Information And Communication Technologies Research Articles

Satisfaction with human resource practices, job dedication and job performance: the role of incentive gamification

PurposeWhile the potential of human resource practices (HRPs) for promoting performance is widely recognized, even though crucial, employees’ assessment of HRPs remains under-researched, especially in emerging economies. Hence, the purpose of this research is to examine the influence of employee satisfaction with HRPs on job performance through the mediating role of job dedication (JD) and the moderating role of incentive gamification.Design/methodology/approachThe current research adopts a quantitative method. Specifically, using a questionnaire survey, 418 valid responses collected (through purposive sampling) via cross-sectional method from the employees of Nigerian Information and Communication Technology (ICT) firms were used to test the research hypotheses empirically.FindingsThe results revealed that satisfaction with HRPs has a positive influence on job performance. Satisfaction with human resource practices has a positive influence on job dedication. Job dedication has a positive influence on job performance. The link between employees’ satisfaction with human resource practices and job performance is mediated by job dedication. The link between satisfaction with human resource practices and job dedication is moderated by incentive gamification, that is, the positive link is stronger when incentive gamification is high. The link between satisfaction with human resource practices and job performance is moderated by incentive gamification, that is, the positive link is stronger when incentive gamification is high.Originality/valueThe current study highlights the importance of employees’ assessments of human resource practices, which may be used to promote employee dedication, which in turn results in improved performance. The findings are helpful to open the black box of the impact of satisfaction with HRPs on job performance. The results also offer important new valuable guidance for practitioners and will aid the management of human resource practice design, audits, and communication.

Global Financial Investment Connectedness, ICT, and Intellectual Property Strategies: A Country-Level Empirical Analysis

This study investigated the direct and indirect impacts of financial investment connectedness and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on countries’ intellectual property (IP) strategies. By utilizing the panel logit model on longitudinal country-level data, we found that countries’ positions in the global financial investment network significantly affect their IP strategies. Furthermore, ICT usage weakens the IP strategies’ reliance on global financial investment connectedness. This study is among the first to link financial investment connectedness and ICT to intellectual property strategy. The implications for governments managing financial investment portfolios and making intellectual property strategies are derived.

Exploration of human activity fragmentation in cyber and physical spaces using massive mobile phone data

ABSTRACT The rapid development of information and communications technology (ICT) in recent years leads to the emergence of cyber space and results in the fragmentation of human activities to some extent. Nevertheless, few studies focused on the exploration of fragmentation, the new characteristic of human activities, partially due to the limited access to proper datasets. In this work, massive Call Detail Records (CDR) data and Uniform Resource Locator (URL) data from millions of mobile phone users are used to extract the activity fragmentation in both cyber and physical spaces. The relationships between activity fragmentation in the two spaces and built environment factors are further examined at different geographical scales. The results show that: 1) the spatial distributions of physical human activity fragmentation (PHAF) and cyber human activity fragmentation (CHAF) are inversely correlated; 2) compared with PHAF, CHAF are less associated with the built environment, probably because cyber activities are less restricted in time and space; 3) CHAF are more influenced by physical fragmentations and the relationships are stable across different cites, indicating that cyber space cannot be completely detached from physical space; and 4) the impact of built environment on CHAF and PHAF are different across different cities. The findings not only shed deeper light on activity fragmentation, but also enlighten the future exploration of its association with both cyber and physical spaces.

NARRATIVE REVIEW OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) INTEGRATION IN NIGERIAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS’ HOME ECONOMICS INSTRUCTION

This paper explores how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can revolutionize Home Economics education in Nigeria, particularly at secondary schools. ICT integration aligns with national policy goals of introducing students to technology and enhancing professional skills in Home Economics. Students can access a wealth of online resources, improving their knowledge of nutrition, healthy living, and sustainable home management. However, challenges like limited internet access, lack of ICT facilities, and inadequately trained teachers impede progress. Overcoming these hurdles requires collaboration. The government can invest in teacher training and infrastructure development, while schools can explore cost-effective solutions. Partnerships with communities and the private sector can further support ICT resource acquisition. The paper emphasizes the importance of teacher collaboration and localized digital content creation to enhance learning and cultural identity. By addressing challenges and implementing a multi-pronged approach, stakeholders can empower educators to leverage technology. Students equipped with both Home Economics knowledge and digital literacy skills will be prepared for the future, becoming informed consumers, responsible family members, and innovative contributors to society. Ultimately, ICT integration has the potential to transform Home Economics into a dynamic and engaging learning experience, empowering individuals and society to thrive in a technology-driven world

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.

Stakeholder perspectives for information and communication technologies (ICTs) for sustainable food systems in South Africa: challenges, opportunities and a proposed ICT framework

Stakeholder perspectives for information and communication technologies (ICTs) for sustainable food systems in South Africa: challenges, opportunities and a proposed ICT framework

Exploring the Nexus between the Blue Economy and Information Technologies: A Systematic Literature Review of Information Systems in Pacific Fisheries and Aquaculture

The blue economy has garnered significant importance over the years as a major driver for sustainable economic growth in the Pacific region through the efficient utilization of marine resources. While a thorough examination of the whole gamut of information about information and communication technologies (ICT) gains momentum, establishing a cohesive perspective on pivotal findings within blue economy research, particularly in fisheries and aquaculture, becomes essential for maximizing the potential of this interdisciplinary field. Consequently, Information Systems (IS) researchers, through a comprehensive review of pertinent literature, can contribute significantly to this emerging body of knowledge. Our review, which encompasses 32 papers published from 2012 to 2022, focuses on the application of information technologies to Pacific fisheries and aquaculture. The prevailing literature enhances our understanding of the adoption and utilization of ICTs (i.e. Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing and satellite imaging, database management systems and other emerging technologies) within the blue economy. In this paper, we provide discussions on recent technological advancements and future research directions to encourage IS researchers to develop an effective cumulative tradition of research.

Smart buildings with legacy equipment: A case study on energy savings and cost reduction through an IoT platform in Ireland and Greece

The increasing need for energy efficiency and sustainability as made reducing energy consumption in buildings a top priority. Information and communication technologies (ICT) have been proven to be an effective tool in achieving this goal. However, many legacy appliances in commercial and residential buildings are energy-intensive and not connected, making their replacement with new, more efficient models a significant upfront cost. In this paper, a solution is presented that integrates legacy equipment such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and other services into a new internet of things (IoT) platform that can integrate machine learning (ML) algorithms to identify the most effective way of achieving a variety of low-energy goals. Through this platform, features such as flexibility services are enabled, allowing energy cost reduction and other beneficial results. The solution has been tested in real demonstration sites in Ireland, and Greece, considering the specific challenges in each country. The Irish demonstration sites showcased the ability to manage a water heater in a residential building and a CHP unit in a commercial one, resulting in energy consumption reductions of up to 39% and 61%, respectively. In the Greek demonstration sites, the implemented solution in the residential building was able to reduce energy consumption by up to 86% during peak hours, and up to 60% overall, offering a 10% reduction in their monthly bill. In the commercial building the services provided an average of 6.9 kWh (or 4.6%) of energy savings per day leading to a 22% reduction in their monthly electricity bill.

Digital Pathways to Empowerment: Unraveling Women's Journeys in Atmanirbhar Bharat through ICT - A Qualitative Exploration

This qualitative research aims to explore the lived experiences, perceptions, and challenges faced by women in leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for empowerment within the framework of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the study seeks to understand how ICT tools and platforms contribute to women's socio-economic empowerment, including their participation in education, entrepreneurship, governance, and employment. By examining individual narratives and community perspectives, the research aims to uncover the nuances of women's engagement with ICT, as well as the barriers they encounter in accessing and utilizing digital resources. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the intersection of gender, technology, and development, informing policy and practice for promoting women's empowerment and self-reliance in India. In the framework of Atmanirbhar Bharat, we want to investigate the relationship between ICT and women's empowerment in this qualitative study. By studying women's experiences, obstacles, and opportunities when using ICT resources, we hope to add to the body of knowledge needed to create policies and programs that support gender-inclusive development and enable women to take an active role in empowering themselves and their communities as they work towards prosperity and self-reliance in India.

THE ROLE OF THE DIGITAL EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT OF A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION IN THE FORMATION OF STUDENTS' DIGITAL CULTURE

The article is devoted to the theoretical and applied aspects of pedagogical support of students' personal and professional development in the digital educational environment (DEE) of a higher education institution (HEI). The purpose of the article is to analyse approaches to defining the essence and content of the phenomenon of the DER of a higher education institution, to characterise the pedagogical support of students' personal and professional development with regard to this type of environment (content and directions, stages, technologies). The concept of digital culture of students of a pedagogical university is revealed. The structure and properties of DLC that contribute to the formation of digital culture of students are considered. The study of the DSC of higher education institutions is carried out through the theoretical analysis of modern research on this issue. The structure, components, functions of this type of environment, their impact on the development of university students are considered. The methodological basis of the study of pedagogical support of students in the conditions of the HEI CLC was the activity-based, personality-oriented, competence-based approaches. The study helped to clarify the capabilities of the CLC. Based on personal practical experience, advisory, career guidance, developmental and other activities, the authors of the article summarised and analysed extracurricular formats of information and communication technologies (ICT) in supporting the personal and professional development of university students. It has been established that the DLC of higher education institutions can be the basis for improving and intensifying the process of pedagogical support of the personal and professional development of students.

Empowering Inclusivity: Navigating the Transformative Landscape of ICT in Cultivating Inclusive Classroom Environments Amidst Challenges

In recent years, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged as a pivotal tool in fostering inclusivity within school and classroom settings. This conceptual paper delves into the dynamic intersection of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and inclusive classroom environments, exploring ICT's transformative potential amidst the multifaceted challenges and issues. By analyzing the evolving role of ICT in fostering inclusivity, addressing accessibility barriers, and promoting diverse learning experiences, this paper aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how educators and stakeholders can navigate challenges to create truly inclusive educational spaces. Through critical examination, innovative strategies, and practical insights, this paper offers a roadmap for leveraging ICT as a catalyst for inclusive education in the face of complex challenges.

Applicability and uses of the online environment in restorative mediation: towards a digital restorative justice?

ABSTRACT While the historical role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in restorative justice has been marginal, the paradigm has shifted notably since 2020, prompted by the exigencies of the pandemic. This transformation was especially visible in victim-offender mediation (VOM) programs, particularly during the critical phases of the health crisis across Europe. Despite the persistence of some restorative services in utilizing ICT tools, the scholarly discourse on this evolving landscape remains notably scant. Addressing this gap, this research adopts a qualitative approach, delving into the experiences of 26 facilitators in Spain (N = 26). Through in-depth semi-structured interviews and subsequent inductive coding and thematic content analysis, the study seeks to unravel the nuanced dynamics of employing ICTs in restorative justice and restorative mediation contexts. Specifically, the research explores their impact on communication processes, spatial dynamics, process quality, and participant security. The findings not only underscore practical implications for current practices but also open avenues for contemplating the transformative potential of digital tools in shaping the future trajectory of restorative justice. This study aims to propose valuable insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how restorative justice services could optimize their functioning within the broader criminal justice system through judicious use of ICTs.

School Health Services' Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Interorganizational Collaboration Regarding Students With Mental Illness: A Scoping Review.

School health services (SHSs) and school nurses play a crucial role in identifying and supporting students with mental illness. The integration of information and communication technology (ICT) can facilitate interorganizational collaboration in this context. Due to the limited research in this area, a scoping review was conducted to explore SHSs' use of ICT in interorganization collaboration regarding students with mental illness. Six articles were reviewed, revealing three key themes: "types of ICT employed by SHSs in interorganizational collaboration," "constellation of SHSs in interorganizational collaboration," and "opportunities and challenges for SHSs using ICT in interorganizational collaboration." Notably, two of the six articles highlighted the absence of school nurses in interorganizational collaboration. Even though ICT plays a crucial role in interorganizational collaboration, no comprehensive solution was found. This scoping review confirms that there are challenges with operability and regulations that govern the exchange of private information between organizations.

How do digital financial inclusion, ICT diffusion, and education affect energy security risk in top energy-consuming countries?

Energy security has become a crucial issue as the world economy depends more and more on energy supplies. In the context of the top energy-consuming nations, this research examines the connection between digital financial inclusion, information and communication technology (ICT), education, and energy security risk from 2011 to 2022. To that end, the study applies the two-stage least squares and system generalized method of moments estimation techniques. According to our study's findings, digital financial inclusion and associated factors, including automatic teller machines, bank branches, debit cards, and electronic payments, mitigate energy security risks. The energy security risks are also reduced due to ICT, education, gross domestic product, and renewable energy production. However, carbon emissions increase energy security risks. These findings suggest that policymakers in top energy-consuming economies should focus on the digital inclusiveness of the financial sector, ICT diffusion, and human capital to increase the opportunities for investment in the energy sector to mitigate energy security risks.

The digital frontier of Islamic tax compliance: unveiling the influence of ICT as a moderator

Purpose Based on the extended theory of planned behavior, this study aims to examine potential intentions-related factors that affect Islamic tax compliance moderated by information and communication technology (ICT) adoption. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative cross-sectional design was used to distribute questionnaire sets to 975 working Muslim Omanis by using convenience sampling method. PLS-SEM was mainly used to examine the data. Findings All the factors determine behavioral intention to pay Islamic tax (BIIT), which significantly predicts Islamic tax compliance behavior (ITCB). However, perceived control behavior negatively determines intention. ICT adoption moderates the link between BIIT and ITCB. Practical implications This study offers both practical and theoretical implications that can guide efforts to promote Islamic tax compliance and advance our understanding of tax behavior within the ETPB framework. Originality/value This study accounted for crucial factors determining intention than earlier ones using the ETPB. Considering technological advancements, the study also assessed the moderating role of ICT between BIIT and ITCB.

ICT acceptance, language use and information culture as tools for enhancing information literacy within smallholder maize farmers in Uganda

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between tool adoption and information literacy within smallholder farmers (SHFs). Design/methodology/approach A structured questionnaire was used to gather data for this quantitative study from 225 SHFs. Structural equation modelling was done to test the hypotheses. Findings The findings established that tool adoption dimensions (Information and communication technologies (ICT) acceptance, language use and information culture) positively and significantly influenced information literacy. Information culture had the strongest impact. Research limitations/implications The study enriches the situated learning theory (SLT) literature by introducing tool adoption as a predictor of information literacy in a new context of SHFs. Use of tools as independent variables is a positive deviation from previous studies that have used them as mediating variables. Despite the contributions, the cross-sectional design study undermines the ability to solicit more detailed perspectives from the lived in experience of the respondents. Practical implications Managers should promote usage of context-specific tools like local radio stations and mobile phones, but also use language tailored to farmer contexts when disseminating information. Policymakers should leverage on social and cultural settings when designing information interventions. Social implications The study highlights critical factors that significantly promote information use for improved productivity for SHFs, cumulatively increasing the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Socially, findings may reduce on their poverty levels of farmers. Originality/value This study offers a novel perspective in information literacy domain by using the SLT to delineate contextual tools that are paramount in predicting of information literacy in an under research informal context of SHFs.

The use of information and communication technologies by adolescents living with a mental illness in the past 5 years: Scoping review.

The use of information and communication technologies (ICT) is a huge part of adolescents' lives, especially by those living with a mental illness. However, very few studies explore their experience with the use of ICT and how it affects their health. The purpose of this study was to better understand the use of ICT by adolescents living with a mental illness. A scoping review was undertaken using Arksey and O'Malley's method to explore this understudied topic. The following databases were searched: Medline, CINAHL and Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection. Studies published between 2017 and 2022 were included. Data were analysed using a data extraction and an analysis grid developed by the research team. Of 1984 articles, only seven met the inclusion criteria. These articles allowed for a better understanding of the type of mental illness these young ICT users had, the type of ICT they use and their overall experience using ICT. The diagnoses most associated with the use of these ICT were suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety and eating illnesss. Types of ICT used were very diverse and adolescents had both positive and negative experiences using these ICT. Very few interventions using ICT were developed according to the needs of adolescents with mental illness. These adolescents often cope with the help of ICT and can have an overall positive experience. Their experience can also be negative as some of them were exposed to suicide-related and violent content. Future research is needed to better understand the best ICT interventions for these young people.

TECHNOLOGY & PRODUCTIVITY AMONG EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS INFORMATION COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MAKUENI COUNTY, KENYA

The primary objective of this research article is to identify the key impacts of integrating technology into public secondary schools in Makueni County. To achieve this, a descriptive research strategy has been employed, that brought in 140 teachers and 25 principals. Data collection was conducted via interview schedules and questionnaires that were aimed at administrators and teachers. The gathered data underwent quantitative and qualitative analysis. Descriptive statistics and mean calculations, a measure of central tendency, were utilized for data analysis. The research hypothesizes that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a crucial role in enhancing educational quality. ICT enables more personalized instruction and immediate feedback, thereby improving literacy both inside and outside the classroom. The research article also examines how ICT can be used to foster creativity and higher-order thinking skills. In terms of administration, ICT is pivotal in streamlining tasks such as data collection, document processing, record-keeping, and financial document recovery, making retrieval more straightforward and administration more efficient. Furthermore, ICT aids in the efficient scheduling of school activities, including parents and teachers association (PTA) and Board of Management meetings, and managing school calendar events, classes, and exams. In a nutshell, the research article highlights the importance of ICT in disseminating information and fostering effective communication among stakeholders.

E-government impact on developing smart cities initiative in Saudi Arabia: Opportunities & challenges

Information and communication technologies (ICT) have a recent impact on governance and public administration. Electronic government (e-government) services were created to streamline administrative processes and enhance citizen engagement on the one hand, and to build new governance models that would empower individuals, involve them in the decision-making process, and increase transparency on the other. Many individuals are doubtful about smart city projects because of the security issues that arise in such environments. In essence, internet of things gadgets are security flaws. Concerns about the proliferation of IoT sensors and the tighter coupling of infrastructure silos in cities are well-founded. The major objective of the study is to identify the influencing factors of smart cities on e-government in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, this research explores the definition of e-government, and its supporting technologies like smart cities, IoT, big data, cloud computing and other digital government platforms. After exploring the detailed definitions, the study identifies the challenging scenarios of e-government in Saudi Arabia, and discusses the different opportunities. This study also concentrates on the good practices to be followed to overcome the challenges. Furthermore, this study can be used in future research for solving real time challenges of e-government.

Factors Affecting the Fostering of Informationand Communications Technology Application inTeaching for Teacher by the Blended LearningModel

Factors Affecting the Fostering of Informationand Communications Technology Application inTeaching for Teacher by the Blended LearningModel