Information And Communication Technologies Technologies Research Articles

Growing Technological Relatedness to the ICT Industry and Its Impacts

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, industries across various sectors are increasingly leveraging information and communication technologies (ICT) to drive innovation and gain a competitive edge. Our study reveals that, as industries become more closely connected to the ICT sector, they experience a significant shift in their innovation processes and outcomes. By analyzing 1.3 million U.S. patents granted between 1981 and 2010, we demonstrate that industries with stronger ties to the ICT sector (i.e., higher “ICT-closeness”) exhibit a greater proportion of ICT technologies in their patent portfolios and enhanced complementarity between ICT and non-ICT patents. Furthermore, ICT-Closeness results in greater innovation efficiency (the number of patents per R&D capital), recombinant creation (the creation of new technological combinations), recombinant reuse (the refinement and reuse of known technological combinations), and the creation of new business models. These findings have important implications for practitioners. Specifically, our research highlights the importance of strategically integrating ICT into their technological innovations. Managers should actively seek opportunities to collaborate with and learn from the ICT sector to enhance their innovative capabilities, create new products, services, and business methods, and ultimately gain a competitive advantage. However, they must also be prepared for the heightened competition that comes with increased ICT-closeness, as it can lead to winner-take-all dynamics and market turbulence.

African Continental Free Trade Area and Regional Trade in ICT and Digital Technologies

This study examines the impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on regional trade in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Digital Technologies (DT) sector across 43 African countries from 2014 to 2021. Employing the augmented gravity model and confidence-level estimations, it highlights AfCFTA's mediating role in enabling ICT&DT trade on the continent. Using hierarchical regression analysis of a panel dataset comprising 5,160 observations, the findings imply that trade openness and productive capacities not only facilitate trade in the ICT&DT sector but also result in positive spillover effects across various economic sectors. This study contributes to the international business literature by refining the application of the gravity model to capture the need for sector-specific analyses to unpack institutional dynamics and dis-enablers of trade. It identifies AfCFTA as a pivotal yet underexplored element in the global trade landscape, highlighting its potential as Africa seeks a more prominent role on the global stage. The research stresses the significance of digital empowerment and policy reforms to maximise the benefits of regional integration under AfCFTA.

Assessment of Smallholder Poultry Farmers’ Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Kwali Area Council of Abuja, Nigeria

ICT can be regarded as the combination of "informatics communication" and other technologies, especially communications technology. Informatics refers to the study of information, computation, and communication. This can apply to artificial systems such as computers or natural systems such as brains, genes, and living cells. Informatics technology refers to the technological application of informatics in society and is the study of the behaviour and structure of any system that generates, stores, processes, and presents information. A simple random sampling technique was used. The total sample size was 100. The questionnaire method of data collection was adopted to elicit information on the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers, their perceptions of ICT, the accessibility of ICT, and factors that affect the use of ICT technology by poultry farmers. The collected data was subjected to descriptive statistics (such as frequency tables and percentages) for analysis. The result showed that 61% of the farmers are actively participating in poultry farming; it also showed that extension service delivery made it easier for the farmers to get ICT information; and it also showed that high costs (71% of the time) were the major constraint to the adoption of ICT by the smallholder poultry farmers in the study area.

Using ML to Predict User Satisfaction with ICT Technology for Educational Institution Administration

Effective and efficient use of information and communication technology (ICT) systems in the administration of educational organisations is crucial to optimise their performance. Earlier research on the identification and analysis of ICT users’ satisfaction with administration tasks in education is limited and inconclusive, as they focus on using ICT for nonadministrative tasks. To address this gap, this study employs Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in conjunction with a survey technique to predict the satisfaction of ICT users. In doing so, it provides an insight into the key factors that impact users’ satisfaction with the ICT administrative systems. The results reveal that AI and ML models predict ICT user satisfaction with an accuracy of 94%, and identify the specific ICT features, such as usability, privacy, security, and Information Technology (IT) support as key determinants of satisfaction. The ability to predict user satisfaction is important as it allows organisations to make data-driven decisions on improving their ICT systems to better meet the needs and expectations of users, maximising labour effort while minimising resources, and identifying potential issues earlier. The findings of this study have important implications for the use of ML in improving the administration of educational institutions and providing valuable insights for decision-makers and developers.

Reshaping the energy landscape of Crete through renewable energy valleys

Renewable energy valleys (REVs) represent a transformative concept poised to reshape global energy landscapes. These comprehensive ecosystems transition regions from conventional energy sources to sustainable, self-reliant hubs for renewable energy generation, distribution, and consumption. At their core, REVs integrate advanced information and communication technology (ICT), interoperable digital solutions, social innovation processes, and economically viable business models. They offer a vision of decentralized, low-carbon landscapes accessible to all, capable of meeting local energy demands year-round by harnessing multiple renewable energy sources (RES) and leveraging energy storage technologies. This paper provides an overview of the key components and objectives of REVs, including digital integration through advanced ICT technologies and open digital solutions that enable the seamless management of RES within the REV. The social innovation aspect via the REV’s active communities is also examined, encouraging their participation in the co-design, implementation, and benefit-sharing of renewable energy solutions. In addition, business viability through sustainable business models central to the REV framework is proposed, ensuring affordability and accessibility to all stakeholders. The paper presents a case study of Crete, showcasing how the REV idea can work in real life. Crete utilizes various energy sources to become energy-independent, lower carbon emissions, and enhance system resilience. Advanced energy storage technologies are employed to ensure supply and demand balance within the REV. Situated on the picturesque island of Crete, Greece, it is pioneering the establishment of a Renewable Energy Valley ‘Living Lab’ (REV-Lab), integrating Community Energy Labs (CELs) as innovation hubs. This initiative exemplifies the REV model, striving to create a digitalized, distributed, and low-carbon landscape accessible to all residents throughout the year.

Model for integration of information and communication technologies in resource sharing practices for enhanced service delivery in academic libraries in southeast Nigeria

PurposeThis study aims to develop a model for integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in resource sharing practices for enhanced service delivery in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria. Seven objectives guided the study; ICT-based resource sharing practices in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria; ICT infrastructure for resource sharing; ICT needs of librarians for resource sharing practices; stages of ICT integration in resource sharing; perception of librarians towards ICT-based resource sharing; challenges to integration of ICT in resource sharing practices; design a model for the integration of ICT into resource sharing; all in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachThe research design adopted for this study is the mixed research design containing the “descriptive survey” research design and the “research and development, R&D.” The population of the study is 164, comprising all of the librarians in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria. All of the librarians of the five federal universities will be involved in the study. Hence, there was no sampling. The instrument for data collection is a structured questionnaire.FindingsThe findings of the study revealed that 88.8% of the librarians use ICT to boost the volume of resources; while 74% of the librarians were positive in all responses pertaining to ICT-based resource sharing practices in the libraries. The study also revealed that ICT infrastructures in the library for resource sharing are highly available and applicable; while computers and internet networks are the most needed gadgets for the operations. Libraries in Southeast Nigeria are in the applying and transforming stages of ICT adoption at a 69.7% response rate; while the librarians have a strong belief and understanding that a lot can be achieved in resource sharing through ICT; and would recommend such. Poor electrification, inadequate funding and unavailability of some ICT technologies were equally identified as challenges. The study conclusively developed a resource sharing model, the Southeast Federal University Library Connect; accessible at https://southeastfeduniconnect.njh.com.ngOriginality/valueThe research study is one of the few types of research that has developed a functional model for resource sharing in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria.

Special issue Innovation development and digital technologies for sustainable healthcare ecosystems

The use of information and communication technologies (ICT) is a twenty-first-century approach that is patient-centered and protects patients, physicians, and others. Where key actors are more interested in social value creation than in value capture (Santos, 2012), health services ecosystems can generate strongly positive externalities and be sustainable. Digital ICT technologies spanning robotics, artificial intelligence, remote patient monitoring, and telemedicine have improved equitable access to care and participated in the sustainable agenda, nurturing an ecosystem of caregiving interaction. Therefore, framing research on information systems in healthcare related to the SDGs can be helpful in the innovation of healthcare organizations in dealing with the pandemic and the post-pandemic. The primary purpose of this special issue is to identify the role and relevance of ICT in healthcare ecosystems while promoting sustainability. Various topics emerge within this special issue, such as Governance models, institutional relations, and social capital; the role of ICT in the healthcare system changes and finally, the use of digital innovations and ICT in pandemics and post-pandemics. In this special issue, we build on this knowledge base and expand the research direction on developing innovation and digital technologies for sustainable health ecosystems.

A Study of Farmer’s Awareness Level and Usage of Different ICT Tools

ICTs refer to a wide range of technological tools and resources that are specifically developed for the creation, storage, evaluation, and management of information. ICTs have experienced substantial changes in recent years, becoming crucial instruments for expediting agricultural development, especially in developing countries like India. This study examined Haryana farmers' ICT knowledge and use. Agriculture farmers and individual interviews were used in the study. Every farmer underwent thorough interviews to assess their level of knowledge and utilization of ICT resources, such as email, radio, kiosks, computers, and mobile phones. The study analyzed data from 480 farmers, indicating that every participant owned mobile phones that lacked internet connectivity. The findings revealed that all the farmers possess knowledge of fundamental mobile features such as making phone calls and sending SMS messages. However, the majority of respondents reported not utilizing email, radio, kiosks, and computers for agricultural purposes. Surprisingly, 33% of the participants demonstrated proficiency in accessing different online sites, office documents, and presentations. Farmers are increasingly utilizing information and communication technologies (ICTs), like as mobile phones and kiosks, to access precise information regarding crop yield, daily wholesale rates at mandi markets, climatic conditions, crop diseases, and other pertinent agricultural knowledge. It is clear that there is a technology divide in the contemporary era dominated by ICTs, which poses issues for a significant portion of the farming community. The study highlights the importance of implementing focused interventions, such as conducting needs assessments and involving farmers directly, in order to effectively address this disparity. Although cell phones have become essential for farmers, there is still untapped potential for the broad use of various ICT technologies to improve agricultural practices and overall output. Keywords: ICT Awareness, Mobile Usage, internet Usage and Participation of Farmers in ICT.

Implementation of the Use Of ICT Technology for Cognitive Assessment in Islamic Education Learning at the Elementary School

The benefits of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) have expanded significantly in the field of education, aiding in filling gaps and enhancing teacher efficiency in the teaching and learning process to achieve educational goals. The utilization of ICT by educational institutions, particularly teachers, encompasses various aspects, one of which is facilitating the assessment or evaluation of students' cognitive domains. This study focuses on the utilization of ICT as an instrument in assessing the cognitive domains of students in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) classes. The research methodology employed is field research with a qualitative approach. In conducting qualitative analysis, this study utilizes a taxonomy-based analysis model that focuses on the domain and a single common characteristic. The model analyzes interview results with respondents, along with observations and field documentation. Data collection techniques involve interviews, observations, and documentation. The research findings indicate that PAI teachers at SD Negeri 01 Windurojo have implemented three cognitive domain assessment techniques during online learning, namely written tests, oral tests, and assignments. In their assessment processes, teachers make use of various ICT platforms such as Google Form, WhatsApp, and Google Meet.

Agro-Based Mobile Apps Adoption among Bangladeshi Farmers at the ‘Hamlet’ of Bangladesh – A Case Study of Chandpura Village of Barisal

Farmers in Bangladesh are gradually adopting and using ICT-based agricultural applications. This study attempted to identify the factors influencing the use of agro-based mobile applications by farmers in Chandpura village of Barisal district. The study examined farmers' access to ICT in terms of smartphone ownership, internet access, their ICT use behaviour for agriculture, and their knowledge and use of agro-based mobile applications. The research was conducted following the principles of qualitative methods in case studies. For data collection and analysis, in-depth interviews, semi-structured questionnaires, and narrative data analysis were utilised. The results showed that farmers were primarily influenced by personal factors such as need, age, education, and satisfaction. The youth were more receptive to innovations because they were more educated and adaptable. In addition, technological factors, such as access to a device and the internet, digital knowledge, ease of use, and a support network, played a significant role in this regard. While the study helped us understand the significance of ICT technology for the continued development of the agricultural sector, market and weather information were neglected in agro apps for small villages where disease, market, and weather information took precedence. Before implementing any technology, it is crucial to conduct research on the population and their specific needs. The implication is that the study helped us comprehend the significance of ICT technology for the advancement of the agriculture sector, even in small villages, and how implementing an ICT-based "agricultural advisory service" supported and benefited farmers. Keywords: Agro-based mobile apps, farmers, agriculture, information and communication technology (ICT), smartphone and internet.

Impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) On The Economy of Jigawa State

In recent years, progress in information and communication technology (ICT) has caused many structural changes such as reorganization of economy, globalization, and trade extension, which leads to capital flows and enhancing information availability. Moreover, ICT plays a significant role in development of each economic sector, especially during liberalization process. Growth economists predict that economic growth is driven by investments in ICT. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) such as the world-wide application of mobile phones and internet etc. have contributed substantially to the fast-growing world economy in unprecedented ways. The objectives of this study was to identify and determine the role that ICT played/playing in improving the economic growth and development of Jigawa state, also factors limiting the use of ICT in most of the key areas that support economy are identified. A questionnaire survey was administered manually to 184 sampled respondents. Descriptive statistic were used in analyzing the data and testing of hypothesis among different classes of the respondents. The result showed that everyday more people are getting involved in using ICT technology, these tells that ICT brings positive change in diversifying the Jigawa state economy. The implications of these results are that most people of Jigawa state are doing farming as their occupation and have a disperse settlement, because of these, they requires maximum support from either government or private organizations to provide them with ICT facilities, orient the people on the use of ICT and the possible ways to use it for self-entrepreneurship program in order to boost the economy.

The road towards environmental sustainability: Investigating the role of information and communication technologies and green technology innovations

Human activity is considered to be the largest contributor to global warming and environmental deterioration. In order to limit the destruction and transition toward a more sustainable environment, governments and corporations, are increasingly turning to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and green technology innovations. However, no consensus on whether ICT exert a positive or negative influence on the environment appears in the literature, and solid empirical evidence linking green technologies to environmental performance is lacking. This study fills this gap by empirically testing the impact of ICT and green technology on environmental sustainability measured using the environmental performance index (EPI) and takes into account the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework. Further, it includes a set of control variables: financial development, urbanization, trade openness, and foreign direct investment. It uses a balanced panel for 21 countries for the years between 1995 and 2019. Results show that both ICT and green technology innovations exert a significant positive impact on environmental sustainability. Financial development, urbanization, and foreign direct investment also positively influence environmental sustainability, while trade openness negatively impacts the environment. The findings offer policy implications for governments on how to exploit the potential of ICT and green technology to achieve environmental sustainability.

The Potential of ICT Adoption in Promoting Sustainable and Resilient Supply Chains: Evidence from Greek Logistics Firms

The logistics sector is undergoing a sustainable and resilient transformation guided by the concepts of green supply chain management (GSCM) and supply chain resilience (SCR). While the existing literature posits ICT technologies as individual enablers that enhance organizational performance in areas like sustainable operations, resource economization and organizational resilience, a gap remains in comprehending the nuanced role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in linking GSCM and SCR outcomes. This research delves into how top management perceives the alignment of ICT adoption with GSCM and SCR objectives within logistics firms. Data were gathered from 53 managers in Greek logistics firms. After utilizing factor analysis, the findings indicate that (1) a significant correlation exists between GSCM/SCR states and ICT adoption; (2) firms with higher ICT adoption rates more effectively address GSCM and SCR challenges; and (3) notably, larger firms with more resources have a slight edge over smaller counterparts with less focus on ICT. Policymakers and industry leaders in the logistics sector can leverage these insights to prioritize ICT-related initiatives, especially in regions with similar contexts to Greece.

Analyzing the EKC hypothesis for technologically advanced countries: The role of ICT and renewable energy technologies

International initiatives, such as the Paris Climate Conference and the COP26 conference, have highlighted the role of technology in fighting environmental problems. However, it is uncertain whether technologies are beneficial in curbing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. To find an answer to this question, the study focuses on four technologically advanced countries (United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark), considers information and communication technologies (ICT), renewable energy technologies (RRD), and economic growth in relation to environmental degradation, and tests the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC). The study applies Fourier approaches and uses data for the period 1989–2020. In this way, the study defines that (i) ICT and RRD are cointegrated with CO2 emissions; (ii) ICT mitigates environmental degradation in the United Kingdom, Denmark, Switzerland, and Norway; (iii) RRD expenditures, however, are not effective in reducing CO2 emissions; (iv) the EKC hypothesis is also validated for the countries studied. Thus, the study highlights the need for countries to rely on further use of ICT and income growth as effective policy instruments to mitigate CO2 emissions rather than RRD.

Survey and analysis of national standardization trends for smart farm ICT equipment

The rapid advancement of information and communication technology (ICT) has significantly transformed the agricultural sector, giving rise to the concept of smart farming. Smart farming involves the integration of various ICT equipment and technologies to enhance agricultural practices, improve productivity, and ensure sustainable resource utilization. As smart farming gains momentum, the need for standardized practices and equipment becomes crucial to ensure interoperability, reliability, and widespread adoption. This paper presents a comprehensive survey and analysis of national standardization trends for smart farm ICT equipment in smart farming. It introduces the standardization trends, smart farm ICT equipment national standard diffusion support project, and evaluation of testing ICT equipments. Additionally, it highlights the necessity and consequences of ensuring interoperability for ICT equipment in smart farming. Furthermore, the paper explores the challenges and opportunities associated with smart farm ICT equipment standardization. Challenges include reconciling diverse technical requirements, addressing security and privacy concerns, and maintaining adaptability to evolving technological landscapes. On the other hand, standardization offers the opportunity to accelerate innovation, enable market growth, and establish a foundation for sustainable agricultural practices.

Developing Learners’ English-Speaking Skills using ICT and AI Tools

This study aims to examine the benefits of using ICT and AI technologies to aid the improvement of students' spoken communication skills, as well as the factors that contribute to students' difficulties with speaking. The study's primary goal is to provide useful recommendations for students, teachers, and learners that will facilitate better English language instruction and learning. Different studies were analyzed, and elements related to difficulties with communication were separated into three distinct groups: linguistic, social, and affective. We looked into numerous information and communication technology (ICT), Apps, and artificial intelligence (AI) resources that help in teaching and learning English. We conducted an experiment with 100 students, who were placed into two groups: ICT and Non-ICT. Taught English for the Non-ICT group using traditional methods and for the ICT group using ICT and AI tools. When compared to non-ICT students, ICT students demonstrate superior performance in all parameters of the speaking test. ESL students will see significant improvements in their communication skills with the use of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for teaching and learning language.

Information Communication Technology Tools for Animal Husbandry Technology Dissemination

In the Indian economy, the livestock sector contributes 4.9% of the overall GDP, accounting for around 30.13 per cent of the country's agricultural GDP. India has the worlds largest livestock population, but the average animal productivity is low; yet demand for livestock products is rising steadily, and customers’ awareness of quality has also increased. Therefore, it is necessary to refocus the production system by figuring out what information cattle farmers currently need. The animal husbandry department can only meet some livestock farmers' information needs. A multi-stakeholder online network across the livestock value chain is required to meet these information needs. Systems with ICT capabilities are better suited to deal with these problems. Radio, television, mobile, fixed, computer and network hardware and software, satellite systems, and video conferencing are all considered part of information and communication technology (ICT), a broad term covering any communication device or application. These include delivering information in the form of audio, data, video, and images, among other things. It is very beneficial for boosting the economy, creating jobs, developing rural areas, and reducing poverty. In modern times, ICT has become essential to the development of cattle. This article discusses using ICT technologies to spread animal husbandry technology among Indian farmers.

Inovasi pembelajaran Pendidikan Agama Islam Berbasis ICT di Era Industri 4.0

This research discusses Islamic Education Learning Innovations based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Industrial 4.0 era. The main focus of this research is on Islamic Religious Education learning innovations that rely on the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The purpose of this study was to find out and analyze Islamic Religious Education learning innovations based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the industrial era 4.0. The method used in this research is descriptive-analytical method. The literature study approach (Library research or also known as content analysis) is applied by conducting studies and analysis of primary sources such as books, scientific journals, articles and documents that are relevant to the discussion. The results of this study reveal that learning innovation based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a concept and approach that is considered new by teachers in learning interactions, where they utilize ICT technology to facilitate the achievement of learning objectives through problem solving. The role of the teacher in developing innovation and learning media by utilizing ICT is an urgent need and a demand to increase the effectiveness of the learning process of Islamic Religious Education. Through learning interactions that utilize the internet network, the potential for creating more effective learning in Islamic Religious Education subjects can be realized.
 Keywords: Learning innovations in Islamic Religious Education, Information and Communication Technology in the era industry 4.0.

Implementasi Blended Learning pada Perkuliahan Prodi Pendidikan Agama Islam di UIN Walisongo Semarang

21st-century education utilizes Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a learning medium by starting to reduce the use of old methods to keep abreast of the current development. Daring is a form of utilizing ICT technology in education through the use of online features as learning intermediaries. But in reality, daring doesn’t provide effectiveness because it causes learning problems. Therefore, Blended Learning is considered to be a method that can solve daring problems. Blended learning is a combination of daring and luring. UIN Walisongo Semarang is a university that applies blended learning. This is motivated by the emergence of daring problems during COVID-19. This research approach uses a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis methods. Data collection techniques are interviews and documentation. This study focuses on the role of implementing blended learning at UIN Walisongo Semarang in overcoming daring problems. The result of this study is the application of blended learning at UIN Walisongo during COVID-19 is good enough and effective enough to overcome problems arising from daring during COVID-19. But blended learning is not recommended to be applied continuously because can make students confuse, but blended learning can be done occasionally when teachers/lecturers are unable to be physically present in class.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Agriculture: An Investigation to ICT Adoption for Sustainable Farming Practices in Banaskantha District of Gujarat, India

This article investigates the difficulties farmers encounter in adopting and utilising ICT technologies for sustainable agriculture, with a particular emphasis on bridging the digital divide. To assess the digital divide among farmers, the study examines access to technology, digital literacy levels, and internet connectivity. Affordability, awareness, and complexity are highlighted and analysed as barriers to ICT adoption. To address these barriers, customised ICT solutions, including user-friendly tools, are being developed. The influence of these solutions on long-term farming practises were assessed. The interpretations emphasise solutions such as cost reduction, subsidisation, improved power supply, information delivery in local languages, the establishment of service centres, and the provision of training programmes. Implementing these solutions can help to bridge the digital divide, improve information access, and promote sustainable agriculture. This article examines the challenges that farmers encounter when adopting and utilizing ICT (Information and Communication Technology) solutions for sustainable agriculture, with a particular focus on addressing the digital divide. The research investigates the accessibility of technology, levels of digital literacy, and internet connectivity to determine the extent of the digital divide among farmers. It identifies and examines affordability, awareness, and complexity as obstacles to ICT adoption. To overcome these barriers, customized ICT solutions are being developed, including user-friendly tools. The long-term impact of these remedies on farming practices is being studied. The findings highlight the importance of cost-cutting measures, subsidies, improved electricity supply, information dissemination in local languages, the establishment of service centres, and the provision of training programs. Implementing these solutions can help bridge the digital divide and enhance farming practices.