Browsing by Author "Silva, Leonido Levi"
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- Effects of theta-binaural beats auditory stimulation on creativity, psychological well-being and mood states of university students: Pilot studyPublication . Mendes, Liliana; Silva, Leonido Levi; Pereira, Antonino; Morgado, ElsaThis study investigates the impact of theta-frequency binaural beats (BB) on creativity, mood, and psychological well-being in university students, addressing the growing interest and controversy surrounding this auditory stimulation technique. A quantitative, correlational, quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 26 university students aged 18–54 (96.2% female, 3.8% male). Participants listened to theta BB (6-Hz beat frequency on a 250 Hz carrier) for 20 minutes daily using the Binaural Beats App. Instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the reduced Creative Personality Scale (EPC), the short Profile of Mood States Questionnaire (POMS), and the Psychological Well-Being Manifestation Scale (EMMBEP). Results revealed significant improvements in creativity, psychological well-being, and reduced total mood disturbance after exposure to theta BB. Significant differences in total mood disturbance across assessment moments highlighted the intervention's time-sensitive benefits. The study highlights the potential of theta-frequency BB to enhance psychological well-being, mood, and creativity among university students. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the utility of BB as a non-invasive tool for improving mental and emotional states. Theta BB may serve as an accessible and cost-effective method for promoting mental health and fostering creativity in educational and therapeutic settings.
- Mental health challenges in professional musicians: A systematic review of stress, anxiety, and depressionPublication . Cardoso, Mário; Silva, Leonido Levi; Pereira, Antonino; Morgado, ElsaMental health challenges among professional musicians have gained attention due to the unique stressors associated with their careers. This review provides a comprehensive overview of these challenges and identifies potential areas for further research and intervention. A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords such as "mental health," "musicians," "professional musicians," "stress," "anxiety," "depression," and "psychological well-being." The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of Music Performance Anxiety (MPA), influenced by psychological, physiological, and environmental factors. Interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), biofeedback, and structured programs like ConfiDance show promise in reducing MPA and enhancing performance. However, additional research is needed to develop interventions tailored to musicians of different skill levels and genres. Further studies should also explore personality traits, performance settings, and long-term coping mechanisms for comprehensive support. The review underscores the significant mental health challenges musicians face, including high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The demanding nature of their profession—marked by performance pressure, irregular schedules, financial instability, and social isolation—contributes to these issues, potentially affecting creativity and career longevity. Addressing these challenges through targeted interventions is crucial for supporting musicians' mental well-being.
- Technology-Mediated Education: impact of AI on the main distance learning modalitiesPublication . Morgado, Elsa; Silva, Leonido Levi; Pereira, Antonino; Gouveia, Luís BorgesArtificial Intelligence (AI) and distance learning (EaD) have profoundly transformed education, redefining teaching methodologies and learning dynamics. When integrated into educational environments, these technologies facilitate equitable access to knowledge, enable personalized learning, and enhance pedagogical flexibility. E-learning, blended learning (b-learning), and mobile learning (m-learning) exemplify technology-mediated instructional modalities that empower learners and educators to engage in innovative knowledge construction, transcending geographical barriers. This study critically examines the impact of AI-driven digital platforms on distance learning and their implications for pedagogical efficacy. A quantitative research design was employed to evaluate the benefits and challenges associated with AI-integrated digital platforms in distance education. Data were collected through an online survey administered to education professionals from three Portuguese-speaking regions with significant engagement in digital learning: Portugal (Europe), Brazil (Latin America), and Angola (Africa). The survey assessed perceptions regarding the extent to which AI-enhanced platforms influence pedagogical practices and learning outcomes. Analysis of 230 validated responses revealed substantial insights into the role of AI-driven platforms in education. Findings indicate that these technologies foster accessibility, support individualized learning pathways, and enhance instructional adaptability. Additionally, the study identifies key areas for improvement in the integration of AI-driven platforms within pedagogical frameworks to optimize educational efficacy. The findings highlight the transformative potential of AI and digital platforms in distance education, emphasizing their capacity to enhance learning experiences and promote knowledge democratization. Nevertheless, the study underscores the necessity for ongoing optimization of these technologies to fully harness their pedagogical benefits and address existing limitations.