Digital Resources Research Articles

Blended Learning to Enhance Productive Skills

Blended learning, an educational strategy that blends traditional face-to-face teaching with online learning components, provides a dynamic way to improve productive skills like speaking and writing. This hybrid model takes advantage of the qualities of both in-person interactions and digital resources, allowing students to benefit from the rapid feedback and personal engagement of classroom settings while having access to various flexible online tools. Blended learning promotes more personalized and effective communication skill development by incorporating interactive digital platforms, virtual practice opportunities, and automated feedback mechanisms. This technique fits various learning styles and paces and gives a more comprehensive, adaptable educational experience. Finally, blended learning fosters enhanced mastery of productive skills, giving learners the confidence and aptitude to communicate in varied circumstances successfully.

Effects of the informed health choices secondary school intervention after 1 year: a prospective meta-analysis using individual participant data

BackgroundCritical thinking about health choices is essential to avoid being misled by unreliable information and to use reliable information appropriately. The aim of this prospective meta-analysis was to synthesize the results of 1-year follow-up data from three cluster-randomized trials of an intervention designed to teach lower secondary school students to think critically about health choices. Only one other randomized trial has evaluated a school-based intervention to teach adolescents to think critically about health choices. That trial compared two teaching strategies to teach statistical reasoning. It did not assess long-term learning-retention.MethodsWe conducted the trials in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The intervention included providing a 2–3-day teacher training workshop and digital resources for ten lessons. The intervention focused on nine key concepts. We did not intervene in control schools. The primary outcome was a passing score on a test (≥ 9 of 18 multiple-choice questions answered correctly). We performed random effects meta-analyses to estimate the overall intervention effects. We calculated learning retention as the test results in the intervention schools after 1 year relative to just after the intervention, adjusted for chance.ResultsAltogether, 244 schools (11,344 students) took part in the three trials. Follow-up data was collected for 8298 students (73%). The overall odds ratio for the primary outcome after 1 year was 3.6 (95% CI: 1.9–7.1; p = 0.0001) in favor of the intervention, whereas it was 5.5 (95% CI: 3.0–10.2) just after the intervention. This corresponds to 25.6% (95% CI: 21.1–30.0%) more students in the intervention schools passing the test after 1 year versus 33.3% (95% CI: 28.7–37.8%) just after the intervention. Overall, 2273 (52.6%) of 4324 students in intervention schools had a passing score after 1 year compared to 3397 (58.1%) of 5846 students just after the intervention, indicating 88.3% learning retention.ConclusionsOne year after the intervention, we still found a positive effect on the ability of students to think critically about health choices, but 5.5% fewer students in the intervention schools had a passing score. The certainty of the evidence was also lower due to 27% of students being lost to follow-up.Trial registrationThe protocol for this prospective meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO May 31, 2022, ID 336580. The three randomized trials were registered in the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry February 15, 2022, PACTR202203880375077; April 5, 2022, PACTR20220488391731; and April 14, 2022, PACTR202204861458660.

Exploring beliefs, motivations and emotions: Insights from learning Maltese as a second language

Second language acquisition is a complex process that involves numerous challenges and is influenced by various factors, including linguistic competence and classroom settings. This study examines the concerns and emotions experienced by 43 adult international students learning Maltese as a second language. By employing a mixed-methods approach, the research collected both qualitative and quantitative data through questionnaires and interviews. The results reveal a spectrum of positive and negative emotions experienced by students during a Maltese language learning session that incorporated digital resources. The evidence presented in this research shows that students have both personal and practical goals concerning second language acquisition. The use of non-traditional technological interventions aligned with the learners’ beliefs and motivations, makes the learning process more effective, particularly by eliciting positive emotions. This study underscores the importance of addressing students’ concerns and emotions in second language acquisition and the benefits of integrating technology into language learning. Pedagogically, this study advocates for a nuanced approach to address learners’ emotional concerns, emphasizing the imperative for language instructors to be trained in emotion regulation strategies to help students manage their emotions during the learning process. Moreover, integrating cultural components into language pedagogy can serve as a compass, guiding students through social norms and intricacies, thereby fostering a sense of belonging within the local community. Furthermore, the study highlights the pedagogical merit of immediate feedback mechanisms and the implementation of diverse, inclusive teaching methods and resources tailored to accommodate various learning styles and paces. These pedagogical implications advocate for a holistic and adaptive language teaching paradigm, aiming to foster a more inclusive and emotionally supportive learning environment for international students.

Digital Transformation of Physical Education in Colleges and Universities: Theoretical Logic, Practical Dilemma and Practical Approach

With the rapid development of information technology, the digital transformation of education has provided new ideas, new resources and new methods for the practice of physical education in colleges and universities, and has become an important support and power source for the high-quality development of physical education in colleges and universities in the new era. By using the methods of literature and logical analysis, this paper analyzes the theoretical logic, practical dilemma and practical path of educational digitization in the practice of physical education curriculum in colleges and universities. The research holds that the theoretical logic includes conforming to the concept of education modernization, adapting to the individual needs of students, helping to improve the quality of physical education and promoting the fairness of physical education. This paper analyzes the practical difficulties faced in the process of transformation, such as uneven digital literacy of teachers, insufficient integration of digital resources, imperfect teaching evaluation system and weak infrastructure construction. It also puts forward the corresponding practical approaches, including improving teachers’ digital ability, optimizing the construction of digital resources, and constructing a scientific evaluation system, aiming to provide a useful reference for promoting the digital transformation of physical education in colleges and universities.

The contribution of public libraries in strengthening digital citizenship in Egyptian society – an exploratory study

Purpose This study aims to assess the involvement of Egyptian public libraries in supporting digital citizenship and propose a vision to leverage their role in promoting digital citizenship culture, aligning with Egypt Vision 2030 for sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire was used to sample 21 public library managers in Egypt. The study adopted a descriptive-analytic approach, measuring library readiness infrastructure, strategic planning for digital citizenship support and participation ratings on nine dimensions of digital citizenship as defined by the Ribble model. Findings Results indicated a moderate level of participation overall (average score of 1.72), with high levels in dimensions like digital access and digital literacy but much lower levels in others, particularly digital law and digital health and safety. Library readiness was found to have a positive effect on the level of digital citizenship promotion. Research limitations/implications The small sample size may limit generalizability. Future research should explore best practices for digital citizenship programming in libraries and strategies for overcoming implementation barriers. Practical implications The study underscores the need for Egyptian public libraries to enhance their readiness and participation in promoting digital citizenship. This requires investment in digital resources, staff training, community outreach and collaboration with educational institutions and community partners. Originality/value This study provides insights into the role of public libraries in promoting digital citizenship in the context of a developing country’s national vision. It offers a framework for libraries worldwide to assess and enhance their digital citizenship initiatives.

ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS CAUSING DIFFICULTIES IN SPEAKING ENGLISH FOR GRADE 10 STUDENTS OF SMA ISLAM PAGERUNGAN BESAR

This study aims to analyze the factors causing difficulties in speaking English grade 10 students at SMA Islam Pagerungan Besar. The ability to speak English is very important where in this era, English is the language used in international communication. However, there are still many 10 grade students at SMA Islam Pagerungan Besar who have difficulties in speaking English. This study uses a qualitatve method with case study approach, data were collected through interviews, classroom observations, and analysis of related documents. The results of the study indicate that there are 2 main factors causing difficulties experienced by students, namely internal and external factors. Internal factors include lack of confidence, limited vocabulary mastery, difficulty in pronunciation, afraid of making mistakes, and lack of motivation. Meanwhile, external factors include less supportive environment, learning facilities are inadequate, less effecttive teaching methods, lack of support from teacher and friends, and lack of opportunity to practice speaking. Based on these findings, it is suggestions that teachers and school create more supportive learning environment to increase students’ self-confidence, provide more opportunities for students to practice speaking through activities outside the classroom, and use more interactive and innovative teaching methods. In addition, improving learning facilities such as providing language laboratories and digital learning resources, as well as providing books on speaking skills are needed to help students improve their English speaking skills.

Innovative Paths for Talent Cultivation Models of Navigation Technology Majors in Higher Vocational Colleges under the Background of Educational Digital Transformation

The digital transformation of education has become an important opportunity for the development of higher vocational colleges, driving the reform and innovation of talent cultivation models in higher vocational colleges. Under the background of the digital transformation of education, to realize the innovation of the talent cultivation model for the navigation technology major in higher vocational colleges, efforts should be made to cultivate teachers' digital literacy, accelerate the integration of digital technology and courses, actively promote digital technologies such as virtual reality technology, and accelerate the construction of digital learning resources.

Leveraging Digital Resources: A Resource-Based View Perspective

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, organisations are challenged to strategically deploy digital resources to secure competitive advantage. Drawing upon the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, this paper explores the intricate interplay between digital resources and organisational success. Through thematic analysis of empirical literature, the study delves into key facets such as data utilisation, digital platforms, technological capabilities, talent management, agility, and strategic partnerships. Methodologically, qualitative research techniques, notably thematic analysis, are employed to synthesise existing research findings. The study uncovered that human capital is pivotal in propelling digital transformation and fostering innovation. Organisational success in the digital era relies on implementing effective methods for managing digital talent, including recruiting, training, and keeping workers with digital competence. The study also highlights the strategic significance of digital resource utilisation within the RBV framework. Finally, the paper presents practical implications for organisational leaders seeking to harness digital resources effectively to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the digital era. Findings underscore the strategic importance of digital resource utilisation in enhancing organisational competitiveness and driving long-term growth. The study contributes to understanding how organisations can optimally leverage digital resources within the RBV framework.

Measuring digital health literacy in Europe – developing a new tool to capture innovation

Abstract Background Rapid advancement of digital resources for health and healthcare in Europe has widened the scope of opportunities to promote health, but also raises concerns about accessibility and health equity. Measuring digital health literacy (DHL) in populations is critical for assessing digital resource appropriateness in general and specifically among vulnerable populations. The DHL measure used in the M-POHL Health Literacy Survey 2019-2021 (HLS19) in 13 countries showed inadequate DHL in large parts of the population, reflecting a social gradient. As digital resources become increasingly interactive, potentially widening the digital divide, a need to refine the DHL HLS19 tool was evident. Methods Building on the HLS19 tool, an additional measure was developed to assess interactive aspects of DHL by representatives from 16 countries in a co-productive way, based on discussions about the diverse digital challenges. The additional scale was to be generic enough to be relevant for all countries, yet specific enough to discern the diverse needs regarding various public health/healthcare service formats across Europe. Results The new tool is divided into 2 parts: a scale measuring the skills to access, understand, appraise, and apply digital health information as applied and validated in HLS19, and a new set of items assessing the use and ease of use of interactive digital resources including health promotion apps, digital tools for managing health/medical conditions, navigating the healthcare system, and communicating online with health professionals. The tool has been translated into several languages and is currently undergoing piloting/cognitive testing. Conclusions Collaborative work among countries is essential for developing relevant measurement tools on the European level. Just as the technology undergoes rapid change, likewise tools for assessing DHL must be updated acknowledging the diversity of digital resources and needs on country levels.

Beyond Digital Literacy: Exploring Factors Affecting Digital Performance of University Staff

Digital literacy is essential but doesn’t guarantee digital performance. Many researchers consider factors such as attitude, cultural environment, or institutional setting in their frameworks when researching digital literacy. Yet, their significance often gets lost in a catalog of required skills and knowledge. Here we develop a model outlining factors influencing university personnel’s digital performance across diverse tasks, and we discuss associated challenges. The model derives from literature and insights from 20 qualitative interviews with academic staff in teaching, research, or consulting roles. Results show that institutional settings and employee empowerment are pivotal in shaping openness to digital tools. Intentions fail due to resource constraints and lack of recognition, leading to limited experience with digital opportunities. Well-being significantly influences willingness to embrace digital resources amidst the balancing act of anticipating future efficiency against investing time and resources. Maintaining a team atmosphere often results in alignment with the least digitally competent. With appropriate conditions, time resources, and support, staff could efficiently utilize digital resources, even with only basic skills, which fosters the integration of all workforces. We argue for comprehensive assessments of university employees’ digital performances, considering context and holistic aspects beyond personal skills and knowledge. Our model encompasses digital literacy, openness to digital developments, digital culture, primary conditions, services/empowerment offerings, and mindfulness.

تأثير التحول الرقمي على كفاءة الموارد البشرية في المملكة العربية السعودية

Digital transformation is one of the most significant modern mechanism concerned with restructuring the traditional labor market into digital work as a result of keeping pace with technical and technological progress. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 emphasized the activation and development of digital transformation in all government and private sectors, therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the impact of digital transformation on the efficiency of human resources, and determine the potential benefits of adopting digital transformation on the development of human resources. Furthermore, the study attempts to find whether there is link between the impact of demographic characteristics variables, such as (age, academic qualification, years of experience) on efficiency, identifying the concept and benefits of digital transformation. The questionnaire as a tool to suit the nature of the study, and the study population consisted of workers in Saudi banks, and it was distributed in a simple random way, and the number of responses reached (45) male and female employees, and the SPSS statistical analysis program was used to analyze the data. As one of the most important findings of the two researchers is the existence of a statistically significant positive correlation relationship between digital transformation and human resource efficiency, as the Pearson correlation coefficient reached (0.726), which is a statistically significant value at the level of significance (0.01), and there are no statistically significant differences in organizational efficiency. Referring to any of the demographic variables, the analysis showed that the level of organizational efficiency in the sample community is high by a percentage of 91.1%, in light of the findings of the study. The two researchers recommended expanding training centers on technological programs and activating them to develop human resources, and educate organizations and society about the advantages of Modern technology and its positive impact on the efficiency of employees, raising the spirit of competition and cooperation between organizations to create new digital growth that seeks to achieve the vision of 2030.

Factors affecting teachers’ use of digital resources for teaching mathematical cultures: An extended UTAUT-2 model

Factors affecting teachers’ use of digital resources for teaching mathematical cultures: An extended UTAUT-2 model

Navigating Challenges in Remote Speaking Tasks: Unveiling Technical and Non-Technical Problems Faced by Students

In today’s digitally driven era marked by widespread remote communication, individuals grapple with diverse challenges when undertaking speaking tasks from a distance. Despite extensive research on communication dynamics in virtual contexts, the specific hurdles associated with remote speaking tasks remain understudied. This research addresses this gap by qualitatively exploring the complexities of such challenges and proposing practical strategies for effective communication in virtual environments. Employing a qualitative research approach, a survey with open-ended questions was administered to 19 students in the English Education program, and NVivo 12 was used for analysis. The findings highlight technical and non-technical challenges in remote speaking tasks, emphasizing the critical role of digital proficiency and a stable technical infrastructure. The study underscores the need to address personal and social aspects, suggesting solutions that encompass a precise and adaptive approach, including ensuring a reliable Internet connection, strategic use of digital resources, enhancement of technical skills, and a holistic strategy to tackle both technical and non-technical challenges. This research implies that educators should prioritize developing students’ digital proficiency and adopt a comprehensive approach that tackles both technical and psychological challenges, aiming to boost confidence and interpersonal skills in virtual learning environments.

THE USE OF MEDIA AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN LEARNING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

English has become a global language and has taken a significant place in the world. With the advent of globalization, the demand for learning English as a foreign language (FL) has increased dramatically. The use of media and digital technologies is becoming more and more popular in learning English as FL. In this article, we will explore the use of media and digital technologies in learning English as FL. The articlediscusses the increasing popularity of digital resources such as learning apps, online platforms, and multimedia tools among young learners and adults. It emphasizes the convenience and suitability of these resources in facilitating language acquisition and enhancing English proficiency. Furthermore, the articleexplores the importance of learner interest and satisfaction in utilizing social media for language learning.

Assessing and bridging the digital competence gap: a comparative study of lebanese student teachers and in-service teachers using the DigCompEdu framework

This study investigates the digital competence levels of Lebanese student teachers and in-service teachers using the DigCompEdu framework. The study employs a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, analyzing data from 170 in-service teachers with varying years of experience and 399 student teachers across five academic years. Results indicate that in-service teachers consistently outperform student teachers in all six areas of digital competence, with the most substantial gap in Digital Resources. However, significant improvements in digital competence were observed among student teachers from the first to the third academic year. The study highlights the necessity for enhanced digital competence training in teacher education programs and continuous professional development for in-service teachers. Recommendations include embedding digital tools into curricula, providing hands-on training, fostering collaborative cultures, and regularly monitoring competence development. These findings emphasize the importance of preparing teachers to meet the digital demands of modern classrooms.

The Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine in Times of Independence and Martial Law: Development Strategy, Preservation, and International Co-operation

Abstract This article explores the operational realities faced by the major national libraries in Ukraine during the period of independence and martial law, including shifts in priorities and the development and preservation of digital resources with research and historical-cultural significance at the Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine. It also examines the increased involvement in European open science projects and underscores the critical role of European partnerships in safeguarding national and global cultural heritage, particularly against potential loss during wartime conflicts.

Transforming University Library Building Conservation: A Descriptive Study of Preservation Practices in Nigeria

The study examined the conservation of library building for effective information preservation among university libraries in Enugu State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey with population of 325 library staff made up the study. The instruments for collecting data is questionnaire, analysed and presented in mean score, standard deviation as well as percentage and t-test. Results: conservation criteria for library building are clearing and cleaning of the library building, repair of roof, windows and doors, installation of fire and smoke alarm system, and the provision of enough security personnel around the building. Library buildings are being conserved to protect resources against natural disasters like flooding, and earthquake, against man-made disaster like fire, making library resources accessible, promote an end to wasteful use of non-renewable information resources, to encourages best practices in records management, and it provides an extremely attractive environment for the use of books. Findings on the adequacy level of policy and regulatory framework shows that disaster management, storage capacity for documentary resources, appropriateness of environmental conditions are to be consider in the library. The study recommended that the university library management should provide monitoring system for environmental condition, storage capacity for digital resources and disaster preventive measure in the library.

Modern Data Storage Technologies in the Context of Industry 4.0

Existing and currently widely used data storage technologies are considered. It is noted that the growth in the volume of digital information resources at an astronomical pace has led to the rapid development of technologies for their creation, storage, and access to them. In the context of Industry 4.0, the use of digital technologies to create intelligent and interconnected production and data processing processes is of particular importance. Blockchain technology and cloud technologies have become integral components of modern digital transformation. Taking into account the current state of data storage and blockchain technologies, network capabilities, enterprise needs and other factors, the possibilities of selecting and using storage tools and technologies, principles of joint implementation and application of different technologies, as well as modern virtualization approaches and blockchain technology for solving distributed data storage issues have been explored.

Digital transformation readiness in large manufacturing firms: a building block model proposition

PurposeThis study identified the key factors that can be used to assess manufacturers' readiness for DT.Design/methodology/approachNon-participating observations and semi-structured interviews were applied to five large manufacturers in Brazil and four in the UK, using content analysis.FindingsThe paper (1) identifies and discusses the aspects that companies need to consider for digital readiness; (2) presents a model developed in building blocks for DT readiness, which goes beyond the technical dimension; (3) argues that few firms fully understand DT’s meaning, opportunities and risks, and they should invest in strategic and socio-managerial preparation; (4) emphasizes government support as crucial to assist the business digital journey and (5) highlights that DT is a human transformation and technology users are the primary agents of this change.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the literature proposes models regarding the levels of digital maturity, the present study investigates which organizational aspects need to be taken into account to be ready for digital change. The present study identified digital resources concerning the digital context (for instance, agile, collaborative, absorptive and data analytics capabilities) and provided an integrated view that encompasses also external aspects of the environment that need to be taken into consideration when performing the analysis, a contribution to strategic management literature in the sense that it goes beyond studies that usually explore only internal aspects of the firm that cannot properly explain how digitalization can be achieved by an organization.Practical implicationsTechnologies do not cause changes without people being able to extract and understand the value of the use and impact of these technologies. Business innovation demands engagement, attitudes and connections between people. If the factories do not mobilize and train internal and external collaborators to realize the value of digital technologies, the promised gains of DT will hardly be realized. Preparing people is one of the most challenging aspects of business digitalization. The proposed framework offers a multidimensional view of DT, providing insights into strategic aspects and the roles and mindset of employees in organizations on their digital journey, characterized by constant learning. DT is a work of change management, done with, for and by people. The article also helps companies identify critical factors to evaluate before operationalizing digital innovation practices.Social implicationsThis study also contributes to policymakers, such as government and industry consortia, in establishing relevant factors when policies are being drawn. Analyzing the factors for a sector, in general, might inform the investment priority in actions that might foster DT for that sector. Given the recurring turmoils in the global economic environment, broad policies need to be established by the government for business digitalization, which can boost the performance of the productive sector.Originality/valueThis study provides valuable insights consolidated into a DT readiness model. The article helps companies identify critical factors to evaluate before operationalizing digital practices. It compares the differences and commonalities among factories in an underdeveloped country versus an industrialized nation.

A socio-cognitive perspective of knowledge integration in digital innovation networks

Digital innovation is a complex process in which actors seek to create new value pathways by combining digital resources in a layered modular architecture. While IS scholarship has a rich tradition of research on developing and implementing digital artefacts within intra-organisational contexts, our understanding of knowledge integration across distributed innovation networks is nascent and under-theorised. This is an important area of research given the rising importance of digital innovation networks and the challenges faced in integrating specialised knowledge, especially given the greater diversity, speed, reach, and scope made possible by digital technologies. Drawing on in-depth case study findings from a health IoT project involving multiple organisations and disciplines, we explore how knowledge is integrated across boundaries during the initiation stage of a digital innovation network. Our findings point to boundaries related to the digital platform’s organising vision, resource allocation, delivery roadmap, technical architecture, and intellectual property, to name but a few challenges. We then reveal five socio-cognitive modes of knowledge integration which actors strategically enact to cross syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic boundaries: Signalling, Assembling, Contesting, Discounting, and Finalising. The choice of mode depends on the perceived knowledge status (‘what they know’) and social status (‘who they are’) of network actors, which highlight the salience of both social and cognitive dependencies for knowledge integration. We further discuss the contribution of design objects for overcoming differences and distinctions between specialist actors in a digital innovation network.