Information Communication Technology Research Articles

Unpaid carers of people with dementia and information communication technology: Use, impact and ideas for the future.

Several 100,000s of people living with dementia in the UK are cared for at home by a spouse or relative. Few studies have considered the ICT needs and experiences of unpaid carers. This study explores the types of ICT unpaid carers use, the ways they use ICT, the impact of ICT-use, and their ideas for how ICT could be more supportive of their role as a carer. Six focus groups with 32 unpaid carers of people living with dementia discussed their experiences of - and barriers to - using ICT. Transcripts were analysed thematically according to three types of ICT (mainstream, accessible and formal) and five functions (supporting domestic tasks, care management, monitoring, communication and information and education). Participants predominantly used mainstream ICT devices such as laptops and smartphones and internet-enabled applications including videoconferencing and social media platforms to support their daily activities and assist them in their caring role. A few participants discussed using accessible devices such as memory clocks and formal telecare and care-phone services for care management and monitoring functions. Participants' ideas for improvements centred on personalised communication applications that facilitate remote interactions and promote persons living with dementia's independence. Others expressed concerns about the growing need to use ICT to access formal care services and the inadequacy of the ICT infrastructure in some care homes. Unpaid carers mostly turn to readily available mainstream ICT to support their personal and care activities. Further research is required to understand the social impact of the increasing reliance of ICT across health, social and residential care service sectors. Improved cooperation between unpaid carers, technology developers and care services providers could align ICT development to the needs and experiences of families living with dementia and assist unpaid carers with identifying ICTs that optimally support their personal circumstances.

Need of Innovation in Information Technology for Effective Electronic Communication for the Assistance of Tourists

This paper highlights need of innovation in information technology for effective electronic communication by using various applications which will help to bring ease in tourism for tourists. It covers the study of information required for tourists for tourism and the use of information technology. Different aspect of this research paper is to identify the need of innovation in existing information technology for effective electronic communication through mobile or any other electronic device which are used by tourist to find required information, to find lacunas in and to suggest appropriate innovations in existing application to bring ease in tourism and will help to provide security and safety and proper guidance to the tourists.

Estimating the effects of income inequality, information communication technology, and transport infrastructure on transport-oriented household expenditures

Estimating the effects of income inequality, information communication technology, and transport infrastructure on transport-oriented household expenditures

Integration of an online application to optimise multi-disciplinary meetings: a retrospective analysis.

Multi-disciplinary Meetings (MDM) play a crucial role in complex patient care, involving input from various specialties to formulate evidence-based management plans. However, traditional unidirectional approaches and reliance on manual processes have led to inefficiencies in the MDM pathway. This study identified and aimed to improve four critical moments where Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) could enhance the MDM process. Initial referral, information synthesis, meeting presentation and the creation of actionable/auditable items. Microsoft Office Forms, a customisable survey platform, was implemented to streamline MDM processes. Forms were created to gather patient information, develop agendas, and track outcomes. Automation through Excel scripting further optimised data organisation and agenda creation. Referrals using Forms takes an average of 7min and 21s. Over 15months the submission time has reduced and is trending towards under 5min for each referral. The system's scalability has allowed 1744 cases to be discussed over a 15-month period. Active departments using Forms is expanding to seven from two prior to the pilot. Microsoft Office Forms proved to be a valuable and adaptable tool for MDMs, offering benefits such as streamlined information gathering, real-time collaboration, and scalability. The study highlights the potential of existing tools within Microsoft licenses for healthcare process optimisation, providing a cost-effective and customisable solution for MDM agendas. While recognising some limitations, the study concludes that leveraging Microsoft Office Forms can significantly improve system efficiency in a multi-disciplinary setting.

“Online Teaching in Times of COVID-19 in India and Palestinian Universities: Challenges and Antidotes"

Purpose
 Covid-19 pandemic has influenced universities across the world to make an abrupt shift from face-to-face teaching to digital/online teaching. The present paper investigates challenges experienced by Indian and Palestinian universities while teaching online in times of Covid-19 pandemic.
 Design/methodology/approach
 Data was collected from instructors of four Palestinian and Indian universities using a semi-tailored electronic questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS.
 Findings
 Results showed that unique challenges experienced by four Palestinian and four Indian universities’ instructors when teaching online during the Covid-19 pandemic include difficulty in receiving feedback from students in online classes compared to traditional face-to-face classes; difficulty in categorizing students into sub-groups to facilitate group working; and unfavorable online environment at home because of the presence of other family members and children. On the basis of this study’s findings, universities should prepare for future crises by ensuring instructors are competent and have knowledge in information communication technologies (ICT) as well as take into consideration the development and enhancement of the quality of online (virtual) courses delivered during emergencies.
 Originality
 This paper aims to research the implications involved in online teaching and online learning. Through data collection, this research paper was able to measure the impact and suggest recommendations.
 Practical implications
 Study in the research will contribute to overcome the challenges of stakeholders involved in education profession. Online teaching and learning, both had its own challenge and discomfort whilst implementing it.
 Social implications
 This research will help to strengthen the bond between educators and learners. Online teaching and learning created an unsaid interest and dilution in education world. This research can pave the way to develop better understanding between stakeholders.

Toward sustainable climate action in advanced economies: Linking information communication technology, technological innovation, economic complexity, and ecological footprint

AbstractInformation and communication technology (ICT), technological innovation, and renewable energy (REN) consumption have been proffered as solutions to the recent environmental tragedies in developed countries. In recent times, ICT diffusion and technological innovation have improved in G7 countries, but the same cannot be said of REN consumption. As such, this study examines the link between ICT, economic complexity, technological innovation, REN, and ecological footprint (EF) for G7 countries over the period 1990–2020. We use three variables (fixed telephone subscriptions [FTS], mobile cellular subscriptions [MCS], and individuals using the internet [IUI]) to represent ICT. The presence of cross‐sectional dependence guides the use of second‐generation econometric methods for slope heterogeneity, unit root, cointegration, and parameter estimation. The augment mean group (AMG) estimator and panel OLS techniques are applied to complement the method of moment quantile regression (MM‐QR) approach. The MM‐QR results suggest that REN consumption and technological innovation impede the EF across all quantile levels (0.1–0.9), whereas economic growth and economic complexity augment the EF in G7 countries. The ICT variables have heterogeneous effects on the EF, suggesting that the impact of ICT on the EF depends on the estimation techniques and proxy for the variable. In line with these outcomes, public policies directed toward funding technological innovation projects are recommended. The funding should specifically focus on environmentally friendly technologies that can guarantee complementarity between reduced environmental damage and increased economic growth.

PROTECTION OF INFORMATIONAL PRIVACY IN THE WORKPLACE GIVEN THE ADVANCEMENT IN TECHNOLOGY

The introduction of electronic communication in the workplace has changed how employers conduct their business and, in turn, the way that employees are expected to perform their duties. Increased electronic communication services in the workplace have infused the physical employment environment with electronic communication technology. The increase in this form of communication threatens the employee’s right to privacy in today’s workplace, which is characterised by reliance on information communication technology (ICT), and in particular, the use of emails and the Internet to conduct business. The purpose of this article is to suggest a frame of reference that could assist with the implementation of the Protection of Personal Information Act (4 of 2013) (POPIA) by organisations that process personal information in South Africa based on the conditions provided in POPIA.

Impact of ict on the performance of sustainable logistics

The environment of the planet Earth has been the concern of the governments, academia and researchers so the impacts of various factors on it have become the prime focus so that the things that damage it can be investigated and the environmental damage can be minimised accordingly. Logistics and transport is the sector which is responsible for the greater percentage of greenhouse gases and carbon emissions. The transport sector has been initiated towards the sustainable side because in many countries public transport is being operated on electricity and the manufacturers have also introduced electric vehicles for the citizens to drive and travel. Freight transport still is a problem because of its carbon footprint; therefore technological advancement has made it easier to minimize the carbon emission generated from freight transport and logistics with the advent of information communication technology (ICT) devices. With the help of the Internet of Things (IoT), geographical positioning systems, and sensors, it has become easier to monitor the routes of vehicles their fuel consumption and the optimization of routes as well. The various innovations can potentially help the logistics sector to increase the overall efficiency of the sector. Minimizing the carbon footprint in the logistics sector makes it green logistics. In the present research paper, the authors have conducted a literature review by which they intended to highlight the impacts of ICT on green logistics. It was indicated by the results that ICT positively influences the performance of green logistics but at the same time, it was concluded that poor quality of logistics` infrastructure, service quality of logistics and cargo transportation timeliness consume a greater quantity of fossil fuels and therefore cause an increased carbon emissions which negatively impacts human health and the environment of the planet.

Determinants of managerial perceptions of the impact of telework: The effect of information communication technology support, trust, and frequency of communication

Considering teleworking's pros and cons on organizational performance and the importance of managers on teleworking maintenance, this study aims to analyze three resources that influence managers' perceptions of teleworkers' effectiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a sample of 170 small and medium enterprise managers in Spain, the hypotheses were empirically tested through path analysis, and the model was estimated using the maximum likelihood method. Based on the job demands-resources model, this study contributes to the teleworking literature by demonstrating how the frequency of communication with teleworkers and managers' trust in employees are positively related to managers' perceptions of the organizational impact of teleworking. These relationships are not direct but are mediated by the perceived effectiveness of organizational communication. These findings have important managerial implications as they indicate the context that ensures managers' support for teleworking. Although this study has some limitations, such as its focus on a specific country or its cross-sectional nature, it lays the foundation for future studies considering individual, organizational, or sectoral variables that could moderate the analyzed relationships.

THE IMPACT OF MODERN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON UGANDAN RADIO BROADCASTING: A CASE STUDY OF CAPITAL RADIO

Media organizations in Uganda are not exempt from the media industry’s ongoing efforts to digitize its operations, particularly in developing nations. Global change is effectively sparked by the advancements in new media technologies. The method, precision, and speed of message generation and transport have all been greatly enhanced by these technologies, and they have also completely changed the definition of broadcasting. Still, in an information-overloaded world, figuring out where broadcasting fits in is getting harder and harder. The survey research approach was employed to gather pertinent data for the study in order to develop data for it. The results of the data analysis showed that the production of the station under investigation has been significantly impacted by new media technologies. Lack of technical expertise and the expense of purchasing necessary equipment continue to be major obstacles to their efficacy. According to the study’s conclusions, the government should lower the value-added tax on new media equipment as doing so will lower the equipment’s overall cost and ease the financial strain on the station. The use of new media technologies can expand the broadcasting industry’s reach and elevate Uganda’s broadcast sector to a global player. This is only possible if there are no barriers preventing the broadcast media sector from effectively acquiring new and improved infrastructure. Workshops, symposia, seminars, and training courses should all be used to try and educate current and future broadcasters. Keywords: Media, Information Communication Technology (ICT), Radio Broadcasting

Pemanfaatan ICT Dan Fintech: Pentingkah Bagi Pelaku UMKM

In line with the development of information technology, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) must adapt and adopt technology to increase efficiency and expand market reach to improve MSMEs' performance. Therefore, this study aims to examine the role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and financial technology (fintech) on the performance of MSMEs. Data was collected through questionnaires to MSMEs respondents in Pati Regency. This study uses multiple linear regression to test the proposed hypothesis. The results of this study show that Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Financial technology (fintech) have a significant positive effect on the performance of MSMEs.

간호대학생을 위한 정보통신과 최신보건의료기술 교육프로그램 개발 및 효과 검증

Purpose : This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effects of an information communication technology and latest healthcare technology education program. Methods : Conducted as a quasi-experimental study with a one-group pretest-posttest design, the study involved 96 grade 2 students. Data were collected from August 28 to December 8., 2023, 14 weeks, 50 minutes per week. The general characteristics of the subjects were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and mean, while the effects on problem-solving ability, critical thinking disposition, nursing information literacy competency, and digital competency assessed using a paired t-test. Results : Nursing students’ problem-solving ability (t＝－4.50, p＜.001), nursing information literacy competency (t＝－5.29, p ＜.001) and digital competency (t＝－3.41, p＜.001) improved after participating in the education program. Conclusion : The information communication technology and latest healthcare technology education program was effective in improving problem-solving ability, nursing information literacy competency, and digital competency of nursing students. This underscores its potential for implementation in educational settings requiring curriculum adjustments to align with evolving learning outcomes.

Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop Testbed of a Distributed Consensus Multi-Agent System Control under Deception and Disruption Cyber-Attacks

The impact of communication disturbances on microgrids (MGs) needs robust and scalable Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure for efficient MG control. This work builds on advances in the Internet of Things (IoT) to provide a practical platform for testing the impact of various cyber-attacks on a distributed control scheme for a Multi-Agent System (MAS). This paper presents a Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL) testbed to investigate the impact of various cyber-attacks and communication disruptions on MGs. A distributed consensus secondary control scheme for a MAS within an MG cyber-physical system (CPS) is proposed. The proposed cyber-physical testbed integrates a real-time islanded AC microgrid on RT-Lab, secondary controllers implemented on single-board computers, and an attacker agent on another single-board computer. Communication occurs via a UDP/IP network between OPAL-RT and controller agents, as well as between the agents. Through meticulous experimentation, the efficacy of the proposed control strategy using the developed platform is validated. Various attacks were modeled and launched including deception attacks on sensors, actuators, and their combinations, as well as disruption attacks. The ramifications of both deception and disruption cyber-attacks on system performance are analyzed.

Inclusive Digital Upliftment in Odisha a Public value perspective

Digital divide is part of inclusive digitalisation. Technology Acceptance Model explains different dimensions of technology adaptation in a society. This paper is investigating the Information Communication Technology acceptance among the graduates from Koraput, Kalahandi, and Balangir districts of Odisha, these districts are considering as the most backward district in India (NITI Aayog 2019 report). How young technology adopted people are considering government services creation in the state through the eyes of public value. This paper is adopting the model developed by Jean Damascene Twizeyimana for the assessment of public value in developing states. Improved public services, improved administration, open government capabilities, improved ethical behaviour and professionalism, improved trust and confidence in government, and improved social value and wellbeing are measured in this paper for understanding the value creation among the youth. The gap in the service creation and usage from the e-Governance services make an inclusive society, this paper can wrap out the eGovernance services gap which will be a model for government implementation in all over the state.

STEM Education as a Tool for the Effective Implementation of the Applied Orientation of Physics Teaching

Given the High role of future physics teachers in the development of Natural Science and technology, it is undoubtedly relevant to promote them to become competitive specialists in their professional activities. Therefore, there is a need to create an opportunity for future physics teachers to take a place in the world competition in the field of Science and technology by identifying advanced technologies for mastering professional competencies, introducing them into the educational process. As one of the advanced technologies – STEM education allows future physics teachers to develop as a person who can meet the requirements of the labor market, business and high-tech industries. Therefore, in the article, we considered effective methods of teaching, such as deep and comprehensive acquisition of knowledge through the wide use of Information Communication and STEM technologies in the teaching of the subject “Electricity and Magnetism”, as well as the problems of mastering the scientific foundations of the subject. He not only acquired knowledge from the subject “Electricity and magnetism”, but also applied the knowledge gained in everyday life, equipment, technology, etc. we showed the ways of developing the student's ability to think and creative activity.

Effects of training module regarding learning management system (LMS) on knowledge and attitude of dental undergraduates toward use of LMS

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the differences in knowledge and attitude of dental students regarding learning management system (LMS) after receiving a specific training regarding the same. Material and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was done among the 2nd and 3rd-year students of Ranjeet Deshmukh Dental College and Research Centre, Nagpur. Data were collected by a questionnaire containing ten questions. The training module was designed including a didactic session and trouble shooting session for the students. Results: When analyzed, a maximum number of students showed increased knowledge and positive attitude toward LMS after the module. Few students were not using LMS but a maximum number of questions were with a higher percentage of positive responses. There is much awareness and knowledge about LMS after the module. Conclusion: It is critical to train the students regarding various aspects of LMS and its technical details to make navigation easier. The use of information communication technologies in learning involves efforts from not only teachers but also students to make it an effective way of learning. Regular follow-ups and troubleshooting will help maximize students’ active participation in online learning using LMS. Students’ feedback and necessary upgradation of the system are strongly recommended to achieve optimum learning output using LMS.

Cultural Reproduction: An Exposition of the Teaching and Provision of Information Communication Technology in Chiredzi South District Schools of Zimbabwe

Cultural Reproduction: An Exposition of the Teaching and Provision of Information Communication Technology in Chiredzi South District Schools of Zimbabwe

Does financial inclusion and information communication technology affect environmental degradation in oil-producing countries?

Advances in financial inclusions have contributed to economic growth and poverty alleviation, addressing environmental implications and implementing measures to mitigate climate change. Financial inclusions force advanced countries to progress their policies in a manner that does not hinder developing countries' current and future development. Consequently, this research examined the asymmetric effects of information and communication technology (ICT), financial inclusion, consumption of primary energy, employment to population ratio, and human development index on CO2 emissions in oil-producing countries (UAE, Nigeria, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Norway, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Iraq, USA, and Canada). The study utilizes annual panel data spanning from 1990 to 2021. In addition, this study investigates the validity of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) trend on the entire sample, taking into account the effects of energy consumption and population to investigate the impact of financial inclusion on environmental degradation. The study used quantile regression, FMOLS, and FE-OLS techniques. Preliminary outcomes revealed that the data did not follow a normal distribution, emphasizing the need to use quantile regression (QR). This technique can effectively detect outliers, data non-normality, and structural changes. The outcomes from the quantile regression analysis indicate that ICT consistently reduces CO2 emissions in all quantiles (ranging from the 1st to the 9th quantile). In the same way, financial inclusion, and employment to population ratio constrains CO2 emissions across each quantile. On the other side, primary energy consumption and Human development index were found to increase CO2 emissions in each quantile (1st to 9th). The findings of this research have implications for both the academic and policy domains. By unraveling the intricate interplay between financial inclusion, ICT, and environmental degradation in oil-producing nations, the study contributes to a nuanced understanding of sustainable development challenges. Ultimately, the research aims to guide the formulation of targeted policies that leverage financial inclusion and technology to foster environmentally responsible economic growth in oil-dependent economies.

Institutional Information Communication Technology Capacity influence on E-Learning Utilization for Instruction in Kenyan Universities

E-Learning is globally recognized as a significant strategy in improving relevancy, efficiency, costeffectiveness, and quality of higher education. The paper presents a discussion of Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure capacity influences on e-Learning utilization in instruction in Kenyan universities, with a view to determining strategies that universities employ to enhance e-Learning utilization. It opines that e-Learning has not been very popular as a method for instruction in universities, due to limited institutional ICT infrastructure capacities to fully implement e-Learning. The study used the mixed methods research design methodology to debate, reflect, critique, and discuss institutional capacities by universities in utilizing e-Learning in instruction. The reviewed different data sources, borrowed and immensely used government publications, e-Learning books, journals and research articles were used in document analysis. The researchers also used own intuitive experience and knowledge in e-Learning utilization in instruction. E-Learning utilization demands for collaborative effort between government, universities, faculty and students, as well us bodies like the Commission for University Education (CUE). It was found that there are several major barriers to institutional capacities of universities in utilizing e-Learning in instruction. First, was the procurement of technology and sourcing of funds. It was seen that the total capitation for funding the programs was as low as 3%. Secondly, internal barriers arising from within individual institutions and faculty. Majority of the universities for a long time have relied on face to face interaction between students and faculty. However, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, all learning institutions including universities, colleges and schools were forced to close down and seek alternative methods of instruction. It was found that most universities have moderate capacities to utilize e-Learning, but are yet to exploit its full potential. The study also established that nearly all the faculty were aware and used e-Learning for instruction but to a limited extent. Findings revealed that faculty prefer blended mode of instruction, but complained of limited bandwidths and poor connectivity for faculty and students far off from the university campuses. To mitigate the challenge, universities must strive to train and retrain the faculty on how to use technology and not about technology. Based on the review carried out in six universities; all the universities have some technologies in place including Computer Based Learning, Virtual Learning, video conferencing, content delivery via networks, use of memory sticks and emails. All have an e-Learning portal, module and platforms used for e-Learning. Majority of the university dons consider bandwidth, networking and a reliable Learning management system (LMS) as critical infrastructure for e-Learning utilization. Development and improved utilization of e-Learning is practically possible with enhanced institutional capacities. Enhanced use implies enhanced information transfer, reduced movement of faculty and students allow adequate time for faculty to invest in innovative teaching; enable faster transfer of information while students actively learn on their own. This would help bridge the gap and reduce pressure on existing resources. E-Learning could be the solution to the problem of increased student enrolment and reduced quality of university education. However, to ease the burden of financing university programs, public- private sector partnerships need to be encouraged. The study established that universities must provide students with affordable internet. To a large extent it delves into possible benefits and opportunities that would arise if universities realize and utilize fully the available institutional infrastructure and e-Learning resources. Demand is made upon the universities to develop and operationalize e-Learning policy and invest more in capacity building, set up infrastructure to deliver instruction online.

Cambodian STEM pre-service teachers’ competency in effective information communication technology integration teaching based on technological pedagogical content knowledge framework

This study explores how Cambodian STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) pre-service teachers comprehended the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) and its components, content knowledge (CK), pedagogical knowledge (PK), technological knowledge (TK), pedagogical content knowledge (PCK), technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK), technological content knowledge (TCK) and their associations with demographic variables. Using a self-report questionnaire, the study surveyed 440 pre-service teachers from three distinct teacher training colleges. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, and Pearson's correlation. Results showed that pre-service teachers rated themselves above the mean in all components: TPK and CK were the highest, and TCK and TPACK were the lowest. There was a significant difference in the gender and foreign language variables; males and being able to understand foreign languages were the favor. A negative relationship existed in age variables where younger pre-service teachers demonstrated higher competence in all aspects of TPACK except PCK. It concluded that Cambodian STEM pre-service teachers demonstrate adequate knowledge of content, pedagogy, and technology to integrate information communication and technology (ICT) into their teaching. Possessing a medium to a high level of TPACK, additional professional development programs are needed to assist pre-service teachers in reaching the highest TPACK level.