Free Wi-Fi Research Articles

Thai Students Perspective of Online Learning Media during Covid-19 Pandemic

The present qualitative study explores the perceptions of seven Thai undergraduate students in a university on the online learning medium when the COVID-19 pandemic hit this country. Semi-structured interviews were created to clarify the students' viewpoints on online learning medium. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the transcriptions of the data collected from the online interviews. The study elicits three significant data themes that are connected to the research questions: the Thai students’ perception towards the online learning medium, their preference on the online learning medium, and the problems faced by them along using the online learning medium and the solving. Findings showed that the using of online learning mediums helped Thai students in lecturing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The most preferred online learning medium they use is WhatsApp application, followed by Google Meet as the second choice. They prefer WhatsApp to other online learning mediums or applications since it is stable, cheap, and easy to use. They also re-studied the lecturer’s explanation everywhere and anytime. The research found some problems students faced while using Google Meet or Zoom; the most common problem they faced was an unstable connection. While excessive internet data usage was another obstacle faced by them. To solve those problems, they frequently moved to another place providing free Wi-Fi or asked their friends or family to share the hotspot.

IMPLEMENTASI MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE POKEMON GO PADA MATA PELAJARAN IPS DI SMP NEGERI 9 MALANG

Abstract: This research is a qualitative descriptive study, data obtained through observations, interviews and documentation, this research was carried out because social studies learning was carried out during the day, making students feel less enthusiastic about participating in learning, so there is a need for more enjoyable learning so that students actively participate. social studies learning, this research aims to find out how to implement the Pokemon Go type cooperative learning model in social studies subjects at SMP Negeri 9 Malang, the results of this research show the steps for implementing the Pokemon Go type cooperative learning model in social studies subjects at SMP Negeri 9 Malang The planning stage contains preparations before implementing cooperative learning using the Pokemon Go type. In implementing the learning, there are several steps that are carried out, namely the preliminary stage, core and closing activities, and evaluation. Apart from that, there are inhibiting and supporting factors during the activities of implementing the Pokemon Go type cooperative learning model. The obstacles are signal problems, students who do not master the material, and some students who are less active, while the supporting factors are the ease of using devices, the availability of free WiFi and students who are enthusiastic about learning Pokemon Go, and solutions to overcome the problems of implementing the Type Cooperative Learning Model. Pokemon go in social studies subjects at SMP Negeri 9 Malang

Influence of Service Quality on Word of Mouth Mediated by Tourist Satisfaction at the Budo Tourism Village Homestay

In 2022, tourist visits to the Budo Tourism Village were recorded at 64.000 visitors. This figure exceeds the initial target of the village government and Village-Owned Enterprise Management. However, the large number of tourist visits to Budo Village did not increase the number of guests staying at Budo Village homestays. The limited marketing budget from the government and the village-owned enterprise (Bumdes) as managers makes WOM (word of mouth) as the main promotional strategy for homestay managers in the Budo Tourism Village. Another phenomenon encountered is dissatisfaction of guests who stay overnight due to the quality of service received. The above phenomena are related to the theories of service quality, tourist satisfaction, and word of mouth, and are then examined in more depth regarding the influence of service quality on word of mouth mediated by tourist satisfaction. This type of research is quantitative with data collection techniques using a questionnaire created in the form of a GoogleForm and distributed to 174 respondents who have stayed at nine homestays in the Budo Tourism Village. SEM PLS and SPSS analysis were employed to analyze the data. This research found that service quality has a positive and significant influence on tourist satisfaction and Word of Mouth (WOM). Tourist satisfaction has a positive and significant influence on Word of Mouth (WOM) and is also able to mediate the influence of Service Quality on Word of Mouth (WOM). Homestay managers are advised to concern to service quality, such as tidiness and cleanliness, as well as improving internet networks and the availability of free WiFi. Further research will explore the possibility of developing it not only in homestays but also in cafes, restaurants, and even diving centers.

Trends and Practices of Araling Panlipunan Instructions in the Schools Amidst Covid-19 Pandemic: Input for Technical Assistance

This action research determined the implementation of Araling Panlipunan Instructions in the schools amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to discover the profile of the participants; the trends and practices of teachers in the new normal; the challenges and issues encountered in the absence of face-to-face classes; and solutions utilized by teachers in addressing the situations affecting the instructions. The participants in the study are the teachers of elementary and secondary schools. The researcher used the descriptive survey method and frequency for the interpretation and analysis of the data. The survey tool was validated by twenty non-respondent teachers from select schools before it was administered via Google link to one hundred- six respondents. An interview and focus group discussion also was conducted to collect more information and validate the gathered data. Based on the results, the findings revealed that the majority of respondents were female, teachers utilized modular distance learning, attended the training in lesson planning, modular and online distance learning, and joined learning action cells. The teachers utilized learning modules, worksheets, videos, and manuals as learning resources. The respondents utilized the formative and summative tests, actual performance and skills tests, and portfolios, as assessments. The use of films and photographs, pictures, globes and maps, and problem-solving were the most common approaches in handling their classes. The most common problems encountered were the distance of learners’ houses, parents answering self-learning modules, poor internet connection, late submission of learners’ output, assessment of learners’ performance, and non-completion of activities. Although there were problems, the teachers strategically applied the best practices such as strong collaboration, parents’ orientation, open communication, access to free wifi providers, simplified activities for learners, giving feedback, and conducting a home visitation to help the learners during the pandemic Keywords: instructions, trends and practices, challenges, strategies, specialization, pandemic, new normal, assessment, modular, online kumustahan, learning delivery

Challenges and Alternatives of Parents as Home Learning Partners in the Implementation of Printed Modular Distance Learning

Because of the risks posed by COVID-19, most public educational institutions have implemented printed modular distance learning instruction. The purpose of this study was to determine the challenges and alternatives faced by parents as they performed their role as home learning partners during the last two quarters of the school year 2020-2021 using the printed modular distance learning modality. It also sought to investigate the suggestions of parents as home learning partners. The study used an exploratory descriptive qualitative (EDQ) approach. It included fourteen parents from a public elementary school who were purposively chosen. In-depth interviews (IDI) were used to gather information. The different themes were identified through inductive coding. The study found that parents face the following challenges: lack of electronic gadgets, difficulty explaining/teaching, insufficient time, non-conforming modules, and an inconsistent schedule for SLM distribution. To fulfill their responsibilities, parents have employed a variety of coping strategies, such as effective time management, the use of ICT, approaching MKOs, motivation through a reward system, and spoon-feeding. Although parents considered various options for fulfilling their role as home learning partners, most participants preferred to unburden themselves by returning to in-person classes. To reduce their workload, parents suggest the following: (1) a free mobile phone for parents who do not already have one, (2) a free Wi-Fi zone, (3) module updates, and (4) monthly distribution of self-learning modules. Being a home learning partner imposes an additional burden on parents. It is suggested that the government or school work with other government agencies or non-governmental organizations to implement parents’ suggestions. Keywords: challenges, alternatives, home learning partner, modular distance learning

Public Networks: A Threat or Shield to Personal Data

The increase in development of technologies made networking an integral part of everyone’s life. From initial wired technology to the change in wireless technology today, everything has become so convenient that it is difficult to live in this society without access to such benefits. Public network is one of them. Along with convenience, such network also has potential security and privacy risks. However, most users keep neglecting the privacy threats being unaware of the preventive measures to shield their data. The aim of this research paper is to analyze whether the public networks are only a threat to personal data or if it can be shield to protect user’s personal and sensitive data from getting revealed. The public networks have its own set of pros and cons which on one hand, supports the networks as most preferred connection because of its easy accessibility, availability, cost-efficiency etc. while on the other hand, proves to be a paradise of hackers, home to viruses and malwares etc. After collection of all the information, related articles, etc., it is brought to notice that there are several kinds of threats and malwares attached to this type of network which is unthinkable for the general public. Although there are various preventive measures as well to protect the personal data but it is unaware to the general public. The research paper gives details on the working of public networks, advantages and limitations of these networks, various malicious attacks, articles on major security risk at public places on free Wi-Fi, cyber-crime risk on free Wi-Fi and Bluetooth as well as free Wi-Fi being the most potent tools for cyber crooks, along with the preventive measures to shield personal data from any such above mentioned threats.

Lecturers’ Utilization of Electronic Instructional Media on Students’ Academic Performance in National Open University of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Study Center

The study investigated lecturers’ utilization of electronic instructional media on students’ academic performance in. National Open University of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Study Center. Three specific objectives, three research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. This study adopted descriptive survey research. The population of the study was 27 lecturers of the National Open University of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Study Center. No sampling technique was used to achieve a sample size of 27 lecturers. The data collecting instrument for this study was a self-structured questionnaire titled “Lecturers’ Utilization of Electronic Instructional Media on Students’ Academic Performance Questionnaire.” The instrument was structured using 4-point rating scale and was face and content validated by three experts in Departments of Educational Management and Measurement and Evaluation in Rivers State University. The instrument was tested for reliability using Cronbach Alpha statistics which yielded an average reliability index of 0.79. All the 27 copies of the questionnaire administered, were retrieved, and used for the study. Mean and standard deviation were used in answering the research questions while the null hypotheses were tested using t-test at 0.05 level of significance with a critical value of ±1.96. Findings revealed that lecturers’ utilization of audio tape, internet, and electronic books in instructional delivery influences students’ academic performance in National Open University of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Study Center to a high extent. Based on the findings, it was recommended that more funds be provided by the government to make available audio tapes for free to students to enable them follow up on their taped lessons; government should provide free Wi-Fi services to enable both teachers and students get unlimited access to internet usage in National Open University of Nigeria for hitch-free instructional delivery and learning process and government should as a matter of urgency provide more electronic books in schools and ensure that they are accessible to students to enhance positive reading achievement for quality education.

Leaving no one behind: Information (re)ˆpackaging for rural dwellers in South Africa

In most rural communities in South Africa, there is inadequate access to information due to a lack of public facilities and infrastructure, such as libraries and internet connections. This has a negative impact on the day-to-day activities of rural dwellers as it deprives them of the opportunity to access information, which is a fundamental right. This qualitative study used the Delphi technique, interviewing five experts in the Library and Information Services (LIS) fraternity in three rounds. The format in which information is accessed, as well as available information sources and resources, need (re)packaging in order to ensure free and equal access to information on a daily basis. This can be done through the provision of free Wi-Fi by rural municipalities in churches, gathering places, and royal houses to bridge the digital chasm. Provision of free Wi-Fi would give rural dwellers an opportunity to have access to online information without any hurdles as most rural dwellers are unemployed and lack money to buy data bundles for information access. With technological advancements, lot of information is shared online be it job advertisements, tertiary education applications, news, among others. The study provides a framework for addressing issues of information inaccessibility in remote rural areas. There is a need for increasing high-speed internet access for those in rural communities.

Strategi Manajemen Menggunakan Analisis SWOT Pada Usaha UMKM (Studi Usaha Angkringan Sedulur)

Angkringan businesses are widespread and attract many customers because of their wide market reach. Marketing strategies are used to determine business products to get the desired results. Actions that can be taken are SWOT analysis. This research aims to determine strategic management SWOT analysis with strategic management using Porter's Five Force theory. Qualitative methodology is used in the research process. Data collection techniques include interviews and observation. Based on the research results and discussion of marketing strategies using SWOT analysis on angkringan sedulur, including strengths (strengths) by providing games, free wifi and spacious parking and an online marketing system or social media. The weakness is that if it rains, there are only a few seats for shelter and many other angkringan competitors at that location. Opportunities are a strategic location in the middle of the city and next to hotels and the trendy Angkringan style, which is a busy place to hang out. Based on Porter's Five Forces theory, the strategies carried out are building a brand image, increasing product differentiation, choosing quality raw materials, offering games, free WiFi and a large parking area, maintaining the products’ quality, and charging cheaper rates than competitors.

Exposure of Social Media and Its Effect on English Language Proficiency; Basis for Action Plan

Social media profoundly affects contemporary communication, altering interpersonal relationships, information exchange, and the creation of digital identities. The study aims to determine exposure to social media and its effect on English language proficiency as the basis for an action plan. Using a descriptive correlation method, the respondents of this study are the grade 7 students of Mariveles National High School-(Cabcaben Annex) Alasasin. Data were collected using the adapted diagnostic test developed by Region III to measure the language proficiency of grade 7. Results revealed that grade 7 students are exposed to using Facebook; at the beginning level in English proficiency, the most mastered skills are those related to reading strategies, and the least developed skills are those about grammar. It is noted that most of the students, who were almost 50 to 70 percent of the examination takers, are at the beginning level, which denotes that there is still a need to improve the English language for grade 7 students. Lastly, the computed mean of Pearson r Value of the three sections is 0.27 with a positive low correlation. This means that increasing the hours of exposure to social media of Grade 7 students slightly increases their English language proficiency and vice versa. The recommendation of this study denotes that even social media has moderate implications for English language proficiency; teachers should monitor their students' use of social media. DepEd needs to set up free WiFi in every school so that our learners may use social media as a learning tool. Educators should give their students chances by setting aside time for social media use. Social media integration into their curriculum might also need to be considered.

Perceptions and preferences of patient services in emergency departments in Jeddah: a comprehensive survey

Objective: This study investigated the preferences and perception of the participants regarding patient services in Emergency Department (ED). Methods: A vast comprehensive survey, targeting a sample size of 597 participants in the Jeddah region, was conducted. The study aimed to understand the appeal and necessity of various features ranging from amenities in the waiting area, specialist care, medical staff professionalism, infrastructural modifications, and procedural changes in the ER departments. Results: A substantial number agreed on a free coffee/tea service (80%), free Wi-Fi (92.1%), long comfortable seats (84.9%), and a mobile charging station (92%). Interestingly, patients preferred health information on TV (52.5%). Understanding the need for additional amenities, 72% supported the idea of a dedicated play area for children. Almost 73.8% responded in favor of a valet parking service, and 69.9% recognized the importance of personal care services provided by medical staff and nurses. The survey further showed that the presence of a device indicating approximate waiting time was a desired feature (93%). Notably, the qualifications of the emergency physician mattered for 71.7% of participants. Concerning medication delivery, 70.2% of participants preferred receiving them at their location in the emergency department. Further, 71.1% preferred to have healthy snacks on waiting area, and about 98.2% needed toilets to be cleaned frequently and scented. Conclusion: This comprehensive survey indicated a significant inclination towards patient-centric modifications in the EDs. Patients valued informational, infrastructural, and service-oriented features, emphasizing the need for a personalized, comfortable, and informed experience.

Using free Wi-Fi to assess impact of COVID-19 pandemic on traditional wet markets in Hanoi

Traditional wet markets are the main source of fresh food and the largest source of daily nutrient intake for citizens of Hanoi. Nevertheless, due to the lack of traceability and sales registration systems, food flows within these markets remain largely invisible. This makes it challenging to assess the impact of shocks, such as pandemics, on these markets. In this paper, we characterize the impact of COVID-19 by analyzing data from 25 Wi-Fi access points installed in five formally established wet markets. The study timeframe covers a pre-pandemic period from July 2019 to the end of the initial stage of the pandemic in November 2020. While providing free Internet access, data were continuously collected about devices in close vicinity to the access points. Based on this information, we tested five hypotheses about the number, frequency, time, and duration of visits to the markets as well as changes in inter-market activities. The results show that during the shock (February to mid-April 2020) and aftershock (mid-April to July 2020) periods, market actors significantly decreased the total number of market visits (-26% P < 0.001) and the frequency of market visits (up to -47% for very frequent market users, P < 0.001). The number of inter-market visits dropped sharply during the shock period (66% ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 17% of the baseline level, P < 0.001), and the peak time for market shopping shifted significantly by 90 min later in the day, P < 0.001. No change was observed in visit duration. Several factors identified in existing literature as affecting consumer behaviors provide possible explanations for the changes observed. We present a set of recommendations to limit the negative impact of the pandemic in terms of food security and livelihoods in Hanoi and to mitigate consumers’ negative perception of wet markets in terms of food safety.

The Innovation of Information and Communication Technology in Contextual Teaching and Learning Models Based PAI Learning

The integration of technology in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution has become essential in various aspects of human life, including education. This study aims to explore the implementation of technology-based Islamic Religious Education learning at MAN 1 Lamongan in response to the challenges and demands of the digital era. The method used in this study involves analyzing teaching materials, interviewing Quran and Hadith teachers, and students from Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 1 Lamongan, as well as observing classroom learning. The implementation of ICT-based learning in the Contextual Learning and Teaching model consists of two stages: the design stage and the implementation stage conducted by the teachers. The implementation stage is further divided into three phases: (a) opening, which involves delivering and teaching Islamic Education knowledge materials; (b) implementation, where students engage in group projects to connect the material with real-world events and their own experiences; and (c) closing, which includes reflection and evaluation of the learning process related to the studied material. Throughout the learning process, students are given the freedom and support to utilize technology, including laptops/smartphones and software applications such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Office, YouTube, WhatsApp, and free Wi-Fi access, to facilitate their learning. The study results indicate that using ICT-based learning media for Al-qur’an Hadith in this model has successfully increased students' interest in learning, enhanced their critical thinking skills, and fostered their creative competence in understanding and processing information and knowledge collaboratively.

Understanding school-going adolescent’s preferences for accessing HIV and contraceptive care: findings from a discrete choice experiment among learners in Gauteng, South Africa

BackgroundMany Adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa do not access HIV and reproductive health services optimally. To improve uptake of these services, it is important to understand the Learners’ preferences for how services are delivered so that implementation strategies can reflect this.MethodsA discrete choice experiment (DCE) was used to elicit preferences. The DCE was completed between 07/2018 and 09/2019 and conducted in 10 high schools situated in neighbourhoods of varying socio-economic status (SES) in Gauteng (South Africa). Learners aged ≥ 15 years (Grades 9–12) were consented and enrolled in the DCE. Parental consent and assent were required if < 18 years old. Conditional logistic regression was used to determine preferred attributes for HIV and contraceptive service delivery. Results were stratified by gender and neighbourhood SES quintile (1 = Lowest SES; 5 = Highest SES).Results805 Learners were enrolled (67% female; 66% 15–17 years; 51% in grades 9–10). 54% of Learners in quintile 1 schools had no monthly income (family support, grants, part-time jobs etc.); 38% in quintile 5 schools had access to R100 ($7.55) per month. Preferences for accessing HIV and contraceptive services were similar for male and female Learners. Learners strongly preferred services provided by friendly, non-judgmental staff (Odds ratio 1.63; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.55–1.72) where confidentiality was ensured (1.33; 1.26–1.40). They preferred services offered after school (1.14; 1.04–1.25) with value-added services like free Wi-Fi (1.19; 1.07–1.32), food (1.23; 1.11–1.37) and youth-only waiting areas (1.18; 1.07–1.32). Learners did not have a specific location preference, but preferred not to receive services within the community (0.82; 0.74–0.91) or school (0.88; 0.80–0.96). Costs to access services were a deterrent for most Learners irrespective of school neighbourhood; female Learners were deterred by costs ≥$3.85 (0.79; 0.70–0.91); males by costs ≥ R100 ($7.55) (0.86; 0.74-1.00).ConclusionsPreferences that encourage utilisation of services do not significantly differ by gender or school neighbourhood SES. Staff attitude and confidentiality are key issues affecting Learners’ decisions to access HIV and contraceptive services. Addressing how healthcare providers respond to young people seeking sexual and reproductive health services is critical for improving adolescents’ uptake of these services.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OF MALAYSIA AND INDONESIA

This paper will discuss the changes in technology, the benefits of technology to the Malaysian and Indonesian communities, the challenges faced in embracing technology and how the two countries overcome the challenges. The rapid proliferation of ICT within the sphere of rural development is evident both locally and globally. In line with national aspirations, the government has proactively addressed the challenges posed by ICT through a comprehensive program. In Malaysia, this initiative involved the establishment of telecentres within rural communities, thereby introducing the digital realm to these settings. This technological advancement provided access to online facilities, a broader global perspective, and improved learning opportunities for the rural population. The ultimate objective was to bridge the digital divide that separates rural and urban communities, promoting inclusivity and equitable access to technology. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, proactive measures have been taken by fostering inclusive digital transformation through promoting universal digital readiness and implementing free Wi-Fi areas in numerous public spaces. Both countries have successfully outlined a roadmap and outcomes of cultivating a "digital society" to face the upcoming challenges of IR5.0.

M-Tech Profit Program Supports in the Smart City of Madiun

In the digital revolution era, affordable and accessible internet services are crucial for all segments of society, especially with the rise of industrial revolution 4.0. However, limited internet access primarily affects the upper middle class. To bridge this gap, the Madiun City Government initiated the Profit M-Tech program, introducing the Free Wi-Fi Program for Madiun Hand-held Technology. This study aims to (1) clarify the program’s goals, (2) analyze its benefits in education, economy, and socio-culture, and (3) assess its impact on supporting smart city policies. Findings show that the program has significantly increased internet accessibility for all classes, aided sectors like education and economy during the pandemic, and effectively supported smart city initiatives.&#x0D;

Partisipasi GenBI Dalam Upaya Pengembangan BI Corner Universitas Sebelas Maret Berbasis Digital Bidang Perbankan

Purpose Research. The BI Corner is the gateway for information about the economy and BI's duties, GenBI is the long arm. The purpose of writing is to find out the participation of GenBI in the development of a digital-based BI Corner in the banking sector and the supporting factors that hinder it. Research Method. The research method is mixed methods, exploratory, action research. Collecting data by observation, interviews, FGD and documentation. Results. GenBI's participation in efforts to develop BI Corner UNS, namely socialization, promotion on social media; Added a digital collection application; Provide e-journal website, e-book, QR Code; Digitize the GenBI final project; Collaborating GenBI-lecturers-users; Creating profile videos, selection of library ambassadors. Supporting factors are the availability of infrastructure; Leadership support; Modern design; free wifi; Availability of librarians; Ease of reading, borrowing collections. The inhibiting factor is that the collection is not up to date; Lack of care; There is no GenBI-Library collaboration, digital facilities and development plans; Management and utilization have not been maximized. Conclusions. The impact of GenBI's participation is to have a digital-based reading Corner; Improving branding, the welfare of the academic community, the community by implementing business practices; Raising awareness regarding digital collections in the banking sector, enhancing BI's positive image.

Smart E-Ticketing and Payment System using Wi-Fi for Public Transport Bus

This report document presents the solution for the e-ticketing in the public transit bus. Today, in the era of Digital India and cashless economy, public transport needs to adapt the technological advancement. The public transport buses are providing the most satisfactory services; there is a need to switch the system into smarter. The major problems experienced by the commuter and the conductor are the change issues and network issues while making a cashless payment while traveling on the public transport buses. The proposed smart application that helps the commuter to track the complete information of bus, seat number, remaining distance of his destination, the total number of passengers traveling, and easy payment mode, thereby promoting digitalization and smart cities initiatives. The e-ticket generated that can be verified by the bus conductor. For better convenience and understanding, the application will be available in multiple languages. The introduction of contactless payments alongside the success of e-ticketing is pivotal as we continue to make bus travel a convenient, simple, and attractive experience, encouraging more people to travel by bus. The combination of journey planning, free Wi-Fi, real-time information, contactless, and e-ticketing ensures travel by bus is an attractive option for many customers and their journey needs. Keywords: Digital India, Technological Advancement, Cashless payment, Wi-Fi, Contactless

Impact of Free Wi-Fi in Coffee Shops on Teenagers' Worship Practices: A Quantitative Study

This quantitative research examines the influence of free Wi-Fi availability in coffee shops on teenagers' worship practices. Utilizing observation and questionnaires, the study finds that a substantial percentage of teenagers frequently use Wi-Fi for various tasks, social media access, and gaming. Interestingly, this frequent Wi-Fi usage is also associated with increased rates of prayer and fasting. Statistical analysis reveals a significant effect of free Wi-Fi in coffee shops on teenagers' observance of worship, with a p-value of 0.002 and the calculated f-value surpassing the critical f-table value. These findings highlight the potential impact of technology accessibility on religious behaviors within the community environment. Highlights: Wi-Fi accessibility and Teenagers: Investigating the Influence in Coffee Shops. Significant Impact of Free Wi-Fi on Teenagers' Worship Practices. Observance of Worship in Coffee Shops: A Quantitative Analysis Keywords: Free Wi-Fi, Coffee shops, Teenagers, Worship practices

The Smart City as Policy Concept in the Arab World: A Critical Research into the Strategic Visions of Urban Development in Abu Dhabi

This article reviews the smart city as a policy concept in Abu Dhabi. It conceptualizes smart city development goals into urban and extra-urban and review smart city development programmes in terms of ex-post and ex-ante. Extra-urban refers to development goals that go beyond the spatial or conceptual boundaries of the city. This will help to demonstrate how the pursuit of extra-urban may compromise the attainment of urban development goals. The paper uses Abu Dhabi as the frontline city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in the race to attain the smart city status, having led consistently in the McKinsey Global Institute poll of 2018 and the global indexing exercises conducted by the International Institute for Management Development and Singapore University of Technology and Design in 2020 and 2021. The study has used qualitative document analysis method to review policy documents regarding the smartification initiatives in Abu Dhabi. The analysis reveals that ex-post programmes are more urban dweller oriented or urban centred with programmes involving the digitization of government services and free Wi-Fi connectivity in public transport, while ex-ante smartification programmes (as seen in the development of Masdar city) tend to be extra-urban, elitist and global in nature but do not take into account social sustainability.