Internet Connection Research Articles

Exploring distance learning in rural private schools in the Philippines: Challenges, coping mechanisms, and model development

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant changes to the educational landscape, impacting not only public schools but also private learning institutions. This study explores the experiences of private schools at the administrative and faculty levels, focusing on the challenges encountered and the coping mechanisms employed in implementing distance learning. A descriptive phenomenology research design was used, emphasizing the subjective experiences of private school administrators and teachers. The researchers applied phenomenology to understand the core structure of their experiences in remote teaching and learning, with the goal of informing best practices and guiding potential changes in policies, theories, or responses to distance learning.Private schools faced a range of challenges due to this sudden shift, including insufficient professional preparation for teachers and inadequate technological infrastructure, both of which significantly affected the quality of distance learning. Despite these constraints, school leaders and teachers collaborated to propose strategies for mitigating the impact of these challenges. Key recommendations include prioritizing internet connectivity as a basic project for IT infrastructure with the support of school personnel and community leaders. Additional strategies involve offering diverse teaching modalities, conducting learner assessments, establishing effective communication and feedback systems, practicing efficient time management, fostering positive relationships, demonstrating professional integrity, advocating for ongoing training and simplified instruction, and recognizing the unique value of each learner within their academic environment.

A Pilot Study to Assess the Feasibility of Real-Time Teledentistry in Residential Aged Care Facilities

Background/Objectives: Unmet oral health needs of residents in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) arise due to the unique challenges of assessing oral health statuses and maintaining oral healthcare in RACFs. This pilot study assessed the feasibility of using real-time teledentistry under the guidance of a dentist to train RACF staff to undertake an oral health assessment. Methods: An oral health assessment of residents was first conducted by RACF staff at two Queensland, Australia RACFs using the Oral Health Assessment Tool, with an intra-oral camera connected to a laptop, through videoconferencing, under the guidance of a dentist. A survey recorded the views of RACF staff on the acceptability of the teledentistry method. The quality of the images obtained through the camera was assessed by the dentist. Finally, cost-effectiveness was calculated between teledentistry and traditional face-to-face assessments. Results: Sixteen residents (mean age 79.3 ± 8.68 years) and eight staff (mean age 33.3 ± 6.16 years) participated in this study. Both RACF staff and residents found that the real-time teledentistry set-up was user-friendly, while the dentist rated the quality of the images as acceptable for diagnostic purposes. Real-time teledentistry was more cost-effective than bringing a dentist on-site, while taking the RACF residents to an off-site dental office for examination was the most expensive approach. Conclusions: Real-time teledentistry is feasible and cost-effective, and it is an acceptable alternative to a face-to-face clinical exam for oral health assessment in RACFs. This approach could be used in RACFs where wireless internet connectivity is available.

Supporting equitable access to learning via SMS in Kenya: Impact on engagement and learning outcomes

AbstractThe use of SMS messaging for education has grown in recent years, with particular attention recently during the Covid‐19 pandemic. Mobile phones often have high levels of ownership in low‐income contexts compared to computers, and lower connectivity requirements, which arguably make this a more equitable medium than data‐heavy online instruction, for example. However, given that gender can be a factor to influence mobile device access and use, it is also important to consider educational applications through a gender lens, to avoid further exacerbating digital divides. In this paper, we present an analysis of server log and evaluation data in relation to a literacy‐focused initiative for primary‐aged learners carried out in Kenya as part of the Tusome programme and through the SMS‐based M‐Shule education platform, which does not require an Internet connection or smartphone to run. The extent of engagement with the platform varies according to gender and location within the country. The data also demonstrate a positive impact on learning outcomes regardless of learners' gender and location. Furthermore, the learning gains are shown to be relatively cost‐effective in comparison with educational technology interventions in similar contexts. The findings show that this low‐connectivity adaptive model has a positive impact on learning outcomes. It is a scalable approach to support a range of learners in Kenya, providing more support to learners who need it, and leading to increased foundational learning outcomes overall. As such, the findings will also be of highly relevant to other low‐connectivity contexts. Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic Mobile phones can be used as a means to support learning, through mobile learning and SMS, particularly in low‐connectivity contexts, although there is a lack of rigorous evidence of impact upon learning outcomes. Mobile phone device ownership tends to be higher than computer or wired Internet connections in many low‐income contexts. Software applications which adapt to the learners' level have shown good potential for gender‐equitable learning outcomes in low‐income contexts; however, these often require an Internet connection in addition to computers or tablets to be run on. What this paper adds There is a lack of contextually relevant evidence of the impact of SMS‐based mobile learning applications in low‐resource and low‐connectivity contexts upon learning outcomes. Through analysis of data generated via an experimental design, this study provides evidence that literacy materials delivered through an SMS‐based educational platform—M‐Shule—can have a positive impact upon learning outcomes. Furthermore, gains are equitable in terms of learners' gender, and location, within Kenya. Implications for practice and/or policy Mobile phones can be an effective way of reaching learners to provide additional educational support as part of existing education programmes in low‐connectivity environments. Learning gains using M‐Shule are evidenced as significant and relatively cost‐effective. Existing high‐quality learning materials developed in other media can be effectively adapted to SMS to reach learners particularly who are out‐of‐school or during periods of educational disruption.

Deploying a user-friendly GIS mapping tool in post-earthquake Turkey and Syria

Background The February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey and Syria exposed significant gaps in healthcare information systems, which severely hampered communication, coordination, and the overall public health response. These disruptions were primarily due to the lack of real-time, accessible data on healthcare facilities. Methods In response, an interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) tool, coupled with an integrated WhatsApp chatbot, was developed under the platform Afetsaglikharitasi.org. This system enabled real-time mapping and updates on the status of healthcare services, even in areas with limited internet connectivity, facilitating more efficient resource coordination during the disaster response. Results By March 30, 2023, the disaster health map included data from 537 health centers and had reached over 800,000 individuals via social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. The platform attracted over 3,500 unique users, with most accessing it via mobile devices to locate healthcare services. Additionally, shortcomings in the Turkey National Disaster Response Plan (Türkiye Afet Müdahale Planı – TAMP) were identified, particularly the lack of integration of digital health technologies, which hindered resource allocation during the earthquake response and underscored the need for their inclusion in disaster management strategies. Conclusions This study demonstrates the effectiveness of digital health tools in enhancing disaster response and underscores the importance of integrating user-centered, deployable technologies to improve healthcare delivery in emergency settings.

Online futures

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Ghana’s SMEs are integral to its economic success, and they are now starting to utilize the growing internet connectivity of the country to boost economic performance and gain competitive advantage. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Adoption and Use of Electronic Human Resources Management Systems for Service Delivery in Tanzania: A Case to Tanzania Airports Authority

This articles explores the adoption and utilization of Electronic Human Resources Management Systems (e-HRMS) for service delivery at the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA). General objective was to assess the adoption and use of electronic human resource management systems for HR service delivery at Tanzania Airports Authority. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the practice of eHRMS adopted to support service delivery in the Tanzania Airports Authority, to examine the effort made by the government to enhance the usage and adoption eHRMS in service delivery at Tanzania Airports Authority and to identify the challenges in using e-HRMS in service delivery in Tanzania. The study utilized the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to understand user acceptance behaviour and the Diffusion of Innovations Theory to explore how e-HRMS spreads within the organization. Research adopted an explanatory research design and population of study was 60 staff. Data was collected through questionnaires from a purposively selected sample of 52 staff with qualitative data from interviews conducted with HR and IT officers. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive analysis, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. Findings reveal that TAA has implemented various e-HRMS practices, including digital storage of employee data, automated payroll systems, and streamlined recruitment and onboarding processes. Government support has been instrumental in these efforts through policy implementation, financial support and infrastructure development. However, several challenges hinder the full potential of e-HRMS at TAA, such as limited access to technology, unreliable power supply, skills gaps, resistance to change, and cost considerations. The study concludes that e-HRMS has significantly improved HR service delivery at TAA. Nonetheless, continuous efforts are necessary to address existing challenges. Enhancing technological infrastructure, providing comprehensive training, and implementing effective change management strategies are crucial for optimizing the benefits of e-HRMS. The articles recommends that TAA invest in reliable internet connectivity and IT hardware, provide ongoing training for employees, and develop robust change management plans.

Modeling ICT Adoption and Electricity Consumption in Emerging Digital Economies: Insights from the West African Region

This study investigates the impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) on electricity consumption in West Africa, employing a dynamic panel data model. The results show a significant long-term positive effect of ICT adoption on electricity consumption. Notably, internet connections increase the demand for electricity, with estimates ranging from 13.4% to 19.3%. While mobile phone subscriptions demonstrate modest positive effect of 6.85%, personal computer ownership appears to have a negligible impact.The study contributes to the existing literature by offering a detailed examination of the distinct effects of different ICT components on electricity consumption, incorporating a novel estimation approach and sensitivity analyses that account for the COVID-19 pandemic and the Anglo-French linguistic divide. What’s more, the analysis constitutes an initial effort in the examining both short-term and long-term dynamics of the ICT-electricity relationship in West African region.

Internet and Cyberspace as a Means of Feminist Empowerment: A Cyberfeminist Study of Girls of Riyadh by Rajaa Alsanea

This study explores the role of the internet and cyberspace, particularly through the use of emails, as a tool for feminist empowerment within Saudi Arabian society, as depicted in Rajaa Alsanea's novel Girls of Riyadh. The research aims to examine how female characters use virtual spaces to challenge and undermine patriarchal norms and expectations. By utilizing the internet's anonymity and connectivity, these women carve out a platform for self-expression, solidarity, and resistance against the oppressive structures of their society. The study finds that cyberfeminism offers a powerful means for women in conservative environments to voice their thoughts and advocate for change. Furthermore, the internet serves as a catalyst for new forms of feminist discourse and activism. The study concludes that cyberspace not only facilitates the creation of a collective feminist identity but also empowers women to redefine their roles and resist traditional societal constraints.

A Survey Management System: Design and Implementation Using Java Swing and MySQL

Abstract: This paper presents the design and development of a survey management system using Java Swing and MySQL, aimed at simplifying the process of creating, managing, and participating in surveys. The system allows registered users to create surveys, generate unique access codes, and manage their surveys through an intuitive interface. Users can log in to view, delete, or manage their surveys, while guests can participate in surveys using the unique codes provided. The system provides an offline solution, making it particularly useful in environments with limited internet connectivity. Key features include user authentication, survey management, and guest access to surveys. The system's architecture is built using Java for the front-end and MySQL for the back-end, ensuring efficient data handling and storage. This project addresses the growing need for flexible and user-friendly survey management tools, especially in academic and research settings. The paper also discusses the challenges encountered during development, potential future enhancements, and the broader applications of this system

The Implementation of Basic Education Data System at Muhammadiyah 9 Elementary School, Palembang

This research aims to examine the implementation of the DAPODIK program at Muhammadiyah 9 Elementary School in Palembang, including its supporting and inhibiting factors. It utilizes a qualitative descriptive approach with informants comprising the School Principal, Administrative Staff, and Operators. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and documentation, while data analysis involves data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. Data validity was ensured through technique and source triangulation. Findings indicate that the implementation of the DAPODIK program at SD Muhammadiyah 9 Palembang is fairly effective, focusing on directives, coordination, communication, and motivation. Factors supporting this include adequate facilities, competent human resources, and reliable internet connectivity. Conversely, challenges include data synchronization limitations and server downtime during DAPODIK updates. In conclusion, the DAPODIK program at SD Muhammadiyah 9 Palembang is generally effective, facilitated by effective guidance, motivation, and efficient coordination and communication.

The Use of Telehealth Technology in the Medical Management of Adults with Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review.

Background: Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) experience substantial inequalities and barriers accessing health care despite requiring constant accessibility to healthcare providers as they are more likely to die from avoidable causes of death than those without ID. Telehealth technologies have the capacity to improve access to health providers and health information and could greatly reduce morbidity and mortality rates in people with ID. This study aims to explore the use of mobile health technology in the medical management of adults with intellectual disability. Methodology: PubMed, IEEE Explore, ACM, and Scopus databases were examined to extract peer-reviewed articles published from January 2000 to January 2022. Original research, published in English and focused on the use of telehealth technologies in the medical management of intellectual disability were deemed eligible. A narrative synthesis of the results was completed, structured around the characteristics of telehealth technologies used and the outcomes of the studies. Results: Thirteen of 1008 reviewed articles were considered eligible for inclusion. Most of the studies used videoconferencing platforms for real-time telehealth, while others focused on symptom or medication monitoring applications. The evidence supports the feasibility, potential effectiveness and satisfaction of using telehealth to manage intellectual disability among adults despite accessibility issues including poor internet connectivity and poor knowledge of technology which may limit its use. Conclusion: The use of telehealth was feasible, acceptable and potentially effective for the management of ID among adults though the varied methodology of included studies maybe inadequate. A more structured methodology will be useful in future studies.

Perancangan Value Proposition Canvas untuk Produk Indibiz PT Telkom

This Indibiz is a digital service aimed at micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. This service provides consistent and high-quality internet connectivity to support various MSME businesses. Indibiz is designed to offer affordable internet, helping to reduce operational costs and boost MSME productivity in the digital era. However, over the past year, Indibiz has not met its sales targets. The main cause is that Indibiz has yet to fully meet the desired customer profile. To address this, the author designed a Value Proposition Canvas by collecting data on Indibiz's services, customer profiles, and competitor products through observation, literature review, and interviews with 10 MSMEs. These data were used to create a customer profile and value map for Indibiz's products. A strategy canvas analysis and ERRC framework were applied to develop a new Value Proposition Canvas. The proposed solution includes adding an all-in-one MSME digitalization package, bundling digital marketing services, and offering a sales guarantee for each digitalization service purchase.

An analysis of the role of disinformation in elections

Electoral disinformation poses a significant threat to democratic processes, particularly in politically polarised environments like Zimbabwe. This paper examines the efficacy of the CITE project, a six-month high-impact initiative aimed at countering electoral disinformation during the August 2023 plebiscite. The primary objective was to mitigate the impact of disinformation on citizen participation by training citizens and community journalists to identify, flag, and combat misinformation. Methodologically, the study employed a qualitative exploratory approach, including workshops, social media campaigns, and a systematic desk review of existing literature and primary data sources. Key findings indicate that the project successfully raised awareness about disinformation, reaching over 100,000 people on Facebook with a campaign debunking election boycott rumours. However, the initiative faced limitations such as poor internet connectivity in rural areas and resistance from political actors benefiting from disinformation. The study underscores the importance of tailored strategies for different media platforms and highlights the efficacy of infographics and low-literacy data packaging methods in building trust. The research also identifies the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration and the potential of AI and machine learning in detecting disinformation. The significance of this work lies in its contribution to understanding the dynamics of disinformation in electoral processes and its practical implications for enhancing media literacy and democratic engagement. By comparing Zimbabwe's challenges and solutions with those of other countries, the study offers valuable insights for developing robust counter-disinformation strategies globally.

University instructors’ and students’ perceptions of blended learning and perceived determinant factors

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of instructors and students towards blended learning and perceived determinant factors at Jimma University. A concurrent mixed-methods research design was used. Data were collected from 145 students and 70 instructors by using questionnaires and interviews. The findings showed that both instructors and students confirmed the lack of facilities, lack of technological knowledge, and instructors’ lack of technological pedagogical knowledge. On the other hand, both instructors and students believed that the BL approach had a positive impact on students learning. In addition, the major challenges identified were teachers’ increasing workload, lack of access to internet connections, non-compliance of learners’ educational backgrounds to permit effective use of BL, non-suitability of the approach for all learning styles, slow internet connectivity, lack of organization of blended learning materials, and lack of IT knowledge. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that the concerned university officials give thoughtful attention to the provision of necessary facilities to implement BL and design appropriate training and capacity-building programs for university instructors and students to increase students' and instructors’ knowledge and skills in technology use. Keywords: Blended learning; challenges; determinant factors; instructors; perceptions

ANALISIS MANAJEMEN PELATIHAN DI RUMAH SAKIT

Training management is crucial to ensure that the training process runs smoothly and meets both organizational and employee goals. At Hermina Hospital Bogor, 22.5% of employees have not met the minimum required training hours. The training process faces challenges, including limited space, incomplete attendance, and scheduling issues. This study aimed to analyze the gaps in training at Hermina Hospital Bogor, using both quantitative and qualitative methods from March to May 2023. Qualitative data were gathered through interviews with three key informants, selected via purposive sampling, and observations of the training process. Quantitative data were obtained from implementation surveys and pre-post tests for the Isolation Awareness training, involving 31 participants. Qualitative analysis used content analysis, while the Wilcoxon test was applied for quantitative data. The training process includes needs assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Training needs are identified through gap analysis, covering issues raised in morning meetings, unit evaluation results, and proposals from stakeholders, competencies performance gaps. Implementation challenges include rescheduling and participant absence. Online training faces additional barriers, such as a lack of computers and poor internet connectivity. Improvements in training management can be achieved by developing training facilities, enhancing online tools and e-learning modules, and increasing participant involvement through the Documentation System application.

The Digital Classroom: Systematic Review of Use of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in Teaching in Collaborative Online Settings

This study systematically reviews existing literature on the use of collaborative online settings for teaching English as a foreign language (EFL). Covering 37 peer-reviewed articles published between 2013 and 2024, the review examines various aspects of online collaborative EFL teaching, including the digital platforms utilized, the educational environments, and the specific language skills targeted. The findings indicate that collaborative online environments can enhance EFL learners' language proficiency through interactive learning, feedback techniques, and personalized learning. Additionally, the review found that such environments primarily improve learners' writing skills, with oral and speaking skills also benefiting. However, challenges such as learner distraction, Internet connectivity issues, lack of resources, and limited technical skills were identified as barriers to adopting collaborative online settings in EFL teaching. Strategies to mitigate these challenges such as the use self-created video materials, training, access to the Internet, among others, were discussed. The implications of these findings suggest that educators should incorporate digital collaborative tools to enhance learning outcomes, policymakers should support technological integration in language education, and researchers should address the identified gaps to develop more effective teaching strategies and educational policies.

Indoor Air Quality System: A Design of Monitoring CO and CO2 Substances for Elderly Home Using IoT

The use of an IoT-based monitoring system for CO and CO2 gases in elderly homes is a necessary innovation for remotely monitoring air quality. This work was successful in establishing a remote monitoring system that can measure CO and CO2 gases utilizing IoT technology combined with Blynk software. The MQ-7 sensors detect CO gas, while the MQ-135 sensors detect CO2. Data from these sensors is delivered to a central server, which then sends it to the I2C 16X2 LCD panel and Blynk software, allowing data visualization via an internet connection. The study's findings indicate that this system can detect and monitor CO and CO2 gas levels with a high degree of precision. This device can also monitor air quality in real time using the Blynk software. As a result, users may accurately monitor air quality (CO and CO2 gases) in elderly homes.

Telehealth of Infants at Risk During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Physical Therapists’ and Caregiver’s Perceptions and Costs

Aim We aimed to describe telehealth used to detect infants at risk of neurodevelopmental delay and assess the assessors’ and caregivers’ perceptions and costs. Methods This was an observational study in which five physical therapists applied the General Movement Assessment, the neurological exam based on the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination, and the Alberta Infant Motor Scale via telehealth in 65 infants at risk of neurologic delay during the COVID-19 pandemic. The perceptions of assessors and caregivers were assessed using a questionnaire. We tabulated the family’s costs (internet access) and the therapist’s expenses (internet access and professional fees). Results In general, assessors felt comfortable and reported good quality of teleassessment. They highlighted the significant effort they and caregivers required for synchronous methods, challenges in clearly guiding caregivers on infant positioning, difficulties in adjusting the camera’s position, and unstable internet connections. Most assessors expressed a willingness to continue using telehealth. Caregivers displayed high satisfaction, and the costs were minimal. Conclusion Teleassessment during the COVID-19 pandemic was feasible, although implementing this method of health service in general clinical practice still requires further scrutiny.

Multivariate analysis of academic and sport performance among Indonesian university student-athletes

Research on student-athletes' academic performance reveals a complex interplay of factors. Interestingly, few studies have investigated the achievement of student-athletes in both academics and athletics, the two areas in which they are usually evaluated. In this study, we investigated the association between factors that may affect student athlete academic performance with their sports achievement. In this study, 166 students from 20 sport faculties universities within faculty of sports who had at least a provincial sports accomplishment were involved. The factors that were strongly connected with student-athletes' academic achievement were analyzed using a logistic regression analysis. According to this study, there is a considerable correlation between the academic achievement of student athletes, their gender and internet access. It has been found that academic achievement is strongly influenced by students' proficiency in establishing an internet connection significantly impacts their academic performance. In addition, gender makes a major contribution to the prediction of academic grades in student athletes in Indonesia. Athletes may be eligible for specialized academic programs that are intended to help them continue to improve in both their academic and athletic endeavors. As a result, Indonesian universities mandate the establishment of a mentorship center development organization to assist student-athletes. Curriculum modifications may also be implemented in response to the time allotted to students for academic and sports performance.

Digital health divide and digital technologies for treating substance-related disorders in Argentina

Abstract Argentina is a country located in the South American region with more than 45 million inhabitants. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses, over 92% of the population lives in urban areas. Additionally, 47% households do not have access to computers, and 12% lack availability of the internet. The present case study demonstrates the effects of the digital divide regarding the use and access to digital technologies in patients who underwent virtual treatment for substance-related disorders in a mental health service in the city of Córdoba, Argentina. This treatment modality included virtual consultation with a psychologist and WhatsApp groups for mutual support. The data obtained is part of a larger research project aimed at evaluating access to digital healthcare treatment, quality of life and patient satisfaction with the use of digital tools for treating substance-related disorders. Participants were adults between 25 and 60 years. The majority of the patients who were surveyed presented cognitive impairment and unemployment status. Those who completed secondary school (79%), stated that virtual consultation was easy to conduct (83%) and WhatsApp group texting information for mutual support was very difficult to comprehend for participating actively (63%). On the other hand, participants who only reached primary school (21%) declared that virtual consultation was easy to do (71%) and WhatsApp group texting information for mutual support was very difficult to comprehend for participating actively (87%). Concerning access, 78% of participants answered that they have difficulties with the availability of digital devices (i.e., smartphones, computers, or tablets), internet connectivity and privacy at home or work for undergoing digital treatment.