Communication Research Articles

The Role of Vocal Technique in Attracting Audiences in Digital Television and Podcasting

This study explores the role of vocal technique in enhancing audience engagement across digital television and podcasting platforms. It investigates how elements such as clear pronunciation, varied tone, appropriate speech pace, and distinct voice quality influence listener and viewer attraction. Employing a descriptive research methodology, the study utilizes electronic questionnaires and observational tools to gather data from a sample of digital television and podcast audiences. Key findings reveal that clear pronunciation (Statement 5) is the most critical factor, with a mean score of 4.88 and a low standard deviation (0.34), indicating near-universal agreement on its importance. Distinct voice (Statement 8) follows closely, with a mean of 4.73, as participants valued unique vocal qualities that foster emotional connection. While varied tone (Statement 6) and appropriate speech pace (Statement 7) were highly valued, they showed slightly lower means (4.63 and 4.59, respectively) and higher variability, suggesting context-dependent preferences. The study also highlights the importance of technical sound quality (Statement 9) and voice training (Statement 12) in media success, with high mean scores (4.52 and 4.63, respectively). These findings underscore the need for professional vocal skills and high-quality audio production. Additionally, participants expressed a moderate preference for podcasts due to their sound quality (3.65), while digital TV was favored for its audio-visual diversity (3.48). Recommendations include providing specialized vocal technique training for broadcasters, leveraging modern technology to enhance audio quality, encouraging thorough script preparation, and conducting further research with diverse samples. The study also suggests integrating vocal technique training into academic curricula and raising audience awareness about the importance of vocal quality. Significance of this study lies in its empirical examination of vocal technique in digital media, filling a gap in the literature and offering practical insights for broadcasters. Its contributions to both theory and practice underscore the enduring relevance of vocal skills in modern communication.

Limited Effect of Masking During COVID-19 Pandemic on ADOS-2 Algorithm Scores in Toddlers With and Without Autism.

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) constitutes one of the most widely used diagnostic instruments for autism and involves a direct face-to-face interaction between clinician and child. During the COVID-19 pandemic, administration of the ADOS-2 continued in several countries, with the requirement of face mask protection. It has been hypothesized that mask wearing may have disrupted the dynamic of child-clinician interaction and differentially affected toddlers with autism. We compared ADOS-2 algorithm scores between cohorts of toddlers evaluated before (pre-COVID-19, n = 232) and during the pandemic (COVID-19, n = 116). The COVID-19 cohort included 41 toddlers with autism spectrum disorders (AUT, Mage = 25.4, SD = 3.8), 34 toddlers with other neurodevelopmental conditions (NDC, Mage = 22.3, SD = 5.0), and 41 typically developing toddlers (TD, Mage = 20.4, SD = 3.6) recruited between September 2020 and April 2023. The pre-COVID-19 cohort was selected from 409 assessments conducted from January 2013 to March 2020. Propensity matching was used to match the pre- and COVID-19 cohorts on sex, chronological age, and verbal and nonverbal developmental quotient (DQ) scores. Ordered logistic regression analyses were computed for social affect (SA) and restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRB) algorithm total and item scores, with cohort (pre-COVID-19/COVID-19) as a fixed factor for each diagnostic group. The analyses revealed a limited impact of cohort on the algorithm scores in all three diagnostic groups. Item-level analysis revealed a significant cohort effect only on two out of 20 items: shared enjoyment and joint attention, with higher (more atypical) scores found in the COVID-19 than in the pre-COVID-19 cohorts. The resiliency of the algorithm and item-level scores to the effect of masking speaks to the strength of the diagnostic tool and its ability to capture a range of social, communication, and repetitive behaviors under both standard and nonstandard conditions.

3M‐Net: Automatic Modulation Recognition Based on Multiscale Mobile Inverted Bottleneck Convolution and Manhattan Self‐Attention Network

ABSTRACTThe increasingly complex modern communication environment poses challenges for automatic modulation recognition (AMR) techniques. In AMR tasks, in order to more comprehensively capture signal features and improve recognition performance, we propose a model named Multiscale Mobile Inverted Bottleneck Convolution and Manhattan Self‐Attention Network (3M‐Net). In this 3M‐Net, the MSMB block is designed to extract multiscale local features of the signals, and the MMG block is designed to enhance global information modeling of the model. Then, a hierarchical backbone that contains the two blocks is designed to extract multilevel features. Extensive experiments on the RML2016.10a and RML2018.01a datasets demonstrate that the 3M‐Net model achieves superior recognition performance.

Exploring Chinese university students’ foreign language enjoyment, engagement and willingness to communicate in EFL speaking classes

Growing research attention has focused on examining the role of emotions in Second Language Acquisition (SLA), with particular emphasis on positive emotions and student engagement as significant factors in promoting various aspects of human behavior and cognition. Despite the significance of Willingness to Communicate (WTC) in understanding learners’ communicative behaviors in a foreign language, there still exist gaps in understanding how positive emotions like Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE) and behavioral engagement relate to WTC. This study investigates the relationships among FLE, behavioral engagement, and WTC within the Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context, drawing upon the Broaden-and-Build theory. Therefore, the study examined how 690 Chinese EFL college students perceive FLE and behavioral engagement related to their WTC by using a quantitative method. The findings revealed significant positive relationships between FLE and behavioral engagement with WTC, with FLE showing a stronger association than behavioral engagement. Moreover, FLE and WTC could significantly and strongly predict WTC. These findings offer valuable insights for educational practices and policy development, suggesting the potential benefits of incorporating enjoyment-focused strategies in language learning. Additionally, this research contributes to our understanding of how positive emotions, particularly enjoyment, may work alongside other factors to enhance students’ communicative competence and overall experience in language learning.

Social Media and Virtual Communities: Investigating Digital Engagement, Social Problem Management, and Economic Mobility

Social media today exerts a significant influence on human life. It serves as a platform for connecting and managing the lives of its users. Social media has significantly transformed modern communication, becoming integral to how individuals engage with societal issues, satisfy emotional needs, and pursue economic development. This study examines how digital engagement within virtual communities contributes to these three dimensions, using a quantitative survey of 374 active social media users in Malaysia. The research employs statistical analysis to assess the impact of digital interactions on individuals' social and economic well-being. Findings reveal that while social media facilitates community cohesion and economic opportunities, challenges such as digital literacy gaps and algorithmic biases persist. The study’s insights offer valuable contributions to the discourse on digital engagement and its societal implications, emphasizing the need for enhanced platform governance and inclusive digital policies. These findings underscore the transformative potential of social media in fostering social equity, making this research a significant addition to contemporary discussions on digital engagement and community well-being.

Healthy communication strategy: social media and food literacy in Nigeria

ABSTRACT Food literacy plays a critical role in shaping public health. While significant investments have been made by governments and agencies in addressing food-related challenges, evidence shows widespread malnutrition deficiencies in many communities due to poor communication strategy. This present study examines the nexus between social media as a modern communication tool and food literacy, focusing on its influence on food choices in Nigeria. By employing a descriptive survey design with a sample of 90 respondents from Abia state of Nigeria, the study provides insight of a strong preference for social media such as Facebook and WhatsApp for food information. It expanded the conversation around social media impact on consumer food choice especially in rural communities of Africa. Our result revealed that a unit change in the quality of information will result in 2.02% improvement in food decisions. However, as more people leverage online space, the spread of fake information and misinformation becomes a challenge hence there is need for potential strategies to ensure accurate information reaches rural populations. Therefore, companies should design campaigns and messages and push them through reliable people. The adoption of celebrity endorsement by online food brands can be impactful to consumers in modeling food behavior.

The superiority of graphics over text in long-term memory retention.

Graphical representations of data are pervasive in modern communication and are often used to convey socio-economic, scientific, and medical information. Despite their popularity, it is still unknown whether they can enhance the long-term retention of their content. We conducted a delayed-recall task with psychology undergraduates (N = 92), in which participants read about the evolution of a socio-economic phenomenon, with five to six datapoints presented as graphics, text, or table; recall was operationalized as correct reporting of the trend in the data, 2h after the information was presented. We found that graphics facilitated the delayed recall of such trends. No advantage was found on immediate recall of trends or specific datapoints in another sample of participants (N = 80). Thus, even for equal initial encoding of data, and even for very concise materials, graphics facilitate long-term retention. Overall, the study reveals the potential of graphics as effective tools for enhancing memory retention and therefore highlights their valuable role in educational settings.

The Nexus between Dialogical Communication and Transformational Leadership in Tanzania's Higher Learning Institutions: The Relevance of Martin Buber's Theory of Dialogue

Effective leadership plays a critical role in facilitating academic excellence, organizational innovation, and holistic student development in Tanzania's higher learning institutions. However, despite the theoretical importance and practical relevance of both transformational leadership and dialogical communication, there is a dearth of empirical research exploring the nexus between these two constructs within the context of Tanzanian higher learning institutions. This study explores this nexus within Tanzanian higher education, focusing specifically on St. Augustine University. The study aims to assess dialogical communication practices, examine their impact on transformational leadership, and assess the applicability of Martin Buber’s Theory of Dialogue in Tanzania’s higher education institutions. The current study employs a mixed-methods approach, it integrates qualitative and quantitative analyses to provide a comprehensive view of the issues at hand. The study reveals that while dialogical communication is valued for its role in fostering an inclusive academic environment, it is not consistently implemented across the institution due to structural hierarchies, cultural influences, and a lack of training. The study indicates a strong positive correlation (r = 0.68, p = 0.001) between dialogical communication and transformational leadership behaviors in Tanzania’s higher institutions, including inspirational motivation, individualized consideration, and intellectual stimulation. Martin Buber’s Theory of Dialogue, especially the "I-Thou" relationship, is found to be highly relevant for enhancing leadership effectiveness within the university. Leaders who adopt this relational approach are better able to foster an environment of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. The findings suggest that integrating dialogical communication into leadership training could significantly enhance institutional effectiveness and promote inclusive decision-making. Recommendations include implementing leadership training focused on dialogical communication, establishing structured feedback mechanisms, and promoting inclusive leadership practices. This study not only adds to the theoretical discourse linking dialogical communication with transformational leadership but also provides practical insights that could benefit higher education institutions in Tanzania and beyond.

Knowledge Levels of Chickpea Cultivation Technologies among Beneficiary and Non-Beneficiary Farmers under Cluster Front Line Demonstration in Bikaner District, Rajasthan, India

This study aimed to assess the knowledge level of beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers regarding chickpea cultivation technologies demonstrated under the Cluster Front Line Demonstration (CFLD) program in Bikaner district, Rajasthan. A total of 200 farmers were selected, comprising 100 beneficiary farmers who had participated in CFLD activities and received relevant training, and 100 non-beneficiary farmers who had been cultivating chickpea independently for at least five years. Data were collected using structured interview schedules, and knowledge levels were assessed based on a knowledge test. The findings revealed that a majority (69%) of beneficiary farmers had medium-level knowledge, followed by 25% with high-level knowledge, and only 6% with low-level knowledge. In contrast, 55% of non-beneficiary farmers had medium-level knowledge, 36% had low-level knowledge, and only 9% had high-level knowledge. The data indicated a clear impact of CFLD training, as beneficiary farmers exhibited higher knowledge in areas such as harvesting, sowing time, improved varieties, and seed treatment. The study also highlighted significant knowledge gaps in certain aspects, particularly among non-beneficiary farmers. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in knowledge levels between the two groups, particularly in nine key aspects of chickpea cultivation. The study concluded that CFLD programs significantly enhance farmers' knowledge, and recommended expanding the program's reach, improving training strategies, and utilizing modern communication tools to further boost knowledge dissemination.

Strategi Komunikasi Dalam Bimbingan Keagamaan Islam Lansia di Rumah Pelayanan Sosial Lanjut Usia Terlantar

This study aims to explore the communication strategies employed in Islamic religious guidance for the elderly at the Wredha Budhi Dharma Nursing Home in Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta. A qualitative descriptive approach was used, with data collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and documentation. The findings reveal that religious guidance is delivered in a structured manner, taking into account the physical and psychological conditions of the elderly. The communication strategies implemented by Islamic religious counselors include the use of simple language, persuasive and educational delivery techniques, and personalized approaches tailored to each individual's characteristics. Additionally, guidance activities are conducted regularly through lectures, discussions, and worship practice. The effectiveness of these communication strategies is reflected in the increased participation of the elderly in religious activities, as well as the development of inner peace and spiritual connection. This study recommends further training in communication for religious counselors to enhance the emotional and spiritual impact of the guidance provided. The implications of this study emphasize the importance of adapting communication strategies to the unique needs of the elderly, considering their physical, psychological, and spiritual conditions. It suggests that religious counselors should undergo specialized training to effectively engage with this demographic, ensuring that their guidance is not only religiously relevant but also emotionally and mentally supportive. The personalized approach to guidance, utilizing simple language, engaging techniques, and regular activities, contributes to creating a spiritually enriching environment. Additionally, the study highlights the need for religious institutions and elderly care homes to incorporate these strategies into their standard practices, potentially through the development of formal training programs for counselors and the use of modern communication tools. Furthermore, this research opens the door for future studies to explore the long-term effects of religious guidance on the emotional and spiritual well-being of the elderly, and the potential role of digital tools in making such guidance more accessible to those in institutional care settings.

Factors Affecting the Learning Behaviors among Selected Students in a Secondary School in General Luna, Quezon

This study aimed to explore the factors affecting the learning behaviors among selected students in secondary school in General Luna, Quezon. Aspects studied were the demographic profile of the respondents. It investigated the factors affecting the learning behaviors among selected students. To achieve the researcher’s goal, the researcher used a questionnaire to determine the respondents’ demographic profile and administer the questionnaire for the factors affecting he learning behaviors. This involved 80 students from the selected secondary high school in General Luna, Quezon. The descriptive design on the main source of data and information. The result showed that most of the respondents are the age of 16-18years old and above, male, and female. According to the result of Kruskal Wallis all the null hypothesis are accepted with means that there is no significant difference on the factors affecting the learning behaviors when the respondents are grouped according to profile. Based on the results of the study, the following recommendations are suggested. The school administrators may be able to provide different intervention strategies to students to be more aware of learning behaviors. The parents they may help the students to learn the behavior in communication regularly at their home. The teachers they may motivate the students to be aware in their learning behaviors with positive learning environment. The students they may continue to learn about learning behaviors.

Chemically active colloidal superstructures.

Mimicking biological systems, artificial active colloidal motors that continuously dissipate energy can dynamically self-assemble to form active colloidal superstructures with specific spatial configurations and complex functionalities, which offers a promising pathway for developing new active soft matter materials with adaptability, self-repair, and reconfigurability. Beyond merely propelling their own motion, chemically driven colloidal motors can also induce phoretic effects and osmotic flows to affect the motion of neighboring colloidal motors through local fluid fields generated by chemical reactions, thereby achieving spontaneous chemical communication and promoting dynamic self-assembly between motors. This review summarizes the latest progress in the dynamic self-assembly of chemically driven colloidal motors, ranging from single chemically driven colloidal motors to chemically driven colloidal motors with passive colloidal particles and then to different chemically driven colloidal motors, ultimately forming active colloidal superstructures with complex dynamic behaviors. Not only are the interactions between chemically driven colloidal motors with different self-propulsion mechanisms and passive colloidal particles focused on, but also the communication behaviors between chemically driven colloidal motors are explored. We explain the fundamental physicochemical mechanisms that regulate the assembly behavior of chemically driven colloidal motors, propose general strategies for the controlled construction of active colloidal superstructures, and discuss the potential applications that may emerge from the directed dynamic self-assembly of these superstructures.

Development of a Radio Wave Propagation Model for Long-Haul Decameter-Band Communication Systems in the Decameter Range for the Analysis of Ionospheric Channel Parameters

Relevance. In long-haul decameter-band (LDB) communication systems, the number of bit errors is simultaneously influenced by two key factors: the signal-to-noise ratio and the degree of phase distortions caused by the Doppler shift, which arises from the random movement of ionospheric inhomogeneities. The challenge of improving the interference resistance of such systems is complicated by the fact that even with a high signal level at the demodulator's input, reception can be hindered by phase distortions, leading to a sharp increase in the number of bit errors and a degradation of the BER (bit error rate) coefficient. Despite the sufficient number of classical works, the problem of enhancing the interference resistance of modern domestic LDB radio communication systems under specified operating scenarios using contemporary methods and digital signal processing tools remains relevant and in demandich lead to a sharp increase in the number of bit errors and a deterioration in the BER coefficient. Despite a sufficient number of classical works, the problem of improving the noise immunity of modern domestic LDB or short-wave (HF) radio communication systems in specified operating scenarios using modern methods and means of digital signal processing (DSP) remains relevant and in demand. The object of the research is modern domestic decameter-band radio communication systems, which often exhibit known shortcomings, including low adaptability to changes in the ionosphere and issues with signal interference. For example, the R-016 system has limitations in its frequency range, making it less effective under varying ionospheric conditions that affect signal levels. Prototypes may also have problems with signal processing, which leads to bit errors of up to 10-3 even in the absence of noticeable interference. The subject of the study is the models and methods of functioning of LDB decameter-band communication lines.The objective of the research is to evaluate the impact of various factors, such as changes in preamble length and the use of adaptive filters, on the interference resistance of the system. The analysis of the obtained results shows that increasing the preamble length in such systems contributes to enhancing the interference resistance of long-haul communication. The scientific novelty lies in the improvement of existing radio propagation models in the decameter range by applying a complex of parameters that includes the signal-to-noise ratio set for a specific communication session in the radio line, and to increase the accuracy of field strength calculations at the receiving point, recalculated values of critical frequencies based on electron concentration forecasts, as well as Doppler shift for each layer of the ionosphere. The practical significance of the results lies in the enhancement of the interference resistance of existing decameter-band communication systems in ionospheric propagation conditions.

A Review on Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis using MRI data

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted neurodevelopmental disorder that presents with difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behavior. Accurate and early diagnosis is vital for effective intervention. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) has been an important tool to investigate the neural correlates of ASD. Recent deep learning advancements, especially transformer-based models, have proven useful for processing fMRI data for ASD detection. This review paper offers a general overview of transformer architectures for fMRI-based ASD classification. We address several methodologies, including spatial-temporal transformers, graph transformers, and mixed models combining convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and transformers. Prominent studies, such as the STAR Former model, showcase the success of both spatial and temporal features of BOLD signals being captured by novel modules such as eigenvector centrality-based ROI analysis and multiscale attention mechanisms. Nevertheless, despite these improvements, issues still persist, such as requiring large amounts of data to avoid overfitting and combining multimodal data to increase accuracy. This review will focus on outlining the current state-of-the-art transformer-based methods in fMRI-based ASD detection, identifying their advantages and disadvantages, and providing future directions to improve the field.

Physical Layer Interface Design and Implementation for Serial Data Transmission with Multiplier Technique Approach

Serial communication enables communication between devices by providing high speed and efficiency in data transfer within modern communication systems. It has a wide range of applications, including business, healthcare, education, industry, and consumer electronics. This method offers an economical and efficient solution as it requires fewer cables and consumes fewer resources compared to parallel communication. It is particularly preferred in scenarios requiring remote communication and high-speed data transmission. Although serial communication offers speed and efficiency in data transfer, it also has certain disadvantages and limitations. Various techniques have been developed over time to enhance the speed and efficiency of data transmission. Line coding techniques have also evolved within this context. In this paper, a new technique (multiplier technique) has been developed, offering a new perspective on the line coding techniques used in serial data transmission by processing repetitive data to transmit multiple data units at once. This technique, like other line coding techniques, aims to increase the data transmission rate and overcome bandwidth limitations. In multi-level line coding techniques, instead of symbol data corresponding to each level, the coded data is derived by transmitting the number of repetitions of the logic value as a multiplier. In multi-level line coding techniques, instead of symbol data corresponding to each level, the encoded data is derived by transmitting the number of repetitions of the logic value as a multiplier. In the application example, within the logic voltage level range, a microcontroller, logic gates, and analog switches were used to analyze, deduplicate, and replicate the data. In addition, an interface design and a basic-level protocol were developed for data transmission and analyzed for high data transmission efficiency based on various parameters included in the technique.

Differences Between Rural and Urban America that Inform HIV Prevention Messaging.

HIV prevention efforts have traditionally focused on urban areas, yet about one-fourth of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. are in non-urban areas. This study explored rural and urban differences in perceived HIV risk; perceived HIV stigma; and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness, attitudes, beliefs, communication behaviors, and use to inform the development of communication messages to promote informed decision-making among available HIV prevention options, including PrEP. We conducted interviews, preceded by a brief survey, with 255 adults in 5 rural and 6 urban locations throughout the U.S. with high HIV burden. Participants from rural areas more frequently described their risk of getting HIV as low compared with those from urban areas, although partly due to differences in gender/sexual identity and sexual risk. Participants from rural areas more frequently reported perceived stigma around getting tested for HIV, taking PrEP to prevent HIV, or having HIV and less frequently reported having heard of PrEP and having a healthcare provider talk with them about PrEP compared with those from urban areas. No participants from rural areas reported using PrEP, although 48% of those with HIV-negative or unknown status were at substantial risk based on reported risk factors. Our findings highlight notable differences in perceived HIV risk; perceived HIV stigma; and PrEP awareness, attitudes, beliefs, communication behaviors, and use between individuals residing in rural and urban areas, suggesting that HIV prevention messaging needs to be tailored for rural audiences to support receptivity.

Fenomena Chatbot AI Sebagai Teman Curhat: Implikasi Pada Hubungan Antarpribadi di Era Digital

The phenomenon of using AI chatbots as confidants has been on the rise alongside advancements in communication technology. This research examines the increasing popularity of AI chatbots as companions for sharing personal thoughts in the digital era. By referencing the Beyond Human Communication theory, that highlights the connection between people and technology in modern communication, we used a qualitative approach and a systematic literature review to explore how chatting with these bots affects personal relationships and how we perceive communication quality. Results reveal that AI chatbots, by Natural Language Processing (NLP) abilities, can create a communication experience that feels quite like talking with another person. Chatbot AI offer emotional support that readily available. However, relying too much on chatbots can hinder a person’s ability to engage in deeper, more meaningful conversations with other humans. While these bots can provide quick and accurate responses, they lack the depth and significance that come with human interactions. This research highlights the need to strike a balance between using technology and maintaining genuine human connections to keep our social relationships strong.

Anthropomorphism and transparency interplay on consumer behaviour in generative AI-driven marketing communication

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of Generative AI (GAI)-produced marketing communication on consumer trust and behavioural intentions, particularly purchase intention. This study explores how GAI’s anthropomorphism and transparency influence these outcomes. The findings aim to expand existing research and provide actionable guidance for integrating GAI into practical marketing strategies. Design/methodology/approach A sample of 444 participants was recruited through Prolific to complete a survey based on different types of marketing contexts. Then, the dataset created through the survey data is analysed using statistical analysis to test the impact of the anthropomorphism of GAI on consumer behaviour in two marketing communication scenarios: chatbots and promotion advertisements (posters). Findings Anthropomorphism enhances purchase intention directly and indirectly through perceived social presence and trust. Transparency, i.e., the disclosure of AI-generated content, weakens the effect of anthropomorphism on social presence, decreasing the impact as transparency increases. Marketing scenarios (chatbot vs poster) influence the strength of these effects, with chatbots amplifying the mediating role of social presence and trust. However, the overall mediation mechanism linking anthropomorphism to purchase intention through social presence and trust remains stable across different communication scenarios and levels of transparency. Originality/value Few studies have comprehensively explored the impact and mechanisms of GAI on multi-faceted consumer behaviour intentions. This study provides new insights and findings on applying anthropomorphic GAI in marketing communication.

Factors of the formation of the information culture of modern students

The article reveals the main factors of the formation of the information culture of modern students. They have been grouped into factors that act from within the individual and those that influence from external reality. Among the external factors, the following were highlighted: democratization of society; an educational program aimed at the development of intelligence, spiritual and ethical rules; economic development of the country, which allows a person to get the desired education and provides access to modern technical communication technologies; information provision of society, in particular, institutions of higher education. Internal factors include: development of the thinking sphere, reflection; creative potential and creativity; general level of intelligence; the culture of using technology and means of communication; motivation The article contains the data on one of the key components of the information consciousness of modern students, namely media literacy, which is an important tool for resisting Russia’s information war within the framework of a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The conditions for the formation of media literacy in institutions of higher education have been created. Taking into account the modern reality, the following tasks were selected for the formation of media literacy among students: teach how to navigate the principles of media work and analyze one’s own information space; development of practical skills for checking the reliability of information; form the habit of using only high-quality content and perform effective search work; develop stress resistance. It was found that the institution of higher education is the main institution for the formation of students’ information culture, therefore universities should implement programs and courses for the formation of information culture skills.

Exploring Tactile Initiation of Joint Attention in Autistic Children.

Initiation of joint attention (IJA) is often impaired in children who may be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Traditionally, assessments of IJA have focused on visual and auditory means of communication. Recent research has expanded the understanding of joint attention to include tactile interactions. To investigate the early development of IJA in toddlers, particularly focusing on the differences in sensory modalities, we conducted a prospective study tracking 60 toddlers (30 males) up to 36 months of age, including 16 who were later diagnosed with ASD. We used videos taken during the administration of Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales-Developmental Profile to code for IJA corresponding to different sensory modalities. During the second year of life, autistic children displayed lower frequencies of visual, auditory, and combined visual-auditory IJA compared to typically developing peers. Conversely, autistic children exhibited higher frequencies of tactile IJA. Notably, the frequencies of tactile IJA at 12 months were correlated with social symptoms at 24 months, showing a positive correlation across all participants and a negative correlation specifically within the ASD group. These results suggest that differences in the use of different sensory modalities of IJA may influence the development of future social communication abilities. Clinical Trial Registration: www.chictr.org.cn , identifier ChiCTR2100049811, 2021-08-10.