Advanced Level Research Articles

A localized and humanized approach to chatbot banking companions: implications for financial managers

PurposeThe study aims to examine the influence of Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and anthropomorphic design cues in determining the level of satisfaction among banking chatbot users. It also tests the moderating impact of the localization of content on the relationship. The study also encompasses expectation confirmation, elucidating the significance of perceived trust in maintaining intention.Design/methodology/approachThe study conducted a comprehensive online survey, collecting 667 questionnaires from users of conversational chatbots in both public and private sector banks. We analyse the data using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis.FindingsPerformance and effort expectancy, perceived interestingness of interaction and perceived empathy were identified as significant indicators, whereas facilitating conditions, social influence and perceived intelligence were not significant in explaining satisfaction. Perceived trust was a significant mediator, while localization was a significant moderator in all the cases except social influence and satisfaction.Practical implicationsTo improve perceived intelligence and empathy, tech developers should focus on improving the chatbot’s ability to maintain contextual understanding within a conversation where it can remember and reference previous interactions. Future studies might explore the development of banking chatbots that incorporate advanced levels of anthropomorphic characteristics, whether visual or intuitive.Originality/valueThe work is unique in that it integrates UTATUT, anthropomorphism and expectation confirmation model in the context of conversational banking chatbots, which is not achievable in a single theory-based model. The study also underlined the necessity of localizing chatbot content, recommending that banks engage localized native speakers to help with chatbot training and content creation, where specialists can fine-tune the conversational features.

Integrating emotional vocabulary in EFL education: a model for enhancing emotional intelligence in pre-service EFL teachers

This study investigates the role of emotional vocabulary in fostering emotional intelligence (EI) among pre-service EFL teachers, focusing on the Headway series. The general objective was to quantify, categorize, and classify emotion vocabulary across proficiency levels and to develop a systematic teaching model to enhance EI in pre-service teachers. A mixed-methods approach was employed: quantitative analysis identified and categorized emotional vocabulary using established lexicons, and qualitative thematic analysis aligned this vocabulary with key EI components such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, and empathy. To develop the systematic teaching model, a design-based research methodology was utilized, incorporating iterative refinement based on empirical findings and expert feedback. Grounded in Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence Theory, the study revealed a progressive increase in emotional vocabulary, with more complex emotions introduced at advanced levels. Positive emotions were more frequent at beginner levels, while negative and neutral emotions increased at higher stages, supporting self-regulation and empathy development. The systematic teaching model proposed in the study addresses key EI components such as self-awareness, social skills, and emotional regulation by scaffolding emotional vocabulary instruction across proficiency levels. This model provides a structured framework to equip educators with the emotional and linguistic tools necessary for effective classroom management and enhanced student outcomes. This research holds pedagogical implications for teacher training programs, recommending that emotional vocabulary and EI be integrated into pre-service education to improve classroom management and student outcomes.

Game Modeling Possibilities in Product Assortment Management

Growing competition among domestic manufacturers under the pressure of sanctions requires special attention to the issues of product range optimization. In changing conditions, manufacturers are forced to constantly monitor sales, analyze data and optimize the product range, excluding ineffective types of products and adding new types that are in demand in the sales market.Purpose of research: to identify the possibilities of game theory in managing the product range, to provide recommendations for its use in the process of forming an assortment policy. The relevance of the research topic is due to the need of manufacturers to improve the mechanisms for managing the range of manufactured products.The following materials and methods of game modeling were used in the study: designing a set of players, designing a set of player strategies, quantitative assessment of the elements of the payoff matrix, techniques for reducing the degree of uncertainty, methods for choosing optimal strategies under conditions of complete and partial uncertainty, as well as generalizing the experience of using game models in the analysis of various economic situations.The focus is on game modeling that complements the mathematical and statistical methods traditionally used to formulate an assortment policy: mathematical programming methods - the task of optimizing an assortment given resource constraints, such as budget and stocks of raw materials used in the production process; multi-criteria choice methods - the task of taking into account several criteria when making decisions on the product assortment, such as product quality, product price, product demand, etc.; statistical analysis methods (the task of analyzing available sales data and identifying trends - regression analysis to forecast demand for manufactured products, identify relationships between various factors, such as product demand and prices, marketing efforts, seasonality, etc.; cluster analysis to segment products and customers based on previously identified characteristics, such as customer preferences and age, as well as associative analysis to identify relationships between products - determining product groups that can be presented together in the assortment); methods of time series analysis and simulation modeling (the task of forecasting demand for products based on available sales data; the task of fictitious implementation of various assortment management scenarios and quantitative assessment of their consequences).Results. Game models of product assortment management of the basic level (taking into account the presence of a product type in the formed assortment) and advanced level (taking into account not only the presence of a product type in the formed assortment, but also its quantity) were constructed, an approach to quantitative assessment of the consequences of decisions made to change the assortment of manufactured products was proposed. The sensitivity of the optimal strategy for forming the product assortment to the dynamics of the decision maker’s attitude to risk and the level of trust in information was established.Conclusion. The scientific novelty of the study consists in developing an approach to managing the assortment of manufactured products, the basis of which is the justification of the optimality of the game strategy. The practical significance of the study lies in expanding the application of applied and research capabilities of game modeling to issues of managing the assortment of manufactured products, as well as improving the tools for analyzing the enterprise’s assortment policy (aspects of the width and depth of the assortment). Eight factors of the strategic assortment policy were identified and substantiated.

Sensitivity to Filler–Gap Dependency Violations in the L1 vs. L2: Evidence from Speeded Judgement Tasks

We carried out four timed judgement experiments investigating whether bilingual speakers differ in their sensitivity to different kinds of filler–gap dependency violation in L1 German and L2 English. Using a within-subjects design and parallel experimental designs for both languages, we manipulated either the availability of a gap (“filled-gap paradigm”) or the semantic congruency between the filler and its licensing verb. We examined whether participants exhibited consistent judgement patterns for syntactic (i.e., filled wh-gaps) and semantic (i.e., implausible wh-fillers) violations within and across their languages. Our results showed that participants’ sensitivity to filled gaps correlated positively with their sensitivity to a filler’s semantic fit in their L1 but not in their L2, and that participants’ sensitivity to semantic fit was positively correlated in their two languages whilst their sensitivity to gap availability was not. Further analyses of the L2 data showed that participants’ sensitivity to semantic fit but not to filled gaps increased with L2 proficiency. Our findings are in line with earlier findings indicating reduced sensitivity to structural gaps even at advanced L2 proficiency levels. They also highlight the need for L2 processing research to look beyond group-level performance and consider bilinguals’ sensitivity to different types of linguistic constraints at the individual level.

Transhumanism and Qur'an-Centered Human Conception: A Contemporary Approach.

Transhumanism, which emerged in the second half of the 20th century, is a movement that argues human nature is not fixed and immutable; rather, it can be transformed through technological and scientific innovations. In the transhumanist future, human forms are expressed through terms such as transhuman, posthuman, cyborg, and homo cyberneticus, reflecting the potential and levels of advancement of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and information technology in transforming humanity. From a Quran-centered perspective, humans are rational beings endowed with free will and bear responsibility. The most fundamental responsibility of a human is to recognize their Creator and their servitude. Humans, who are obliged to reflect the exemplary personalities of God's prophets, the vicegerents of Allah on Earth, are also tasked with cultivating the land. In the face of ideologies like transhumanism that aim to transcend human biological and cognitive limits, we believe it is crucial to revisit the Islamic conception of humanity. We are of the opinion that the studies conducted in this direction will be an important step towards reinterpreting Islam's universal message and providing solutions to contemporary issues.

Clarification and development of advanced practice roles in a Swiss French university hospital: an action research study

BackgroundThe evolving healthcare landscape emphasizes the need for health systems to adapt to growing complexities, with new models of care enabling healthcare providers to optimize their scope of practice and coordination of care. Despite increasing interest in advanced practice, confusion persists regarding the roles and scopes of practice of healthcare providers, exacerbated by variations in regulations and titles. We sought to clarify the differences between specialized healthcare professionals, practitioners, and clinical specialists; to describe their roles; and to propose initiatives aimed at supporting the implementation of advanced practice within a university hospital.MethodsAn action research design was conducted in a Swiss university hospital by the deputy healthcare director, five clinical specialists, one nurse practitioner, one nurse specialist, and six managers. A multimethod approach was used to generate data, which included a literature review, meeting minutes, unstructured interviews, and a questionnaire assessing healthcare providers’ perceptions about the clinical specialist role. Semi-structured interviews and a group interview with nursing leaders from Swiss hospitals were conducted to understand their use of clinical roles at the advanced level. Unstructured interviews were reduced and organized into categories. Survey data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, and an inductive content analysis method was used for semi-structured interviews and the group interview.ResultsManagers and healthcare providers shared a vision of clinical specialists’ activities but emphasized the lack of clarity surrounding these functions. Role clarity was emphasized as crucial for sustainability of advanced practice. A model that defined healthcare specialist, practitioner, and clinical specialist roles was developed. It included title standardization, use of an implementation strategy, creation of a tool to facilitate profile selection, and implementation of a communication plan. Further initiatives aimed to enhance training funding, establish regulations, and optimize advanced practice implementation and governance within the hospital.ConclusionsThe study results encourage clarification of clinical roles to facilitate their implementation and optimize resources. They also suggest initiatives to support advanced practice implementation, such as a communication plan and an implementation strategy, reflection on the current governance model, and integration of advanced practice providers. Ongoing efforts involve collaboration with academics, managers, and discussions at the political level.

P0266 Ultrasound Spectroscopy for the detection of inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract Background Accurate assessment of inflammation within the intestinal wall is crucial in managing patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), a condition with rising incidence and prevalence worldwide. Ultrasound offers an effective, non-invasive diagnostic option to diagnose and monitor the disease. However, traditional ultrasound is highly user-dependent and requires considerable experience to accurately determine the degree of inflammation. As an extension, Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS), the analysis of raw ultrasound data consisting of unprocessed acoustic signals, contains both frequency and phase information, enabling spectroscopy. We hypothesize that these signals allow a precise estimation of inflammation within the intestinal wall. Methods The study was conducted at the Sonography Departments of University Clinic Dresden and Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, where patients attended bowel examinations. In addition to the Limberg-Score acquired with a Highend-Ultrasound-Systems, raw data were obtained using a handheld ultrasound device (Clarius L15). For spectroscopy analysis, time-gain compensation was first reversed from the radio frequency data, followed by frequency analysis using short-time fast Fourier transformation. Results We included 35 patients (22 male, 13 female) aged 19 to 85 years. They were either diagnosed with Crohn’s disease (24) or ulcerative colitis (11). Our results indicate a positive correlation between the Limberg score (0–4) and peak frequency in MHz, as determined through the raw ultrasound data spectroscopy. Pairwise comparisons applying analysis of variance (ANOVA) testing, followed by a t-test with Benjamini-Hochberg correction as post hoc, revealed statistically significant differences between Limberg scores 0 and 2 (p ≤ 0.05), 0 and 3 (p ≤ 0.01) and scores 0 and 4 (p ≤ 0.05). The comparison between groups 0 and 1 demonstrated a trend but did not reach statistical significance (p=0.058). Conclusion Our findings indicate that higher Limberg scores are associated with increased center frequency, with statistically significant differences evident at advanced inflammation levels. This exploratory study demonstrates, for the first time, the capability of QUS to detect changes in intestinal tissues, offering an innovative approach for objectively monitoring inflammatory bowel disease. However, potential confounders such as attenuation in varying imaging depths and mixed causality of the inflammation need to be considered. A reevaluation after including larger sample sizes is required to reinforce the study’s findings and further explore the potential of QUS in the context of IBD.

Textbook Accessibility and Retention in Mathematics and Economics: Insights from Cameroon

Aims: This study evaluates the impact of the Single Textbook Policy on high school students' retention in Mathematics and Economics in Cameroon. The policy, implemented to standardize educational resources, has raised concerns about its effectiveness in enhancing students’ retention of key concepts. It seeks to compare retention scores among students using no textbooks, one official textbook, or multiple textbooks, with a focus on subject-specific and gender-based differences. Study Design: The research employed a causal-comparative design to examine the retention of mathematical and economic concepts among students under varying textbook accessibility conditions. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Cameroon, focusing on students who had completed their Advanced Level examinations and were registering for university. The duration spanned the period during the registration into the university of Bamenda for the 2024/2025 academic year. Methodology: Data were collected from 300 high school students using a structured assessment of their retention of mathematical and economic concepts. Students were grouped based on their textbook usage: no textbooks, one official textbook, or multiple textbooks. Gender differences in retention were also analyzed. Means and standard deviations were used to answer the research questions while independent samples t-test and ANOVA were used to test the hypotheses at the 5% level of level significance. Results: The analysis revealed significant differences in retention scores based on the number of textbooks used. Students who used multiple textbooks demonstrated higher retention scores compared to those using a single official textbook or no textbooks. Gender differences did not significantly impact retention in either Mathematics or Economics. Conclusion: The study suggests that increasing access to multiple textbooks enhances students’ retention of mathematical and economic concepts. These findings question the efficacy of the Single Textbook Policy and recommend that educational strategies in Cameroon’s secondary schools incorporate diversified learning resources to improve academic outcomes.

Dude sponsored: how executive function and disclosures moderate the persuasive effects of sponsored online videos on young adults

PurposeThis study aims to examine how individual differences and contextual factors affect audience responses to sponsored video content. Specifically, this study tests whether executive function (EF, both hot and cool) skills in young adults influence persuasion knowledge and advertising responses. The study further tests the moderating role of disclosure presence and country of participants (US vs The Netherlands).Design/methodology/approachAn online experiment (N = 368) with a 2 (disclosure: present versus absent) × 2 (country: US versus The Netherlands) between subjects design featuring young adults (M age = 21.06; SDage = 3.06) is conducted.FindingsParticipants with more advanced cool EF showed a better understanding of the persuasive intent of the video, and hot EF was associated with higher brand recall. In addition, disclosures only enhance the understanding of persuasive intent of the video for people with less advanced levels of hot EF. Lastly, Dutch participants were more responsive toward the disclosure.Originality/valueThis study provides key insights regarding how young adults process sponsored content and the role that cognition plays in shaping responses.

Refined Wilding for Functional Biodiversity in Urban Landscapes: A Verification and Contextualisation

Optimising existing knowledge sets and encouraging the integration of interdisciplinary study findings can facilitate the advanced functions of biodiversity required for sustainable urban landscapes. Urban Green Spaces (UGS) can reach across an urban landscape, including indoor environments. The existing and traditional knowledge sets and practices for urban development and greening provide extensive and pertinent guidance; they are however variably implemented. More recent and advanced knowledge sets where properly utilised can optimise and provide advanced function. When adequately brought together, advanced sustainability for urban landscapes can significantly improve global sustainability performance. This article uses the final step of classic grounded theory to contextualise, verify and define refined wilding as a substantiating concept for functional biodiversity as theory for urban landscapes and for sustainable urban development. Refined wilding works toward wild refined UGS that functionally connect across an urban space and landscape, including positive influential flows with grey and transparent spaces. Where used to guide urban design, strategies, vision and goals this concept can provide (i) a conceptual framing that optimises and encourages an organisation of interdisciplinary and advanced knowledge, improving and advancing sustainable urban development, and (ii) a specificity, and overarching and comprehensive guidance for various UGS types toward the positive outcome of functional biodiversity. Functionally biodiverse UGS and landscapes require lower maintenance and perform at an advanced level for human health, economic development, the natural environment, and built or paved environments and landscapes. In turn, addressing how human activity and modification of urban landscapes can significantly degrade human health and the natural environment, or underachieve. Refined wilding (i) substantiates functional biodiversity as a positive outcome for urban landscapes, with a balance between ecological functions and functions for human populations; (ii) considers quality, function, and connectivity of and between UGS and spaces where UGS could be introduced or improved; (ii) enables an improvement, and addresses common barriers to UGS accomplishing advanced functions for urban sustainability; (iii) encourages urban wilding by functional native and non-native selections, and natural and semi-natural UGS; (iv) positively influences and is influenced by grey (built environment) and transparent spaces (blue/aquatic and air).

Introduction to the SRL-S Rubric for Evaluation of Innovative Higher Educational Technology for Self-Regulated Learning

Abstract The integration of advanced learning analytics and data-mining technology into higher education has brought various opportunities and challenges, particularly in enhancing students' self-regulated learning (SRL) skills. Analyzing developed features for SRL support, it has become evident that SRL support is not a binary concept but rather a continuum, ranging from limited to advanced levels of SRL support. This article introduces the rubric, designed to evaluate the degree of self-regulated learning support available within technology enhanced learning environments. Following rubric design best practices, we took a multifaceted methodological approach to ensure rubric validity and reliability: consulting Zimmerman's theoretical model, comparing technological features distilled from empirical studies that demonstrated significant effectiveness, consulting SRL experts, and iterative development and feedback. Across three phases of SRL the rubrics describe evaluation criteria and in detail define performance levels (Limited, Moderate and Advance). By employing the rubric, educators and researchers can 1) gain insights into the extent of implemented SRL approaches, 2) further develop SRL support of learning environments, and 3) better support students on their journey towards becoming self-regulated learners. Finally, the reliability analysis demonstrated a high degree of agreement among different raters evaluating the same course, indicating that the rubric is a reliable tool for obtaining relevant evaluations of SRL support in higher education. We conclude by discussing the significance of the rubric in promoting self-regulated learning within the current pedagogical and technological landscape.

Exploring geometric reasoning development in early civil engineering education through structured problem-solving

ABSTRACT Geometric reasoning is an indispensable skill within the domain of civil engineering, where professionals are required to comprehend and manipulate geometric figures for the creation of stable and functional structures. This paper evaluates the geometric reasoning abilities of four groups of civil engineering students who engaged with a complex geometric problem: constructing a parallelogram using three distinct triangular shapes. To decode the students’ reasoning processes, we employed theoretical frameworks from the didactics of mathematics, focusing particularly on geometric reasoning, discursive organization, and the integrated processes of discursive apprehension and operational engagement in solving and rationalizing problems tied to the geometry of triangles. The findings of this study reveal that introducing challenging problems in educational settings facilitates the enhancement of geometric reasoning. Furthermore, it fosters the assimilation and application of concepts and properties across diverse contexts, thereby encouraging advanced levels of mathematical thought. Additionally, the strategic use of guiding questions significantly improves argumentative skills and the accurate employment of mathematical terminology.

Evaluasi Rapor Pendidikan Di SMP Progressive Bumi Shalawat

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the education report card at Progressive Bumi Shalawat Junior High School, emphasizing the importance of education in encouraging the nation's intellectual growth. Through the implementation of the National Assessment, this school obtained report cards that reflect performance in various aspects, including literacy ability, numeracy, character, and safety conditions, diversity and quality of learning. The results of the evaluation showed that the students' literacy ability was above the minimum competency, with the majority of students reaching the advanced level. However, challenges remain, especially in the psychological well-being of students and the application of diversity principles, which require further attention. This study uses a qualitative-descriptive approach, analyzes data from interviews and documents, and provides recommendations for continuous improvement in the education system in schools. Thus, SMP Progressive Bumi Shalawat is committed to improving the quality of education and providing a better learning experience for all students.

Commentary on “using behavioural contracting to reduce behaviours that challenge in a school setting: Case studies” and an overview of token economies in school settings

Purpose The primary purpose of this paper is to provide commentary on “Using Behavioural Contracting to Reduce Behaviours that Challenge in a School Setting: Case Studies” (Hawkins et al. 2025; This issue). The secondary purpose is to provide an introduction and overview of token economies and point and level systems to practitioners and stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach This paper considers the use of token economies or point and level systems alongside behaviour contracts in school settings. Findings Behaviour contracts can be used successfully to determine how key components of token economies and point and level systems will be implemented. More research is needed on the use of behaviour contracts within token economies. Originality/value This review explores the components of token economies, including the selection of target behaviours, reinforcement pairing and the exchange process. It also highlights the flexibility of these systems to incorporate physical or symbolic tokens and reinforcer preferences. Indirect benefits, such as delaying reinforcement and fostering self-control, are discussed alongside practical implementation strategies. Advanced systems, like point and level systems, are examined for their ability to track progress over time, assist self-monitoring and fade interventions as learners progress towards greater independence.

Student’s Perception and Measure of Bloom's Taxonomy Cognitive Levels: An Integrated Analysis Based on Hec's Career-Oriented Speaking Curriculum and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the cognitive levels of Bloom's taxonomy that are emphasized in teaching speaking skills and evaluate how students from diverse backgrounds in Pakistani universities perceive the advanced cognitive levels of Bloom's taxonomy necessary for developing speaking skills required in the workplace. Theoretical Framework: The research's fundamental concepts and theories are based on Richards and Rodgers' language teaching model (2001). Method: This exploratory, case-based, qualitative study collected data from public and private universities in Islamabad. Data sources included the HEC Functional English selected curriculum, interviews with teachers and students, and classroom observations. Results and Discussion: The study results revealed that to improve students' speaking abilities, the HEC's speaking curriculum should emphasize all levels of the cognitive domain outlined in Bloom's taxonomy. Currently, the curriculum primarily focuses on higher levels of cognitive processing. The curriculum must be revised to include effective comprehension exercises tailored to students from various backgrounds across all cognitive domains to help students enhance their speaking skills. Research Implication: Bloom's Taxonomy is a valuable roadmap for teachers to develop students' critical skills. The findings will assist universities and curriculum designers in developing curricula aligned with Bloom's cognitive domain for the professional development of graduates. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by filling a gap by examining the cognitive domain levels that enhance the speaking skills required in the workplace, which need to be highlighted within the Pakistani context.

Unleashing Gemini: Enhancing EFL Lexical Collocation and Writing Style Through Lexically-Based Language Teaching Model

Unleashing Gemini: Enhancing EFL Lexical Collocation and Writing Style Through Lexically-Based Language Teaching Model

Integrated photonic MEMS switch for visible light.

Visible-light integrated photonics serve applications inaccessible to conventional (C- and O-band) silicon photonics, including trapped-ion and neutral atom quantum experiments, biophotonics, and displays. Despite demonstrations of increasingly advanced functionalities and levels of integration, the development of low-power, monolithically integrated, visible-light switches and phase shifters remains an outstanding challenge. Here, we demonstrate an integrated photonic, electrostatic MEMS-actuated Mach-Zehnder interferometer optical switch for the visible spectrum. The device operated with an extinction ratio of 7.2 dB and optical loss of 2.5 dB at a wavelength of 540 nm. The measured 10-90% rise (fall) times were 5 (28) µs, and a low static power dissipation of about 0.5 nW was achieved. The dynamic power dissipation at a 30 kHz switching frequency was estimated to be < 70 µW.

Visual Impairment Spatial Awareness System for Indoor Navigation and Daily Activities.

The integration of artificial intelligence into daily life significantly enhances the autonomy and quality of life of visually impaired individuals. This paper introduces the Visual Impairment Spatial Awareness (VISA) system, designed to holistically assist visually impaired users in indoor activities through a structured, multi-level approach. At the foundational level, the system employs augmented reality (AR) markers for indoor positioning, neural networks for advanced object detection and tracking, and depth information for precise object localization. At the intermediate level, it integrates data from these technologies to aid in complex navigational tasks such as obstacle avoidance and pathfinding. The advanced level synthesizes these capabilities to enhance spatial awareness, enabling users to navigate complex environments and locate specific items. The VISA system exhibits an efficient human-machine interface (HMI), incorporating text-to-speech and speech-to-text technologies for natural and intuitive communication. Evaluations in simulated real-world environments demonstrate that the system allows users to interact naturally and with minimal effort. Our experimental results confirm that the VISA system efficiently assists visually impaired users in indoor navigation, object detection and localization, and label and text recognition, thereby significantly enhancing their spatial awareness and independence.

Technology and AI—Impact on Country’s Growth and Unemployment

This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption on economic growth and unemployment across G7 countries and India. As AI emerges as a transformative technology, there is a need to understand its effects on labour markets and develop appropriate policy frameworks. The research analyses historical patterns of automation and technological change to provide context for the current AI revolution. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative statistical analyses with qualitative assessments. Variables examined include GDP growth rates, R&amp;D investment levels, AI adoption rates, and productivity gains. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, regression models, and cluster analyses were conducted to identify relationships between key variables. Results reveal a significant technology adoption gap between high-tech leaders and developing economies. A growth paradox was observed in developing tech economies, where rapid AI adoption did not necessarily translate to proportional economic gains. The research found complex relationships between technological advancement, unemployment rates, and investment levels across countries. Cluster analysis identified three distinct groups: Advanced Economies, Technology Leaders, and Developing Tech Economies. ANOVA and chi-square tests confirmed statistically significant differences between these clusters. Multiple regression analysis on unemployment rates provided insights into the factors influencing job displacement. Key findings include: 1) AI adoption shows potential to significantly boost GDP growth and productivity, though effects vary by country. 2) The relationship between technological progress and unemployment is nuanced, defying simplistic narratives. 3) Investment levels strongly correlate with technological advancement, but other factors also play important roles. 4) Leaders in AI adoption exhibit certain common characteristics, offering potential lessons for other ...

Developing intercultural competence and achieving B2 English proficiency level through using creative and interactive teaching methods and watching authentic TV series

Introduction. The increasing level of world’s globalization makes it necessary to be able to interact with representatives of other cultures. Since English is recognized as the language of international communication, students need to develop intercultural competence in order to interact with the international community based on mutual understanding and shared values. Incorporating creative interactive methods with the viewing of authentic TV series into education allows students to improve their skills in understanding the original language, which reflects the particularities of the culture. The purpose of the research is to develop a methodology for teaching English using video materials to enhance students' level of intercultural competence and language proficiency to independent mastery (B2). Materials and methods. To achieve the set goal, a pedagogical experiment was conducted involving 110 2nd year undergraduate students, 53 of whom were assigned to the control group and 57 to the experimental group. The experiment consisted of 3 stages: preliminary assessment of the level of intercultural competence among students in both groups; conducting classes in the experimental group with the viewing and discussion of TV series in the original language; final assessment of the level of intercultural competence and English language proficiency, followed by comparison of groups’ results. Mathematical processing of testing results was conducted using Fisher’s angular transformation, Student’s t-test for unrelated samples, and Pearson's chi-square test to determine changes between the two groups. Results. Analysis of the experiment's results revealed a statistically significant difference between the levels of intercultural competence formation among students in the experimental and control groups (χ 2 = 16.232, χ 2 = 15.425, χ 2 = 14.547 with t crit = 2.621, p &lt; 0.01), indicating their differences. Evaluation of the abilities of students in the experimental group showed a substantial increase in the number of students at the Advanced level. Thus, the pedagogical experiment demonstrated the effectiveness of using authentic TV series as means to enhance the level of intercultural competence and English language proficiency up to the B2 level. Conclusion. The study showed that the development of students' intercultural competence requires reliance on authentic materials reflecting the cultural characteristics of the country whose language is being studied. The presented methodology can be used in combination with other interactive teaching methods for the effective education of students in various disciplines.