaged and stimulated, experience a greater degree of stu- dent involvement and more positive student outcomes. Instructors can adopt a variety of practices to improve their communication skills. Char- ismatic instruction engages and stimulates student attention and participation, which posi- tively impacts student outcomes. Preparing well-developed lessons with specific, illustra- tive examples, varying speaking tones, and integrating experiential and hands-on activi- ties can energize students and boost their engagement. Instructors who are effective communicators are aware of the variety of learning modalities that can address differ-

applications. Open communication builds rapport and allows instructors to connect with students both personally and professionally. Research demonstrates that students who feel that they can talk honestly and openly with their instructor are more academically successful (Drum- mond, 1995). Such communication enables students to feel comfortable and safe in learn- ing situations, and frames questions as positive rather than punitive. It is critical for facul- ty to create a learning environment that encourages students to be authentic and willing to ask questions without fear of criticism or negatively impacting their grade. Stimulating Class Environment. Creating a stimulating and engaging classroom envi- ronment is pivotal to student success. Research has demonstrated that experiencing posi- tive emotions can foster well-being and improved student outcomes (Williams, Childers, & Kemp, 2013). Williams et al., (2013) found that students who experience positive emo-

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tions and are stimulated in the classroom also experience higher levels of motivation, and demonstrate behaviors that lead to academic success including studying, attendance, en- hanced participation, and increased understanding of course materials. Williams et al. (2013) also found that such students also had a more positive outlook on their academic accomplishments. To further stimulate students, instructors can employ activity-based learning strategies that empower them to enhance metacognitive abilities by applying classroom information to their own lives (Pang, 2010). Through using activity-based learning strategies and stat- ing course expectations and goals, instructors help students increase their self-regulation skills and take responsibility for their learning and application of material (Pang, 2010). Encouraging students to take ownership of their learning also allows them to experience enhanced self-direction and self-awareness. Student Effort and Involvement. Research shows that student-learning outcomes are not solely controlled by an instructor (ETS, 2013). Other variables include their time spent studying and completing assignments, their level of preparation for each class, and attitudes towards content (ETS, 2013). Instructors can use evidence-based teaching prac- tices to increase student effort and participation through hands-on experiential activities, cooperative learning in small groups, asking higher-order questions, and large group dis- cussions (Center for Faculty Excellence, 2009). Instructors may work individually with students to help them accept responsibility for their performance, increasing their self-motivated involvement. When held accountable for their own learning, students adopt an active role in the process through engagement in their assignments, class activities, and special department or program events. By prepar- ing, rehearsing, learning, and remembering knowledge through watching tutorials, com- pleting practice exercises before learning new material, and tracking their progress, stu- dents are more likely to succeed academically (Khan Academy, 2013). Asking students what they want to learn and accomplish by the end of the course em- powers them and makes the information relevant to them. Providing timely and expert feedback assists students in understanding course material, while giving positive feed-

are relevant to student lives and interests helps foster connections between instructors, students, and peers, thereby creating a stimulating and collaborative atmosphere that con- ducive to learning. Involvement and engagement are the main components in student learning. Having stu- dents work in small groups on experiential tasks allows them to brainstorm, learn from one another, and collaboratively apply knowledge. The more that instructors motivate and encourage their students to succeed, the more likely students will be to feel connect- ed to the material, believe in themselves, and increase their learning outcomes. According to Webber, Krylow, & Zhang (2013), student involvement and effort are key factors to success in college. Higher levels of student engagement significantly enhanced

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for classes they considered to be challenging had higher GPAs and reported more ful- filling college experiences (Webber et al., 2013). Cultural Sensitivity and Culturally Responsive Teaching. Students will be more likely to participate in a classroom experience in which they feel the instructor is culturally sen- sitive and displays an awareness of and appreciation for cultural differences. Instructors can express their valuing of diversity by expecting all students to be active in the class- room regardless of disability, race, language, religion or SES status (Fallon & Brown, p. 192, 2010). Instructors can foster inclusivity by helping all students feel welcomed, ac- cepted, understood, challenged, and accomplished. In this environment, students who are enabled to develop social and cultural capital through relationships with others foster a community of engaged learners (Center for Faculty Excellence, 2009). Through cultural- ly responsive strategies, educators can create a classroom learning environment that mer- its learning for all (Fallon & Brown, 2010, p. 192).

what they believe about cultural groups other than their own and attempt to identify pat- Students are

motivated differently depending upon their culture, and therefore require differential learning instruction to meet their needs. Ginsberg & Wlodkowski (2007) state that teach- ers need to create a respectful, inviting, and inclusive classroom environment that cele- brates student similarities and differences, since cultural isolation decreases motivation.

e- velop a collaborative environment that encourages group work, assign creative tasks that enable students to explore their strengths, promote differing worldviews, and give as- signments that encourage critical thinking. To maximize learning, instructors need to in- tegrate the different cultures in their classroom into their teaching practice (Gay, 2000). Culturally responsive instructors encourage students to use their cultural experiences to deepen their learning, and develop learning tasks that are relevant and meaningful for students (Gay, 2000). Instructional Strategies. Instructors can use a myriad of strategies to optimize student learning. Cooperative learning groups give students opportunities to collaborate on brain- storming ideas and completing assignments. Instructors can enable students to think criti- cally and problem solve by integrating problem-based group assignments for students to complete individually or in a group. Experiential learning includes experiencing an activity, sharing or publishing reactions or observations, analyzing or determining patterns, inferring or generalizing, and applying information (NCCIC, 2009). Activities in this mode allow students to apply knowledge,

a- tion, social, and problem solving skills. Personalized reflection and applying learning to other contexts are critical factors in effective experiential learning. A comprehensive re- view of research literature on college learning determined that in studies measuring in- formation retention after a course, transfer of knowledge in new situations, problem solv-

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ing, thinking, attitude change, and motivation, active learning was always more effective than solely lecturing as a teaching technique (Felder, 2007). Instructors can also develop hybrid courses that integrate online components into traditional classroom settings, al- lowing students to interact with the teacher and students and complete group activities in class, and complete assignments and submit them via e-mail, Google Drive, Blackboard, or other venues. Supplementary Instructional Materials. In this technologically driven society, integrat- ing technology into classroom learning is key. Using technology enables students to see tutorials online, access course information and submit assignments, instantaneously dis- cuss opinions with peers, and review presentations for supplementary information to deepen learning. Solely utilizing a didactic approach prevents students from optimally processing and applying their knowledge, and negatively impacts their ability to concep- tualize material and practice skills. Instructors who integrate technology into their class- rooms increase student engagement (ETS, 2013). A professor can speak over a Power Point presentation that students have reviewed prior to class, and have students complete experiential activities based upon the presentation. Classes conducted in virtual chat rooms, discussion boards and Internet forums allow users to instantaneously post assign- ments, questions, or messages for other class members or the instructor. In a study conducted by CompTIA, 78% of instructors believed that technology positive- ly impacted their classroom. Generation Y students who have grown up in a digital world feel a great sense of disconnect when educators put them in a 19th-century traditional classroom setting (Lytle, 2011). Incorporating popular new technologies as new learning tools can impact the effectiveness and delivery of student instruction (Mishra & Koehler, 2006). Supplementary instructional materials include online tutorials, instructional software and other web-based resources that enhance student engagement in place of standard presen- tation formats. Students practice skills through interactive tutorials and exercises, com- puterized or digitally recorded presentations and demonstrations, reading materials de- veloped by instructors or in assigned textbooks, examp field of interest, links to other relevant online materials; and individual and group labora- tory assignments. Students in large lecture classes are more passive than students who personally interact in smaller classes (ETS, 2013). Thus, students benefit from online discussions where they can easily communicate with each other (Mishra & Koehler, 2006). Working in assigned peer learning groups assists at-risk students in building social and communication skills, while message boards, chat rooms, Google Documents, and blogs build communication between students and instructors (NCATE, 2010). Using Evaluation Assessments to Improve Practice

erceptions of effectiveness of their instructor and course. Using a rating scale from most effective to

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n- ructor clearly commu-

Over 800 universities nationwide use the SIR II Student Instructional Report (ETS, 1994)

This survey helps educators improve teaching effectiveness and quality of student learning by reveal-

an exorbitant amount of class time. It provides comparative data on variables including course design, instruction, and grading practices to help faculty members compare their scores to data from similar national institutions and courses. If not the SIR II itself, most universities use a survey that assesses teaching effectiveness addressing similar catego- ries. The SIR II provides students with an anonymous platform to evaluate both course and instructor in a given semester, and allows them to assess their own learning out- comes. Open-minded instructors can use results from the SIR II to gauge which aspects of their course or teaching could change to yield better student outcomes, as well as identifying areas in which they are excelling (ETS, 2013). Primary targets include utilizing evidence- based practices to evaluate the effectiveness of instruction and demonstrating the degree of satisfaction of student-learning objectives. University faculty members should be re- sponsive to student feedback, as this data is essential to ongoing course, program, and instructor improvement.

Conclusion The most impactful student-centered instructors utilize specific interventions including the following: creating stimulating curricula, interacting with students, being available and approachable, using differential instruction, addressing relevant material, being cog- nizant of depth vs. breadth, offering cultural responsiveness, and developing structured courses that enable them to facilitate information and empower students. Effective in- structors also gather, collect, interpret, and implement data to assess student strengths and weaknesses, student learning, and the value of their instruction. The SIR II survey is an extremely effective tool in obtaining data. Similar to deliberate practice, which includes practicing and mastering strategies shown to elicit positive outcomes and assessing effec- tiveness of services via stakeholder feedback, using the SIR II enhances teaching effec- tiveness through a structured template with specific categories that reflect student learn- ing. Instructors who utilize SIR II results to guide their practice develop classrooms that foster engaged teaching and learning. Building a competent community of learners also requires that instructors be prepared and well-versed in their subject matter, design courses that reflect standards, and clearly

r- est via discussion, experiential and action-oriented activities, and group work. Active learning occurs when instructors connect relevant instructors provide high expectations, challenge students beyond their comfort zone,

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make learning collaborative and interactive, and display care and concern for their stu-

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