Innovative Practices Research Articles

Boundary crossings: innovating assessment practices in higher education

Purpose Advancing assessment practices represents an underexplored yet integral dimension of further progress for the field of sustainability-related teaching and learning in higher education. This study aims to address this area by seeking to understand the barriers that program leaders and instructors face in advancing assessment practices to identify possible innovations. Design/methodology/approach A conceptual framework centered on boundaries and boundary crossings is used to conceptualize barriers and possibilities in innovating assessment practices. The study then examines how a boundary object, the deliberation of assessment practices among a sustainability education community of practice, can be leveraged to identify boundaries and boundary crossings. Through an exploratory action research approach, data were collected via workshops, interviews and a survey. These were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings Six themes were identified as key areas for barriers and possibilities for advancing assessment practices. These themes are: defining sustainability education, practice characteristics, interdisciplinary approaches, transdisciplinary strategies, meeting demands and facilitating innovations. For each theme, status quo practices and potential innovations are described as well as boundary-crossing strategies to enable advances in practice. Originality/value This study considers the conceptual, practical and logistical breakthroughs needed to advance assessment practices across course, program and institutional levels of sustainability-related teaching and learning in higher education. The insights from the study provide considerations for the design and implementation of assessment practices while also suggesting the value of participatory deliberative processes in shaping innovations in practice.

Entrepreneurship' sustainability of the popular and solidarity economy in Ecuador

The popular and solidarity economy (PSE) plays a vital role in the economic and social development of Ecuador, fostering inclusion, employment, and the sustainability of local economies. This study aims to develop an index that assesses the sustainability levels of PSE organizations in Ecuador by evaluating several factors, including organizational processes, productivity, innovation, income generation, democracy, cooperation, and environmental practices. Using data from the Unique Registry of PSE Organizations in Ecuador, we employ Variational Autoencoders (VAE) network for modeling, combined with a Bayesian optimization process and K-means clustering to categorize sustainability levels by province. Findings indicate a high level of sustainability in Santa Elena, Pastaza, and Guayas, although challenges remain in terms of innovation and environmental practices. This research provides a framework for policy interventions designed to enhance sustainable growth within the PSE sector in Ecuador.

Driving Behaviour Research for Autonomous Vehicle Interaction Design: A Comprehensive Review and Future Directions

Despite the crucial role of driving behaviour research in shaping autonomous vehicle interaction design, the current state of their deep integration remains unexplored, constraining the design innovative of autonomous vehicle. This study conducted a systematic review by analysing 320 publications from 2003 to 2023 following PRISMA guidelines. Initially, the research evolution trajectory was depicted through performance analysis, followed by exploring dynamic research themes using scientific mapping. The results reveal the pivotal role of driving behaviour research in fostering innovative practices within autonomous vehicle interaction design and the evolution of thematic content. Three future directions are identified: behaviour insights of diverse interactive entities, all-in-one design solutions, and mixed-reality design evaluation tools. These findings provide practical guidance for utilizing driving behaviour research to foster innovation in AV interaction design, thereby accelerating the socialization of AVs and the transformation towards intelligent mobility.

Innovation ecosystems in health and care: the Andalusian Reference Site as an example

Innovation ecosystems foster collaboration between academia, industry, public bodies, and civil society to drive technological and social advancements. The European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Aging (EIP on AHA), launched in 2012, aimed to extend healthy life years, improve healthcare efficiency, and stimulate economic growth. Reference sites (RSs) and action groups (AGs) were key components, with RSs adopting collaborative approaches to improve health outcomes. Andalusia, Spain, achieved top recognition across multiple EIP on AHA calls for its digital health strategies and strong Quadruple Helix collaboration. In 2022, Andalusia’s self-assessment using the SCIROCCO tool highlighted strengths in digital transformation and citizen empowerment. Andalusia’s innovative practices in health have contributed to regional improvements in healthcare efficiency, life expectancy, and research initiatives.

Discussion and Practice on Talent Cultivation Model Based on OBE Concept in Veterinary Medicine Graduate Education

To address the challenges in training veterinary master’s students, it is essential to align with the core objectives of veterinary graduate education. This involves focusing on faculty development, course design, innovative teaching methods, university-industry collaboration, and reforming the evaluation system. By applying the outcome-based education model, new approaches to veterinary graduate training can be developed, particularly for applied talent development in agricultural universities serving local communities. This innovative model emphasizes ideological and political education, aiming to enhance students’ abilities in knowledge and practical innovation, preparing them to be well-rounded professionals. The goal is to cultivate senior veterinary experts who are not only skilled in academic research and scientific inquiry but also committed to advancing agriculture, rural areas, and supporting rural revitalization. This approach provides a valuable framework for fostering highly qualified graduates who are both technically proficient and socially responsible.

Assessing Awareness of Building Information Modeling (BIM) among AEC Professionals in Nepal

The advent of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has led to a revolutionary transformation in the construction sector on a global scale. The implementation of BIM has resulted in a multitude of benefits, including enhanced project outcomes, cost savings, and improved collaboration. However, in Nepal, the adoption of BIM in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry presents a distinctive set of challenges and opportunities. A survey of architects and engineers in both construction and academia indicates a moderate level of awareness of BIM, with 59% of respondents reporting familiarity with the technology. Of these, 69% employ BIM primarily during the design phase, thereby underscoring its utility in project planning. Nevertheless, practical applications remain constrained, as a considerable proportion of users have less than two years of experience with BIM. Despite its potential, 41% of professionals remain unaware of BIM, indicating a significant knowledge gap. This suggests the need for increased education and training to fully leverage BIM's benefits. While the current focus is on design, broader integration across all project stages is essential to maximize its impact. Expanding awareness and developing skills in BIM will be key to advancing its implementation in Nepal's AEC sector, driving efficiency and innovation in construction practices.

Transforming fly ash into value: Sustainable LLDPE-fly ash composites via rotational molding

This study focuses on reducing pollution and promoting sustainability by exploring the use of fly ash (FA), an industrial byproduct, in polymer composites through rotational molding. By incorporating FA into a polymer matrix, the research evaluates the performance of these composites. Results show that the tensile strength increased slightly from 16.54 MPa for pure LLDPE to 17.2 MPa with 5% FA but decreased to 13.5 MPa at 10% FA. The modulus significantly improved, rising from 5.1% to 31.3% with 5% to 20% FA content. Hardness also increased, with a maximum rise of 10.25% at 5% FA and 6.2% at 10% FA. However, elongation at break, bending, and impact strength decreased with higher FA content. The density of the composites increased with up to 10% FA, indicating effective integration of FA particles. These findings demonstrate that FA can be successfully used to develop polymer composites in rotational molding, supporting both environmental sustainability and innovative production practices.

The Impact of Library Maker Spaces on Entrepreneurial Studies among Stem Students in Selected Academic Libraries in Southwestern Nigeria

As global demand for innovative and entrepreneurial people grows, established educational institutions are under pressure to provide practical and experiential learning environments and opportunities. Library maker spaces, which are outfitted with cutting-edge tools and technologies, have the potential to provide a solution by encouraging practical learning and innovation. However, previous study has primarily focused on librarians' opinions, ignoring the important perspectives of the students who are the main patrons of these spaces. This study investigated the impact of library maker spaces on entrepreneurial studies among science, engineering and mathematics students in Southwest Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive survey design, while a multistage sampling combining random, stratified and purposive sampling techniques was used to select 400 STEM students across the selected tertiary institutions. The questionnaire was chosen as the instrument for data collection. 400 copies of the questionnaire were distributed, out of which 360 were duly filled, yielding a return rate of 90%. The results of this study revealed that the use of maker spaces in the selected library was fairly high, while awareness level was also fairly high. The study also found that the use of maker spaces positively influences the development of entrepreneurial activities among the students, despite the various challenges facing the adoption of maker spaces identified in the study. The study hereby concluded that the use of maker spaces has to be encouraged by proffering solutions to identified obstacles, in order to enhance creativity and innovation among university students, thereby fostering entrepreneurial development.

Exploring the potential of Technological Innovation in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry to attain Sustainability

Purpose of the study: The hospitality industry is undergoing rapid transformation due to continuous technological innovation in response to intense competition and evolving innovative practices. So, to meet up with the intense competition - technological innovation is inevitable. Methodology: Secondary sources are used to derive fundamental concepts and frameworks of modern technology used in the hospitality and tourism industry to attain sustainability. These sources include articles, books, newspapers, reviews, and company websites. Main Findings: By adopting technological innovation, the industry can reduce its environmental impact, improve operational efficiency, and provide enhanced experiences for guests, thereby moving towards a sustainable future. Implementing technologies in the hospitality industry involves both pros and cons. Applications of the study: Hospitality is the least service-activity sector, and there is a need to explore technological innovation strategies that lead to higher sales turnover, performance, and sustainability. Novelty/Originality of the study: This study's originality lies in its ability to offer updated technology used in the H&T industry to attain sustainable tourism. This concept is depicted with a conceptual model showing skills and innovative trends and their impact on Sustainability.

DepXGBoot: Depression detection using a robust tuned extreme gradient boosting model generator

In terms of severity and prevalence, depression is the worst. Suicide rates have risen because of this and are on the rise universally. Consequently, effective diagnosis and therapy must reduce the impact of depression. There is often more than one factor at play when determining why someone has been diagnosed with depression. In addition to alcohol and substance abuse, other possible causes include problems with physical health, adverse reactions to medications, life-changing events, and social circumstances. In this paper, exploratory data analysis is conducted to understand the insights of the sensorimotor database depression comprising depressive experiences in individuals who are either unipolar or bipolar. This study proposes a robust tuned extreme gradient boosting model generator to automatically predict the state of depression. The performance is optimized by determining the best combination of hyperparameters for the extreme gradient boosting model. By harnessing the power of advanced machine learning methodologies, this study underscores comparative analysis and the importance of data-driven innovation in mental health and clinical practice. Future developments for the robust tuned extreme gradient boosting model’s application and study to forecast depression in the sensorimotor database depression can be used to track changes in depressed states over time by integrating it with longitudinal and multimodal data.

Educación 4.0 en el ámbito universitario. Una revisión sistemática de literatura

Education 4.0 represents an emerging paradigm in higher education, oriented toward technological innovation and the integration of advanced digital tools, with the aim of transforming teaching and learning models. This study presents a systematic review of scientific literature published between 2020 and 2023, analyzing the challenges, advances, and opportunities involved in the adoption of Education 4.0 in universities. The methodology used consisted of a systematic review that employed search strings across multiple academic databases, applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Research exploring innovative pedagogical practices was reviewed, considering each work’s contribution to advancing the field. The results highlight those reforms in higher education, supported by governmental policies, are key to implementing this new paradigm. The incorporation of disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual laboratories into educational plans is identified as an opportunity to enhance the quality of education and personalize teaching according to students’ needs. However, continuous teacher training is also required to ensure the effective integration of these tools.

The Impact of Changes in Teacher Attitudes and Learning Methods on Student Performance

The effectiveness of learning in shaping student performance has been a primary concern in educational research. This study examines the influence of changes in teacher attitudes and teaching methods on student performance in secondary education. This issue is driven by the evolution of the education landscape, where traditional teaching methods meet the need for more dynamic and student-centered methodologies. The research problem focuses on understanding how teacher attitudes toward learning change with innovative teaching methods, affecting learning outcomes. This reflects the increasing concern among educators about the gap between traditional teaching practices and the diverse needs of today's students. Using a quantitative approach by distributing surveys to students and teachers in different schools, this research explores the relationship between teachers and teaching methods and student activities. The results show a significant relationship between positive changes in teacher attitudes, the introduction of interactive and adaptive teaching methods, and improvements in student performance metrics. The conclusion drawn from the study emphasizes the importance of teacher attitudes and teaching methods in shaping student success. It underscores the importance of creating a positive, student-centered classroom environment where teachers can adapt and respond to individual learning needs. Additionally, the findings emphasize the need for continuous professional development initiatives to enhance teacher competencies in innovative pedagogical practices. The novelty of this scholarly work lies in comprehensively examining the correlation between teacher attitudes, teaching methods, and student performance. By providing a clear picture of this dynamic relationship, the study offers valuable insights for education policymakers, school leaders, and teachers striving to improve the quality of teaching and learning experiences in post-secondary education environments.

Preferred EFL Teaching Approaches to University Professors: A Case Study of Saudi Tertiary Level

This mixed methods study investigates Saudi university EFL professors’ perspectives on current teaching approaches and potential improvements needed. Surveys of 100 faculty and interviews with 10 department heads reveal a continued reliance on grammar-translation and lecture-based methods, despite broader recognition of communicative techniques as more effective. Systemic constraints like standardized curricula, assessments, textbooks, resources, and policies restrict implementation of innovative practices. Though professors acknowledge challenges with prevailing methods, most believe they sufficiently improve English skills, indicating a disconnect between beliefs and second language acquisition theory. Strong support for training in modern approaches shows openness to change given adequate guidance. Recommendations include reforming teacher preparation, balancing grammar with communicative activities, allowing materials flexibility, and linking evaluations to student progress. Updating systemic constraints and empowering educators are critical to shift entrenched practices towards communication-focused instruction aligned with Saudi reform goals. The study provides insights into translating positive perspectives into transformative policies and teaching practices that enhance university student outcomes.

Enhancing Carbon Trading Mechanisms through Innovative Collaboration: Case Studies from Developing Nations

Against a backdrop of global climate change mitigation efforts, carbon trading has emerged as a critical mechanism, yet developing countries often lack the necessary infrastructure and collaborative frameworks. The research investigates how intermediaries facilitate stakeholders and employ innovative practices to foster effective carbon trading markets. Methodologically, it employs a qualitative approach, conducting in-depth case studies of four intermediaries through 32 semi-structured interviews and archival document. Findings underscore the pivotal role of digital platforms in enabling real-time trading, rigorous standardization processes to ensure market credibility, and multi-stakeholder engagement strategies that promote inclusive participation. This research contributes to the theoretical understanding of carbon trading by illustrating how digital platforms and technological integration enhance resource acquisition and allocation. It emphasizes the significance of standardization and verification processes in building trust among stakeholders, crucial for effective supply chain collaboration. Practically, the study highlights the benefits of these approaches in enhancing market efficiency and transparency. It also underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement strategies and strategic alliances for creating resilient and inclusive carbon trading markets, offering actionable insights for stakeholders and policymakers alike.

FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES POR MEIO DA SEQUÊNCIA DIDÁTICA E TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS

This study shows that teacher training through teaching sequences combined with digital technologies is an effective strategy for promoting pedagogical innovation. This approach organizes teaching and develops essential teaching skills, meeting new educational demands. However, its full implementation depends on investments in technological infrastructure, since many schools face limited access to equipment and the Internet. Therefore, educational policies should prioritize technological improvements, including the acquisition and updating of resources. Continuing education is another key aspect, which should go beyond technical training to include critical reflections on the pedagogical integration of technologies. This article reinforces the importance of continuing teacher training and the alignment between school infrastructure and pedagogical practices. Creating environments that encourage innovation and experimentation, as well as communities of practice for the exchange of experiences among educators, are essential. By addressing the challenges and opportunities of technological integration and teaching sequences, the study contributes to transforming education. This transformation aims to make it more inclusive, interactive, and relevant, preparing students for a future in constant evolution. The balance between teacher training, technological resources and innovative practices is essential to meet the contemporary demands of education.

Strategic approaches to enhancing credit risk management in microfinance institutions

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a critical role in providing financial services to underserved, low-income populations, yet face significant challenges in managing credit risk due to the nature of their clientele and loan structures. Enhancing credit risk management in MFIs is essential for ensuring financial stability, reducing default rates, and fostering sustainable growth. This review examines strategic approaches to credit risk management tailored to the microfinance context, where traditional credit assessment methods may be less effective. It explores innovative client profiling techniques, such as segmented risk analysis and customized credit scoring models, which leverage demographic and behavioral data to more accurately assess borrower reliability. The use of data-driven decision-making, particularly through predictive analytics and machine learning, is highlighted as a means to anticipate client repayment behaviors and improve risk forecasting. Further, real-time loan monitoring systems with early warning indicators offer MFIs proactive risk mitigation strategies, enabling prompt interventions to prevent defaults. Institutional improvements, including standardized risk frameworks, enhanced training for loan officers, and regular compliance checks, strengthen organizational resilience against credit risks. Portfolio diversification strategies, such as sectoral and geographic diversification, and the integration of group lending models, are also discussed as effective means of reducing risk concentration. By implementing these multifaceted, strategic approaches, MFIs can improve their credit risk management frameworks, better serve their clients, and achieve greater financial sustainability. The review emphasizes the importance of adapting to rapidly evolving risk factors and adopting innovative tools and practices to meet the unique challenges of microfinance. The findings advocate for continuous research and investment in advanced credit risk methodologies, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of financial inclusion.

관객 경험을 통해 본 이머시브 시어터의 공간적 특성 연구: 상하이 ‘Sleep No More’를 중심으로

This study investigates the spatial characteristics of the immersive theater Sleep No More in Shanghai, China, through the lens of audience experiences. Employing Hermann Schmitz's spatial theory as the analytical framework, the research adopts a qualitative case study approach, incorporating in-depth interviews with 15 participants. The analysis is grounded in Schmitz's four spatial concepts yielding the following findings. First, as place-space, Sleep No More manifests as a practical locus, redefining the theater as a novel spatial entity. It exhibits characteristics of authenticity, fragmentation, and subjectivity. Second, directional-space emphasizes the diversity, discontinuity, and subjective agency of the audience through the energy and texture of bodily actions, behaviors, and emotions. Third, emotional-space highlights the differentiated immersion of the audience within the theater while simultaneously revealing contrasting confusion and an interactive quality bridging these experiences. Fourth, extended-space, shaped by installations and technological elements, demonstrates features of traditionality and constraint. In conclusion, the immersive theater challenges conventional theatrical norms, evolving through innovative spatial experiments and practices. This study provides empirical insights and implications regarding the audience's spatial experiences in the context of immersive theater, offering a detailed analysis of Sleep No More as a specific case.

Between progress and caution: LegalTech's promise in transforming personal credit risk management in China

The integration of LegalTech in China's financial and legal sectors offers useful insights for innovative legal practices, financial regulation and judicial reform. This article examines how LegalTech transforms personal credit risk management in China, analyzing its integration within banking compliance systems and judicial processes. It explores three key dimensions: the evolution of debt collection practices through technological innovation, the enhancement of public remedies through automated judicial systems, and the development of legal frameworks to legitimize LegalTech solutions. While highlighting LegalTech's potential to improve efficiency in credit risk resolution, the article addresses critical challenges including moral hazard in automated systems and the preservation of judicial discretion in technological implementation.

Navigating complex mergers: A blueprint for strategic integration in emerging markets

This study explores strategic integration in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), focusing on emerging markets. As M&A activity in these regions grows, companies face unique challenges due to diverse regulatory environments, cultural dynamics, and operational complexities. This research aims to provide a comprehensive framework to navigate these complexities, identifying core integration components, external influencing factors, technological advancements, and associated challenges. Methodologically, the study synthesizes existing literature on M&A integration, analyzing key strategic approaches across cultural alignment, risk management, and operational harmonization. Key findings indicate that successful strategic integration requires technological and human-centered approaches, including tools like ERP systems, data analytics, and cloud computing, which streamline operations, and emphasize cultural alignment, leadership synergy, and proactive risk management. Additionally, the study underscores the impact of regulatory and economic factors on integration strategies, highlighting the need for adaptable frameworks tailored to the complexities of emerging markets. The study concludes that structured integration strategies and flexible, technology-driven frameworks foster long-term M&A success and competitive advantage. Recommendations include adopting sustainable integration models, enhanced cross-functional collaboration, and robust regulatory compliance strategies. Future research opportunities are outlined, particularly regarding open innovation and sustainable practices in emerging market M&A.

THE role of Artificial Intelligence in industry 5.0: Enhancing human-machine collaboration

The emergence of Industry 5.0 marks a transformative shift in the manufacturing landscape, emphasizing a synergistic relationship between humans and machines. This paper explores the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing human-machine collaboration within this paradigm. By leveraging AI technologies, industries can foster a more personalized, efficient, and innovative work environment. AI systems facilitate seamless communication and decision-making processes, thereby augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them. This collaboration allows for the optimization of workflows, reduction of operational risks, and enhancement of product quality through advanced predictive analytics and real-time data processing. Furthermore, the integration of AI in Industry 5.0 supports sustainability initiatives by minimizing waste and energy consumption, aligning with the global push for greener manufacturing practices. Case studies demonstrate the successful implementation of AI-driven solutions across various sectors, showcasing improvements in productivity and employee satisfaction. As Industry 5.0 continues to evolve, the interplay between AI and human labour will redefine traditional roles, empowering workers with augmented intelligence tools. The findings indicate that embracing AI not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to a more resilient and adaptive workforce. Ultimately, this paper posits that the future of industry lies in the harmonious collaboration between human intellect and artificial intelligence, which together will drive innovation, productivity, and sustainable practices in the manufacturing sector.