Information And Communication Technologies Research Articles

The impact of sleep on neurodevelopmental disorders and the contribution of ICT in improving sleep quality in adolescents and adults

Sleep is an essential process for the human body, contributing to the optimal functioning of the brain and the immune system, aiding in stress management, and overall enhancing quality of life. The relationship between sleep and neurodevelopmental disorders is bidirectional; sleep is influenced by specific disorders, while symptoms of these disorders are exacerbated by sleep problems. This article aims to explore the significance of sleep in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Specific Learning Disorder through a literature review. Additionally, the research concludes that leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT), such as virtual reality, digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (DCBT-I), smartphone applications, and the Internet of Things (IoT), can contribute to improving sleep quality in adolescents and adults.

Literature and ICTE: Issues and Perspectives

Throughout the undulating course of history, literature has remained a steadfast companion to the pursuit of language instruction, defying the ebb and flow of its prominence. Presently, it is experiencing an extraordinary renaissance, and to effectively reintegrate it within language classrooms and ignite learners' enthusiasm, digital technologies have emerged as an invaluable ally. The purpose of this article is to embark on an exploration of the multifaceted role of literature within diverse language teaching methodologies while delving into the intricate interplay between literature didactics and the realm of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). We endeavor to elucidate the notion that digital technology, when wielded as a pedagogical instrument, serves as a veritable fount of innovation in the domain of language and culture instruction, holding immense potential to invigorate learners' motivation.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE COMPETITIVENESS OF UKRAINE'S ICT SECTOR: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

The purpose of the paper is to examine the international competitiveness of Ukraine's ICT sector through a comparative analysis with 30 countries, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders and investors to improve Ukraine's position in the global ICT market. Methodology. The research employs the composite index methodology to assess the international competitiveness of Ukraine's information and communication technology (ICT) sector. The original ITSIC comprises 35 indicators; however, this has been expanded to 58 in order to provide a comprehensive view of the competitive advantages and position of the ICT sector in the global ICT market. Results. The article presents the findings of a comparative study of the ICT sector of Ukraine with global and regional leaders in the global ICT market. In order to identify the factors influencing the formation of competitive advantages, the following groups of factors were taken into account: the state of ICT infrastructure, the availability of qualified and competent IT professionals, the state and favourability of the political and business environment, the innovative potential of the ICT sector and its involvement in international trade and cooperation. The calculations have yielded the ratings for each group of indicators and the composite index as a whole, which identify the leaders in both global and regional dimensions. Specific consideration is given to the positioning of Ukraine's ICT sector within the context of the surveyed countries, with a focus on the identification of its competitive advantages and disadvantages within the global ICT market. Consequently, it has been determined that the international competitiveness of the domestic ICT sector between 2018 and 2022 was most significantly influenced by the extent of its involvement in international trade and collaboration, the availability and proficiency of the talent pool, and the quality of the ICT infrastructure. In conclusion, this study has identified the factors and trends that have the potential to impede Ukraine's ascension as a global leader in the ICT sector. Practical implications. The findings of the study may prove beneficial to a number of parties, including public authorities, ICT companies, investors and venture capitalists, educational and research institutions, international organisations and development agencies, IT entrepreneurs and the general public. The value and originality of the study can be found in its comprehensive, data-driven, and context-specific analysis, which provides actionable insights and strategic recommendations to enhance the international competitiveness of Ukraine's ICT sector.

Does Import of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Goods Foster Sustainable Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa? The Role of Governance Quality

Does Import of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Goods Foster Sustainable Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa? The Role of Governance Quality

Exploring the Influence Factors of Digital Entrepreneurship in Improving the Digitization of Small and Medium Enterprises in Yemen

This research provides valuable insights into the impact of digital entrepreneurship on the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Yemen. By integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, the research examines the role of various factors-technological, organizational, environmental, and individual, affecting technology adoption and utilization in SMEs. The study primarily explores the direct and indirect influences of these factors on actual system use, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in shaping attitudes toward technology adoption. Data were collected through a survey of 392 respondents, and the results were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The measurement model was validated for reliability and accuracy, followed by an evaluation of the structural model to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings highlight the critical role of information and communication technology (ICT) adoption in enhancing both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Additionally, the knowledge of IT entrepreneurs and government support were found to uniquely influence perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, respectively. Both of these perceptions, in turn, positively impacted attitudes toward and the actual use of digital tools within SMEs. To address the challenges faced by Yemeni SMEs, it is recommended to enhance digitalization through ICT adoption and promote a pro-technology culture. Policymakers should create a supportive environment via targeted policies, subsidies, and public-private partnerships to foster sustainable growth and competitiveness.

A Self-Efficacy Theory-Based Study on the Teachers’ Readiness to Teach Artificial Intelligence in Public Schools in Sri Lanka

Objectives . This article explores teacher readiness for introducing artificial intelligence (AI) into Sri Lankan schools, drawing on self-efficacy theory. Similar to some other countries, Sri Lanka plans to integrate AI into the school curriculum soon. However, a key question remains: Are teachers prepared to teach this advanced technical subject to schoolchildren? Assessing teacher readiness is crucial, as it is intricately linked to the overall success of this initiative and will inform the development of appropriate policies. Participants . This study surveyed over 1,300 Sri Lankan public school teachers who teach Information and Communication Technology (ICT) using the snowball sampling approach. The respondents represent approximately 20% of the total ICT teacher population in Sri Lanka. Their readiness to teach AI was assessed using a general teacher self-efficacy scale specifically developed based on the well-established Self-Efficacy Theory. While key demographic factors like gender, education level and educational background were also collected, their impact analysis is not included in this article. Study Method . The study was conducted based on the premise that teachers’ readiness to teach AI hinges on their self-efficacy towards teaching AI in the classroom. This premise was substantiated through a review of existing research, and a conceptual model of teachers’ self-efficacy for AI instruction was developed. To assess this model, a nationwide survey targeting school ICT teachers was conducted. The questionnaire used in the survey was based on existing research on evaluating teacher self-efficacy. Data analysis, focusing on testing and validating the conceptual model, primarily employed the PLS-SEM approach. Findings . This study identified several key findings: (1) Teachers generally reported low self-efficacy regarding their ability to teach AI; (2) Teachers’ self-efficacy was most influenced by their emotional and physiological states, as well as their imaginary experiences related to teaching AI; (3) Surprisingly, mastery experiences had a lesser impact on their self-efficacy for teaching AI; and (4) Neither vicarious experiences (observing others teach AI) nor verbal persuasion had a significant impact on teachers’ self-efficacy. Additionally, the study revealed that the teachers’ own level of expertise in AI, along with their social capital, is insufficient to deliver a standard AI curriculum. Conclusions . The analysis of the results found that Sri Lankan teachers currently lack the readiness to teach AI in schools effectively. Potential lapses in certain sources of self-efficacy were also identified. It further revealed the need for a more systemic approach to teacher professional development. Therefore, the study recommends further research exploring the potential of incorporating a socio-technical systems perspective into the government’s teacher training initiatives.

Renewable realities: Charting a greener course for the world's high‐emitting nations through information technology insights

AbstractCarbon dioxide (CO₂) is the most abundant gas among all greenhouse gas emissions, severely impacting global warming. This study examines the impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), population dynamics, Per Capita Gross Domestic Product (PGDP), and Renewable Energy Consumption (REC) on CO₂ on a global scale, representing 38 countries selected using the Pareto principle. Results from the panel regression model indicate a significantly positive relationship between ICT, PGDP, and population on CO₂ emissions. In contrast, REC exhibits a negative relationship. The Multiple Linear Regression model shows that an increase in PGDP leads to higher CO₂ emissions, except in Uzbekistan. ICT increases emissions in the United States, Argentina, Australia, Canada, and Egypt. Population growth raises emissions, except in the United States, France, Germany, and Russia. REC reduces CO₂ emissions in most countries. Policymakers in individual countries can gain a precise understanding of how these variables impact CO₂ emissions, enabling them to mitigate the risks associated with global warming.

Need for ICT adoption in the teaching of Christian religious education at the basic education level in Nigeria

The acquisition of essential skills and knowledge is considered a primary aim of education to effectively navigate and succeed in various aspects of life. In modern times, the role involves proactive engagement in a society that is rich in information, where knowledge is considered the primary driver for the socio-cultural and politico-economic progress of nations. The teaching and learning of religious education has not fully utilized the abundant resources available in the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) era, owing to several limitations. This study analyzed the current status of religious education during this era, as well as the factors that facilitate, inhibit or hinder the integration of ICT in Nigerian basic education level. The research provides recommendations for the effective integration of ICT initiatives in the teaching of Christian religious education within Nigerian basic education level in the contemporary era. The study employed quasi-experimental design. The research suggests that it would be beneficial for Nigerian basic education level to be equipped with contemporary computer laboratories by the appropriate authorities, for the benefit of both basic education level students and teachers.

In-House Training Modules on Learning Media to Improve Information and Communication Technology Competence in Elementary School Teachers

In-house training (IHT) programs effectively address educational challenges in schools through a thorough needs analysis. While IHT programs are frequently conducted, the primary focus should be on enhancing the quality of training to meet the specific needs of institutions, roles, and individuals involved. At SDN 98, a notable issue is the low utilization of technology in the learning process despite adequate multimedia facilities. Among 17 classroom teachers, fewer than 25% are proficient in using computers for instruction, and only one or two teachers regularly use laptops. The use of LCD projectors is also rare. This situation highlights the urgent need to improve teachers' information and communication technology (ICT) skills. Consequently, this Study aims to enhance the ICT competencies of SDN 98 teachers through targeted training and the development of IHT modules. The research employs a research and development (R&D) method that includes eight stages: initial research, planning, product design, validation, revision, limited trials, and field trials. The developed IHT module received excellent evaluations, with an average score of 4.49 from respondents and 4.56 from instructors, indicating its practicality and effectiveness in enhancing teachers' ICT competencies.

Economic Resilience: Fiscal Policy, Tourism, and ICT in COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic crisis has brought about unprecedented economic and social consequences worldwide. The implementation of isolation measures, including national and international travel restrictions, significantly affected contact-intensive sectors such as tourism. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) was crucial during this lockdown period in maintaining connectivity and enabling remote activities. Governments worldwide implemented discretionary measures to mitigate the crisis's adverse effects on economic activity. This paper aims to analyse whether the level of ICT adoption and the importance of tourism influence the fiscal policy efforts pursued by governments. Based on the results of a linear regression analysis for 154 countries, the findings suggest that governments had to promote higher fiscal stimulus in countries with higher international tourism receipts. At the same time, ICT development diminished the efforts of the fiscal policy response to the crisis since it facilitated economic resilience. The findings of this study can contribute to understanding how governments responded to the pandemic crisis and the factors that influenced their fiscal policy decisions.

Determinants of Financial Information Disclosure Online: Empirical Evidence in Portugal

The rapid advancement of information technology, particularly the Internet, has significantly transformed communication and corporate reporting practices. The evolution of the Internet and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has enabled companies to disseminate extensive financial and non-financial information quickly and cost-effectively. Typically published on company websites, this information is accessible to users worldwide. Digital financial reporting has evolved to meet the needs of both information users and companies. The Internet is increasingly the primary channel for companies to share financial information, driven by technological advancements and the growing demand for online company data. However, the rise of technology in financial reporting raises concerns about information overload, potentially diminishing the quality and relevance of economic data. Additionally, managing the costs associated with technology, such as website development, customer relationship management systems, hardware, software, and other digital platforms, is crucial. This study aims to determine the extent of online financial information disclosure among the 150 largest Portuguese companies and identify the factors influencing this disclosure. The research methodology involves content analysis of the websites of 52 of the largest and best-performing companies operating in Portugal, as ranked by Revista Exame, using a predefined disclosure index to evaluate the degree of financial information disclosure on the Internet. The objective is to enhance understanding of the financial reporting practices adopted by major Portuguese companies and identify factors determining the level of disclosure. The results confirm that the disclosure index has an average value of 0.52147 and that there is a relationship between company size and sector of activity and the level of internet financial reporting.

Information and communication technologies, financial inclusion and economic growth: evidence from high- and low-income countries

Purpose This study aims to assess the impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) and financial inclusion on economic growth. This study also examines whether ICT can be a determinant of financial inclusion. Moreover, this study provides new evidence concerning whether ICT can reduce the financial inclusion gap. Design/methodology/approach This study uses the country-level data over the period 2005–2019 and estimate using the dynamic and the static panel model. Findings The results show that the ICT and financial inclusion interaction variable substantially and positively impacts economic growth for only certain interaction variables. ICT is an essential determinant of financial inclusion and reduces some gaps. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by considering whether ICT and financial inclusion impact economic growth in high- and low-income countries. The other contribution of this study is that ICT represents a determinant in promoting financial inclusion. The final contribution of this study is providing new evidence concerning whether ICT can reduce the financial inclusion gap so that financial access can increase, financial inclusion can develop and simultaneously encourage economic growth.

ICT USAGE IN TESL EDUCATION: INSIGHTS AND OBSTACLES FACED BY TEACHER-TRAINEES IN KOTA KINABALU

This study explores the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in English language learning among TESL teacher-trainees in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Since English is a compulsory subject in Malaysian education, the government has been placing increasing focus on ICT use to improve language learning. In the past two decades, much has changed in policy and practice to create more positive perceptions of ICT as a possible solution; but while these shifts may now make sense on paper, several obstacles remain for making changes effectively simply by introducing yet another new technology. The main objectives are to find out TESL teacher-trainees’ perception towards usage of ICT in classroom and obstacles in using ICT faced by TESL teacher-trainees in classroom. Shortage of technological infrastructure, technology access, and trained teachers on the usage of ICT are some challenges. In addition, different perceptions among teacher-trainees indicate issues such as low self-confidence in ICT usage. This paper uses a mixed-methods approach, using both quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews to capture the trainee experience. Using a purposive sample of 88 TESL trainees, primarily practicum participants in Sabah, this study employed a mixed-methods approach with quantitative questionnaires and qualitative semi-structured interviews. Fifteen trainees were selected for interviews to provide in-depth insights. The significant finding concludes a strong and positive correlation between teacher perception towards ICT usage in the classroom. Nevertheless, lack of resources, and training may hinder the effectiveness of the ICT. The knowledge gained will help to direct policy and curriculum development-informed teacher training aimed at increasing the use of ICT in English instruction.

Data Integration of Health Financing Systems as a Critical Enabler for Objective-Oriented Health System Reform: A Scoping Review from India

ABSTRACT Health financing fragmentation poses a challenge to reforms intended to address system-wide objectives vis-à-vis universal health coverage (UHC). India’s experience with publicly subsidized health insurance schemes (PSHIs), such as Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and its state adaptations, testify to the challenges inherent in effecting objective-oriented health systems reforms, particularly owing to wide variation in programmatic and operational design. Recent efforts to defragment PSHIs under the aegis of a new government initiative called Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) using, inter alia, a unified information and communication technology (ICT) interface provide important policy lessons. This paper presents a theory of change for the role that ICT systems can play in promoting the objectives of UHC and highlights the early effects of ICT reforms in India on UHC. Holistic and defragmented ICT systems have a positive effect on the processes and operations of government health programs, according to the literature reviewed. Streamlined ICT systems promote equity through the introduction of portability modules, which increase access to services and facilitate stronger transparency and accountability measures by using big data and machine learning for fraud detection. Although reliability issues persist on certain fronts, India’s experience with homegrown, incremental reforms to defragment ICT systems for health financing have proven of paramount importance for progressing toward UHC.

Navigating the Pandemic Through Technology: Colombian NGOs Promoting Peace During the COVID-19 Era

This article examines how Colombian NGOs use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for peacebuilding attempts amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing from 17 interviews with NGO members, the study underscores the pivotal role of digital peacebuilding in sustaining and expanding peace attempts, effective data management, and a broader engagement of target groups beyond in-person activities often associated with safety and financial concerns. The findings also identify prevailing challenges of incorporating ICTs in NGO's peacebuilding activities, ranging from privacy-related concerns to connectivity issues. The article points out the potential for NGOs to enhance interactivity, knowledge transfer, and diversity in their activities with ICTs, including IT security training and awareness campaigns on hate speech and propaganda. It also emphasizes the importance of developing risk reduction strategies tailored to the specific needs of different target groups.

Optimising school leadership development for 21st-century learning: An in-depth analysis of South African private secondary schools in KwaZulu-Natal

There have been significant and rapid improvements in information and communication technology (ICT) since the early 1990s. Subsequent global changes have increased with the onset of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and have dictated pedagogical transformation. Many countries have moved from traditional approaches of education to 21st-century Learning (21CL). 21CL is ICT-aligned, inquiry-based, and includes the development of affective abilities. School leadership influences all structures and individuals directly in a school. It has the potential to be one of the cornerstones of the paradigm shift to 21CL. I investigated how school leadership is developed to facilitate 21CL and how it can be improved. I required quantitative and qualitative data to achieve the research objectives. Therefore, I adopted a mixed methods research approach that is underpinned by the positivist and interpretivist paradigms. I used a case study design. The data collection methods I employed were questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and focus group interviews. Phase one of the research involved the quantitative data collection from twenty-five schools, of which five schools were purposely sampled for the second qualitative phase. The use of transformational leadership, strategic leadership, system leadership, and ecological leadership in enacting 21CL featured prominently in the reviewed literature. However, the research findings show that, largely, these four leadership theories were not incorporated in leadership development in South Africa. The results also show that school leadership development specifically designed for 21CL, was limited. The leadership training that is available focused more on administrative tasks instead of on leadership theories and skills to facilitate 21CL. I recommend that further research be conducted in both private and public schools in other South African provinces.

Learning Languages in the 21st Century: the Digital and Ai Transformation

The article deals with the problem of the learning languages in the 21st century: the digital and AI transformation. The aim of this article is to explore and clarify the transformative impact of digital technologies on foreign language teaching. This article explores the evolution of language learning from classroom-based methods to the incorporation of digital instruments, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Digital tools such as language learning applications, online dictionaries, multimedia resources, and language exchange platforms have made language acquisition more accessible and engaging. AI technologies introduce intelligent tutoring systems, personalized learning experiences, and advanced language processing capabilities, while ICT tools like Learning Management Systems (LMS) and virtual classrooms facilitate effective communication and information processing. The benefits of these advancements are multifaceted, including increased accessibility and flexibility, enhanced engagement and motivation, personalized learning paths, and improved collaboration and communication. However, challenges such as the digital divide, variability in resource quality, data privacy concerns, and the need for continuous teacher training must be addressed. Looking ahead, future trends such as augmented and virtual reality, blockchain technology, AI-driven content creation, IoT integration, and multimodal learning experiences promise to further transform the landscape of language education. These innovations will pave the way for more immersive and interconnected language learning experiences, contributing to a more multilingual global society.

Between innovative ambitions and erratic everyday practices: urban planners’ ambivalences towards digital transformation

Great expectations are being projected onto digital transformation as a solution to planning under uncertainty and complexity, while demanding new skills from and posing challenges to professionals. We address the ambivalent inclusion of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in everyday planning practices. How do ambivalences towards digitalisation as either a transformative process or as an intrusion upon everyday routines play out in urban planning as a situated knowledge practice? We focus on the erratic embedding of digital technologies and data into planning practices. We gather insights from interviews with planners in small and medium-sized cities in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The analytical focus on knowing in practice and situated knowledge allows for insights on how digital transformations shape planning from professionals’ perspectives. Our research shows that digital transformation requires infrastructure and routines to bring forward innovative ambitions, which in many contexts are disrupted by limited resources and hierarchical decision-making procedures.

ICT and energy consumption in Sub-Saharan Africa: Effects and transmission channels

This paper contributes to the literature on the relationship between information and communication technologies (ICTs) and energy consumption. Despite increasing attention on the subject, existing studies have not yet investigated the channels through which ICTs affect energy demand. We use a stochastic impact model extended to the population, wealth and technology regression model to estimate both the effect and transmission of ICTs on energy demand in 24 sub-Saharan African countries from 1995 to 2018. Empirical results show that ICT use, measured by mobile and fixed-line telephone penetration significantly reduces energy consumption. In addition, the mediation analysis reveals that ICTs not only have a direct negative effect on energy consumption but also an indirect negative effect through its impact on GDP per capita and industrial sector development and a mixed indirect effect through financial development. However, the total effect is negative and indicates that ICTs are reducing energy consumption in sub-Saharan Africa. To accentuate the negative effects of ICTs on energy consumption, Governments should design policies to improve access to credit for the private sector, reduce income inequalities among populations, promote the use of industrial development and provide financial incentives for the development of green technologies.

Security-Diplomacy Nexus: Nature of Bilateral Cooperation in Kenya - India Military Diplomatic Relations Since 1963

Bilateral and multilateral agreements have been one of the mechanisms through which growth and development have taken place. The newly created independent states of the Cold War period presented a major paradigm shift in international cooperation to include military diplomacy. Kenya and India being among these newly created states have had their cooperation where by the two countries have used their good diplomatic relations to bolster one another's military capabilities. The current study sought to put into perspective the conduct of bilateral relations between Kenya and India. The objective of this study was to examine the nature of bilateral cooperation in enhancing Kenya-India military-diplomatic relations since 1963. The study was anchored on power theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study was carried out in Nairobi County, Kenya with a specific focus on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Defence Ministry, and Indian High Commission. The target population was 2500. The sample size for the study was determined using Yamane's (1967) formula to calculate the sample size, which was 250 Qualitative data obtained from interviews were analysed using narrative reports using thematic techniques. Quantitative data from the questionnaires was edited, coded, and entered into a computer spreadsheet in a standard format to allow descriptive statistics analysis. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) edition 24 and Microsoft Office Excel 2013 were used for the quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that the nature of Kenya-India military diplomatic relations manifested in various forms including through High-profile visits by Kenyan and Indian officials to both states as a way of strengthening bilateral relations. Technological transfer was another way through which these two nations shaped their diplomatic relationship, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT). Additionally, Defense trade and trade agreements, Security Partnerships, Counterterrorism activities, Maritime Safety, and Peacekeeping missions were common areas of cooperation between Kenya and India. The study concludes that bilateral cooperation between Kenya and India has been instrumental in enhancing their military-diplomatic relations since 1963. The study recommends that, to better understand the nature of bilateral cooperation, Kenya and India should establish a permanent joint military commission to oversee and coordinate defense initiatives.