Communication Technology Tools Research Articles

Institutional Factors as Precursors of Consortium Building Readiness among University Libraries in Southwestern Nigeria

In many countries, especially developing ones like Nigeria, university libraries face tremendous challenges in meeting the needs of the ever-growing world of knowledge and information, particularly the demands of their users. These challenges result from diminishing budgets and the galloping cost of subscriptions to periodicals, purchasing materials, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools, and they have warranted the need for building consortia among university libraries as an approach to address the foregoing problems. University libraries must, therefore, be ready for consortium building by providing institutional factors within them. The study investigated institutional factors as precursors of consortium building readiness among university libraries in Southwestern Nigeria. It adopted the survey design of the correlational type. Total enumeration was used to sample all 643 library personnel in the 45 university libraries in Southwestern Nigeria. The library staff sampled possess at least a diploma or degree in Library and Information Science, even a PhD. There are 45 universities located in Southwestern Nigeria. 549 copies of the questionnaire were returned and used for the study, giving a response rate of 85.4 per cent. The self-constructed questionnaire and interview schedule validated and tested on 30 library personnel at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, were used for data collection. The data was analysed qualitatively and quantitatively using descriptive and inferential statistics, correlation, and regression analysis. Findings revealed that organisational culture (=3.20; std dev. =0.66) was the most prevalent institutional factor for consortium building. It was followed by ICT literacy skills (=3.18; std dev. =0.64), electricity (=3.16; std dev. =0.73), automation/digitisation (=3.09; std dev. =3.95), training (=2.91; std dev. =0.83), Internet connection (=2.90; std dev. =0.78), finance (=2.89; std dev. =0.81), and organisational policy (formal written document) (=2.79; std dev. =0.81). The findings also reveal that institutional factors altogether (r = .508; p<0.05) have a significant positive relationship with consortium building readiness among university libraries in Southwestern Nigeria. Institutional factors aid consortium building readiness among university libraries in Southwestern Nigeria. The study recommends that university libraries must provide institutional factors to show their readiness for consortium building.

Assessing the impacts of videoconferences on domestic business flights in Brazil’s post-pandemic era

During the COVID-19 pandemic, society realized that many activities could be conducted remotely, achieving similar or superior results. Several trends were anticipated and consolidated, such as remote work and hybrid activities. In this context, the air transport market was also profoundly affected, and we are still trying to understand the size and depth of the ongoing changes. It has become crucial for airline market strategies to evaluate how the behavior of business passenger demand has changed, considering the new conditions created and the intensified use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools, particularly videoconferencing. The article aims to identify and analyze the factors that have influenced the number of domestic business flights in Braziĺs post-pandemic era, focusing on the increased use of ICT. It applied a logit model to a database collected at Congonhas Airport in São Paulo, the second busiest airport in the country and the seventh in Latin America, which operates only domestic flights and is used mainly for business trips. Findings showed that the most significant variables influencing reduced travel for work were the number of trips made, the company’s market segment, and travelers’ perceptions about how the company dealt with topics such as productivity, employee well-being, videoconference use, and airline ticket purchases. With this understanding, airlines can develop more effective advertising strategies, enhance ticket sales, and prospect customers in more promising market niches.

Using Information and Communication Technology Tools in Writing Skills and Their Functionalities

Today, the use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools has become essential in every classroom teaching and learning process as it has become inevitable in the global exchange in the 21st century. Its use increases the quality of education and meets requirements as per the global need and thus forwards its users in the way of change and reform. The study aims to explore and analyse the using ICT tools in writing skills and their functionalities. The article discusses how ICT tools are useful in enhancing writing skills.

Implementation of Analytical Accounting Models and Management Indicators and Development of Business Intelligence and Business Analytics Tools in Urban and Metropolitan Collective Transport Operators: A Case Study

Purpose: The study aims to conceptualize and describe tools for improving the strategic definition of business models and facilitating decision-making in urban transport. It focuses on integrating Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Business Intelligence (BI) tools to address sustainability concerns and enhance operational efficiency. Method: The research explores the evolution of management tools in urban transport, and use the case study of Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife S.A.U. (TITSA) in order to illustrates practical application. Result and Conclusion: The implementation of analytical accounting models and BI tools result in significant improvements in decision-making and operational efficiency. It allowed for better cost calculation, revenue analysis, and margin identification.

Exploring the Potential of ICT Tools in Replacing Vernacular Education for ELT Out-of-Classroom Students

This study looks at the possibility for information and communication technology (ICT) tools to take the role of native language instruction for English language teaching (ELT) outside of the classroom. The use of ICT tools in education is becoming more and more common as digital technologies develop. The question of whether these resources can completely replace conventional vernacular teaching strategies in the context of ELT for students learning outside of the classroom still needs to be answered. To offer a thorough understanding of the subject, this essay examines the benefits and drawbacks of ICT tools, the importance of human connection in language learning, and the cultural setting of language acquisition

Analyzing the Possibilities of Implementation of AI and Social Networks in Teaching Foreign Language Students: Ukrainian Universities Case Study

The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and social networks into the educational landscape has raised questions about their impact on teaching and learning, particularly in foreign language instruction. This study explores the didactic properties of social networks and AI as information and communication technology (ICT) tools in the context of foreign language education at the university level. Through a comprehensive literature review, the researchers analyzed global studies on the integration of AI and social networks in language learning, as well as research specific to the Ukrainian higher education context. A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis was conducted to systematically evaluate the potential benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of these technologies in foreign language instruction. The findings indicate that using AI-driven language learning applications, and social media platforms can significantly enhance vocabulary retention, language proficiency, and student engagement. However, the study also highlights potential threats, such as risks to academic integrity, entrenchment of discrimination, and the democratization of plagiarism. The research further emphasizes the importance of addressing teachers’ skills in navigating the ethical implications of AI integration in educational settings. The study provides valuable insights for university administrators, language instructors, and educational technology researchers. It underscores the need for a nuanced and informed approach to incorporating AI and social networks into foreign language curricula, balancing the pedagogical benefits with appropriate safeguards to ensure the quality and integrity of the educational process. The findings contribute to the evolving discourse on the role of emerging technologies in transforming higher education and language teaching.

BIM for maintenance planning of façades in precast concrete buildings

PurposeThis paper aims to identify the different system approach using Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology that is equipped with decision making processes. Maintenance planning and management are integral components of the construction sector, serving the broader purpose of post-construction activities and processes. However, as Precast Concrete (PC) construction projects increase in scale and complexity, the interconnections among these activities and processes become apparent, leading to planning and performance management challenges. These challenges specifically affect the monitoring of façade components for corrective and preventive maintenance actions.Design/methodology/approachThe concept of maintenance planning for façades, along with the main features of information and communication technology tools and techniques using building information modeling technology, is grounded in the analysis of numerous literature reviews in PC building scenarios.FindingsThis research focuses on an integrated system designed to analyze information and support decision-making in maintenance planning for PC buildings. It is based on robust data collection regarding concrete façades' failures and causes. The system aims to provide appropriate planning decisions and minimize the risk of façade failures throughout the building's lifetime.Originality/valueThe study concludes that implementing a research framework to develop such a system can significantly enhance the effectiveness of maintenance planning for façade design, construction and maintenance operations.

Stressed young adults: an emerging issue in Catholic youth organisations

The aim of this study is to learn about the demographic profile, information and communication technologies (ICT) tools, and internet platforms used by Catholic young adults in youth organisations under San Antonio de Padua Parish in the Province of Laguna, Philippines, during the COVID-19 pandemic. It made use of both descriptive and exploratory research that employed online interviews through ICT tools and online media platforms. Twenty (20) young Catholic adults in youth organisations were interviewed from the church list of youth organisations. The results showed that most participants were working students and belonged to lower-income families. They experienced school and work stress, demanded work efficiency and time pressure on school requirements, internet connectivity issues, and limited support from peers and family members. As explored, the causes of stress made them feel mentally and physically exhausted, and they felt the burden of multi-tasking as students, workers, and church members. The research also suggests an innovative implication for stress management and mitigation schemes through ICT tools and proposes the creation of an online education website by any Catholic Organisation to monitor young church members for Online stress mitigation sessions and stress management satisfaction.

Development of a multilingual online course with the language support for teaching physics in English

<span lang="EN-US">Distance education offers an alternative to traditional teaching methods, particularly online courses. During the pandemic, the role of information and communication technologies in the field of education has increased and is used to organize both synchronous and asynchronous learning. However, not all information and communication technology (ICT) tools and platforms provide the necessary functionality for developing online courses in the direction of language integration. This article discusses the issues of creating a multilingual online course of physics in English with the necessary language support and additional functions for the development of students’ academic language. The study used such methods as a survey, focus groups, analytical and descriptive methods, and empirical research. The key features of the developed course are the use of various types of content and methods for assessing both subject and language knowledge and skills. The presented survey results, data on summative assessment (SE), and trial testing show the effectiveness of the developed course modules. The conclusions and results described in the article will be useful to teachers of natural sciences in general education and private schools, especially those using international programs, deputy directors, as well as teachers who teach their subjects in a second or third language.</span>

Knowledge sharing strategies for improved service provision in the academic library at Delta State University Abraka Nigeria

The changes experienced in the digital era require academic library staff to constantly update, expand, and develop their skills in order to carry out their roles efficiently and remain relevant in the provision of services to clients. Consequently, academic libraries have been among the first organizations to adopt knowledge sharing as a means to enhance the provision of services to clients. Several studies on knowledge sharing in academic libraries have been conducted in recent years. However, the focus of these discussions has been on understanding the knowledge sharing practices in academic libraries, and on technology as a factor making knowledge sharing possible so as to improve service provision in this context. Delta State University (DELSU) has yet to develop, adopt and formalize adequate strategies for sharing knowledge so as to improve service provision. This article explores the barriers to knowledge sharing among staff at the DELSU library and suggests strategies to enhance knowledge sharing among staff for improved service provision. A mixed method research approach and case study research design were adopted. A census was conducted on the target population, consisting of the entire staff at the DELSU library, using questionnaires that comprised both open and closed ended questions, while seven heads of department from the various library sections were purposively sampled for the collection of data through interviews. Social exchange theory provided the underpinning for the study. The findings revealed a lack of effective knowledge sharing for service provision in the library. The absence of a knowledge sharing culture; the absence of information and communication technology tools and infrastructure; a lack of motivation; and inferiority and superiority complexes among staff hindered knowledge sharing, with concomitant repercussions for service provision in the library. Strategies for knowledge sharing among the staff for improved service provision were suggested.

How Do Secondary-School Teachers Design STEM Teaching–Learning Sequences? A Mixed Methods Study for Identifying Design Profiles

AbstractDue to the increasing presence of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education paradigm in Spain, many teachers have embarked on the design of specific Teaching–Learning Sequences (TLS) to be implemented in schools. Understanding the views and perceptions about STEM that take shape in specific teachers’ designs should enrich the way in which STEM education is designed based on a more focused approach. This study aims to characterise how secondary school teachers from Catalonia (Spain) design STEM TLS, to identify specific design profiles that can be related to different understandings of STEM education based on a mixed-method analytical approach. We collected 345 canvases from teachers participating in a national STEM education training programme, outlining STEM TLS. The canvases were analysed with an assessment rubric consisting of 8 instructional components (Interdisciplinarity, STEM practices, Information and Communications Technology tools, Formalisation, Openness, Alignment, Authenticity and Values). We identified patterns in teachers’ designs while implementing a hierarchical cluster analysis of the results, obtaining 6 different clusters of 39, 36, 66, 49, 90, and 65 TLS, respectively. The diverse components prioritised or balanced in each cluster suggest how STEM education can be conceived of differently by participating teachers through the lens of component analysis. While authenticity appears to be a major force in the clustering process, direct relationships between components can be found (i.e., between Formalisation and Alignment), as well as inverse relationships (i.e., between Openness and Practices). These findings provide important clues to understand STEM TLS design and recognise the rubric and the cluster definition as powerful tools for teacher training and evaluation in STEM education.

Malaysian Science Teachers’ Tech-infused Instruction and Assessment Strategies

Science education consistently displays unique traits shaped by evolving educational landscapes, as well as global trends and developments. Despite global enthusiasm for technology in education, there is a notable dearth of studies on Malaysian science teachers' skills in integrating instructional technology. Studies in this region seldom delve deeply into the use of specific Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools and web platforms in teaching and assessment, indicating a significant gap in the literature on technology integration in Malaysian science classrooms. This paper presents a study carried out involving a survey of 36 science teachers across 16 secondary schools in a district in Kelantan, one of the eastern states in Malaysia. It aimed to achieve the following research objectives: 1) To examine science teachers’ use of digital tools and technology in lesson planning and the development of educational materials; 2) To investigate science teachers’ incorporation of technology into their science instruction; and 3) To determine how technology is integrated into the science assessment and reporting process. The findings reveal a high level of digital resourcefulness among teachers, contrasting with prior studies that indicated minimal technological integration in Malaysian classrooms. Teachers predominantly relied on web resources like YouTube and online textbooks for lesson planning, while Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides were frequently used in instruction. Google Classroom and Quizizz were identified as the most common platforms in science assessments. The findings highlight a significant shift in technology usage, advocating for continued professional development, collaborative networks, and policy reforms to further integrate technology into science education. It also suggests that future studies should focus on more specific aspects of technology use, aiming to enhance its impact on teaching methodologies and curriculum alignment, thus making a significant contribution to the discourse on instructional technology in Malaysian science education.

Perceived instructor presence, interactive tools, student engagement, and satisfaction in hybrid education post-COVID-19 lockdown in Mexico

Interactive communication platforms have been widely used to support online teaching. However, during the Coronavirus Diseases 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic they gained unprecedented relevance since they allowed educational processes to continue. This study investigated the relationship among interactive communication technology tools, perceived instructor presence, student satisfaction and engagement in hybrid courses post-COVID-19 lockdown. An electronic questionnaire was administered to 1086 students from a public university in Mexico that implemented a hybrid class model using Microsoft Teams after the lockdown. Jamovi and WarpPLS were used to perform confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. The findings revealed that interactive technological communication tools positively impact the instructor's perceived presence, student satisfaction and engagement. Similarly, commitment significantly positively impacted student satisfaction. The model demonstrated a good fit. The findings were consistent with studies before and during the lockdown. The instructor's perceived presence promotes student engagement and satisfaction, and Microsoft Teams effectively facilitates this presence. These findings suggest that interactive communication tools are and will be significant in educational contexts and modalities. This study provides useful insights for educators, course designers and educational administrators, emphasizing effective communication with students and implementing interactive technological communication tools to enhance hybrid learning in the post-pandemic era.

Determinants of Implementing an Information and Communication Technology Tool for Social Interaction Among Older People: Qualitative Content Analysis of Social Services Personnel Perspectives.

Older people are particularly vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness, which can lead to ill-health, both mentally and physically. Information and communication technology (ICT) can supplement health and social care and improve health among the vulnerable, older adult population. When ICT is used specifically for communication with others, it is associated with reduced loneliness in older populations. Research is sparse on how the implementation of ICT, used specifically for communication among older people in social services, can be performed. It is recommended to consider the determinants of implementation, that is, barriers to and facilitators of implementation. Determinants related to older people using ICT tools are reported in several studies. To the best of our knowledge, studies investigating the determinants related to the social services perspective are lacking. This study aims to explore the determinants of implementing the Fik@ room, a new, co-designed, and research-based ICT tool for social interaction among older people, from a social services personnel perspective. This study used an exploratory, qualitative design. An ICT tool called the Fik@ room was tested in an intervention study conducted in 2021 in 2 medium-sized municipalities in Sweden. Informants in this study were municipal social services personnel with experience of implementing this specific ICT tool in social services. We conducted a participatory workshop consisting of 2 parts, with 9 informants divided into 2 groups. We analyzed the data using qualitative content analysis with an inductive approach. The results included 7 categories of determinants for implementing the ICT tool. Being able to introduce the ICT tool in an appropriate manner concerns the personnel's options for introducing and supporting the ICT tool, including their competencies in using digital equipment. Organizational structure concerns a structure for communication within the organization. Leadership concerns engagement and enthusiasm as driving forces for implementation. The digital maturity of the social services personnel concerns the personnel's skills and attitudes toward using digital equipment. Resources concern time and money. IT support concerns accessibility, and legal liability concerns possibilities to fulfill legal responsibilities. The results show that implementation involves an entire organization at varying degrees. Regardless of how much each level within the organization comes into direct contact with the ICT tool, all levels need to be involved to create the necessary conditions for successful implementation. The prerequisites for the implementation of an ICT tool will probably change depending on the digital maturity of future generations. As this study only included 9 informants, the results should be handled with care. The study was performed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has probably affected the results.

Neuroscience-Based Information and Communication Technologies Development in Elementary School Mathematics through Games: A Case Study Evaluation

Universities play a pivotal role in knowledge production and in transforming teaching methodologies across various subjects. This research is a case study detailing the pedagogical implementation of a game-based methodological approach in a dual-degree program for primary and early childhood education teachers. The focus is on integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) tools for mathematics, specifically Scratch and GeoGebra, underpinned by principles of neuroscience. Based on a sample of 28 students, this study adopted game-based learning (GBL) in mathematics exercises, aimed at equipping student-teachers with strategies for educating future students (ages 7 to 11) in the 3rd to the 6th grade. Key areas of focus included plane and spatial geometry, requiring student-teachers to design game-like activities, emulating the problem-solving approaches of children. The culmination of this study involved presentations by the student-teachers, demonstrating how neuroscience principles can enhance the creation of educational games for primary school students. The findings highlight a significant divergence between the reality of teaching mathematics and the preconceived notions held by the student-teachers. This study opens avenues for integrating neuroscience into education, particularly through GBL, but also highlights the need for comprehensive understanding and application of neuroscientific principles to maximize learning outcomes.

Information and Communication Technology as a Determinant of Organizational Performance: A Study of Banks in Delta/Edo States

This study investigated information and communication technology (ICT) as determinant of organizational performance of selected commercial banks in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria. Cross-sectional survey design was used and one hundred and eighteen (118) questionnaires were administered to employees of four (4) commercial banks in Delta and Edo States. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive, diagnostic and inferential statistical tools. The regression results indicated positive and significant relationship between information and communication technology usage and improvements in organizational performance in areas of enhanced quality of service delivery, productivity, and customers’ base. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended that commercial banks should expand the usage of information communication technology tools in their business processes in order to become more competitive and improve service delivery to customers, enhanced productivity and customers’ base. More importantly, commercial banks should strengthen their policies and procedures on information and communication technology targeted at retaining IT staff. Also, commercial banks should ensure an up-to-date training of IT staff to keep them abreast of current trends in the ICT environment.

Benefits of Using Information and Communication Technology in the Control of Residues in Medicine Production Within Public Organizations: A Sustainability Practice

This case study aims to elucidate the advantages of employing communication and information technology tools for disposing of pharmaceutical residues in a public production laboratory, highlighting its significance as a sustainable practice. The study employs a qualitative approach, incorporating applied methodology, technical procedures, bibliographic document research, and a case study with an exploratory objective. The primary outcomes reveal enhancements in optimization processes, reflecting paradigm shifts and technologies within laboratory operations. The study concludes that substantial impacts have occurred in work processes, fostering the dissemination of sustainability practices within the organization.

Teaching and Learning the Fundamental of Calculus through Python-based Programming

Abstract: The widespread adoption of modern Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools in mathematics and science education is gaining momentum worldwide, especially in emerging countries with rapidly increasing digital technology penetration rates. The utilization of Python programming, with its capability to dynamically visualize abstract mathematical concepts, presents a valuable tool for instructors to elucidate calculus principles that were challenging to convey through traditional teaching methods. This research aimed to assess the efficacy of Python-based coding in teaching the fundamentals of calculus to grade Tenth students at a higher secondary school in Mumbai India. The study employed a pre-test and post-test control group quasiexperimental design, with a total of 76 participants (34 in the experimental group and 42 in the control group). The researchers administered Python-based coding instructional units to the experimental group, while the control group received traditional lecture-based instruction. The Calculus Understanding and Teaching Effectiveness (CUTFE) questionnaire was used as both a pre-test and post-test assessment tool. Results revealed no significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the pre-test. However, a noteworthy disparity emerged in favor of the experimental group in the post-test. Consequently, the study concluded that engaging in coding activities had a substantial impact on students' comprehension of the fundamentals of calculus. This underscores the effectiveness of Python-based coding as a pedagogical tool in enhancing students' understanding of mathematical concepts in the context of calculus education.

Employing technology inside and outside the classroom by special education teachers in primary schools

The study aimed to identify the degree of employing educational technology inside and outside the classroom in Abha, Saudi Arabia. The study adopted the descriptive approach as the most appropriate to achieve the objectives. The study sample was selected randomly from special education teachers in Abha, Saudi Arabia. A total of 300 teachers, comprising both females and males, participated in the study. The study instrument was a questionnaire, which consisted in its initial form of 20 paragraphs and was distributed in two fields: using ICT in teaching inside and outside the classroom. The instrument was verified for validity and reliability. This study focused on identifying the levels of employment of educational technology in the educational process by special education teachers in several public schools in Abha City, Saudi Arabia. The findings showed medium use of information and communications technology (ICT) tools inside and outside the classroom. The study concluded that the degree of employing educational technology in the educational process in Abha schools from the teachers’ point of view was medium. The findings revealed that regardless of the teacher’s gender or academic qualification, they employ educational technology at nearly the same level. The study recommended training teachers on the use of technology in different educational situations to promote the educational experience for teachers and students.

A study on practicality of the information received through information and communication technology tools

A study on practicality of the information received through information and communication technology tools