Information And Communication Technologies Research Articles

Exploring The Perceptions and Use of Information and Communication Technology Tools Among High School Mathematics Teachers in The Northern Region of Ghana

This study explored the extent to which senior high school mathematics teachers in the Northern Region of Ghana use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in teaching and learning mathematics. A descriptive survey design was employed for the investigation. Using a stratified sampling technique, 20 public high schools in the northern region of Ghana were selected for the study. A simple random sampling was used to select 100 teachers (i.e., 50 teachers from urban and 50 teachers from rural schools) from the 20 schools for the study. Questionnaires were used to collect data for the study. The findings revealed that the mathematics teachers’ perceived knowledge of the benefits of ICT usage for instructional delivery, assessment, and professional learning networks in mathematics were low compared to their actual usage of the ICTs for the same purposes. The findings suggest that the participants utilize ICTs more for social networking than for instructional delivery, assessment, and professional development in mathematics. Further, the findings showed a positive relationship between the teachers’ perceived knowledge of the benefits of ICTs usage for instructional delivery and their actual use of ICTs for instructional delivery. Mathematics teachers from urban schools use ICTs for all instructional purposes more than their peers from rural schools. Implications for ICT policies, teacher training, and professional development are provided.

ICT Integration and Students’ 21st-Century Learning Skills in ELT

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become essential in developing nations in recent years, greatly influencing a number of industries, including ELT and education. However, although incorporating technology into instruction is emphasized in today's educational environment, research on how these affects students’ abilities for 21st-century learning has yielded mixed results that leads to the inconsistent information, including in Indonesia. Therefore, to address this issue, ICT integration in ELT and its impact on students' learning capabilities at SMA N 3 Yogyakarta are examined in this qualitative case study. Data from 10 grade X participants spread across five classrooms were collected through document analysis, classroom observation, and in-depth interviews. The results showed that ICT integration is common, mostly at the passive and amplification levels. Citizenship, collaboration, creativity, and communication all showed positive effects; however, critical thinking and character still need further evaluation. To get the most out of ICT and help instructors develop 21st-century abilities, effective teaching methods and frameworks are advised. It is also suggested that standardized rules and guidelines should be established for the incorporation of ICT in education.

A two-tier database architecture framework for combating cyber threats

The 21st century has witnessed a lot of advancements in science and technology. One may not be wrong to assert that the field of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and its allied disciplines like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Nanotechnology have taken the lead as we witness new developments in these areas year by year. The products and services we utilize and enjoy are evidence of the usefulness of this advancement in science and technology. It is worthy of note that the interest of many (both good and bad in the discipline of ICT), is being ignited by the fact that ICT finds its applicability virtually in every area of human endeavor. In this study, we propose a two tier database architecture that employs an Object-Oriented Analysis Design Methodology (OOADM) using the Unified Modelling Language (UML). The choice of this methodology is because we need to present every stage of the study from analysis to the design phases. With the help of the chosen methodology, we analyzed the existing frameworks, identified the weaknesses, and as a result, we further surveyed algorithms used for reliable data security. From the results obtained from the survey, we employed the SHA-256 algorithm because of its strength in data security, and the Argon2 hashing algorithm which is one of the best algorithms for securing database credentials. In the end, we provide an enhanced framework made up of the chosen algorithms and a two-dimensional database (2-DDb), which could be implemented to effectively combat attacks on important databases.

The Utilisation of ICT Resources for Teaching and Learning Science in Rural Schools: A Bibliometric Analysis

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) offers pedagogical approaches in science that may enhance engagement in STEM disciplines. It has emerged as a catalyst for quality education and job creation, imparting scientific knowledge and potentially enhancing educational standards for rural students, hence generating increased opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. This study aimed to explore research trends on the use of ICT in teaching and learning science in rural schools, using available big data on studies done in the past 10 years worldwide. A bibliometric analysis was used to analyse 171 journal articles and conference proceedings papers which were published or in press. These documents were obtained through the SCOPUS database. The keywords used were "ICT in teaching science” OR "rural schools". Data were organised into tables, graphs and visualisations obtained from VOSviewer, then analysed descriptively. Findings from the study revealed insufficient publications of documents in this area per year worldwide, citations and co-citations, poor collaborations and low total link strength for all documents published from 2013-2023. Whereas many studies have been conducted on the use of ICT or STEM education or rural education, few studies incorporated the three terms. Those who have embarked on these studies seem to be losing interest in doing more research in this area. Furthermore, there are insufficient collaborations between authors and countries in this research area. This study recommends that the amount of research and collaborations be increased on regarding the utilisation of ICT resources for teaching science in rural schools.

Challenges to the Digital Inclusion of Women in a Vulnerable Area in ColombiaDesafios da inclusão digital das mulheres em uma área vulnerável na Colômbia

To identify women's technological capabilities and describe their appropriation and use of technology in a community in a vulnerable area of Colombia. Observational cross-sectional study conducted in the subregion of Urabá, Colombia. A survey was conducted in primary health care centers, in which 1478 women between 18 and 49 years of age responded to questions about their technological capabilities, their experience with the use of web-based information, and their appropriation of technology. Access to and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) varied according to age, educational level, and socioeconomic stratum, with observed differences in preferences and critical consumption of information. The women in this study faced multiple access barriers to appropriate use of ICTs for health promotion. The appropriation of these tools in Colombia, specifically in the Urabá subregion, is a complex challenge that requires a comprehensive and multidimensional approach.

Il contributo delle Digital Humanities per un approcio allo studio dell’epigrafia Ispano-Romana

Within the various research areas of Ancient History, Digital Humanities have gained a significant role in recent years. However, in the more specific field of Epigraphy, which is the topic of this contribution, although the usefulness of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has begun to be evaluated, these resources have largely been used as a complementary tool and not as an integral part of the epigraphic discipline. For this reason, it can be to present and describe those ICT-related tools that can be consider fundamental for a modern epigraphic study, with a particular focus on the Latin epigraphy of Roman Hispania.

THE EVOLUTION OF COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES IN EDUCATION

This paper aims to describe, based on an analysis of what is contained in the literature, the introduction and evolution of information and communication technologies (ICT) in education, thus constructing a historical record of these technologies. The project is justified by the relevance of the topic and the importance that ICT represented during the pandemic period, practically saving education from two years of social isolation, leaving millions of students out of school, enabling, even with some difficulties encountered by teachers and students, the continuity of pedagogical activities, minimizing the educational losses of a period never seen before in the history of education. It is clear that these ICT should be incorporated into the pedagogical projects of the courses, since Ifes has an academic environment Moodle (Modular Dynamic Object-Oriented Learning Environment) available that enables pedagogical activities for teachers and students. Given the many new digital technologies that have emerged in recent times, it is possible to see that digital communication and information technologies have become a fertile field for technology companies, developers, and researchers in the area of ​​technology and education, since they have seen technologies as a tool capable of providing a transformation of teaching-learning methods and practices that are important for achieving pedagogical objectives, thus not diminishing the role of educators, nor even replacing them, but allowing some tasks and functions to be expanded and diversified. It is also worth noting that TDCI encompasses other sectors, becoming multidimensional with roots spread throughout society. The legislation that governs the introduction and use of technological equipment in the classroom has advanced and encouraged its use in everyday school activities.

The Impact of ICT on Fostering Creativity in Business Education Pre-service Teachers: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Creativity is a global issue in higher education in the 21st century since it has shifted teaching and learning into learner-centered approaches meant for skills development. Studies show that 21st century skills foster creativity through technology and change how teaching can be approached in higher education. Since the workforce demands that students be able to apply their creativity, higher education must recognize its critical role in helping students get ready for it. Despite the benefits of creativity to students, literature shows that there is a profound gap between the knowledge and skills that students learn in higher education and the knowledge and skills they need in 21st century community and workplaces. Hence, this study explores the impact of information and communication technology (ICT) on fostering creativity in Business Education pre-service teachers as well as suggests the strategies that could assist students to develop creative skills. The study followed the systematic literature review method PRISMA in selecting studies to be included and excluded in the synthesis of the study. The process commenced by identifying the problem and screening studies to include and exclude in the study. Only 30 studies conducted between 2013 and 2023 were screened for inclusion. Based on the literature and the two-tier model of creativity, it was identified that creativity empowers learning through interactive learning tools; can be used for personalized learning; can also be used for global collaboration; and cultivates innovative minds. The paper also suggests strategies that can effectively foster creativity, such as pedagogical training and support, professional development, mentorship programs, resource accessibility, an ICT-infused curriculum, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and technology-enhanced assessment.

Exploring Social Support Strategies and Socio-Cultural Factors Influencing Social Isolation and Loneliness: The Role of Digital Literacy.

Social isolation (SI) and loneliness (L) are the long-standing critical concerns impacting the mental well-being of older adults. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, leading to a notable rise in perceived social isolation (PSI) and its associated risks among an aging population. Reportedly, nearly 35% of older Americans felt lonely before the pandemic, with the pandemic further intensifying these feelings. This commentary examines the multifaceted factors contributing to PSI, including demographic and socio-economic characteristics. We outline the health risks associated with PSI, including cardiovascular diseases and mental health conditions. This commentary addresses the potential of information and communication technology (ICT) to alleviate loneliness, despite significant barriers such as the digital divide and technological anxiety among older adults. This commentary advocates targeted digital literacy interventions and theoretical frameworks to enhance technology adoption and mitigate PSI, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes and quality of life for the aging population.

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL GAP: ANALYSING THE IMPACT OF ICT DIFFUSION ON INCOME INEQUALITY IN INDONESIA

The development of information and communication technology (ICT) has significantly transformed the socio-economic structure of society, particularly in terms of income distribution. This study aims to analyse the impact of ICT development on income inequality across 34 provinces in Indonesia from 2012 to 2020, employing econometric methods based on panel data through a fixed effects model. Empirical findings reveal that ICT readiness and ICT skills tend to exacerbate income inequality, while ICT use and its quadratic form contribute to reducing it. These results suggest that although ICT infrastructure and skills are crucial, their uneven distribution and utilisation can widen income disparities. Consequently, this study highlights the importance of ensuring equitable access to ICT across Indonesia to mitigate economic inequality. The study's recommendations stress the pivotal role of the government in expanding ICT infrastructure, fostering a research and innovation climate conducive to digital transformation, and formulating policies that enhance ICT skills nationwide. These measures would improve digital literacy, upgrade workforce capabilities, and promote inclusive digital economic growth. Ultimately, comprehensive and equitable ICT development can play a critical role in reducing income inequality across Indonesia.

Training of women in the methodology of Gamification for the promotion of healthy habits in children

Abstract Background It has been evidenced that gamification has scope in the change of people behavior and in the acquisition of knowledge, therefore this methodology contributes to the promotion of health and adapts to the needs of children from the language of play, which increases their motivation in health literacy processes, so it is necessary to encourage the acquisition of new methodologies for community mothers and women caregivers, who are configured as promoters of healthy habits with their children. Objectives To train 150 women in the methodology of Gamification for the promotion of healthy habits in children; for which 20 sessions were developed addressing the following modules: a) Empowerment of women b) Gamification methodology c) Healthy habits and lifestyles d) Healthy eating e) Physical activity. Results The training of women evidenced a) the empowerment and recognition as health promoters for their life and that of their community b) the identification of the methodology of gamification and its application in processes of promotion of healthy habits c) a high adherence in the participation and learning through gamification methodology, training 150 women through sessions mediated by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Learning and Knowledge Technologies (TACs) and Technologies of Empowerment and Participation (TEP) enabling the participation of women from urban and rural territories, which accounts for an inclusive process and democratization of health knowledge, impacting both women and their families, communities and children under their care, an average of 5 members per woman, benefiting 750 people in health promotion actions. Conclusions 150 women were certified, who from the application of the gamification methodology promote healthy habits in children, in their families and their communities, starting from the recognition of the experience of these in themselves to be health promoters in their territories. Key messages • Training women in gamification methodologies to promote healthy habits in children strengthens the health system by empowering them in their role as health literacy teachers in their territories. • ICT, TAC and TEP enable access to health education from an inclusive process that democratizes knowledge so that communities are active agents in health promotion activities.

Information and communication technology-based patient education for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases: A scoping review

ObjectiveThis review aimed to map the existing the information and communication technology (ICT)-based patient education for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases and identify key effectiveness factors and guidelines for professionals. MethodsA scoping review systematically reviewed PubMed, Cochrane library, EMBASE and Web of Science. We designed search strategies to identify ICT-based patient education for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases focused on rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, published between January 2011 and October 2023. Data extraction was independently screened by two reviewers according to the eligibility criteria. ResultsOf 13,861 records, 18 met the eligibility criteria. Most studies were randomized controlled trials, primarily conducted in the USA, focusing on rheumatoid arthritis. ICT-based interventions included web-based platforms, aiming to improve self-management, medication adherence, with most interventions showing significant improvements. Digital tools such as websites, chatbots were common. Five groups representing the ICT functions were identified: digital self-management tools, multimedia learning materials, personalized educational sessions, behavior change and empathy games, and interactive online communities and peer support. Most studies lacked theoretical frameworks, or guidelines for developing patient education. ConclusionICT-based patient education has significant potential for enhancing self-management and behavior changes in patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases.

A Strategy for Predicting the Performance of Supervised and Unsupervised Tabular Data Classifiers

AbstractMachine Learning algorithms that perform classification are increasingly been adopted in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems and infrastructures due to their capability to profile their expected behavior and detect anomalies due to ongoing errors or intrusions. Deploying a classifier for a given system requires conducting comparison and sensitivity analyses that are time-consuming, require domain expertise, and may even not achieve satisfactory classification performance, resulting in a waste of money and time for practitioners and stakeholders. This paper predicts the expected performance of classifiers without needing to select, craft, exercise, or compare them, requiring minimal expertise and machinery. Should classification performance be predicted worse than expectations, the users could focus on improving data quality and monitoring systems instead of wasting time in exercising classifiers, saving key time and money. The prediction strategy uses scores of feature rankers, which are processed by regressors to predict metrics such as Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) and Area Under ROC-Curve (AUC) for quantifying classification performance. We validate our prediction strategy through a massive experimental analysis using up to 12 feature rankers that process features from 23 public datasets, creating additional variants in the process and exercising supervised and unsupervised classifiers. Our findings show that it is possible to predict the value of performance metrics for supervised or unsupervised classifiers with a mean average error (MAE) of residuals lower than 0.1 for many classification tasks. The predictors are publicly available in a Python library whose usage is straightforward and does not require domain-specific skill or expertise.

Efficient and Compressed Deep Learning Model for Brain Tumour Classification With Explainable AI for Smart Healthcare and Information Communication Systems

ABSTRACTThe detection of brain tumours presents a significant challenge in the medical domain, where prompt and precise diagnosis is crucial as patient outcomes depend on it. Conventional deep neural networks perform well in carrying out various imaging tasks within the healthcare sector; however, their effectiveness often falls short of expectations in practical applications due to the substantial computational resources required and issues with reliability. In this research, an optimised and effective deep learning model founded on the DenseNet‐169 architecture is introduced for the classification of magnetic resonance imaging brain tumours, which is particularly advantageous for smart healthcare systems and information and communication technology (ICT) settings with limited computational capabilities. The model compression methodologies, including pruning and quantization, have been employed to significantly diminish the dimensions and intricacy of the model while achieving a classification accuracy of 97.07%. Furthermore, this endeavour necessitates the enhancement of the model's interpretability through the utilisation of explainable artificial intelligence methodologies such as Gradient‐weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad‐CAM) and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), which will aid clinicians in highlighting crucial areas of the images and validating feature importance concerning the decisions rendered by the model. A comparative performance evaluation is conducted against DenseNet‐169, ResNet‐50 and various other models to delineate the superior efficacy of our model, rendering it exceptionally adept for knowledge‐driven, real‐time brain tumour diagnosis within smart healthcare and ICT systems where resources are constrained.

Navigating the Social Shift: A Preliminary Study of Consumer Behavior on Malaysia's Social Commerce Platforms

The proliferation of online businesses coupled with the advancement of information and communication technologies (ICT) has led to the emergence of social commerce. The integration of social media platforms into e-commerce offers businesses a convenient avenue for engaging with consumers and a novel method for capturing additional sales volume. This seamless integration of social media platforms into current e-commerce practices has significantly increased its success. Research on the factors that affect purchase intentions in social commerce is still sparse, especially in the context of Malaysian consumers. In general, the causal model of purchase intentions on social commerce in this study aims to investigate the impact of the constructs of visibility and metavoicing on purchase intentions among Malaysian millennial consumers. Henceforth, this initial study specifically aims to evaluate the reliability and validity of the IT affordance constructs of visibility and metavoicing through rigorous assessments. At the items-construct level, the internal consistency assessment was conducted using McDonald’s Omega, which is known for its robustness in measuring the reliability of multi-item constructs. At the construct level, discriminant validity and the strength of linear relationships among variables were assessed using Pearson correlation analysis. The pilot dataset gathered was analyzed with SPSS 29, and the results have validated that the predictive model achieved high levels of reliability and validity at both the item and construct levels. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the independent variables, metavoicing and visibility, have a significant association with purchase intentions, underscoring their importance in understanding consumer behavior.

Cloud-Based Automatic Configuration and Disaster Recovery of Communication Systems Applied in Engineering Training

Network management and troubleshooting require not only a grasp of advanced concepts but also the development of analytical and problem-solving skills. To bridge this gap, this paper introduces a novel network administration system, DRACSC (Spanish acronym for device for automatic recovery and configuration of communication systems), designed for the automatic configuration and disaster recovery of communication equipment. This system transcends the limitations of current hardware and software solutions by combining their advantages, boasting portability, automated functions, and a cloud-based repository as its main features. The DRACSC system, undergoing a comprehensive large-scale evaluation involving diverse user groups across multiple institutions, was tested with 89 users, including students and teachers at educational centers and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) professionals. The benefits of the system were evaluated through a training program based on simulated real-world ICT environments, focusing on both quantitative results on the reduction in time to complete user tasks, as well as qualitative results on the interface and usability of the system. Statistical analysis, including Welch’s t-test on opinion surveys, indicated a significant increase in knowledge and understanding, demonstrating the system’s potential to enhance education and practice. Moreover, the evaluation shed light on the user experience, with positive impacts observed for learning and teaching implications. As a result, the study has verified that the system has the potential to significantly influence network management practices, enhancing both learning and professional application through improved efficiency and usability.

Synergizing Systems Thinking and Technology-Enhanced Learning for Sustainable Education Using the Flow Theory Framework

In an era where digital technologies are integral to daily life and sustainable education is increasingly critical, developing higher-order thinking skills with appropriate information and communication technology (ICT) support is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The purpose of this study was to examine synergies of systems thinking and technology-enhanced learning from the perspective of flow theory within the context of sustainable education. We surveyed more than 65 pre-service preschool teachers engaged in a design, technology, and engineering (DTE) course at the University of Ljubljana. Mapping of systems thinking revealed that pre-service preschool teachers needed support regarding feedback and understanding the interrelationship dimension of systems thinking—essential components of sustainable education. Predictive and mediation analyses yielded noteworthy results. Participants in the ICT-enhanced DTE course rated their cognitive and social engagement above the mid-point of the scale, with this higher engagement correlating with higher systems thinking crucial for sustainable education. In contrast, their aesthetic engagement was below the mid-point of the scale. Experiencing a flow state during ICT activities positively influenced systems thinking, particularly in terms of clear goals and autotelic experiences. Flow theory thus emerges as a solid and appropriate framework to use for studying synergies in technology-enhanced systems thinking for sustainable education. These findings underscore the importance of integrating systems thinking into curricula to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for future challenges, thereby contributing to the achievement of SDGs through sustainable education.

Exploring the impact of corporate entrepreneurship on organizational performance in the ICT companies of Jordan: The moderating role of gender-diverse leadership

This study focuses on addressing challenges faced by Jordanian Information and Communication Technology (ICT) organizations, aiming to explore solutions for sector sustainability amid troubling economic conditions. Specifically, it investigates the impacts of Corporate Entrepreneurship (CE) and Top Management Team Gender Diversity (TMTGD) on the performance of these organizations. Furthermore, it also examines the moderating role of TMTGD within this context. To achieve these objectives, the study collects data from 300 employees considered part of the top management teams within Jordan's ICT sector. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the study estimated both measurement and structural models to thoroughly examine the data and proposed relationships. The findings indicate that CE and TMTGD have positive and statistically significant effects on organizational performance. However, the study also uncovers a nuanced pattern of interaction between these variables. Explicitly, it suggests that the presence of gender diversity within top management teams may attenuate the otherwise positive impact of CE on organizational performance. Hence, this research suggests that ICT companies should actively cultivate a corporate entrepreneurship culture to elevate their organizational performance. Furthermore, policymakers and leaders are encouraged to initiate training and educational programs addressing gender dynamics and biases with the goal of fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

The Challenges and Opportunities of NEP-2020 in the Reference of Inclusive Education in India: An Overview

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 provides a transformative vision for India's education system by emphasizing inclusive education and offering equal learning opportunities for children from varied socio economic, cultural and ability backgrounds. This paper looks at the challenges and opportunities given by NEP 2020 for promoting inclusive education in India. Infrastructure deficiencies, insufficient teacher preparation, and social biases are major hurdles, but policy-driven changes, technological integration, and financial support mechanisms present potential. This report gives an overview of the challenges and opportunities for implementing inclusive education in light of NEP 2020. Poor infrastructure, a lack of specialized teacher training and entrenched social attitudes about disability and marginalization all impede progress. However, opportunities arise as a result of policy-driven efforts, growing use of information and communication technology (ICT), and financing provisions aimed at fostering more equal learning settings. The research emphasizes the need of teacher capacity building, community participation, and long-term policy commitment in overcoming these challenges and realizing NEP 2020's inclusive vision. According to the findings, successful policy implementation requires stakeholder engagement to establish a more inclusive and easier to able education system in India.

Current Trends in ICT Security: A Comprehensive Overview of Machine Learning and Soft Computing Applications

In an era marked by pervasive digitization, information and communication technology (ICT) security stands as a cornerstone of our digital infrastructure. The rapid evolution of cyber threats necessitates equally agile defence mechanisms. This research paper provides a comprehensive overview of the contemporary landscape of ICT security with a specific focus on the emergent trends in machine learning (ML) and soft computing (SC) applications. The paper commences by outlining the escalating challenges posed by cyber adversaries, underlining the inadequacy of traditional security paradigms in contending with the intricacies of modern-day attacks. This backdrop emphasizes the need for innovative, adaptable, and intelligent approaches to bolster ICT security.