Access To Technology Research Articles

Actual Purchase on Live Streaming TikTok Shop: The Influence of Trust, Flow Experience, and IT Affordance

The use of live streaming technology has transcended its marketing function, evolving into a platform for fostering deeper interactions between sellers and consumers. The accessibility of technology, trust, and the flow experience play crucial roles in facilitating transactions within the context of live streaming commerce. These factors influence consumer desire to make purchases and ultimately drive actual purchases. This research aims to investigate the influence of these factors on purchase intention and actual purchases within the context of live streaming commerce services in Indonesia. The data analysis method employed is SEM-PLS, with TikTok as the research subject. TikTok, through its TikTok Shop platform, has become one of the primary choices for live streaming commerce services in Indonesia, with 6 million users as sellers and 7 million users as affiliates. The results of this study show that visibility affordance, metavoicing affordance, and guidance shopping affordance can affect purchase intention which in turn affects actual purchases by customers through trust in seller, trust in platform, and immersion. This research not only provides valuable insights for practitioners and sellers in the field of live streaming commerce, but also provides a foundation for the development of technology platforms that meet market needs.

Educational Leadership and Management in Complex and Diverse Situations (A Case Study of Chitwan)

Recruitment and retention of school headteachers are crucial parts of quality education in schools because qualified, experienced, and retained school headteachers can motivate teachers and enhance the educational standard in schools. This study examined the perceptions of the headteachers to understand their attrition causes. This paper tried to identify the causes of headteachers’ attrition by conducting qualitative interviews in Chitwan District, Nepal. This paper applied the qualitative approach because it helps understand the deeply rooted experience of headteacher attrition. Using the accounts of the five headteachers, the interviews were conducted concerning their job dissatisfaction factors (e.g., societal support), followed by open-ended interviews by conducting qualitative interviews in Chitwan District (2022). This study considered three major ethical issues in qualitative research: the researcher’s behaviour, questionable information, suggestions, and study guidance. It is argued that due to a lack of technological access and social identity, there is always a problem with recruiting and retaining headteachers in Nepalese schools. This study argues that with respect to the day-to-day work activities required to be a headteacher, the working relationship between teaching and non-teaching staff has changed fundamentally worldwide, including in Nepal. Nepalese schools have been struggling to find stable and highly motivated headteachers. However, the investment outcomes are not as fruitful as they have been in the Nepalese schools. It has been concluded that the lack of technological access, social respect, high political pressure, the lack of motivation and lack of commitment and motivation were the key causes of headteacher attrition in Nepalese schools.

From experts' perspective, factors affecting the effectiveness of online educational programs in promoting the health literacy of MS patients: A grounded theory approach.

Online educational programs have emerged as a promising tool for promoting health literacy (HL) among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. However, identifying influencing factors is crucial for maximizing their effectiveness. This study aimed to explain the factors affecting the effectiveness of online educational programs in promoting HL among MS patients in Iran. A qualitative methodology based on Grounded Theory (GT) was employed and participants were recruited using snowball sampling. A total of 17 experts, including patient educators and HL experts, were interviewed until theoretical saturation was achieved. Participants were selected from patient rehabilitation centers in Tehran and members of the Iran MS Society. Analysis of the interview data revealed six contextual factors. These factors included socioeconomic status, healthcare infrastructure, technological accessibility and literacy, cultural and linguistic diversity, support networks and caregiver involvement, and health policy and regulatory environment. Addressing socioeconomic disparities, improving technological access and literacy and fostering cultural sensitivity are essential steps to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of these programs. Moreover, collaboration with caregivers and policymakers is crucial for creating an enabling environment that supports the successful integration of online health education initiatives into MS care. Findings from this study can enhance the efficacy and productivity of online programs aimed at boosting HL among patients with specific conditions like MS.

Social Media and Knowledge Sharing: Impact on Academic Development in Public Universities of Kanpur

Background ContextEducation have been profoundly impacted by social networking, which has completely changed the way we acquire and exchange information. Since social media is interactive, it makes learning more effective by giving people a forum for conversations and information sharing. Social media platforms have significantly influenced how individuals interact and exchange information, impacting educational practices by enabling students to share and access knowledge more effectively. This shift is particularly relevant in academic environments where collaborative learning and resource accessibility are crucial. Knowledge GapDespite extensive social media usage among students, limited research addresses its specific impacts on academic growth in public universities, especially in regional contexts like Kanpur, India. This study seeks to fill this gap by exploring how social media supports academic development, focusing on factors like trust, collaboration, communication, and perceived benefits. MethodsUsing a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected through structured questionnaires from students across three major public universities in Kanpur. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was applied to examine the relationships between social media use and academic outcomes, emphasizing mediating factors such as family and technological support. Key FindingsThe analysis shows that social media interactions notably enhance academic development by building trust, fostering collaboration, and promoting effective knowledge sharing. Support from family and access to technology further strengthen these benefits, positively influencing students’ academic engagement and performance. ImplicationsThese findings suggest that educational institutions should consider integrating digital collaboration tools into their academic frameworks and support policies that enhance family and technological access. Such initiatives can help students leverage social media effectively for academic growth, making it a valuable educational resource. Future research might expand on these insights through longitudinal studies to capture evolving academic-social media dynamics.

Socio-Environmental Accessibility in Inclusive Schools in Buea Municipality by Students with Special Needs

Aim: The study sought to investigate socio-environmental accessibility in inclusive schools in Buea Municipality, Cameroon, emphasizing students with special needs. To accomplish this, the percentage of inclusive schools that fulfill accessibility requirements for students with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, the accessibility and use of assistive technology and learning resources tailored to diverse students' needs, and the degree of preparation and assurance of educators in applying inclusive teaching methods were investigated. Methods: Four major theories were employed to support the research. This study was conducted in four distinct inclusive schools in the Buea Municipality. A random sampling procedure was utilized to recruit a sample of 80 students with various types of disabilities, 20 from each school. A mixed-methods research design was used, combining quantitative and qualitative data. Data was collected through a questionnaire and interview guides and expressed using percentages and frequencies. Results: The study found that most respondents recognized that inclusive schools in the Buea Municipality of Cameroon meet accessibility requirements for students with disabilities. Many interviewees stated that inclusive schools in Buea Municipality have suitable assistive technology and learning tools. Also, respondents agreed that inclusive schools in Buea Municipality lacked suitable assistive technology and learning tools. Respondents agreed that educators' preparation and assurance using inclusive teaching approaches were appropriate. Other respondents believed that educators' preparation and confidence in utilizing inclusive teaching approaches were inadequate. Conclusion: Well-structured professional development activities greatly improve instructors’ readiness to apply inclusive practices, improving student engagement and learning results. Recommendation: Immediate legislative changes and investments in school infrastructure is needed to ensure that all students can thrive in an inclusive learning environment. Keywords: Accessibility, socio-environmental accessibility, assistive devices, inclusive schools, special needs

Exploring the Accessibility of Community-Based Telerehabilitation for Children with Disabilities from Low-Income Households

Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) is a rights-based approach that aims to provide equitable health services and participation opportunities for people with disabilities. Telerehabilitation has emerged as a potential methodology for delivering health care within the CBR framework. However, the accessibility of telerehabilitation presents unique challenges for children with disabilities (CWD) in communities with low socioeconomic status. This phenomenological qualitative study explores the barriers and facilitators that influence the participation of families of CWD in telerehabilitation as a method of CBR in urban poor communities. Nine focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted involving 75 primary caregivers of CWD. Inductive thematic analysis using NVivo software was employed to analyze the collected data, revealing four themes that impact participation in Telerehabilitation: Economic and Social Resources, Self-Competency Affecting Transition, Flexible Service Delivery Mechanism, and Safety and Security as a Threat to Participation. The findings emphasize the intricate interplay of factors influencing the accessibility of telerehabilitation services for CWD from low-income households. Actionable strategies to address these challenges include providing affordable technology and internet access, offering training and support to families, developing culturally sensitive resources, establishing safety protocols, and advocating for inclusive policies and funding mechanisms. Collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and families is essential in building a resilient and equitable healthcare system that prioritizes the needs of CWD living in poverty. The insights gained from this study can inform the development of targeted interventions and support systems to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing quality care despite the digital and socioeconomic divides.

Growing up in the modern world: how does artificial intelligence enhance firm growth?

PurposeThis paper examines the relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology development and firm growth. Specifically, it aims to explore how the availability of AI influences firm growth and whether larger firms benefit more from AI-driven technological advancements compared to smaller firms.Design/methodology/approachUsing a dataset from CRSP-Compustat covering public firms from 1975 to 2023, this study employs price per memory (PPM) as a proxy for AI technology accessibility to assess its impact on firm growth. The analysis focuses on three key growth metrics: total assets, tangible assets and market capitalization. By examining how data processing capacity influences these growth rates, the study compares the performance of large firms to small firms. A panel data regression is conducted, controlling for macroeconomic trends and industry-specific effects on firm growth. Additionally, the study investigates the heterogeneous impacts of AI technology accessibility across firms of different sizes.FindingsThe findings reveal that PPM, as a proxy for AI technology availability, significantly affects firm growth. Specifically, larger firms experience faster growth, especially in recent years, as AI technology becomes more accessible and cost-effective. These results suggest that large firms gain the most substantial benefits from AI advancements, further widening the growth gap between large and small firms.Originality/valueThis research extends prior studies on the impact of AI on firm growth by introducing PPM as a novel proxy for AI availability. It provides new insights into how AI technologies disproportionately benefit larger firms and offers important policy implications regarding firm financing and information regulation. This study also highlights areas for future empirical research on the role of AI in the financial industry.

Exploring Therapists' Experiences of an Educational Website to Support Telehealth Delivery of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy.

Purpose: Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) is an evidence-based intervention for arm recovery after acquired brain injury. Clinician knowledge, time and confidence in delivering CIMT are established barriers to the routine use of CIMT in practice. CIMT delivery via telehealth is one option to help overcome these barriers. This study aimed to understand clinician experiences of using an educational website and if the education and online resources contributed to their self-reported use of constraint-induced movement therapy via telehealth (TeleCIMT) in practice. Materials and Methods: Data were collected from a purposive sample of therapists registered to use the TeleCIMT website and website analytics. An online survey explored participants' experience with CIMT delivery (both face to face and via telehealth), their perceptions of the website, and barriers and enablers to TeleCIMT implementation using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behaviour model. Website analytics were used to evaluate website traffic and resource use. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (quantitative data) and content analysis (qualitative data). Results: Forty therapists responded to the survey; 72.5% (n = 29) of the respondents were occupational therapists, and 37.5% (n = 15) had delivered TeleCIMT. Most of the participants agreed that the website was easy to navigate (n = 26, 90%) and felt that they had the knowledge (n = 28, 96.6%) and skills (n = 24, 82.7%) to deliver TeleCIMT. The enablers to TeleCIMT included motivation to implement learnings from the website, confidence in delivering the programme, and the convenience of remote delivery. The perceived barriers to TeleCIMT use included limited access to technology and the availability of a client supporter to enable engagement in TeleCIMT. The resources used most frequently by the respondents were the participant preparation pack and participant programme pack. Shorter video learning modules (<11 min in duration) had greater engagement than longer video learning modules. Conclusions: Whilst online education and resources may enhance clinician knowledge of constraint-induced movement therapy and telehealth delivery, other barriers such as lack of technology access, may need to be addressed through additional learning and implementation strategies to support the routine use of TeleCIMT in practice.

Factors Influencing Mobile Banking Adoption by Gen Z Generation

This study aims to identify the factors influencing the adoption of mobile banking among Generation Z, known as digital natives with a lifestyle highly integrated with technology. Using a qualitative approach,The findings reveal several key factors affecting mobile banking adoption: ease of use, security and privacy, social influence, value-added services, technological accessibility, cost and efficiency, and alignment with digital lifestyles. Generation Z tends to prefer applications with simple interfaces, reliable security features, promotional incentives, and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, peer influence and recommendations from online communities play a significant role in their decision-making process. This study provides valuable insights for financial service providers to develop more effective strategies for increasing mobile banking adoption among this generation.

Digital Screen Time and Associated Health Factors: A Bibliometric Study on Global Research Trends Between 2012-2023

Background: Screen time has become an inevitable aspect of daily life due to increased technological access and changes in the social and economic landscapes. The increase in screen time is associated with the development of various health conditions. Contextually, research on screen time and its health impact has been studied widely. Therefore, the present study tried to understand the trends and themes in the global research on screen time and its associated health aspects. Method: We adopted a bibliometric review, and the data were extracted from the SCOPUS database, limiting it to 2012-2023 (n =4077). The final number of studies considered for the analysis was 2919 after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Scientific production has increased over the years on this topic, with few consistent contributors (Tremblay MS, Chaput JP, and Carson V) and sources from Western countries leading the production in this domain. In addition, from the results of thematic network mapping, we identified the basic yet underdeveloped topics in screen time and health research, namely obesity, risk factors to health, and mental health. A good proportion of the studies involve children and adolescents as participants, indicating the growing trend of studying screen time risk factors for these age groups' health. Conclusion: It was evident from the result that the earlier works have focused on screen time as a risk to health and well-being. However, its role in specific health conditions is underdeveloped. Further, the case of adolescents and children being a widely studied age group suggests the implications for their health and mental health.

Reforming ESG: a European and Global South perspective

Abstract The EU's non-financial reporting (NFR) regulations have significant impacts on Global South stakeholders, firms that must report, actors lower in the value chain, and organisations seeking investment from NFR-compliant firms or institutions. This paper sets forth six proposals to improve the global equity and sustainability implications of the EU's NFR from a Global South perspective. The proposals involve (1) developing regulation cooperatively with the Global South; (2) streamlining reporting to enable the regulations to have real effects and limit incorrect accounting; (3) digitalising reporting through accessible technologies for greater accountability and lower administrative burdens; (4) mandating scope 3 emissions accounting and incentivising related investment; (5) anchoring financial institutions' role in ethical investment and bridging Northern and Southern actors; and (6) strengthening citizen data and sustainability literacy to close the circle of incentives, implementation, and impact.

INDONESIA’S ELECTRONIC MONEY LANDSCAPE: BETWEEN EFFECTIVITY AND INCLUSIVITY

Technology has transformed payment systems. Regulated digital money transactions are replacing traditional cash transactions. However, policy frameworks on payment systems often neglect to consider the diverse needs of society despite the critical role that payment systems play in society. This can be seen by the increasingly mandatory use of electronic money, which may exclude groups who have relied on traditional cash transactions but have unequal technological access. This paper explores the importance of electronic money accessibility from the perspective of Indonesian court decisions. This study reveals that current implementations, policies, and court decisions regarding electronic money have mainly focused on effectiveness rather than inclusivity. Electronic money was created to help unbaked people access financial services. However, ensuring people have technological access to these services must include everyone. This study recommends that policymakers ensure that electronic money services are accessible to the unbanked and those with limited technology access when promoting their use. On top of that, the government must also reinforce that using rupiah, in any form, remains a legal means of payment and must be respected in all transactions.

Adoption of Aflatoxin Smart Technologies among Smallholder Maize Farmers in Kongwa &amp; Namtumbo Districts

Aims: The study was designed to evaluate adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies among maize farmers. Study Design: Cross sectional research design was used involving 344 respondents (300 maize farmers and 44 key informants). Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Kongwa district in Dodoma region and Namtumbo district in Ruvuma region of Tanzania. Methodology: A survey questionnaire with open and closed ended questions was used to collect both quantitative from farmers while Key informant interview was conducted with traders, agricultural extension officers and input suppliers. The study used both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse collected data, whereby mean, standard deviations, minimum and maximum were used to describe maize farmers in relation to adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies. Multinomial regression model was used to determine factors influencing adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies. Results: Majority of maize farmers had low awareness level on aflatoxin. Low awareness level hindered the use of aflatoxin smart technologies. Moreover, results of multinomial logistic regression showed that farmer’s experience on maize cultivations, household size, awareness on aflatoxin, and location of maize farmer, gender and access to credits were significant factors affecting the adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies and its intensities at P = .05. Conclusion: It was concluded that with regard to how serious the problem of aflatoxin is, there is a need of high efforts of raising awareness to maize farmers to neutralize the spread of contaminations caused by careless farm practices. With the help of study’s findings, it was recommended that there is a need to wide spread information on aflatoxin aiming to raise awareness of the maize farmers and increase physical access of aflatoxin smart technologies.

DIGITAL DISCONNECTION, THE BROKEN PROMISE OF ATTENTION, AND POTENTIAL FOR CRITICAL ENGAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY OF THE FOREST

At a time when the accessibility of digital media technology at any time enables individuals constantly and permanently exist in the digital connection, the public become more concerned with relationship between digital media, digital attention crisis and technology addiction. This research contributes to the analysis of an emerging branch of mobile app industry that claims to address this issue. Based on the walk-through method and semi-structured interviews with users of one of the most popular app in this industry, the Forest app, this study develops a more nuanced and multifaceted understanding of the "technicity of attention" (Bucher, 2012) that underpins the app and how it mediates users' conceptualization of their experiences and routines of this app. Despite the app’s broken promise of attention, the study observes that users' experience of failure and frustration helps to reveal the app's same logic of attention arrangement shared by attention economy, and creates the conditions for users to reflect on the connectivity paradox and the problematic oppositional relational structure between dependency and agency.

AI and Accessibility: Breaking Barriers for People with Disabilities

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing accessibility, offering transformative opportunities to enhance autonomy, quality of life, and social inclusion for people with disabilities. This narrative review article explores the intersection of AI and accessibility, critically analyzing its applications in healthcare, education, employment, and daily living. Highlighting innovations such as AI-driven assistive technologies, adaptive learning platforms, and wearable devices demonstrates how these tools empower individuals to overcome systemic barriers. The article also identifies significant challenges, including algorithmic bias, cost limitations, usability issues, and ethical concerns regarding privacy and inclusivity. Through a synthesis of interdisciplinary literature and real-world case studies, including AI chatbots for disability disclosure and accessible Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics solutions, the article provides practical insights into the successes and shortcomings of current AI-driven solutions. It offers future research directions, emphasizing user-centric design, intersectional inclusivity, and ethical frameworks. The findings underscore AI’s transformative potential to create a more equitable, inclusive society while outlining the critical steps to address persistent barriers.

A Systematic Literature Review on Artificial Intelligence in English Language Education

This systematic literature review explores the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in English language education, focusing on studies published between 2020 until 2024 from Malaysia and international contexts. A total of 15 articles were analysed to examine the impact of AI-driven tools such as tutoring systems, game-based apps, and automated assessment tools on learning outcomes, student engagement, and language proficiency. The findings highlight significant improvements in motivation, personalized learning experiences, and enhanced language skills facilitated by AI platforms. However, ethical considerations and regional disparities in technology access pose challenges. Recommendations for future research emphasize longitudinal studies on AI’s efficacy, the development of advanced AI tools, and comprehensive educator training. This review underscores AI’s transformative potential in shaping modern language education while advocating for continued exploration and ethical integration.

FROM CHALKBOARDS TO DIGITAL PLATFORMS: THE IMPACT OF MEDIA ON MODERN EDUCATION

This qualitative study investigates the integration of media tools in O-level &amp; A-level classrooms, focusing on perceived impact of multimedia resources such as digital platforms, smartboards, and interactive technologies on the student learning and engagement. Conducted in schools equipped with the modern educational resources, the research involved 50 students and 20 teachers experienced in media-enriched teaching. Data was collected through semi-structured teacher interviews &amp; focus group discussions with students and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that multimedia tools boost student engagement and comprehension, leading to improved learning outcomes. However, challenges like limited access to technology, inadequate teacher training, and potential student distractions were identified as barriers to effective implementation. Both teachers and students stressed the need for better technological resources &amp; ongoing professional growth for educators. The study highlights the transformative potential of media integration in enhancing teaching, learning &amp; features the importance of addressing existing limitations to maximize its benefits. By bridging gaps in technology access and educator training, schools can more effectively leverage multimedia tools to create dynamic &amp; engaging learning environments.

MEETING IN-PERSON NEEDS OF ELDERS LIVING IN RURAL COMMUNITIES BY UTILIZING APPS AND INTERNET ACCESS

Abstract Challenges and success for meeting the in person needs of elders living in rural communities by utilizing apps and internet access takes tenacity and workarounds as many rural communities lack community wide internet, WiFi or cell phone coverage that providers of care can access. This lack of infrastructure impacts everything from first responder access and communication to efficient routing and access to information and charting by providers while in the home providing care. This lack of infrastructure is an impediment to quality care and also employment opportunities. Rural communities typically have more older adults residing in them. These older adults benefit from in home care, especially with ADLs. Technology access allows people to work from home, on the road and live in rural communities. It is a win win in health care when rural communities embrace community wide communication access.

Metaverse for Enhancing Animal Welfare - Leveraging Sensor Technology and Ethical Considerations

The metaverse, a virtual world where real-world aspects merge with artificial intelligence, immersive experiences, and high-level digital connectivity, is increasingly being applied in animal farming. This integration offers significant opportunities for addressing climate change and promoting sustainable food production. However, it also raises several ethical issues, particularly concerning animal rights. This paper evaluates these ethical considerations, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of how sensor technology affects animals' perception and autonomy. Key findings indicate that while metaverse technologies can enhance animal welfare through improved monitoring and optimized living conditions, they also pose risks of detachment and commodification. The design of animal-friendly environments must balance technological advancement with ethical approaches to animal welfare. Critical factors such as ethical reflection, socio-economic impact, and the ability to retrieve meaningful information must be considered to maintain sensitivity and trust in these technologies. Moreover, the paper highlights the importance of addressing inequalities in access and adoption of metaverse technologies, which can significantly benefit animal farming. The potential of the metaverse to revolutionize the agri-food sector, particularly in animal agriculture, remains vast but requires further research to fully understand its implications. This paper concludes that a conscientious and ethical approach is essential for integrating metaverse technologies into animal farming, ensuring that animal welfare and equitable practices are prioritized for a sustainable future.

Real-Time Digital Assistance for Exercise: Exercise Tracking System with MediaPipe Angle Directive Rules

This paper focuses on developing an exercise tracking system capable of recognizing simple exercises, such as push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups, with high accuracy, leveraging human pose estimation techniques to enhance prediction performance. Exercise tracking can help users to perform workouts correctly and improve overall physical and mental health. The system utilizes the HSiPu2 dataset for training and evaluation, employing MediaPipe as the human pose estimation input and a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) model for exercise recognition. Initially, a baseline MLP with three layers was implemented, followed by an improved expand-shrink MLP architecture designed to enhance model performance. The results demonstrate that the expand-shrink MLP model has achieved a 16% higher accuracy than the baseline, showcasing its effectiveness in accurately recognizing simple exercises based on pose estimation data. This advancement highlights the potential of the model to support a broader range of exercise types, offering a robust solution for monitoring workouts. The system provides meaningful feedback to users by ensuring accurate exercise recognition and promoting safe and effective physical activity. Future research can explore integrating this system with real-time feedback mechanisms, enabling users to receive immediate corrections during workouts. Expanding the dataset to include diverse exercise routines, including complex and dynamic movements, could enhance the system’s applicability. These developments would pave the way for more comprehensive and practical exercise-tracking solutions, supporting individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle and improving the accessibility of fitness technologies.