Diffusion Of Innovation Theory Research Articles

Role of Information and Communication Technologies in Promoting Financial Inclusion in Rural African Communities in Rwanda

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate role of information and communication technologies in promoting financial inclusion in rural African Communities
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: This transformation has led to increased savings, facilitated seamless payments, and expanded access to credit, contributing to economic growth, poverty reduction, and enhanced financial resilience in rural communities. Nonetheless, persistent challenges such as limited infrastructure and digital literacy gaps underscore the need for ongoing efforts to fully harness the potential of ICTs, making them a crucial driver of rural development and inclusive growth in Rwanda.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Social Capital Theory & Resource-Based Theory may be used to anchor future studies on role of information and communication technologies in promoting financial inclusion in rural African Communities. Collaborate with technology providers to develop and deploy ICT solutions tailored to the specific needs and preferences of rural African communities. Policymakers should ensure that regulations support innovation, competition, and consumer protection.

Digital transformation in food supply chains: an implementation framework

PurposeDigital transformation using Industry 4.0 technologies can address various challenges in food supply chains (FSCs). However, the integration of emerging technologies to achieve digital transformation in FSCs is unclear. This study aims to establish how the digital transformation of FSCs can be achieved by adopting key technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoTs), cloud computing (CC) and big data analytics (BDA).Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review (SLR) resulted in 57 articles from 2008 to 2022. Following descriptive and thematic analysis, a conceptual framework based on the diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory and the context-intervention-mechanism-outcome (CIMO) logic is established, along with avenues for future research.FindingsThe combination of DOI theory and CIMO logic provides the theoretical foundation for linking the general innovation process to the digital transformation process. A novel conceptual framework for achieving digital transformation in FSCs is developed from the initiation to implementation phases. Objectives and principles for digitally transforming FSCs are identified for the initiation phase. A four-layer technology implementation architecture is developed for the implementation phase, facilitating multiple applications for FSC digital transformation.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the development of theory on digital transformation in FSCs and offers managerial guidelines for accelerating the growth of the food industry using key Industry 4.0 emerging technologies. The proposed framework brings clarity into the “neglected” intermediate stage of data management between data collection and analysis. The study highlights the need for a balanced integration of IoT, CC and BDA as key Industry 4.0 technologies to achieve digital transformation successfully.

Impact of Digital Literacy Programs on Information Access in Rural African Communities in Indonesia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate impact of digital literacy programs on information access in rural African communities in Indonesia
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: The impact of digital literacy programs in rural African communities in Indonesia is significant. These programs have facilitated improved access to information, bridging the digital divide in these underserved areas. They empower residents to access essential resources, education, and opportunities, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life. Additionally, digital literacy programs have fostered community development by enabling local residents to participate in online activities, connect with the global world, and explore economic and educational avenues. Overall, these initiatives have played a pivotal role in transforming rural communities and promoting inclusivity in the digital age.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Cognitive Theory, Diffusion of Innovations Theory & Human Capital Theory may be used to anchor future studies on impact of digital literacy programs on information access in rural African communities in Indonesia. Practitioners and organizations involved in digital literacy programs should adopt a localized approach. Governments in African countries should prioritize digital literacy as a key component of their national development agendas.

Evaluating the Relationship Between Information Technology Adoption and Healthcare Outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate evaluating the relationship between information technology adoption and healthcare outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: The study found that IT adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa's healthcare varied by country and played a positive role in improving healthcare outcomes when effectively implemented. However, challenges like infrastructure limitations and financial constraints hindered adoption. Tailored strategies and policy interventions are needed to overcome these barriers and harness the potential benefits of IT adoption in the region's healthcare systems.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Technology Acceptance Model, Diffusion of Innovations Theory & Health Information Technology Adoption Model may be used to anchor future studies on evaluating the relationship between information technology adoption and healthcare outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa. Advocate for capacity building initiatives to enhance digital literacy and IT skills among healthcare providers, administrators, and policymakers. Engage with policymakers at the national and regional levels to influence the formulation of healthcare IT adoption policies.

Marketing mix Framework as a Tool to Enhance Women’s Business Viability in Limpopo-South Africa

Motivated by lack of empirical research on how the marketing mix (price, place, product promotion, process, packaging, physical evidence, people, programming and partnership) directly or indirectly enhance the women’s business viability and sustainability in South Africa and elsewhere. This research empirically investigated how marketing mix can be used to enhance women’s business viability among 301 registered business owners trained in marketing and participated in the survey and answered details questions focusing on Limpopo province -South Africa. AIDA theory, diffusion of innovation theory and Marketing Mix Theory underpinned the study. Quantitative descriptive survey research strategy was adopted, Robustness analysis was entirely performed using SPSS version 28. The study’s findings were that women’s businesses in Musina and Blouberg in Limpopo province use the 10Ps. The four most used marketing strategies were, price, place promotion and product. The averagely used marketing strategies were: people, packaging, programming, physical evidence and partnership. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge and further contributes to the use of 10Ps marketing mix strategies and framework by women’s businesses. The study’s main implication is that business entities may not achieve their full financial performance potential due to little or no attention to the use of 10Ps marketing mix components and training. This study provides robust recommendations and insights into marketing practices applicable to other business entities globally.

Exploring farmers' perceptions of the technological characteristics of traceability systems

CONTEXTChina is actively promoting traceability systems in the agricultural sector, yet widespread adoption among farmers remains limited. As farmers play a pivotal role in these systems, their perceptions significantly shape their participation in them. OBJECTIVEThe aim of this study is to explore the differences in farmers' perceptions of the technological characteristics of the traceability system. METHODSBased on the diffusion of innovations theory, this study uses the Q methodology to analyze and categorize farmers' perceptions of the technological characteristics of the traceability system. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSResearch has identified the presence of four distinct groups of farmers with different perceptions of technological characteristics. These groups respectively maintain a positive view of the traceability system, recognize its potential in environmental conservation, emphasis the importance of authentic traceability information, and expect governmental support. However, they generally perceive participation in the traceability system as incompatible with their abilities, knowledge, and available resources. Moreover, they generally recognize the traceability system's role in protecting consumer health. SIGNIFICANCEThe findings of this study provide practical insights for promoting the traceability system in agriculture, guiding its implementation and adoption. It also highlights the importance of considering farmers' perceptions and resources when improving new technologies, providing theoretical support for sustainable agricultural development.

The Applications of Nanotechnology in Renewable Energy

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to explore the applications of nanotechnology in renewable energy.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the applications of nanotechnology in renewable energy. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the transformative potential of nanotechnology in revolutionizing renewable energy production, storage, and utilization. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, nanotechnology offers solutions to enhance the efficiency of photovoltaic cells, improve the performance of batteries and supercapacitors, and facilitate cleaner energy production with nanocatalysts. These findings underscore the need for continued research and development, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future in the renewable energy sector.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Diffusion of Innovations Theory, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Resource-Based View (RBV) Theory may be used to anchor future studies on nanotechnology and renewable energy. The study offered several key recommendations. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of fostering collaborative research initiatives among academia, industry, and government agencies to accelerate the development and adoption of nanotechnology in renewable energy. Secondly, the study suggests investing in nanotechnology education and training programs to bridge the skills gap and equip the workforce with the necessary expertise. Lastly, it underscores the need for clear and comprehensive policy frameworks to regulate nanotechnology in the renewable energy sector, addressing safety, environmental, and ethical concerns while incentivizing compliance. These recommendations collectively aim to promote the responsible and efficient integration of nanotechnology in renewable energy, contributing to a sustainable and innovative energy landscape.

The Applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Public Health

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to investigate the applications of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in public health.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the applications of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in public health. Preliminary empirical review revealed how GIS facilitates disease mapping and surveillance, improves healthcare access, addresses health disparities, assesses environmental health risks, and aids in understanding the effects of climate change on public health. The findings underscore GIS as a transformative tool, offering valuable insights and solutions for public health practitioners and policymakers striving to improve health outcomes and create more equitable communities in the face of evolving challenges.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Diffusion of Innovations Theory (DOI), Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Ecological Systems Theory may be used to anchor future studies on the application of Geographic Information System, (GIS) recommendations made include investing in GIS training for public health professionals, integrating GIS into policymaking, and conducting region-specific research to tailor GIS applications to local contexts. These measures aim to strengthen the capacity of public health agencies, enhance decision-making processes, and develop evidence-based guidelines for the effective use of GIS in public health, ultimately improving health outcomes and equity.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Mental Health: An Innovation Diffusion-Based Framework for Advancing Digital Literacy among Professionals

The heightened prominence of digital literacy, as emphasized in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), signifies a collective effort to address the pressing need for reducing the digital divide. Digital literacy involves adept utilization of information and communication technologies, encompassing both technical expertise and cognitive skills. This research focuses on identifying optimal conceptual approaches and measurement standards for digital literacy, concurrently developing an evidence-based tool to elucidate the essential digital literacy prerequisites for mental health professionals advocating mobile mental health applications. The study draws theoretical inspiration from the Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT), guiding the formulation of a foundational framework for digital literacy prerequisites among mental health professionals and the strategic crafting of diffusion strategies. The methodological approach entails a meticulous literature review, with a specific emphasis on the Google Scholar database, to identify best practices for evaluating digital literacy among mental health professionals. Four frameworks were deliberately chosen for comprehensive analysis, unraveling associated methodologies and measurement standards. The insights derived from this analysis inform the development of an evaluation framework aligned with the five stages of the Innovation Diffusion Theory: awareness, interest, evaluation, trial, and adoption. The G20 Digital Literacy simplified model, among the selected frameworks, serves as the cornerstone for the developed evaluation framework. This model intricately delineates the digital literacy and competencies required for mental health professionals at various stages of endorsing mobile mental health applications. Importantly, it adopts a professional-centric model, deviating from conventional approaches, providing a unique perspective on the pivotal role professionals play in propagating and endorsing digital applications.

Examining the effect of perceived risk, self-efficacy and individual differences on consumer intention to use contactless mobile payment services

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of perceived risk (perceived susceptibility and perceived severity), self-efficacy and individual differences (personal innovativeness and mobile payment knowledge) on consumers’ intention to use contactless mobile payment services (MPS). Additionally, it also empirically tested the moderating effect of hygiene consciousness in the proposed conceptual model. Design/methodology/approach The present research developed a conceptual model based on the health belief model (HBM) and diffusion of innovation theory (DOI) to empirically assess whether and how perceived risk, self-efficacy and individual differences influence consumer intention to use contactless MPS. The data was collected using the survey method from 251 smartphone users and analyzed with structural equation modeling. The moderating role of hygiene consciousness was studied in the relationship that self-efficacy and personal innovativeness shares with consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS. Findings The results of this study disclose that among all precursors of consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS, only perceived severity, self-efficacy, personal innovativeness and mobile payment knowledge positively affect consumers’ intention to use contactless MPS. However, the effect of perceived susceptibility on consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS was found to be non-significant. The results further depict that hygiene consciousness acts as a moderator in driving consumers’ intention toward contactless mobile payment services. Research limitations/implications The HBM model and DOI, which incorporate perceived risk, self-efficacy, individual differences and hygiene consciousness, give light on the factors influencing consumer intention to use contactless MPS in a pandemic situation such as COVID-19. The study will provide useful insights to marketers on how to frame their strategies in the aftermath of pandemics, as the contactless mobile payment method may be perceived as a defensive behavior during and after pandemics. Practical implications The study will provide useful insights to marketers on how to frame their strategies in the aftermath of pandemics, as the contactless mobile payment method may be perceived as a defensive behavior during and after pandemics. Originality/value By uniting perceived risk, self-efficacy and individual differences with consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS in a conceptual model, along with examining the moderating role of hygiene consciousness, this work responds to the calls for upcoming research concerning mobile payment systems as means of future payment. Thus, it offers an understanding of particular consumer motivations that may guide consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS through the theoretical lens of HBM and DOI.

Understanding factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination among health care workers using the Diffusion of Innovation Theory

The COVID-19 vaccine was initially offered to frontline health care workers (HCWs), due to the high risk of contracting COVID-19 through occupational exposure to patients. Low HCW vaccine uptake can impact overall community-level vaccine uptake. This study used the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) Theory to understand factors related to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in HCWs. We surveyed Pennsylvanian HCWs (excluding Philadelphia) from August 2022 to February 2023. Survey questions inquired about demographics, COVID-19 vaccination status, reasons for receiving/declining the COVID-19 vaccine, and sources of information about the vaccine. Participants (n=3,490) were 85% female, 89% White, and 93% (n=3,255) reported receiving at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. HCWs were categorized into adopter categories of the DOI Theory: innovators (56%), early adopters (9%), early majority (11%), late majority (7%), and laggards (17%). The major reason that prompted participants to get the vaccine was to protect them against COVID-19 infection (78%), while the major reason for declining the vaccine was due to concern about possible side effects from the vaccine (78%). We applied the DOI Theory to characterize adopters and identify factors related to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in HCWs. As updated COVID-19 vaccines are approved for the United States market, our findings may be used to improve vaccine education and communication among HCWs to support vaccine uptake.

AN EXPLORATION OF THE INTEGRATION OF ICT IN MATHEMATICS LESSONS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS, GARISSA COUNTY, KENYA

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education has brought about significant transformations in teaching and learning processes. In a mathematics classroom, ICT offers unique opportunities to enhance students' engagement, promote critical thinking, and foster conceptual understanding. This study explores strategies employed by mathematics teachers in integrating ICT into their lessons. The research design was a descriptive survey. The study was informed by the Diffusion of Innovations Theory. The target population consisted of 18 public secondary schools located in Garissa County. A sample of 267 mathematics students was selected using simple random sampling, while purposive sampling was used to select 18 mathematics teachers and 10 school principals from the ten selected schools. Data were collected through interviews with school principals, classroom observations, and surveys given to Mathematics teachers and students. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Bar graphs were used to present the results. Findings revealed that projectors, printers, and smart televisions were the main ICT tools available for teaching mathematics, while GeoGebra was the most commonly used software by mathematics teachers. PowerPoint presentations and whiteboard displays were commonly used by teachers during mathematics lessons. Based on the findings, one conclusion is drawn: the scarcity of ICT resources hindered effective mathematics instruction. The study recommended the acquisition of more ICT resources for teaching and learning Mathematics. The study's findings can inform policymakers and education stakeholders to efficiently utilize ICT in the mathematics classroom and enhance students' mathematics performance.

Exploring University Students’ Adoption of ChatGPT Using the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and Sentiment Analysis With Gender Dimension

This study explores the adoption and societal implications of an emerging technology such as Chat Generative Pre‐Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) in higher education students. By utilizing a mixed‐method framework, this research combines Rogers’ diffusion of innovation theory with sentiment analysis, offering an innovative methodological approach for examining technology adoption in higher educational settings. It explores five attributes—relative advantage, compatibility, ease of use, observability, and trialability—shaping students’ behavioral intentions toward ChatGPT. Sentiment analysis offers qualitative depth, revealing emotional and perceptual aspects, and introduces a gender‐based perspective. The results suggest that five innovation attributes significantly impact the adoption rates and perceptions of ChatGPT, indicating its potential for transformative social change within the educational sector. Gen Zs viewed ChatGPT as innovative, compatible, and user‐friendly, enabling the independent pursuit of educational goals. Consequently, the benefits provided by ChatGPT in education motivate students to use the tool. Gender differences were observed in the prioritization of innovation attributes, with male students favoring compatibility, ease of use, and observability, while female students emphasized ease of use, compatibility, relative advantage, and trialability. The findings have implications for understanding how technological innovations such as ChatGPT could be strategically diffused across different societal segments, especially in the academic context where ethical considerations such as academic integrity are paramount. This study underscores the need for a demographic‐sensitive, user‐centric design in generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

THE RISE OF VIRTUAL FOOD TOURISM EXPERIENCES: INTEGRATING DIFFUSION OF INNOVATION THEORY AND SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY

Purpose – The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the food tourism industry, leading to business closures and a drop in demand. In response to this challenge, virtual food tourism experiences such as VR have emerged as an alternative to traditional in-person experiences. Aim of this paper is to model consumer adoption of virtual food tourism by integrating the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and the Self-determination Theory. Methodology/Design/Approach – The Diffusion of Innovation Theory explains the process of innovation adoption, while the Self-determination Theory focuses on consumer motivation. This article proposes that intrinsic (autonomy, relatedness, and competence) and extrinsic (relative advantage, complexity, compatibility, trialability, and observability) motivating factors influence virtual food tourism adoption. Findings – The study suggests that extrinsic motivators can act as mediators between intrinsic motivation and adoption intention. Integrating these two theories provides a comprehensive understanding of the motivations and mechanisms driving virtual food tourism adoption. It also paves the way for the exploration of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations and specific mechanisms underlying adoption behaviours. Originality of the research – Destinations, businesses, and policy makers can better navigate the changing landscape of food tourism and leverage the potential of virtual food tourism to create engaging, accessible, and culturally enriching experiences

Culturally Inclusive and Gender Sensitive Menstrual Health Education: Nursing and Immigrant and Refugee Community Organizational Partnership

Background Worldwide period poverty results in gynecological infections and poor outcomes increased menorrhagia, or infections (candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis). Immigrants and refugees have minimal menstrual health education due to cultural taboos, inability to afford feminine hygiene products, and inappropriate use of menstrual reusable products or previous sanitization teachings. The Immigrant & Refugee Community Organization (IRCO) needed evidence-based interventions to reduce period poverty via a culturally sensitive, and gender-affirming menstrual health hygiene program. The purpose of the menstrual health dignity scholarly project intervention was to increase knowledge, comfort, and confidence of community health staff educators (CHSEs) to provide effective client teaching Methods The Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Model, and popular education interactive strategies guided the academic-community scholarly project partnership. Developed a cross-sectoral academic-community team partnership with CHSEs buy in; modified teaching in 2 PDSA cycles (100% attendance of at least 2 sessions); and used Power Points for lesson content, case studies, and technology to reinforce learning and menstrual cup and health brochure to increase CHSEs’ knowledge. Results Questionnaire scores showed increases of: knowledge (96% in at least 3 categories), confidence (100%) with increased capacity to provide appropriate menstrual health hygiene teaching, products, handouts, and guidance based on appropriate assessments. The results showed 92.3% overall positive comments about the menstrual health education provided including expressing enthusiasm for teaching menstrual health to all genders. Overall, 85.7% of people agreed they would use the information learned in this project for future work and found the education valuable. Conclusion The addition of menstrual health trainings with interactive popular education increased CHSEs’ knowledge, comfort, and confidence. Sustainability efforts included recorded lesson content education and encouragement to provide the menstrual cup and health brochure to refugee families upon agency admission.

Renewable Energy Source Diffusion in Professional Sport Facilities

Professional sport facility sustainability initiatives offer sport organizations an opportunity to demonstrate congruence with societal concern for the environment, an effort that also affects stadia revenue generation. Guided by diffusion of innovations theory, this study harnessed diffusion modeling and logistic regression to determine how quickly renewable energy source adoption is diffusing across 175 professional sport stadia in the United States and Canada and the factors catalyzing early renewable energy source adoption. Results revealed 86 (49%) facilities adopted at least one type of renewable energy source, with solar emerging as the predominant technology adopted (68 total adoptions). Full diffusion for renewable source adoption was predicted for 2061 (p = .0094, q = 0.1404, root mean square error = 3.25, mean absolute error = 2.51), while not all renewable energy sources were predicted to fully diffuse (wind; p = .0117, q = −0.0710, root mean square error = .853, mean absolute error = 0.675). New stadia construction during the time of adoption, facility type, and geographical social systems emerged as significant factors catalyzing adoption in the early majority.

Personalizing Feedback and Developing Learner Agency Using Kami

This paper presents the schoolwide implementation and evaluation of an online social annotation tool (SA), Kami, used to provide personalized feedback to deepen learning and develop learner agency. Through a mixed-methods study, providing personalized video feedback using Kami could enhance learners' perceived individual learning, collaborative learning, learner agency, and deep learning. A strong correlation existed between learner agency and collaborative learning using Kami. Teachers' overall adoption rate and perceptions about using Kami provided evidence for the success of the implementation and professional development strategies based on the diffusion of innovation theory. The paper offers a glimpse of effective pedagogy using SA tools in a blended learning environment, strategies for technology professional development for large-scale implementation, and an evidence-based approach to evaluating an implementation outcome

Leveraging Blockchain and Data Analytics to Enhance Financial Inclusion in Nigeria: A Study of Blockchain-Based Information System

This study explores how blockchain technology and data analytics can be leveraged to enhance financial inclusion in Nigeria, using a blockchain-based information system. Despite efforts by the Nigerian government and financial institutions to improve financial inclusion, significant barriers such as lack of trust, high transaction costs, and limited access to banking services persist. The objective of the study is to analyse the role blockchain and data analytics can play in addressing these barriers by offering secure, transparent, and efficient financial solutions to the unbanked population. The study is grounded in the Diffusion of Innovation Theory, which explains how new technologies like blockchain are adopted within a society. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, using both qualitative and quantitative data. Data was collected through surveys of financial service providers, interviews with blockchain experts, and secondary data from financial inclusion reports. The integration of blockchain for secure and transparent transactions, combined with data analytics to understand consumer behaviour and financial needs, forms the foundation of the study. Key findings indicate that blockchain-based information systems can reduce transaction costs, improve trust through transparency, and offer decentralised financial services to underserved communities. Data analytics provides deeper insights into consumer behaviour, enabling financial institutions to design targeted financial products for the unbanked population. The study concludes that blockchain and data analytics have the potential to transform financial inclusion in Nigeria. Recommendations include the formulation of supportive regulatory frameworks, partnerships between fintech and traditional banks, and initiatives to enhance digital literacy among the population to maximise the impact of these technologies on financial inclusion.

The Integration of Technology in Educational Management among HEIs in Kaduna State, Nigeria: Challenges and Strategies

This study investigated the integration of technology in educational management, focusing on four objectives guided by Diffusion of Innovations Theory, Technology Acceptance Model, and Lewin Change Management Theory. Employing a combined qualitative and quantitative research design, the study targeted 197 educators and administrators across four Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The purposive sampling method was utilized, with data collected through survey and interviews.The impact of technology integration on administrative processes and decision-making revealed that institutions with high integration levels exhibited increased efficiency and decision-making improvements. In assessing the effectiveness of various educational technologies, Virtual Reality (VR) stood out, emphasizing the influence of technology choice on the overall educational experience. Challenges faced by educational managers include limited financial resources, resistance from faculty and staff, inadequate infrastructure, and the absence of comprehensive training programs.Strategies for overcoming resistance to technological innovations highlight the success of comprehensive training programs and clear communication with transparency, emphasizing the importance of a thoughtful approach to strategy selection. The study identified a positive association between robust technology integration and enhanced administrative performance. Different technologies yield varied results in teaching and learning experiences, emphasizing the need for strategic technology selection. It was concluded that higher levels of technology integration in educational institutions lead to increased efficiency and improved decision-making. Notably, Virtual Reality (VR) stands out as the most effective educational technology, emphasizing the impact of technology choices on teaching and learning experiences. Addressing challenges faced by educational managers, particularly through comprehensive training programs, is crucial for overcoming obstacles and improving overall educational outcomes. In addition the study recommended that HEIs should prioritize comprehensive training programs for educators and administrators to address challenges identified. This can bridge gaps in technological proficiency, ensuring that stakeholders are well-equipped to navigate and leverage the benefits of integrated technologies effectively.

Effect of Dissemination of Agricultural Information through Radio on Crop Output

The study examined the effects of dissemination of agricultural information through radio on crop output in northern Adamawa Agricultural Zone I. Specifically, effects of disseminating agricultural information through radio on crop output, effects of disseminating information via different radio channels and constraints faced from obtaining information via radio were examined. Data for this study was obtained majorly from primary source which were collected with the aid of structured questionnaire administered to the respondents in the study area via the use of Kobo Collect installed on mobile devices. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used as analytical tools for this study. The target population for this study were all the food crop farmers in the five LGAs in the Zone. Two hundred and forty (240) food crop farmers were served as sample size for the study. The content validity method was used to ascertain the strength of the research instrument. On the other hand, the test- re-test method was used to check the reliability of the instrument. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used as analytical tools. The study was anchored on the communication and diffusion of innovation theory by Rogers, 1962 and Rogers and Everest in 1971. The study revealed that agricultural knowledge gained through radio programs, particularly in the context of herbicides/pesticides application if the main effect of dissemination of agricultural information through radio on crop output. Radio stations, such as BBC Hausa, have a significant positive influence on crop output when tuned in by farmers. However, other radio stations, including FM Poly Mubi, NAS FM Mubi, Voice of America (VOA), and Radio France, had no statistically significant impacts on crop production. Critical role of timing, consistency, program diversity, and accessibility in ensuring the efficacy of radio-based knowledge dissemination were the major challenges faced by farmers regarding radio programs. The study recommended that policymakers and agricultural program developers should consider these results when designing information campaigns to support local farmers in improving crop production outputs.