Literacy Research Articles

Vulnerability of maize, barley, and wheat yields to growing season temperature and socioeconomic indicators in Morocco

Abstract In Morocco, the historical record depicts a situation characterized by increasing temperatures and diminishing precipitation, which often ends up in severe drought episodes. This research examines the vulnerability of wheat, barley, and maize to growing season temperature changes as well as socio-economic adaptive capacity proxies. This work uses a composite index of vulnerability that posits that the vulnerability index is a function of the exposure, sensitivity, and the adaptive capacity indexes. FAOSTAT and Yield Gap Atlas data were used for the period 1991-2016 to calculate the sensitivity index. The World Bank Climate Portal provided the mean annual growing season temperature data used to compute the exposure index. The World Bank, figshare, and MPR archives were used to capture the proxies of adaptive capacity such as literacy and poverty rates. These findings indicate that wheat has the lowest vulnerability index and the greatest adaptive capacity index, while barley has the strongest vulnerability and lowest adaptive capacity indexes. Sub-nationally, the indices of vulnerability and the standardized growing season's temperature decreased northwards. Northwards, wheat records the lowest vulnerability and highest adaptive capacity, and the second highest standard growing season temperature. In perspective, enhance adaptive capacity for climate resilience in policies, reduce vulnerability.

The Impact of Flipped Classroom Practices Supported by Web 2.0 Teaching Tools on Some Variables

One sector hit particularly hard due to the global COVID-19 epidemic, which got started in the year 2020, was education, so educational approaches that respond to the needs of the new era have gained importance. In this research, which was conducted to contribute to research in this direction, the current paper intended to figure out how to use Flipped Classrooms implementations propelled with Web 2.0 teaching tools in distance education in “People and Environment” topic in 5th grades regarding student performance, environmental literacy, attitude towards Web 2.0 assets. From the quantitative research methods, a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group was chosen for the study. The study included 36 5th-grade students studying at a public school in Istanbul. Research data were collected online using the Environmental Knowledge Test, Environmental Literacy Scale, and Attitude Scale Towards Web 2.0 assets. As a result of the study, it was observed that the academic achievement and environmental literacy rates of the experimental group increased, and their attitudes toward Web 2.0 tools changed positively. Expectations hold that these outcomes shall constitute meaningful beneficence to existing material regarding both the distance education process and educational solutions in the digitalized world and the creation of environmental awareness in children.

On the level of literacy of the population Kostroma and Yaroslavl provinces in the late 19th – early 20th centuries

The reforms carried out in Russia in the 1860-70s contributed to the industrial development of the country, but along with the changes in the economy changes in the socio-cultural sphere were no less large-scale. Due to the mass mobility of the population after the abolition of serfdom, representatives of different estates were involved in the general socio-cultural movement. One of the important indicators of the social modernisation of Russian society included the changed level of literacy of the population, caused by the need for competent personnel for the growing industry, transport, communications and management. Using the example of Kostroma and Yaroslavl provinces, the article shows the dynamics of changes in the literacy rate of the population in the late 19th – early 20th centuries which exceeded all-Russian indicators, both for urban and rural populations and was associated with the successful implementation of state policy in the field of education, the consequences of the introduction of the new Military Charter as of 1874 and the peculiarities of the socio-economic development of the provinces associated with the developed craftsmen’s internal migration.

Socio-economic Determinants of Low Literacy Rate in Rural Areas of Punjab Pakistan

Socio-economic Determinants of Low Literacy Rate in Rural Areas of Punjab Pakistan

Coastal vulnerability assessment to multi hazards in the exposed coast of Southeastern Coastal Region of Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a maritime nation situated on the northern side of the Bay of Bengal (BoB), blessed with substantial natural resources and opportunities. However, natural disasters and climate-induced hazards are threatening these opportunities as well as destroying the recourses. Coastal vulnerability assessment aids in the prevention of loss of life and resource devastation since it provides forewarning of impending calamitous consequences and facilitates taking mitigative measures. The study has endeavored to make a composite coastal vulnerability index (CVI) for the exposed coast of the southeastern coastal region of Bangladesh, combining physical and social vulnerability indexes using several physical and social parameters. The CVI was developed by using nine physical parameters, namely (a) Coastal Elevation, (b) Coastal Slope, (c) Annual Average Rainfall, (d) Storm Surge Height, (e) Soil Salinity, (f) Average Wind Speed, (g) Rate of SLR, (h) Soil Permeability, (i) Mean Tidal Range and six social parameters namely (a) Literacy rate, (b) Household Structure, (c) Land Use Land Cover (LULC), (d) Population Density (e) Number of Disabled People and (f) Number of Population (Age: <5 & >65). With the aid of field and secondary data, thematic layers of each physical and social parameter were prepared by defining five distinct vulnerability classes (i.e., very high, high, moderate, low, and very low) and assigning vulnerability ranks. The final CVI was estimated using geospatial techniques such as GIS and remote sensing, coupled with Physical Vulnerability Index (PVI) and Social Vulnerability Index (SVI), and relevant values were categorized into five distinct groups as before. The findings show that 25.9% of the exposed coast in the southeast coastal region, which comprises Banshkhali, Chakaria, Maheshkhali, and Cox's Bazar Sadar is high to very high vulnerable to multiple hazards. Comparatively, 28.29% have been classified as moderately vulnerable, and the remaining 45.8% in the areas of Hathazari, Mirsharai, Sitakunda, Sandwip, and Chittagong City (Kotwali), Kutubdia show that they are very low to low vulnerable to such multi-hazards. Based on this vulnerability assessment result, sustainable coastal management policy-making and development planning can be taken to mitigate the risk and loss of the southeastern coastal region due to climatic hazards and natural disasters such as floods and storm surges. The outcome information will also help to make an Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) plan for the proper and sustainable utilization of the coastal resources. Additionally, it will assist as ground information to establish a framework for prioritizing community resilience-building initiatives or developing appropriate adaptation strategies to lower catastrophe risk.

Evaluating the representativeness of mobile big data: A comparative analysis between China's mobile big data and census data at the county level

Mobile big data has emerged as an essential tool for various scientific research fields. However, the credibility of mobile big data and the extent to which it can represent the real-world population remain unclear. This study evaluated the representativeness of mobile big data by comparing it to the most recent census data at the county level in China. Using power-law and multiple linear regression models, we aim to determine the accuracy and reliability of mobile big data in reflecting the population dynamics and characteristics of different geographical areas. Our results indicate that disparities among individuals with different socioeconomic statuses, demographic characteristics, or geographic locations may contribute to biased estimations of the actual population density. Higher illiteracy rates and median ages may be associated with underestimating population density. In contrast, higher GDP per capita, elevated urbanization levels, and larger percentages of the 15–64 year age group may be associated with overestimating population density. Our research highlights the importance of cross-validating population estimates and offering practical statistical methods for addressing potential biases and estimating population dynamics in future applications of mobile big data.

Empowerment of Muslim Women in Char Areas: A Study of the Morigaon District of Assam

This study embarks on an in-depth exploration of the socio-political and economic dimensions of womens empowerment in the char areas of the Morigaon district in Assam, a region marked by its unique geographical and demographic characteristics. Despite accounting for nearly half of the nations population, women in India, particularly those in the under-researched char areas, grapple with low literacy rates and limited access to educational resources, starkly contrasting with the national growth figures. This research aims to dissect the multifaceted layers of empowerment, or the lack thereof, among Muslim women in these regions, scrutinizing their socio-economic status, political awareness, and the systemic obstacles impeding their holistic development. Leveraging both primary and secondary data, and employing empirical, descriptive, and analytical methods, the study seeks to unveil the nuances of empowerment and the factors contributing to the continued backwardness of the char areas, thereby providing a comprehensive understanding of the life and challenges faced by the women residing in these isolated riverine islands of the Brahmaputra.

The causal relationship between income inequality and economic growth: evidence from panel data for Vietnam

ABSTRACT By analysing a panel dataset of 63 provinces of Vietnam (2004 − 2021), this study demonstrated that there was a causal relationship between income inequality (measured by the Gini coefficient, income gap, and the income share of the top 20%) and economic growth (expressed by real GDP per capita). The Kuznets curve, which is a well-known inverted U-shaped relationship between real per capita GDP and income inequality, was found by applying the robust fixed-effects method (FEM). In Vietnam during 2004 − 2021, economic growth first increased income inequality and later reduced it at a higher stage of economic development. This empirical evidence demonstrates that the Kuznets curve is an apparent empirical phenomenon in both national and provincial data. The Two-step System GMM Estimation examined the impact of income inequality and other socioeconomic factors on GDP per capita and showed the significant positive impact of income inequality, investment, employment rate, and education attainment, as well as a significant negative impact of headline inflation and the urbanization rate on economic development. Moreover, the results show that not literacy rate but educational attainment (the percentage of the population aged 15 years and older with a bachelor’s degree or higher) significantly influence economic growth.

Revolutionizing Education through AI-Powered Inclusive Learning Systems

This proposal introduces an innovative AI-powered learning system designed to address educational disparities worldwide. Focused on developing countries, the system seamlessly translates educational content between English and native languages, breaking down language barriers. Leveraging advanced natural language processing and machine learning techniques, including transformer models like BERT and GPT-3, the system ensures inclusivity, effectiveness, and engagement. Built on prior research demonstrating AI's efficacy in language translation and personalized learning, the proposed system draws inspiration from successful projects like Duolingo Language Incubator. By providing inclusive and accessible learning experiences, it empowers individuals to overcome language barriers, fostering global participation. The potential impact is significant, with the system poised to accelerate learning, enhance literacy rates, and create a more skilled workforce in developing countries. This research reflects a commitment to revolutionize education through technology, aiming for lasting and transformative contributions to global society. Through AI-driven education, a brighter, more inclusive future is envisioned.

Panel Quantile Approach towards Exigent Determinants of Food Security in the Selected Developing Countries

This paper presents the comprehensive measurement of food security index by incorporating all of its dimensions for a panel of 50 developing countries. The study also empirically examines the exigent determinants of the overall food security index across developing countries by categorizing them into two distinct income groups from 2007 to 2020. The study used Panel Quantile Regression to capture and analyze the heterogeneous effects across different quantiles of the distribution. The findings reveal that urbanization, food prices, and unemployment negatively affect food security, whereas the effect of unemployment is obscure as the country’s income rises. Findings also indicate that carbon emissions may pose a significant threat to food security in newly industrialized countries. Furthermore, the findings also illustrate that GDP per capita, literacy rate, arable land, credit to agriculture, and institutional quality are significant contributors to food security. Hence, there should be a significant emphasis on improving the quality of institutions to strengthen the positive determinants of food security and mitigate their adverse effects.

The role of FDI augmented with governance and human capital on structural transformation: Experiences from SSA and EAP countries

In the last few decades, the majority of least-developed countries have failed to achieve the structural transformation theme. The concern of achieving structural transformation is further aggravated by the lack of technology, low level of literacy, poor institutional qualities, and low development level of the manufacturing sub-sector in these countries. To examine the role of FDI augmented with governance and human capital on structural transformation, the study used panel data for four Sub-Saharan African (SSA) and three East Asian and Pacific (EAP) countries across 31 years. The auto-regressive Distributed Lag with Pooled Mean Group technique was employed for analysis after checking the possible assumptions. The model for the full panels suggests that FDI inflows, especially when supplemented with good governance and better literacy, promote structural transformation. Moreover, across regions, in the short run, the interactive effect of FDI with governance and literacy had a positive effect for EAP and a negative effect for SSA countries. Finally, the government of the least developed countries that endeavors to achieve structural transformation should focus on improving the quality of governance and literacy rate and then engage in attracting massive inflows of FDI, among others.

Unraveling the Spectrum of Hypertension among Adult Women in an Urban Area of North India through Level of Prevention-based Color-coded Stratification

Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in adult females at the Urban Health Training Center (UHTC) of a private medical college using a color-coded stratification based on levels of prevention. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted during June–July 2023 at UHTC, a private medical college. The sample size was calculated as 256. First, a basic health assessment of the study population was done. This focused on basic socio-demographic data of the adult women, their health status and blood pressure reading, risk profile, treatment-seeking behavior, etc. A proforma was developed to record the data. The principal investigator did a level of prevention-based color-coded stratification for HTN patient segmentation. Results: The majority of respondents were married (75.4%). Their literacy rate was 72%. The majority of the respondents were homemakers (58.2%). The mean age of the respondents was 38.23 years (range 18–75 years). Monthly household income ranged from Rs. 1,000 to 60,000, with a mean of Rs. 10,611.72. The average family size was 4.61 members. Some (22%) of the respondents fell into the “Health promotion” category (Green), indicating that they were free of HTN. About 39% of respondents were categorized under “Specific protection” (Blue), signifying that they were at risk of developing HTN; 14% were diagnosed with HTN cases without apparent complications, classified as “Early Diagnosis/Treatment” (Yellow). About 21% of respondents were placed in the “Disability Limitation” (Orange) category, indicating some complications, while 4.3% were identified as HTN patients needing “Rehabilitation” (Red) due to serious complications. Conclusion: This approach of the color-coded stratification based on levels of prevention among adult females of UHTC revealed the spectrum of HTN in the general community. Overall, 39% of the respondents had HTN. About two-fifths of respondents were at risk of developing HTN. This method has the potential to enhance the individualized management of HTN.

Factors behind suicides in Muslim countries: a global ecological study

ABSTRACT This study examines the relationship between suicide rates and social, political, and economic factors in Muslim-majority countries, considering the influence of Islam and unique socio-cultural factors. Conducted from January to December 2022, it covered 46 countries, collecting data on suicide rates, income, Human Development Index (HDI), poverty rate, life expectancy, literacy rate, and political system. Suicide rates in Muslim-majority countries could be predicted based on HDI, poverty rates, life expectancy, and literacy rates. Frequency of suicide rates varied across continents, with the highest rates in Africa. Culturally sensitive suicide prevention programs are crucial for Muslim-majority countries.

Agroforestry for income and livelihood development of ethnic minorities in Bangladesh

Agroforestry has enhanced the livelihoods of millions of smallholders globally. In Bangladesh, this is true for ethnic communities, including the Garo and Koch who are dependent on the Madhupur Sal forest. The Bangladesh Forest Department first introduced agroforestry in 1989, as part of a people-oriented forest management approach which sought to restore the Madhupur Sal forest - the country's most deforested and degraded forest. In this initiative, each farmer received 1 ha of deforested land and 50% of the land’s earnings would be shared with the department after a 10-year cycle. The Forest Department found that there were five types of profitable agroforestry practices in Madhupur: acacia-pineapple-aroid; jackfruit-pineapple-papaya; acacia-pineapple-turmeric; acacia-pineapple-ginger; acacia-pineapple-papaya; and jackfruit-pineapple-papaya. These practices have been found to generate significant income for farmers, with variations in output and costs depending on the specific combinations. The acacia-pineapple-aroid system proved to be the most profitable as it had the lowest total production cost and experienced little market price fluctuation. Income generation, however, was not the only benefit of this agroforestry programme. The programme had broader socio-economic impacts, including improvements in child and adult literacy rates, access to healthcare facilities, and road infrastructure development. Farmers were also able to invest in home development, purchase livestock, and increase their food self-sufficiency. To maximise the benefits of agroforestry, there is a need to further develop social and human capital and high-yield agroforestry practices, which will require more farmer training and support programmes. The investment of which is worthy as agroforestry has already proven its ability to address the challenges of deforestation and poverty, making it a crucial strategy for sustainable land use and livelihood improvement.

Interplay of Socio-Communal Dynamics and Political Influences: Shaping Higher Education Policy in Kerala

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of Kerala's education sector, focusing on its achievements, challenges, and the intricate nexus of politics. Kerala is renowned for its advanced education system, high literacy rates and nearly universal primary education. However, disparities persist in higher education, exacerbated by politicization and issues related to social justice. The political landscape in Kerala is deeply intertwined with its education sector, with caste and communal factors influencing governance and policy decisions. The emergence of influential middle-class groups and communal organizations has led to challenges like corruption and nepotism in private educational institutions. Campus politics further exacerbates these issues, limiting academic freedom and governance. Despite advocacy for social justice in higher education policy, disparities among vulnerable groups persist. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts from policymakers, educational institutions, and civil society. Strengthening governance mechanisms, promoting inclusivity, and fostering academic freedom are essential for achieving a more equitable education system in Kerala.

Correlation between Literacy and Sex Ratio in Gadhinglaj

The objective of the present investigation is to examined the correlation between the literacy and sex ratio in Gadhinglaj taluka and wards in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra state. The study was based on the Census 2011 data given by the Registrar General of India. The Spearman's Rank correlation approach was used to determine the relationship between literacy and sex ratio. The literacy rate was treated as an independent variable, whereas the sex ratio was treated as a dependent variable. It has observed that the moderate negative correlation and weak negative correlation between literacy rate and sex ratio in Gadhinglaj taluka and Gadhinglaj wards respectively

Improving women's financial literacy as a means of social inclusion

This article explains how much financial education has helped women become self-sufficient in handling family finances without consulting a male family member. In this research, we examine how well-informed urban, semi-urban, and college-educated women are about the many investing opportunities available to them. Given that the gender ratio in the United States is 933 women for every 1000 men and the female literacy rate is 60.6% compared to the male literacy rate of 81.3%, it is critical to educate women about money management in order to improve the economy. The ability to understand and manage one's finances is a crucial tool for surviving economic and emotional hardships, as it can shed light on the wide range of opportunities available for generating sustainable income. Women who are financially literate are in a position to make decisions based on a broad understanding of personal finance and a variety of practical considerations. Those that are financially educated are able to make sound decisions about their money, whether it be saving, investing, borrowing, or something else. Given the myriad ways in which financial literacy influences Behaviour, the process of financial education, the attainment of financial literacy, and monetary well-being (Lusardi and Mitchell, 2014), it is clear that improving financial literacy is crucial.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to dengue among public school teachers in a Central Luzon Province in the Philippines: an analytic cross-sectional study

BackgroundDengue has become a major health issue in tropical regions as the numbers of reported cases and estimated infections continuously increase. In the Philippines, many challenges remain in preventing and controlling the disease amidst all the mitigation efforts of the government. This study sought to measure the health literacy of Filipino teachers and determine the associations among teachers’ knowledge, attitudes, and selected practices (KAP) against dengue.MethodsElementary and secondary school teachers from the consistently declared dengue hotspots in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines, from the years 2017 to 2019 were selected as target participants in this cross-sectional study. A self-administered online survey tool was used in this study for both screening of participants and the KAP survey proper. STATA, descriptive statistics, and multiple logistic regression were used for the data analysis. Odds Ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.ResultsThe study comprised 604 participants whose mean age was 38.4 years. Television was determined as the top media source of information, and various health staff were the most trusted and common source of information. Good knowledge on dengue treatment (OR = 1.81; 95% CI 1.18–2.78) and dengue prevention (OR = 1.85; 95% CI 1.26–2.71) were positively associated with having good practices on protection against mosquito bites. Good knowledge on dengue signs and symptoms (OR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.02–2.37) and dengue prevention (OR = 2.38; 95% CI 1.59–3.58) were positively associated with having good practices on preventing breeding sites. Those with positive perceived susceptibility to dengue had lower odds of having good practices on protection against mosquito bites (OR = 0.64; 95% CI 0.41–0.99) and of having good practices on preventing breeding sites (OR = 0.46; 95% CI 0.26–0.81).ConclusionEven with the existing dengue policies, programs, and strategies, and the high disease literacy rate of Filipinos, dengue remains a struggle with an increasing case rate. Therefore, specific concepts should be emphasized, and interventions should be fine-tuned to better reach and influence the target population to attain a dengue-free Philippines.

TAMAN BACAAN KAMBOJA BANJARMASIN

International surveys indicate that the literacy rate of Indonesians is among the lowest compared to other countries. This is because there are not enough reading facilities and because of the developments in electronic technologies, which provide instantaneous convenience. By offering non-formal reading facilities that are both fun and informative, a literacy park is one way to increase reading awareness among the general public. The city of Banjarmasin itself already has several libraries, one of which is in Taman Kamboja. However, the existing library in Kamboja Park has some circumstances or problems, and also rarely visited by the public. This is due to the hidden or secluded location of the library within the park, as well as the single function or limited facilities the library has offered. So the design problem is formulated as follows: How is the design of the Banjarmasin Kamboja Literacy Park, which can be a recreational space to introduce reading activities to the people of Banjarmasin City? The aim of designing the Cambodian Reading Gardens is to create an educational and recreational concept for a reading facility. The concept of Fun Reading is used to solve problems using the Flexibility Architecture Method which is deemed appropriate for realizing the design concept.

Spatial analysis of food and water-borne diseases in Ahmedabad, India: Implications for urban public health planning

Spatial analysis of infectious diseases can play an important role in mapping the spread of diseases and can support policy making at local level. Moreover, identification of disease clusters based on local geography and landscape forms the basis for disease control and prevention. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the spatial-temporal variations, hotspot areas, and potential risk factors of infectious diseases (including Viral Hepatitis, Typhoid and Diarrhea) in Ahmedabad city of India. We used Moran's I and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) mapping to detect spatial clustering of diseases. Spatial and temporal regression analysis was used to identify the association between disease incidence and spatial risk factors. The Moran's I statistics identified presence of positive spatial autocorrelation within the considered diseases, with Moran's I from 0.09 for typhoid to 0.21 for diarrhea (p < 0.001). This indicates a clustering of affected wards for each disease, suggesting that cases were not randomly distributed across the city. LISA mapping demonstrated the clustering of hotspots in central regions of the city, especially towards the east of the river Sabarmati, highlighting key geographical areas with elevated disease risk. The spatial clusters of infectious diseases were consistently associated with slum population density and illiteracy. Furthermore, temporal analysis suggested illiteracy rates could increase risk of viral hepatitis by 13 % (95 % Confidence Interval (CI): 1.01–1.26) and of diarrhea by 18 % (95 % CI: 1.07–1.31). Significant inverse association was also seen between viral hepatitis incidence and the distance of wards from rivers. Conclusively, the study highlight the impact of socio-economic gradients, such as slum population density (indicative of poverty) and illiteracy, on the localized transmission of water and foodborne infections. The evident social stratification between impoverished and affluent households emerges as a notable contributing factor and a potential source of differences in the dynamics of infectious diseases in Ahmedabad.