Access To Information Research Articles

Evaluating and Enhancing Canvas Course Website: Prioritizing User‐Centered Design

ABSTRACTCanvas, a learning management system (LMS), has been widely adopted by academic institutions across North America. Despite its robust features, the user experience with Canvas varies significantly. This study examines the design of a Canvas course website, providing evidence‐based guidance for creating user‐centered LMS interfaces. The findings aim to enhance the user experience by addressing issues such as information overload, user control, and accessibility. Design principles and recommendations generated from this study are crucial for our institution‐wide adoption of Canvas, promoting a seamless and supportive learning environment.

Exploring the burden of paediatric acute otitis media with discharge in the UK: a qualitative study

BackgroundAcute otitis media with discharge (AOMd) results from a tympanic membrane perforation secondary to a middle ear infection. Currently, the impact of AOMd on children and young people (CYP) and...

A federated information system framework for vertical integration

The convergence of operational and information technology in the era of Industry 4.0 has significantly increased the volume of data being generated on the manufacturing shop floors. Current research trends have focused on integrating this data with information present throughout the different systems in manufacturing facilities from Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) to Manufacturing Execution System (MES) software, otherwise known as vertical integration. More specifically, previous works have looked at aggregating this data being read from Open Platform Communication Unified Architecture (OPC UA) servers by utilizing centralized aggregation servers to create information systems. This article, however, proposes a framework that adopts a federated information system designed to fulfill the manufacturing industry’s requirements and is capable of connecting to different OPC UA servers and storing the data within knowledge graph-based information models. GraphQL servers are also utilized in this system for easy accessibility of information by users. This system provides modularity, scalability, and interoperability to supplement the capabilities of information systems previously implemented. A prototype was also developed in this article for a federated information system for a boiler monitoring system.

The Accessibility Levels of the Websites of Federal Higher Education Institutions in Northeast Brazil

The general aim of this study is to make a diagnosis on the accessibility of information made available on the websites of the Federal Higher Education Institutions (IFES) in the Northeast. It is based on the hypothesis that the websites of the IFES in the Northeast Region of Brazil do not have high levels of adequacy, results that do not allow any user, regardless of being a person with disabilities or other limitations, to access the knowledge made available there, either with the help of assistive technologies or autonomously. The methodological procedures will be bibliographical and documentary research with analysis of primary sources on institutional websites and administrative acts made available, or not, on these sources. All the open data portals will be evaluated and simulated to determine their suitability for eMAG. This will be done using the public software ASES, a system for comparing and validating the standards of construction and behaviour of the source code of electronic sites, pointing out the levels of usability, navigability, alternative text, and content markers regarding the eMAG parameters, which are mandatory for public institutional sites in Brazil in terms of digital accessibility. As a result of the research, it was possible to identify that the levels of accessibility on the websites of these institutions were not in line with the parameters of the Digital Government Accessibility Model (eMag) of Brazil. This reveals divergences in the promotion of access to information; while some IFES make information available autonomously, without facing noise, interference, or impediments to the use of information, others do not so much, which has a negative impact on the guarantee of rights such as the exercise of full citizenship.

POLICY ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SMART MOBILITY IN THE SOUTH TANGERANG CITY, INDONESIA BASED ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION USING THE PROMETHEE METHOD

The increase in population density and mobility in certain urban areas has underscored the need for a smart mobility concept. As a component of the broader smart city framework, smart mobility aims to enhance transportation services, making them more accessible, safe, comfortable, efficient, and affordable for the public. This research assesses the readiness for implementing public transportation-based smart mobility in South Tangerang and develops a policy strategy model for its transportation planning and development. The study employed a mixed-method approach, incorporating multivariate analysis and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis. The findings reveal that South Tangerang is currently unprepared to implement smart mobility, as indicated by low scores on its assessment indicators. Recommended policies include improving the availability, security, and comfort of public transportation, reorganizing transit routes, providing real-time information access, adjusting schedules, and promoting bicycle use by adding bicycle lanes. This research highlights the current state of transportation systems in developing countries and emphasizes the importance of implementing policies that benefit a wide segment of the population.

A Framework for Defining Algorithmic Fairness in the Context of Information Access

ABSTRACTAs technologies powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms increasingly take over personal computing online and public sector domains, they simultaneously raise the promise of an extensively productive and sustainable future, as well as fears of widening inequalities, information and content divide, and a more complex information‐seeking landscape. Thus, the hopes of improved accuracy, efficiency, productivity, reduced human bias in decision‐making, and access to information are fast giving way to a trove of ethical and human rights issues with far‐reaching consequences for accountability, privacy, social justice, equity, inclusion, and informed consent, and public participation in decision‐making. Since no technology is entirely free of bias, this paper identifies algorithmic fairness as a more realistic threshold and goal. Building on findings from a previous PRISMA review of relevant literature, the paper proposes a comprehensive framework for defining algorithmic fairness in the context of information access.

Web-Based System Enhances Extracurricular Management Efficiency in Educational Institutions

Background: The advancement of information technology has significantly influenced educational management, particularly in managing extracurricular activities within schools. Specific Background: Traditional methods of managing these activities often lead to time-consuming processes and ineffective communication, highlighting the need for a more efficient system. Knowledge Gap: While various management systems exist, few specifically address the challenges faced in managing extracurricular activities effectively and transparently. Aims: This research aims to develop and implement a web-based Extracurricular Management Information System (SIMAK) to enhance efficiency and transparency in managing extracurricular activities. Results: Utilizing Agile methodology with the Scrum model and the Laravel framework, the study successfully developed the SIMAK application, which supports activity registration, schedule management, attendance tracking, and student assessments. The implementation of SIMAK resulted in improved administrative efficiency, streamlined processes, and increased transparency in information access for administrators, coaches, and students. Novelty: This study presents a unique approach to extracurricular management by leveraging modern technology and methodologies to address existing inefficiencies in educational settings. Implications: The findings suggest that the SIMAK application not only enhances the management of extracurricular activities but also encourages greater student participation and provides schools with better data for decision-making. Overall, the application significantly contributes to optimizing students' educational experiences outside the classroom, promoting a more organized and transparent approach to extracurricular management. Highlights: Efficiency: Streamlines registration and scheduling processes for extracurricular activities. Transparency: Improves information access for all users involved. Engagement: Increases student participation in extracurricular activities. Keywords: Extracurricular Management, Information System, Agile Methodology, Transparency, Education Technology

Integrating AI in College Education: Positive yet Mixed Experiences with ChatGPT

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots into higher education marks a shift towards a new generation of pedagogical tools, mirroring the arrival of milestones like the internet. With the launch of ChatGPT-4 Turbo in November 2023, we developed a ChatGPT-based teaching application (https://chat.openai.com/g/g-1imx1py4K-chatge-medical-imaging) and integrated it into our undergraduate medical imaging course in the Spring 2024 semester. This study investigates the use of ChatGPT throughout a semester-long trial, providing insights into students’ engagement, perception, and the overall educational effectiveness of the technology. We systematically collected and analyzed data concerning students’ interaction with ChatGPT, focusing on their attitudes, concerns, and usage patterns. The findings indicate that ChatGPT offers significant advantages such as improved information access and increased interactivity, but its adoption is accompanied by concerns about the accuracy of the information provided and the necessity for well-defined guidelines to optimize its use.

Enhancing Accessibility in Archives of Developing Countries: Strategies for Inclusive Information Access in Pakistani Context

ABSTRACTThis study explores these challenges, focusing on language diversity, literacy levels, and technological infrastructure. Sindh's linguistic diversity, with Sindhi, Urdu, and English as primary languages, creates barriers for users not proficient in multiple languages. The need for translation services, limited by financial constraints, further complicates access. Additionally, literacy disparities between urban and rural areas hinder engagement with textual materials, necessitating educational outreach programs that require substantial investment. Technological barriers, including limited internet access and digital devices in rural areas, exacerbate these challenges. This research proposes strategies to enhance accessibility in Sindh Archives, such as multilingual cataloging, audiovisual resources, community outreach programs, mobile libraries, user‐friendly digital interfaces, collaborative partnerships, and capacity‐building initiatives. These strategies aim to promote equitable access to archival resources, enabling broader participation in research and education. By implementing these approaches, the rich cultural heritage of Sindh can be preserved and made accessible for future generations. The Sindh Archives in Karachi, with its extensive collection of historical documents, serves as a case study to illustrate the potential impact of these strategies.

The Determinants of International Certification among Manufacturing Firms in Pakistan

This study investigates the factors that influence international certification among Pakistani manufacturing firms. About a third of such firms in Pakistan hold one or more certificates related to management or technical processes. The existing literature suggests that this demand is influenced by factors such as sector of activity, market competition, human capital and information environment, ownership type, and available resources. By analyzing a large, random sample of Pakistani manufacturing firms, we find strong correlations between these factors and international certification. We also discover that owner attitude, an aspect overlooked in previous studies, plays a role in the certification decision. While our statistical model does not fully explain the determinants of certification for small firms, we do find that certification is associated with increased profitability among small enterprises. This implies that small enterprise development agencies can improve the effectiveness of their programs by considering certification status as an additional criterion for allocating support funds. The results of our study have policy implications related to exporting, staff training, diffusion of firm ownership, and enhanced information access facilitated by modern technology tools.

Education Policy Implementation at School Level: A Study of School Strategies for Facing Social Change at Klaten Senior High School, Indonesia

Social changes in the digital era have had various impacts on education policy. It is important to investigate how educational institutions implement these policy practices to find out how they can realize the vision, mission and goals of education and overcome various problems of social change. This research investigated the implementation of educational policies in the face of social change in the current era of digitalization. A case study research design using a descriptive qualitative approach guided this researcher. The first findings revealed that social changes that influence educational policies in schools include changes to learning models, use of technological tools, information accessibility, interaction, and collaboration in the teaching and learning process. The second finding discussed the existence of positive impacts and potential negative risks on the implementation of school policies due to social changes that occur. The third finding explained four school policy strategies in facing social change, including curriculum adjustments, guidance counseling, collaboration, and digital literacy. The conclusion was that the education policy at Klaten Senior High School (SMA) is generally effective in dealing with the worst impacts that may occur due to social changes in the digital era. It was hoped that these findings would become concrete steps for developing education policies at the upper secondary level. The aim was to improve the ability of teachers and students to face social changes in the digital era and for a better future. The government, through educational institutions, should provide maximum support for the implementation of educational policies.

Roadmap to Success: Illustrating Insights from a KAP Study on Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Vaccination

Introduction Cervical cancer is a public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries, with India ranking among the highest in cervical cancer burden. The World Health Organization (has set ambitious targets for cervical cancer elimination by 2030, emphasizing the importance of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening. In response, the National Technical Advisory Group of Immunization recommends the introduction of HPV vaccination for all eligible girls aged 9 to 14 years in India under the Universal Immunization Program. However, successful implementation requires both vaccine availability and changes in health care providers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding cervical cancer prevention and HPV vaccination. Methodology This study aims to assess KAP among clinicians regarding cervical cancer and HPV vaccination. A cross-sectional survey collected responses from 451 practicing gynecologists and medical practitioners across 15 states of India. The questionnaire sought insights into patient inquiries, information sources, awareness levels, methods of patient education, and common myths and misconceptions. Results Results indicate a high prevalence of patient inquiries about cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine, emphasizing the need for accurate and accessible information. While doctors were generally knowledgeable, misconceptions persisted among patients, including beliefs about low risk, inevitability of cervical cancer, and concerns about vaccine safety. Doctors primarily relied on verbal communication for patient education, suggesting potential for utilizing digital platforms and visual aids to enhance outreach. Insights Insights from doctors underscored the importance of addressing misinformation and leveraging various communication channels, including social media, posters, and celebrity endorsements, to improve awareness and acceptance of vaccination. Disparities in vaccine availability and administration rates highlighted the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable access. Limitations Limitations of the study included its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias. However, findings suggest a need for ongoing medical education and collaboration with stakeholders to drive awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination. Conclusion In conclusion, while gynecologists and medical practitioners demonstrate adequate KAP regarding cervical cancer prevention, there is room for improvement in patient education and communication strategies. Refining educational materials and strengthening communication channels would enhance awareness and reduce cervical cancer burden.

Pharmacists as educators: Enhancing patient understanding and access to specialty medications through community workshops

Pharmacists are increasingly recognized as vital educators within the healthcare system, particularly in improving patient understanding and access to specialty medications. This review explores the expanding role of pharmacists as educators, emphasizing their unique expertise in providing accurate, accessible information and their impact on patient outcomes. The paper highlights community workshops as an effective tool for delivering education, focusing on the structure, content, and accessibility of these workshops to diverse patient populations. Furthermore, it examines patients' barriers to accessing specialty medications and how pharmacists can help overcome these challenges through education, support, and coordination with other healthcare providers. The review also discusses future directions for enhancing the educator role of pharmacists, the need for supportive policies, and the potential long-term benefits of pharmacist-led education on public health and healthcare costs. Recommendations for implementing and expanding community-based education initiatives are provided, emphasizing integrating these efforts into broader healthcare strategies. Keywords: Pharmacist-led education; Specialty medications; Community workshops; Healthcare access; Patient outcomes; Public health

AKUNTABILITAS DAN AKSESIBILITAS PENGELOLAAN DANA DESA PADA DESA MANDALLE

The aim of this research is to look at the influence of Accountability and Accessibility on Village Fund Management in Mandalle Village, West Bajeng District, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi Province. The research method applied was quantitative with a total sample of 67 people consisting of village officials, RT Head, RW Head, Village Supervisory Board and Youth Leaders in Mandalle Village, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi. The results of the questionnaire obtained were tested for validity and reliability as well as classic assumptions in the form of normality assumptions, then data analysis was carried out using multiple linear regression techniques. Based on the findings in several tests, it is clear that accountability has a positive and significant effect on village fund management, but accessibility has no effect on village fund management. The implementation of accountability in Mandalle Village has been carried out optimally because there is an announcement banner containing the contents of the financial report for one year of government in front of the Mandalle Village office. In developing the accessibility of village fund management information, the Mandalle Village Government needs access to social media and the Mandalle Village website.

The experience of sexual harassment victims in accessing counseling services at higher education institutions in Samarinda

This study aims to understand the experiences of sexual harassment victims in accessing counseling services at higher education institutions in Samarinda. The research addresses a gap in the literature, as most previous studies have focused more on the legal, sociological, and psychological aspects of sexual harassment but have not deeply explored the experiences of victims in accessing counseling services at the university level. This qualitative phenomenological research employed the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach. The participants consisted of four sexual harassment victims from two universities, one public and one religious-based institution. The findings of this study identified three main barriers. First, a lack of information regarding the counseling services available on campus led to delays in seeking help by the victims. Second, feelings of shame prevented victims from accessing counseling services as they were reluctant to share their traumatic experiences. This sense of shame was often exacerbated by fear of being blamed or perceived as overreacting by others, causing victims to keep their experiences to themselves. Third, the fear of social and academic stigma, including concerns about negative judgment from peers and lecturers, particularly if the perpetrator was a faculty member, became a significant obstacle for victims seeking help. Some victims even expressed concerns about the impact on their academic achievements if the incident became public. The study emphasizes the importance of policies that ensure easy access and clear information about counseling services, as well as efforts to reduce stigma, to encourage victims to seek help.

Calling for allied efforts to strengthen digital health literacy in Sweden: perspectives of policy makers

BackgroundA more digitalised world comes with the promise to improve people’s lives. Therefore, it is essential that policymakers also align digital interventions with initiatives to empower citizens and strengthen their digital health literacy. The aim of this study was to explore the views of Swedish policymakers regarding the potential and barriers of a European strategy to strengthen digital health literacy.MethodRepresentatives from Swedish governmental agencies and regions were purposively approached by email to ask them to participate in online workshops to discuss the potential and barriers of developing a European strategy to strengthen digital health literacy.ResultsThe results highlight the need for a national strategy to strengthen digital health literacy. The findings point to critical areas for improvement, ethical and social considerations, and the importance of inclusive and accessible health information online. Participants identified vulnerable groups requiring targeted support to enhance their digital health literacy, particularly those at risk of digital exclusion. Participants emphasised the importance of considering various combinations of conditions or problems that people may have, urging policymakers to adopt a nuanced approach to enhance digital literacy.ConclusionsThere is a critical need for policymakers to strengthen digital health literacy in the population to ensure health equity in relation to digitalisation opportunities. Policymakers advocate for a dedicated national strategy, supporting policymakers to prioritize digital health literacy. Tailoring information, enhancing digital support for prevention, and considering ethical implications are reported as important aspects to improve digital health literacy.

Current Approaches to the Interaction Between Regional Public Authorities and Socially Oriented Non-Profit Organizations

Introduction. At present, all levels of government are continuously working on the formation of global information space and digital technologies in order to improve the information accessibility of the activities in public authorities of Russian constituent entities. The need for a more detailed analysis of this direction actualizes scientific research to develop promising areas of interaction between regional public authorities and socially oriented non-profit organizations (hereinafter - SO NPOs). The purpose of the research is to reveal current approaches to understanding the interaction between regional public authorities and SO NCOs. Methods. Criteria and support forms for SO NPOs were considered on the basis of the system method. Provisions and conclusions were substantiated by logical and structural analysis in terms of disclosing theoretical approaches and identifying the main problems in the interaction between regional public authorities and SO NPOs. Results. The article reveals current approaches to understanding the interaction between regional public authorities and SO NCOs. Conclusions. The research can be used in the improvement of mechanisms for the introduction of digital technologies in the system of state and municipal governance in the regions of the Russian Federation to improve the quality of interaction between the regional authorities and the non-profit sector.

How Does Social Media Influence Tourist Behavior? A Conceptual Framework for Exploration

Purpose of the study: In the era of digitalization, the introduction of social media platforms has fundamentally changed how people access and exchange information, significantly impacting various societal spheres, including the travel and tourism industry. This study presents a conceptual framework of existing literature to examine the relationship between social media and its influence on travel behaviors in choosing tourist destinations. Methodology: An evaluation of recently published research papers, articles, and publications on social media and its influence on travel behaviors was conducted. Main Findings: Visitors may find it challenging to sort through possibilities due to information overload and decision fatigue caused by the abundance of data. However, when it comes to information exposure, perception creation, and decision-making during the pre-trip preparation stage, social media is an essential source of travel-related information. Applications of the study: This study highlights the multifaceted ways social media impacts travelers' decision-making processes, leading to a paradigm shift in how tourist destinations are chosen. Novelty/Originality of the study: This study encompasses review of more than 50 sources that inludes, research papers, blogs, websites, newspaper articles, magazines topresent a comprehensive view on the said title.

Мультиагентное тестирование на проникновение на основе AIRL

This paper explores the application of a multi-agent approach based on the Adversarial Inverse Reinforcement Learning (AIRL) method for penetration testing in information systems. Theoretical aspects of multi-agent AIRL are discussed, including the ability to model complex, multi-stage attacks, coordinate agent actions, and learn with partial observability, which accounts for limitations in information access. The practical application of this approach will demonstrate its effectiveness in identifying vulnerabilities, providing a deeper and more accurate security analysis.

Age differences in cannabis-related perceptions, knowledge, and sources of information among adults in the post-legalization era in Quebec, Canada.

Individuals access and perceive information about cannabis differently according to age groups. This study compared differences in beliefs and knowledge regarding cannabis, and exposure to information, advertisement, and prevention messages among emerging (18-24 years old), prime-age (25-44), middle-age (45-64), and old-age adults (65 and over). Participants (n=2,001) completed online questionnaires regarding their sociodemographic characteristics, mental health perception, cannabis use, sources of cannabis information, and exposure to advertisement and prevention messages. Bivariate analyses allowed the detection of differences among the age groups. Emerging adults exhibited more positive attitudes regarding cannabis and were more knowledgeable regarding cannabis facts than their older counterparts. Online media constituted the principal source of information for the overall sample. Health resources were the most trusted information source for all age groups, but only one-fifth of the sample consulted them. A higher proportion of emerging adults were exposed to cannabis advertisements and prevention messages. Old-age adults were more likely to be reached through traditional media. As perceptions and beliefs about cannabis, information access, and exposure to advertisement or prevention messages vary across age groups, effective prevention and education should be tailored accordingly. Health resources and scientific literature about cannabis should become more accessible and understandable to the general population.