Inclusive Development Research Articles

Computational transformations of early childhood education: Pathways toward child‐centred computing in two educational change projects

AbstractProgramming is becoming a key subject in early education globally, with surging problems of how computer science can become a subject for children of all ages and backgrounds. Problems of implementing new technologies in the old curricula have long been noted, and lately, concern over computer science education goals is often too narrow and skills‐based without concerns for the critical educational potential. This study follows the change process of two case preschool departments implementing programming with a floor robot across a seven‐month design process. Mixed analytical techniques based on activity theory are used to examine the tensions, conflicts and development of pedagogical alternatives. The studies show the strenuous change processes involving local transformations toward a child‐centred, inclusive early computer science education and development of projects centring making, children's exploration, tinkering and play as key parts of the learning process. It discusses how the considerable change processes enabled pedagogical solutions coherent with important concepts in computer programming and how computing education can build on child‐centred pedagogies through local adaptations and age‐appropriate designs. Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic Computer science and programming are becoming part of early education worldwide. Less is known about how to implement computing with ever‐younger age groups, especially for those under three. That technological change can be a strenuous change process building on societal, historical and educational tensions, requiring individual learning and organisational change. What this paper adds Two cases of change designing computing education for 1–2‐ and 3–5‐year‐olds. Design processes raising critical questions about current standard childhood programming materials being resolved to enable a child‐centred computing education. Challenges and potentials specific to early childhood in adopting computer science education. Implications for practice and/or policy Computing education challenges pedagogical notions, such as the role of failure in education. Computing education can be developed for very young children. However, there are considerable critical challenges to resolve in developing a child‐centred approach. Childhood fundamentals such as play‐based pedagogy can work synergistically with computer science activities, providing educational potential, also relevant for computer science education at large.

A novel phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor, RF26, improves memory impairment and ameliorates tau aggregation and neuroinflammation in the P301S tauopathy mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors are primarily used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension, but have also been reported to have a potential therapeutic effect for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This is likely to be through stimulation of nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling by elevating cGMP, a secondary messenger involved in processes of neuroplasticity. In the present study, we evaluated the efficacy of a novel PDE5 inhibitor, RF26, using P301S tauopathy mice model. A body of experimental evidence suggests that the development of tau inclusions leads to the neurodegeneration observed in tauopathies, including AD, Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Supranuclear palsy and others. RF26 successfully targeted NO/cGMP signaling pathway and showed a significant improvement of spatial memory task performance of P301S mice using Morris Water Maze and T-maze. Furthermore, RF26 -treated mice showed a significant reduction of phosphorylated tau load, gliosis and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines. The presented data support the efficacy of RF26 as a potent PDE5 inhibitor and calls for further investigation as a potential therapeutic drug for Alzheimer's and other tauopathy related neurological disorders.

Aligning the new work environment with OECD Goal 8: a design case of a global automobile brand from Turkey

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the economic sustainability of new work environments by exploring how interior design strategies can contribute to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, which focuses on decent work and economic growth. SDG 8 aims to foster sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic development, as well as full and productive employment. Design/methodology/approach The pilot study was conducted at a global automobile brand’s largest facility in Kocaeli/Turkey, where 102 employees participated in stakeholder meetings divided into 18 groups. Additionally, 46 employees were interviewed through focus groups and one-on-one sessions across nine encounters. The collected data were analyzed using deductive thematic analysis, interpreting codes and themes related to spatial politics, timing politics and hybrid working culture in the new work environment. Findings Identified themes include individually focused tasks, virtual collaboration, agile working, socialization and urban interaction. These themes are then traced through the conceptual design proposal developed by the interior design team and discussed in relation to their alignment with SDG 8.2 (diversify, innovate and upgrade for economic productivity), SDG 8.4 (improve resource efficiency in consumption and production) and SDG 8.8 (protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers). Research limitations/implications These three targets (for inclusivity and innovation, for environmentally sustainable and for employee well-being) were selected for their relevance in shaping the physical work environment. Originality/value The key finding of this paper is the need for a deeper understanding of economic sustainability in interior design and the contribution of SDG 8 targets on the spatial, temporal and cultural dimensions of new work environments. Brands committed to sustainability must adopt new work models and reimagine their work environments to enhance employee satisfaction and performance, through comprehensive user research and design solutions aligned with SDG 8.

Artificial Intelligence in Morocco: Towards Holistic, Responsible and Ethical National AI Strategy for Moroccan Competitiveness and Strategic Intelligence

This paper analyses current achievements and emerging landscape of artificial intelligence in Morocco. It explores also the various challenges and opportunities related to the development of an AI ecosystem that facilitates the emergence of an agile, holistic, responsible, ethical, and forward-looking national artificial intelligence strategy that supports Morocco's global competitiveness and its strategic intelligence. Based on a methodological triangulation approach, we combined a documentary approach focused on a literature reviews and international benchmarks of national AI policies and strategies. In addition, we have proposed a conceptual model that outlines the essential elements and key enablers and drivers of the national AI strategy for Morocco. We have called it “LAFBAH AI Framework” focusing on Leadership & Vision, Adaptive Governance, Forward-thinking, Breakthrough Innovations, Agility in Implementation, and Human centred approach. This model is predictive and prescriptive, and most importantly, aligned with the Moroccan priorities and strategic orientations of Morocco’s New Development Model. The study's findings show that Morocco possesses strategic assets that can help it establish itself as an AI hub for Africa and bolster its leadership and digital influence. These assets mainly include the country's international commitment to AI, its participation in AI cooperation programs, a dynamic creation of institutions and university centres dedicated to AI and the start of a virtuous public and political dialogue on the subject involving the private sector, academia and civil society.Our research argues in favour of a holistic and integrated approach to AI in Morocco, which combines AI Governance with technological innovation, ethical and societal considerations to promote sustainable and inclusive development and enhance Moroccan competitiveness. It also demonstrates the urgent need to design and ensure the implementation of an innovative, adapted and integrated national AI strategy for Morocco. This national AI strategy should be designed as an integrative, agile, dynamic framework with a clear and integrated vision, ambitious strategic objectives, relevant priorities and choices and key pillars of AI such as responsible, ethical and innovative governance and strong ecosystem enablers, collaborative research and development, AI talent and skills, sufficient data and infrastructure.We have also designed the fundamental and necessary milestones for a new ecosystem of artificial intelligence in Morocco focused on the imperatives of the knowledge society, the digital, health, food and energy sovereignties of the country, while aspiring to be a hub of artificial intelligence in Africa.

SWOT Strategy in Strengthening the Role of Village Community Empowerment Institutions: An Islamic Law Perspective

This research addresses important issues identified during capacity-building study meetings, including community confusion regarding the function of community empowerment institutions, low levels of participation, and fragmented stakeholder perceptions, all of which impact the effectiveness of village development. This research uses qualitative methods; data collection involves interviews and literature reviews. SWOT analysis assesses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of community empowerment institutions. Analysis shows that community empowerment institutions have difficulty facilitating community input and holding development planning meetings effectively, thereby hampering participatory governance. Despite these challenges, the Institute has demonstrated strength in mediating community-government dialogue and motivating communal efforts, although improvements in program evaluation and structural cohesion are needed. The study found that the institute is in line with Islamic principles such as ukhuwwah (brotherhood) and ta'awun (cooperation) by empowering communities through inclusive development planning and mutual cooperation. This research concludes that the implementation of Law Number 6 of 2014 by the Community Empowerment Institute has had a positive impact despite the challenges. This research recommends increasing community awareness, strengthening institutional capacity, and fostering greater synergy between institutions and village governments to achieve sustainable and inclusive development.

Flattening Hierarchies and Encouraging Reflection: Systems Maps as a Local Literacy Practice

In this study, we explore systems thinking maps as a local literacy practice in a systems thinking professional development institute for PreK-8 teachers. Existing literature underscores the necessity of equipping teachers with a robust understanding of systems thinking; this study addresses a call in the research to find ways to do so. Rooted in the principles of systems thinking, professional development, and literacy practices, we analyze how the literacy practice of systems thinking mapping contributed to participant pedagogical reflection and systems thinking theory development. We employed a case study approach, allowing an in-depth investigation of the mapping literacy events within the professional development setting. We collected data throughout the four days of the professional development; the data set included observations and recordings of mapping sessions, reflections on mapping from 29 participants, and photographs of the systems maps created. Our results highlight the potential of systems thinking maps to foster collective understandings of systems thinking, deepen understandings via the co-construction of dynamic texts, and imagine pedagogical possibilities. The literacy practice not only strengthens participants’ grasp of systems but also creates a shared space for collaborative learning, flattening hierarchies and engaging teachers as co-learners. The implications extend to disrupting traditional professional structures, emphasizing the centrality of the learner while fostering hope, optimism, and agency. This study contributes valuable insights into literacy practices that promote collaborative learning among teachers, encouraging a shift toward more inclusive and transformative professional development.

RISH Assistance: Voice Activated Digital Assistant for Developers

The increasing use of computing devices brings convenience but also challenges. Traditional interfaces can lead to repetitive strain, slow interactions, and accessibility problemsfor software developers, who often find it hard to turn complex ideas into code, especially with unfamiliar APIs. In response, there is a growing interest in automation and smart machines that act like humans. However, a major obstacle remains—the gap in human-machine interaction. Introducing “RISH Assistance,” a voice-activated digital assis- tant designed for developers. RISH enables users to navigate tasks more efficiently, reducing reliance on screens and tra- ditional input methods. Utilizing advanced voice recognition and Natural Language Processing (NLP), RISH transforms the developer experience by providing easy access to resources, seamless code suggestions, and natural troubleshooting—all through voice commands. Additionally, it can manage phone functions, allowing calls and messages directly from the desktop interface, enhancing productivity. Security is ensured with face authentication, and current session chat history tracking allowsusers to revisit previous interactions. RISH boosts productivity through hands-free interaction, en- abling developers to focus on creative problem-solving. It im- proves accessibility by offering an alternative input method and streamlines workflows, reducing cognitive load while fostering a more intuitive development environment. By facilitating natural and efficient engagement with machines, RISH Assistance aims to enhance human-machine collaboration and create a more inclusive software development landscape.

The Resilience of Retail Stores amid COVID-19

This paper examines the resilience of retail stores—whether they maintain their store visits—during COVID-19 across jurisdictions with different socioeconomic characteristics. Using cell phone locational data, I adopted an event study design to compare visits to retail stores across counties with different mitigation policies and socioeconomic characteristics. I found a significant decline in-store visits by 16 percent after three rounds of community mitigation strategies, which shows a lack of resilience. Meanwhile, the distribution of resilience was unequal across jurisdictions with different socioeconomic profiles. Policy recommendations are made to support retail businesses and promote inclusive development.

Disentangling the gender-differentiated determinants of home-based self-employment choices in Nigeria

Abstract Understanding gender disparities in home-based self-employment (HBS) and their links to homeownership and socioeconomic factors is crucial for advancing sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria. This study uses data from the 2010/2011, 2012/13, 2015/16, and 2018/19 waves of the Nigerian General Household Survey (GHS). It employs random effect probit regression, the LASSO method for identifying predictors, and the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition technique to analyse gender differences in nonlinear binary outcomes. The results show that female business owners are more likely to engage in HBS compared to males, highlighting the importance of gender equality (SDG 5) and decent work (SDG 8). While male entrepreneurs are mainly driven by profit, females prioritise balancing paid and unpaid work, reflecting motivations beyond profit within heterodox economics. Significant gender-differentiated impacts are observed in relation to monthly rent, post-secondary education, dwelling space, energy, and regional locations. Notably, the presence of children significantly increases female involvement in HBS, a trend not seen among males. Marriage also influences female participation, suggesting that marital circumstances and economic benefits play a role. These findings highlight the need for policies addressing gender-specific constraints, challenging traditional gender roles, and promoting inclusive human development within the SDG framework.

Inequality through digitalization: investigation of mediating and moderating mechanisms

ABSTRACT This paper investigates how digitalization contributes to inclusive development by analyzing global panel data using fixed-effect models. The main finding is the reverse U-shaped relationship between digitalization and inequality reduction. By testing the moderation and mediation effects, we further illustrate the intricate dynamics of digitalization on inequality. The findings suggest that while digitalization fosters inclusive institutions, it may also foster polarized relationships. Furthermore, we demonstrate that reverse U-shaped effects are particularly pronounced in countries in the global south, indicating a diffusion of relational norms.

The Public Service Digitalization in the Philippines Towards a National Program to Capacitate Digital Frontliners

The rapid advancement of technology has driven a global transformation in public service delivery. In the Philippines, efforts to digitalize public services are crucial for inclusive development and efficient governance. This study, titled "The Public Service Digitalization in the Philippines Towards a National Program to Capacitate Digital Frontliners," examines this transformation through the experiences of government employees, known as digital frontliners. These individuals are key to implementing and managing digital technologies across public sectors.Using a mixed-method research design, the study integrates descriptive, correlative-comparative, and phenomenological approaches to gather quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 400 digital frontliners participated in a survey, while 10 key informants were interviewed. This approach provides a comprehensive analysis of the digitalization process, focusing on demographic profiles, challenges, job satisfaction, and service effectiveness.The theoretical framework includes the Theory of Digital Government Transformation, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and Capacity Building and Development Theory. These frameworks help understand the dynamics of public service digitalization, technology acceptance, and the importance of capacity building.Key findings reveal a diverse workforce among digital frontliners, significant challenges such as infrastructure limitations and digital literacy disparities, and varying levels of job satisfaction. The research underscores the need for robust digital infrastructure, tailored training programs, and streamlined administrative processes. It also highlights the importance of public-private collaboration.The study proposes a national program to enhance the capabilities of digital frontliners through continuous professional development and innovation support. This program aims to improve digital public services, making them more efficient, transparent, and accessible. The findings provide a foundation for evidence-based policymaking and strategic planning, contributing to the Philippines' digital transformation and inclusive growth.

Electroencephalography-Based Brain-Computer Interfaces in Rehabilitation: A Bibliometric Analysis (2013–2023)

EEG-based Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) have gained significant attention in rehabilitation due to their non-invasive, accessible ability to capture brain activity and restore neurological functions in patients with conditions such as stroke and spinal cord injuries. This study offers a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global EEG-based BCI research in rehabilitation from 2013 to 2023. It focuses on primary research and review articles addressing technological innovations, effectiveness, and system advancements in clinical rehabilitation. Data were sourced from databases like Web of Science, and bibliometric tools (bibliometrix R) were used to analyze publication trends, geographic distribution, keyword co-occurrences, and collaboration networks. The results reveal a rapid increase in EEG-BCI research, peaking in 2022, with a primary focus on motor and sensory rehabilitation. EEG remains the most commonly used method, with significant contributions from Asia, Europe, and North America. Additionally, there is growing interest in applying BCIs to mental health, as well as integrating artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning, to enhance system accuracy and adaptability. However, challenges remain, such as system inefficiencies and slow learning curves. These could be addressed by incorporating multi-modal approaches and advanced neuroimaging technologies. Further research is needed to validate the applicability of EEG-BCI advancements in both cognitive and motor rehabilitation, especially considering the high global prevalence of cerebrovascular diseases. To advance the field, expanding global participation, particularly in underrepresented regions like Latin America, is essential. Improving system efficiency through multi-modal approaches and AI integration is also critical. Ethical considerations, including data privacy, transparency, and equitable access to BCI technologies, must be prioritized to ensure the inclusive development and use of these technologies across diverse socioeconomic groups.

Arts management and economic development: The role of cultural organizations in China’s regional growth

This study explores the role of arts management in regional economic development within major Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. Cultural organizations—such as museums, theaters, and galleries—contribute significantly to local economies through tourism, job creation, and the enhancement of cultural branding. Using a qualitative approach, 18 semi-structured interviews with arts managers and policymakers selected based on their influential roles in cultural organizations across these cities. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis, which identified key themes including the economic impact of cultural organizations, the influence of government policies, challenges in arts management, and the role of cultural tourism in fostering regional growth. The findings reveal that while government policies play a pivotal role in supporting cultural organizations, providing crucial funding, tax incentives, and infrastructure development, concerns remain about the long-term sustainability of funding due to shifting political and economic priorities. Additionally, arts managers face challenges related to balancing artistic goals with financial viability, particularly as the sector becomes increasingly competitive and technology-dependent. Key challenges identified include securing stable funding sources, adapting to digital technologies, talent retention, and maintaining artistic integrity amid commercial pressures. The study highlights the need for diversified funding models such as public-private partnerships and alternative revenue streams and suggests further exploration into the role of smaller cultural organizations in rural regions to promote inclusive regional development. Practical recommendations include developing strategies to enhance financial sustainability, investing in digital capabilities, and formulating policies that provide long-term support for the cultural sector. Overall, the research contributes to a better understanding of how effective arts management can drive regional economic development and offers practical recommendations for strengthening the sustainability of China’s cultural sector.

A Sustainable urban renovation assessment model (SURAM) for enhancing elderly-friendly environments

The rapid increase in the aging population has raised significant concerns about the living conditions and well-being of elderly residents in old communities. This study addresses these concerns by proposing a Sustainable Urban Renovation Assessment Model (SURAM) specifically designed to enhance elderly-friendly environments in Chongqing City. The model encompasses multiple dimensions, including the comfort of public facilities, service safety and convenience, medical travel services, infrastructure security, life service convenience, neighbor relations, ambulance aid accessibility, commercial service facilities, privacy protection, elderly care facilities and service supply, and medical and health facilities. By employing factor analysis, the study reduces the dimensionality of the 49 indicator factors, allowing for a more focused and comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of aging-friendly renovation efforts. The main factors identified in the proposed model include community infrastructure security, elderly comfort of community public facilities, completeness and convenience of surrounding living services, and security and convenience of elderly care services. The results reveal that the age-appropriate comfort of public facilities plays a significant role in achieving successful aging-appropriate renovation outcomes. The findings demonstrate that by addressing specific needs such as safety, accessibility, and convenience, communities can significantly improve the quality of life for elderly residents. Moreover, the application of SURAM provides actionable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and community stakeholders, guiding them in implementing targeted initiatives for sustainable and inclusive urban development.

THE FINANCIAL LIBERALIZATION POLICY AND ITS IMPACT ON THE GROWTH OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

The country's development is mainly concerned with the foundation of a stable economy. An efficient financial system is mandatory for the development of solid economy. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are essential in stabilizing the economy. This is remarkably accurate in emerging economies like Pakistan. The objective of financial liberalization is to facilitate financing access and stimulate investment. However, the impact of this policy on SMEs can vary based on factors such as the regulatory framework, market structure, and institutional support. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the impact of financial liberalization on SMEs to foster inclusive economic growth and shape policy development. The study intends to find whether or not the growth of small and medium enterprises depends upon the government's financial liberalization policies. Using the ARDL econometric method, we find that Shareholder’s Equity is positively associated with SME growth rate, holding other variables constant. Moreover, total assets positively affect the SMEs' growth rate. Financial Development does not have a statistically significant effect on SME growth in the short run. Economic Growth rate positively influences SME growth. External financing changes may not immediately affect SME growth in the short run. The results show that changes in the number of bank branches do not significantly affect SME growth in the short run.

Equality in the water: How does water ecological civilization city policy enhance inclusive development in China?

This paper constructs an index system to measure the level of inclusive development in China's 283 cities during 2005–2021, and then empirically examines the spatial impact of water ecological civilization city policy, an environmental regulation policy, on inclusive development, based on the spatial difference-in-differences approach. This study offers some fresh insights with the following research findings. First, water ecological civilization city policy plays a positive role in stimulating inclusive development not only in pilot cities locally, but also in surrounding cities due to the spatial spillover effect. Moreover, the spatial spillover effects attenuate as the distance thresholds expand. Second, the heterogeneous impact of water ecological civilization city policy on inclusive development is confirmed, which is more effective in cities with lower population density, lower Engel coefficient, and that are resource-based. Third, water ecological civilization city policy directly promotes inclusive development by accelerating affluence, harmony, and sustainability, which are three pillars of inclusive development. Fourth, this paper also figures out two mediators between the nexus of water ecological civilization city policy and inclusive development, namely residential medical expenditure and human capital, which successfully advanced the current academic findings regarding the negative role of environmental pollution in people's living health and work conditions.

Inclusive development of digital finance, family entrepreneurship and poverty reduction effect

Inclusive development of digital finance, family entrepreneurship and poverty reduction effect

Digital Language Trends: How Technology is Shaping Multilingualism

The rapid advancement of digital technology has fundamentally reshaped multilingualism, transforming language learning, communication, and cultural exchange. This study examines the influence of digital language tools, such as language learning apps, machine translation, and AI-driven chatbots, in making language acquisition more accessible and engaging. Social media platforms have become key arenas for multilingual interactions, facilitating global cultural exchange but also contributing to the dominance of widely spoken languages like English. Efforts to revitalize minority and endangered languages through digital initiatives are gaining momentum, although challenges such as resource scarcity and the digital divide remain significant. The article also explores the potential of emerging technologies, including VR and neural language models, in shaping the future of language use. While technology presents opportunities for promoting linguistic diversity, mindful and inclusive development is crucial to prevent further marginalization of less widely spoken languages.

Kepemimpinan Perempuan dalam Lembaga Pendidikan Islam

Women's leadership in Islamic educational institutions is the primary focus of this research. This study aims to delve into the contributions, challenges, and policy implications of women's leadership in the context of Islamic education. Employing a qualitative approach and literature review method, this research analyzes various theories and related studies to compile a comprehensive overview of this issue. The findings indicate that women's leadership significantly contributes to the development of Islamic education, both academically and morally. However, challenges such as gender stereotypes, lack of institutional support, and societal perceptions remain obstacles that need to be overcome. A deep discussion on the factors influencing the success or failure of women in leadership positions provides insights into strategies that can be implemented to strengthen women's roles in Islamic educational institutions. Recommendations for educational institutions, governments, and society include enhancing inclusive leadership development programs, implementing gender equality policies, and educating the public about the importance of gender inclusion in education. The implications of this research for Islamic education policies and practices highlight the need for transformation to create a more representative and inclusive learning environment. Thus, this research has the potential to provide guidance for policymakers to enhance women's participation in Islamic educational leadership more broadly.

Exploring the Link Between Openness and Entrepreneurial Capacity in Young People: Building Resilient and Sustainable Rural Territories

Youth migration has significant consequences that lead to depopulation and less sustainability of local business, which is particularly pronounced in rural areas. All of this contributes to the potential devastation of rural communities, an impact that could be highly significant and far-reaching. Entrepreneurship and the innovation it brings with it can be important markers for effective rural development if changes are needed. Therefore, the primary objectives of our research were to determine how socio-demographic factors determine the attitudes of young rural people regarding openness to entrepreneurship, whether young rural people believe they have the ability to engage in entrepreneurship and take actionable steps, and what is the relationship between openness and entrepreneurial capacity. The research was conducted from December 2023 to May 2024 among 299 participants in rural areas of two neighboring countries, Serbia and Croatia. The results indicate various factors that influence rural youth’s openness to entrepreneurship, such as unemployment, age and country of origin. Also, the results show a positive correlation between openness to entrepreneurship and the perception of personal capacities for entrepreneurial activities. In addition, the study found significant differences between respondents from Serbia and Croatia in the assessment of personal capacities for entrepreneurial activities. The results of this research contribute to a deeper understanding of how young people perceive and experience life in rural areas, and highlight potential challenges related to their specific needs. This insight enables key stakeholders to design programs that support youth in starting businesses and sustaining entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, the study offers both a theoretical and practical basis for future research, serving as a valuable guide for the improvement of rural communities, that is, guidelines for strategies that focus on inclusive development based on the revitalization of social frameworks.