Information Communication Technology Research Articles

Integrative approach for reading comprehension espousing information communication technology literacy

Integrative approach for reading comprehension espousing information communication technology literacy

Curriculum Transformation in South African Tertiary Institutions: Current Research on Narratives of Change

Curriculum transformation initiatives, with specific reference to the South African context, is increasingly applied in the reflection of societal changes on teaching and learning, content, and pedagogy. However, currently limited research on the presiding narratives of change and their potential impact on practices, policy, and curricula hampers tertiary education stakeholders' ability to fully evaluate and drive effective curriculum transformation. Accordingly, this study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of existing research on narratives of change in South African tertiary education, with objectives that include identifying said narratives, analysing research trends, and highlighting interventions for stakeholders to consider in curricula transformation efforts. The research methodology comprises of a bibliometric and qualitative review. The former utilises “curriculum transformation”, “South Africa”, and “higher”/”tertiary” as source concepts to identify applicable publications on the SCOPUS database, which are subsequently analysed using the VOSviewer (version 1.6.20) software. The qualitative review includes an analysis of the content of the papers in line with the narratives of change identified in the network and overlay visualisations. Through these analyses, four narratives of change are identified in the bibliometric analysis, including decolonisation, e-learning, inclusive curricula, and diversity. Key interventions for curriculum transformation include integrating African perspectives, promoting inclusive teaching practices, and leveraging Information Communication Technology (ICT) for effective e-learning. Additionally, flexible teaching methods, multilingualism, industry partnerships, and the inclusion of African knowledge systems and gender-sensitive content are essential for fostering a diverse and supportive educational environment. The contribution of this paper is centred on enabling more effective and comprehensive evaluation and analysis of existing curricula by education stakeholders and institutions, and to guide successful curriculum transformation initiatives.

TPAAS: Trustworthy privacy-preserving anonymous authentication scheme for online trading environment.

In recent years with the improvement of information communication technology (ICT) and wireless communication, Online Trading Environment (OTE) has become a popular E-commerce platform to connect sellers and buyers in an efficient way. As, OTE's are increasing in a wider range, the authentication and verification of entities in OTE network becomes a challenging task. Although, some authentication schemes exist in OTE's, they have flaws such as account creation delays, authentication delays, communication cost and user privacy. In this work, a trustworthy and secure anonymous authentication scheme is proposed to prevent malicious users to enter into the OTE network. In addition, our proposed scheme provides conditional privacy to users until they maintain a genuine relationship with other entities without compromising. If any dispute occurs, then the system will revoke the access of that particular entity. Moreover, the security and performance analysis in this work concludes that our scheme ensures a secure interface to provide sustainable trading experience to users by taking less computation cost and communication delay when compared to other existing authentication schemes.

Information communication technologies and intimate partner violence among women in sub-Saharan African countries

Intimate partner violence is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa with women the usual victims. Efforts to address intimate partner violence (IPV) include interventions with information communication technologies (ICT) that are being used to raise awareness and promote the empowerment of women. Thus, there is a need to examine the relationship between ICT ownership and IPV among women in sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted a cross-sectional study of four countries in sub-Saharan Africa using the Demographic and Health Survey data. Ownership of ICT was the main predictor variable that was measured by ownership of a radio, television, mobile phones, and access to the Internet. The outcome variable was IPV, which was measured in two forms: physical and sexual violence. A multivariable analysis using binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between ownership of ICT devices and intimate partner violence (IPV) among women. In Zambia and Mali, women who own ICT devices were significantly less likely to experience sexual violence than those who did not own ICT devices. Predictors such as age, place of residence, education, wealth status, employment status, number of children and age at first marriage were significantly associated with experiences of IPV, even though the strength of this relationship varied across countries and types of IPV. Access to ICT should be promoted among women because ICT can raise awareness and offer women a platform for receiving social support and advice about coping with intimate partner violence.

Assessing Students’ Perceptions of Moodle Usage for Teaching and Learning: A Case of College of Business Education, Dar es Salaam Campus, Tanzania

The advancement of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) has stimulated the development of new learning experiences through using software applications or platforms that deliver, manage and track educational or training programs in the universities. Through the use of blended learning, e-learning platforms like moodle have improved learning experience by integrating virtual classes, video conferencing, presentations, and testing in education delivery. This study aims to show how students perceive the use of moodle for teaching and learning at the College of Business Education (CBE) Dar es Salaam Campus in Tanzania. The study was guided by was guided by the Connectivism Theory (CT). The study adopted a case design because it used a short period of time and constructed at a single case study at College of Business Education (CBE). The target population was 11,924 students from the College of Business Education (CBE) who used moodle as their learning platform. Probability sampling specifically simple random sampling was used to attain the sample size of 374 respondents. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed in the study.The quantitative data was collected through the Likert scale questionnaire was processed through coding, tabulating and analysis using MS excel. Further, the processed and analyzed results for research questions two and three were produced statistically using tables and figures. Apparently, the qualitative data were recorded and immediately transcribed, shared with the respondents for collection in case there were mistakes made, edited, summarized, tabulated and presented in the narrative. Also, the thematic-content analysis was undertaken to analyze the qualitative data obtained through the semi-structured interview and then presented using Tables of summaries and narratives. In addition, the presentation and discussion of the findings were triangulated during the presentation of the responses for each research question. The findings revealed that the integration of moodle into the learning process has enhanced the overall quality of teaching and learning and blended learning through moodle has improved understanding of the course materials. The study recommended that the curriculum designers and policymakers at the college should develop policies that promote the effective use of technology in education including guidelines for implementing moodle in blended learning environments to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students.

Positive Influences of Integrating Information Communication Technology in Teaching English at a Technical and Vocational Training College

The paper investigated the positive influence of integrating Information Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching English to National Certificate NC (V) students at a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. A qualitative research approach was used in this research to explore and determine ways in which ICT can be used in teaching English. The research’s participants were fifteen NC (V) lecturers offering English. Semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews were conducted with Heads of Departments (HODs), Senior Education Specialists (SES), Education Specialists (ES), and NC(V) English lecturers. This paper found that there are barriers when it comes to integrating ICT in teaching English, and these were teacher-level barriers, student-level barriers, and school-level barriers. It is hoped that this research will contribute towards strategic ways that will ensure that ICT is integrated in teaching English at Nkangala TVET College, as this will improve students’ class attendance and enhance teaching and learning.

Cloud based adaptive learning system: virtual reality and augmented reality assisted educational pedagogy development on clinical simulation

An adaptive learning system provides support for student’s academic progress by varying learning routes and pedagogical contents to satisfy various students’ unique academic needs. The primary goal of this research work is to enhance and expand occupational efficiency through the use of technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPCK) frameworks in nursing education. The authors developed an adaptive federated cloud computing learning system in order to better prepare students for the demands of real-world professional practice. The article examined the use of virtual reality(VR) and augmented (AR) technologies in nursing education and developed an instrument that skillfully combines knowledge from the reputable literature on clinical competencies with the peculiarities and ingenuousness particular to virtual simulations. Designated for the remote sharing and utilization of combined educational resources, cloud computing is a distributed information communication technology (ICT) infrastructure built on the Internet of Things (IoT) framework. To increase the occupational efficiency among the nurses and midwives, an educational simulation applied in a way that gamifies the curriculum component for interactive educational pedagogy will be necessary. As a completely integrated part of the curriculum, simulation has proven to be beneficial for nursing students at all levels of instruction. Nursing educators have a plethora of options at their disposal to introduce simulation-based learning approaches into their curricula in the modern era. A three-dimensional (3D) interactive environment that provides users with a sense of spatial presence is created through computer technology, which is an immersive digital ecosystem of VR and AR utilized to improve teaching and learning in nursing education. In this study, the authors offered a cost- effective clinical simulation laboratory for clinical students, nurses, midwives, and practicing healthcare professionals in a manner that ensures constant learning and occupational efficiency by adopting the TPCK model in its central discussion and implementation. The TPCK model has demonstrated how to recognize the boundaries between technological components and pedagogical structures as well as how they are connected when creating facts in nursing education.

Information Communication Technology and Financial Sector in West Africa

Globally, information and communication technology play a pivotal role in driving the financial sector. This study examines the relationship between information communication technology and the financial sector in West Africa from 2012 to 2022. The study is essential because studies focusing on ICT and financial depth are scarce in West African nations. The data for the study comes from the World Bank database and uses the GMM system. The financial depth indicator is the ratio of bank assets to GDP while the indicators of ICT are internet subscription, mobile subscription and fixed broadband subscription. Mobile phone subscription significantly and statistically enhances financial depth of banks in West Africa by 423.82 % during the period under review. Internet subscription increases financial sector size by 11 % and the result is statistically significant. The fixed broadband positively influences the financial depth in West Africa by 341 %, and the result is statistically significant. Policymakers must invest heavily on ICT and adopt financial technology to promote financial depth.

Influence of Electronic Procurement Processes on Procurement Performance of Uasin Gishu County Government, Kenya

This study aimed to investigate the influence of electronic procurement processes (e-procurement) on procurement performance in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The growing importance of web-based procurement models and information communication technology (ICT) in enhancing supply chain value generation is the backdrop for this research. Although prior studies have indicated the advantages of e-procurement in terms of reduced processing time, cost savings, enhanced data accuracy, and increased efficiency, several gaps and limitations exist in the existing literature. This study addresses these gaps by providing a comprehensive exploration of the impact of various e-procurement dimensions on procurement performance, with a specific focus on a devolved government entity in Kenya. This examination evaluated the influence electronic on performance of Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The study sought to establish the effect of electronic sourcing and ordering on procurement performance within the county government. The study drew on theoretical frameworks, including the Disruptive Innovation Theory and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory, to determine extent to which electronic procurement influence the performance of procurement unit. A concurrent parallel mixed design was employed to facilitate an in-depth analysis of the research variables. The target population comprises of supply chain officers, user department heads, and accounting officers in Uasin Gishu County Government, totaling 96 respondents. A census sampling method was employed due to the relatively small population size. Data was collected through questionnaires and analyzed quantitatively. The analysis included descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions, means, and standard deviations. The study findings were presented using tables and figures for clarity and easy interpretation. The study concluded that integrating electronic payment into Uasin Gishu County’s e-procurement framework enhances efficiency by speeding up transactions and reducing manual effort and electronic sourcing strengthens supplier engagement, ensures clear communication of requirements, and enables effective performance tracking. The study recommended that adopting electronic invoicing accelerated payments, reduce errors, and improve accuracy. Additionally, investing in an integrated e-procurement system will facilitate seamless communication among departments involved in procurement.

Using Voice-activated Technologies to Enhance Well-being of Older Adults in Long-term Care Homes

Abstract Background and Objectives Information communication technologies (ICTs) can enhance older adults’ health and wellbeing. Most research on the use of voice-activated ICTs by older adults has focused on the experiences of individuals living in the community, excluding those who live in long-term care homes. Given evidence of the potential benefits of such technologies to mitigate social isolation and loneliness, more research is needed about their impacts in long-term care home settings. With this in mind, we evaluated impacts and engagement of older adults with voice- and touchscreen activated ICTs in one long-term care home in Canada. Research Design and Methods Interviews were conducted with older adults who were provided with a Google Nest Hub Max and with staff as part of a larger implementation study. Participants completed semi-structured interviews before the technology was implemented, and again at 6 and 12 months. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. Results We found that residents primarily used the technologies to engage in self-directed digital leisure and to engage with others both in and outside the home, and that this in turn enhanced their comfort, pleasure, and social connectedness. We also identified ongoing barriers to their engagement with the technology, including both personal and structural factors. Discussion and Implications Our findings suggest that implementation of voice-activated ICTs can bring added value to broader efforts to improve well-being and quality of life in long-term care by enhancing choice, self-determination, and meaningful relationships.

The Politics of Refugee Resettlement in the Asia Pacific: Belonging and ICT-enabled Transnational Settlement

Abstract This conceptual article examines the interplay of forced displacement and resettlement across the Asia Pacific, situated against the backdrop of unprecedented global displacement, rapid uptake of information communication technologies, and strong border governance regimes. Emphasising the centrality of the politics of belonging, this article distinguishes between refugee resettlement, focused on protection, and the broader concept of refugee settlement as part of a larger project of belonging. Recognising that less than 1 per cent of refugees globally are able to access resettlement pathways every year, we present the implications of ICT-enabled transnational settlement, using New Zealand and Australia’s refugee resettlement programmes to anchor this analysis. By examining ongoing transnational connections, particularly through social media, this article illuminates how refugees can negotiate relationships with nearby and distant places. It outlines a spectrum of opportunities and challenges within resettlement and settlement contexts, transcending traditional territorial boundaries defined by the state and local jurisdictions. This article concludes by considering durable and enduring solutions to forward the possibilities of ICT-enabled transnational settlement as it influences the articulation of safety and belonging in an increasingly interconnected yet unevenly mobile world.

TECHNOLOGY LITERACY AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS FOR ENHANCING NUMERACY AND LITERACY SKILLS OF EARLY-GRADE PUPILS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENTS IN TANZANIA

Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have significantly transformed the educational landscape, and offer substantial benefits for learners with special needs including those with hearing impairments. The primary purpose of this research was to determine the technological literacy level among primary school teachers in using ICTs to support literacy and numeracy skills among learners with hearing impairments and compare them based on demographic information. A quantitative analysis approach was used, involving 121 teachers from the deaf unit primary school who completed a self-rating questionnaire based on the Technology Literacy Assessment Scale developed by UNESCO. Both mean scores, the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Kruskal-Walli’s test were used to compare teachers’ technological literacy using ICTs. The results indicated that teachers' demographic information is significantly related to technological literacy at the p=0.05 level. The results found that female teachers had higher technological literacy than male teachers. Also, teachers with lower education levels were found to have higher technological literacy than those with higher levels of education. Among the teacher characteristics, working experience and age were found to have no significant difference with technology literacy as they had p-values of 0.313 and 0.212 respectively. Interestingly, teachers who specialized in special needs education were found to have higher technological literacy than those who didn’t specialize in special needs education. The findings revealed that technology literacy among primary teachers who teach pupils with hearing impairments was high, which signifies confidence in basic ICT skills for enhancing literacy and numeracy skills among learners with hearing impairments. However, incompetence levels were found in integrating ICT in organization and administration, especially in managing individual variation among pupils with hearing impairments, and curriculum and assessment had lower mean scores than other elements of the UNESCO ICT-CFT areas. These findings suggest that adaptive and personalized learning systems are essential, and comprehensive training regarding ICT integration specifically tailored for teaching pupils with hearing impairments is needed for effective classroom usage.

Influence of Teachers’ Experience in Information Communication Technology and Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Public Secondary Schools of Rwanda: A Case of Kayonza District

The study evaluated the impact of teachers' ICT experience on students' math performance in public secondary schools in Kayonza District, Rwanda. Involving 259 participants (223 teachers and 36 head teachers), data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews, and observations, and analyzed using SPSS Version 20.0. Findings revealed that 83.5% of respondents strongly agreed that teachers skilled in MS Excel, 85.9% in PowerPoint, and 83.9% in preparing teaching materials with ICT tools positively influenced students' performance. Additionally, 82.3% noted that teachers trained in exam preparation with ICT tools demonstrated their ICT experience. Improved student outcomes were reported, with 79.4% noting better numeracy, 80.2% improved grades, and 78.3% enhanced skills in experimenting with MS Excel. A significant positive correlation was found between teachers' ICT expertise and students' math performance. The study suggests that proficiency in ICT tools enhances students' academic performance. The Ministry of Education should support ICT integration to boost academic achievement, with superintendents and head teachers optimizing ICT training and lab usage. Teachers should share ICT skills to improve instruction and student outcomes. Future research should investigate the broader effects of ICT in education on academic achievement in mathematics.

Interactive Technologies in Online Teacher Education in Africa: A Systematic Review 2014–2024

This systematic review investigates the integration of interactive technologies in online teacher education across Africa from 2014 to 2024. The study aims to identify the types of interactive technologies employed, the leading countries in regard to their adoption, and the outcomes of their usage on teacher training programs. Despite significant advancements, particularly in countries like Kenya and South Africa, the effectiveness of these technologies varies widely due to infrastructural, socio-economic, and policy-related challenges. The findings highlight the critical role of reliable information communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, culturally relevant content, and comprehensive training for educators in optimizing the use of interactive technologies. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for greater policy coordination and collaboration among African nations to fully leverage these technologies. The review concludes that, while interactive technologies hold substantial potential in terms of transforming teacher education in Africa, sustained efforts are required to overcome the existing barriers and ensure equitable access to quality education across the continent.

Practices and systems employed by health professionals toward protection and confidentiality of patient health records in Ghana

ObjectivesHealth information relies on a patient's sensory perceptions as well as objective assessments, diagnoses, and test findings. Ghana's current laws governing the confidentiality of patient health data seems a little pertinent in spite of ongoing conversations on the significance of patient health information and the necessity to protect patient information from improper disclosure. The study therefore investigated the extent of patient confidentiality in Ghana by looking into the guidelines, regulations, and rules that govern patient records. MethodsThe interpretive, phenomenological, and narrative methodologies used in qualitative research were employed to study the phenomenon. Twenty (20) participants were interviewed in a semi-structured manner to gather the data needed for the analysis comprising of Doctors, Nurses, Administrative staff, Record Officers, and Information Communication Technology (ICT0 Technicians of five Departments in La General Hospital. The Activity Theory was used as a theoretical foundation for the study ConclusionsThe study revealed that healthcare professionals uphold the moral standards relating to patient confidentiality and trust. Again, the findings of the study showed that medical records are safely stored through the use of Electronic Health Record system in the hospital in a manner that wouldn't compromise patient confidentiality. However, the results establishes that health care workers can potentially serve as a conduit for the leak or breach of patient information through negligence and unprofessional practices. Public interest statementThe study investigated systems and practices that are employed by health workers in Ghana to ensure that patient health records are safeguarded in order to build patients confidence in how their health records are protected. Health workers were interviewed in this study and the findings of the study show that there are practices and systems put in place to safeguard patient health records in the hospitals. Although, it was established that EHR systems help in safeguarding patient health records, the study recommends the need for users of the Health Electronic Records to be fully involved in the implementation process and strict enforcement of policies regarding the use of the EHR system to help prevent negligence and unprofessional application of the system.

Application Of Information Communication Technology (Ict) In General Office Administration

Application Of Information Communication Technology (Ict) In General Office Administration

Usability evaluation of a smart upper limb rehabilitation exercise device for individuals with disabilities.

User-friendly rehabilitation exercise devices can enhance health and quality of life through the convergence of information communication and medical technology. The development of rehabilitation exercise devices accessible to individuals with disabilities is important. We aimed to investigate the convenience, safety, and effectiveness of the developed rehabilitation exercise device for individuals with disabilities. A usability evaluation of the developed rehabilitation exercise device was conducted with five rehabilitation exercise experts and six athletes with disabilities using a questionnaire, the reliability of the revised questionnaire was r=0.87. Qualitative analysis was conducted using semistructured interviews following the testing of the upper limb rehabilitation exercise device by the two user groups. In the usability evaluation survey of the developed rehabilitation exercise device, the results were very positive, with an overall score of 4.25 out of 5. The highest score was assigned to the convenience of the device, followed by the effectiveness of the exercise and the safety of the device. The developed rehabilitation exercise device allows for three types of strength improvement exercises, including isometric, isokinetic, and isotonic exercises, all within a single device. Given that it is constructed with a wire system, it can be adapted to various exercise methods, depending on the type of disability. The device can be used by both nondisabled and disabled individuals, allowing for various exercise methods. The evaluation results indicate that the proposed device is highly versatile and practical.

Research on the Impact of Big Data and Enterprise Digitalization on the E-commerce Industry and Coping Strategies

Abstract: Big data, enterprise digitalization, and e-commerce all have one thing in common: they were born from the Internet. Since the onset of the 21st century, the global Internet industry has experienced rapid growth, with e-commerce emerging as a key player. Participants in e-commerce engage with both the global online marketplace and the physical market, utilizing modern communication networks and information technology to conduct business activities through e-commerce platforms or service platforms. E-commerce embodies characteristics such as market globalization, rapid transactions, virtualization, and cost-effectiveness, making it highly favored by enterprises. Presently, e-commerce relies heavily on robust databases, as well as the data collection, processing, and analysis capabilities of big data. This reliance compels traditional enterprises to undergo digital transformation. This study delves into the impact of big data and enterprise digitalization on the e-commerce industry, exploring the mechanisms underlying their influence on cross-border e-commerce. By examining these dynamics, the study aims to provide insights into the evolving landscape of e-commerce and the transformative potential of big data and digitalization in shaping its future trajectory.

Utilising Blended Learning for Large Classes to Deliver an Introductory Programming Course

Higher education institutions are constantly pushed to increase the student intake and produce industry-ready graduates. The pressure generally arises from the governing bodies, originating from socio-political factors. It is particularly evident in the field of Information Communication Technology (ICT) where there is a growing need for quality graduates. Undergraduate programmes in the field of ICT generally offer introductory computer programming courses that are mandatory at early stages of the degree programme. Consequently, the number of students registering for such courses can increase drastically. The students are coming from diversified backgrounds. While some students may have prior experience in computer programming, a larger majority may not have any prior knowledge or experience. Increased class size meets the constraint of the limited availability of physical classroom space and would require the class to be separated into smaller groups for face-to-face activities. Large classes are also challenged with the increased man-power requirement in terms of lecturers, instructors, and teaching assistants. Maintaining student engagement and interactivity becomes increasingly difficult in a large class. Grading of assessments becomes time-consuming and needs and requires increased manpower. Based on the observations and learning from an ongoing introductory programming course, this study evaluates the procedure for overcoming the challenges faced by the teaching staff, especially with a class size exceeding 1000. To cover the theoretical components, recorded video lectures are provided. The class is divided into groups consisting of approximately 100 students and live, online, interactive group discussions are conducted. The live, online smaller group discussions allow students to clarify doubts regarding the content. This also allows the distribution of the limited teaching and assistant staff. Students who need further assistance are encouraged to meet the teaching assistants physically. Thus, the workload is distributed effectively, and it helps ensure the dedicated support and attention is provided to the students. Auto graded programming assignments are effectively employed for formative and summative assessments, which reduces the grading workload significantly. The findings of this study provide insights on course design to effectively deliver the content and conduct assessments overcoming the challenges presented by increased class size.

Modal phase-matching in thin-film lithium niobate waveguides for efficient generation of entangled photon pairs.

Thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) waveguides have emerged as a pivotal platform for on-chip spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC), serving as a crucible for the generation of entangled photon pairs. The periodic poling of TFLN, while capable of generating high-efficiency SPDC, demands intricate fabrication processes that can be onerous in terms of scalability and manufacturability. In this work, we introduce a novel approach to the generation of entangled photon pairs via SPDC within TFLN waveguides, harnessing the principles of modal phase-matching (MPM). To address the challenge of efficiently exciting pump light typically in a higher-order mode, we have engineered a mode converter that couples two asymmetrically dimensioned waveguides. This converter adeptly transforms the fundamental mode into a higher-order mode, demonstrating a conversion loss of 1.55 dB at 785 nm with a 3 dB bandwidth exceeding 30 nm. Subsequently, we have showcased the device's capabilities by characterizing the pair generation rate (PGR), coincidences-to-accidentals ratio (CAR), and spectral profile of the entangled photon source. Our findings present a simplified and versatile method for the on-chip generation of entangled photon sources, which may pave the way for the application in the realms of quantum information processing and communication technologies.