Gathering Methods Research Articles

Peran Customer Service dalam Meningkatkan Kualitas Pelayanan Nasabah PT. Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) TBK Kantor Cabang Madiun

Achieving customer happiness necessitates the adoption of enhanced cutomer service. The present study examines how cutomer service might enhance cutomer servi satisfaction at the Madiun Branch Office of PT Bank Rakyat Indoensia (Persero)Tbk. For the intention of understanding how customer service contributes to the PT Bank Rakyat Indoensia (Persero)Tbk Madiun Branch Office’s improved customer service. Qualitative research with data gathering methods from libraries is the sort of study that’s is being done. The study’s findings show that PT Bank Rakyat Indoensia (Persero)Tbk Madiun Branch Officeis customer service is crusial to the provision of services to clients

A Hybrid Harvesting Method for Multiple Marine Renewable Energy Sources Based on Microthermoelectric Generator and Triboelectric Nanogenerator

Harvesting wind and solar energy in marine environments to power marine sensors has become a hot research topic. Herein, a marine hybrid energy gathering method based on codoped microthermoelectric generator (MTEG) and charge‐enhanced triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is proposed. A prototype based on this method is designed. It consists of an MTEG unit made from codoped Bi2Te3‐based thermoelectric materials and a TENG unit equipped with a charge density enhancement circuit. This prototype can simultaneously harvest solar energy and wind energy in marine environments to power marine sensors. The prototype can generate a voltage output of 72 V and a power output of 90.5 μW under experimental conditions featuring a wind velocity of 5 m s−1 and a temperature difference of 50 K. This results in a harvesting energy density of 9 W m−3. Based on experiments, the feasibility of the hybrid energy gathering method presented herein is verified, offering a new approach for powering marine sensors.

APPRAISAL OF THE CAPACITY OF NATIONAL COUNTER TERRORISM STRATEGY TO PREVENT AND COMBAT TERRORISM IN NIGERIA

The standing policy adopted by Nigerian states to fight against terrorism is known as the National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST). This tactic has five pillars, namely: to forestall, to secure, to identify, to prepare, and to implement. Most of the literature engages on reasons for the emergency of terrorism, the effect of terrorism, or the strategy adopted by the terrorist to perpetrate their heinous activities. However, little attempt has been made to evaluate the efficacy of Nigeria's strategy against terrorism, especially NACTEST. Based on this backdrop, this paper is an attempt to examine the performance of Nigeria in identifying terrorist plans and its preparations to thwart them. These are two major and critical pillars of the NACTEST document (to identify and prepare). The paper adopts secondary methods of data gathering and content analysis for analyzing both primary and secondary data as a source of information gathering and content analysis methods for analyzing the generated data. The paper also adopted protracted social conflict theory to analyze the reasons for terrorism and the methods adopted by the Nigerian government to address those motivating factors. It was discovered that the Nigerian government has been able to prevent attacks by terrorists by identifying some sources of terrorist funding in Nigeria. However, it was discovered that, as far as the capacity of the government is concerned, security agencies still lack the necessary capacity to efficiently explore and detect terrorist attacks before they occur. The paper recommends more engagement of civilians and community stakeholders in fighting against terrorism in Nigeria.

Optimizing Olive Harvesting Efficiency Through UAVs and AI Integration

Olive harvesting, integral to global agriculture, faces challenges with traditional gathering methods which are labor-intensive and limited in precision, highlighting the need for innovative approaches. The study explores the application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in olive harvesting, with the aim to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Traditional methods, employing wood rakes, sticks, and rudimentary mechanical devices, pose challenges with high labor intensity and potential tree damage. UAVs present a transformative solution, offering aerial surveying, high-resolution imaging, and harvest timing data collection. This study evaluates existing olive harvest technologies, illuminating the superior efficiency of UAVs in minimizing damage and maximizing yield. The Potohar region in Pakistan exemplifies one area of intensive olive production, emphasizing the need for precision Agri-techniques. This study introduces the conceptual design of olive harvesting using drones, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize traditional practices, provide real-time monitoring, and enhance environmental sustainability. Results indicate substantial reductions in non-harvestable fruit and wood damage with drone-based harvesting, underscoring its promise for increased yield and reduced environmental damage. In conclusion, this study advocates for the adoption of precision agriculture techniques, integrating Artificial Intelligence and aerial technologies, to propel the olive industry's productivity and environmental impact forward.

Metabolic engineering of hairy root cultures in Beta vulgaris for enhanced production of vanillin, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and vanillyl alcohol.

The flavor of vanilla is a complex blend of compounds, with vanillin as the most prominent, along with vanillyl alcohol and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. Natural vanillin extracted from vanilla beans is expensive, so researchers use heterologous synthesis to produce nature-identical vanillin in plant hosts. Consequently, alternative traditional farming and gathering methods are required to bridge the significant disparity between supply and demand. The current research successfully developed a method to induce hairy root formation from leaves. It integrated the Vanillin synthase (VpVAN) gene into transgenic hairy root lines of Beta vulgaris, synthesizing vanillin-related compounds. The presence of the VpVAN gene in transgenic roots was confirmed using PCR analysis. Additionally, RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated the expression of the VpVAN gene in the transgenic root lines. The transgenic hairy root clones H1, H2, and H5 showed enhanced vanillin production, vanillyl alcohol, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. Elicitation with methyl jasmonate (MJ) and salicylic acid (SA) further improved the production of these compounds in B. vulgaris hairy roots. The maximum hairy root biomass was observed after 60 days, with the maximum synthesis of vanillin and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid obtained from hairy root clones H5 and HR2, respectively. Vanillyl alcohol HR2 was obtained on the 45th day of cultivation. Elicitation with wound-associated hormone methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid enhanced the yield of vanillin, vanillyl alcohol, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, with a 215-fold increase in vanillin, a 13-fold increase in vanillyl alcohol, and a 21 fold increase in 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. The study results indicate that establishing transgenic hairy root cultures with the VpVAN gene is a promising alternative method for enhancing the production of vanilla flavor compounds such as vanillin, vanillyl alcohol, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. A cost-effective protocol has been developed to mass-produce phenolic compounds using a hairy root culture of B. vulgaris. This approach addresses the increasing demand for these substances while reducing the cost of natural vanillin production, making it suitable for industrial-scale applications.

Investigation on Thermal Performance in Japan’s Local Station and Shopping District during Cold Season: Study Case of Kurosaki Arcade

Abstract This research delves into the spatial and thermal comfort conditions within the Kurosaki Shopping District, a market with a century-long history in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka. Despite the existing uncomfortable thermal conditions during winter, users actively engage in outdoor activities such as selling and opening stores. This research aims to understand the condition that the local user had to frequently withstand in the semi outdoor and outdoor area of Kurosaki District station and market’s urban area. Identifying issues related to thermal comfort in the outdoor areas, the study focuses on measuring and analyzing crucial parameters including air velocity, humidity, temperature, and spatial conditions. The method of data gathering uses Anemometer, Thermal recorder, and Globe Thermometer are utilized in 5 selected public areas that is actively frequented by local users. The research employs a comparative analysis method, juxtaposing the collected data with findings from literature reviews on standards and general comfort temperatures. The analysis reveals that temperature fluctuations are influenced by geographical factors and activity levels. The lack of building density contributes significantly to deviations in temperature and humidity from established standards. The study highlights the importance of addressing climatic conditions to enhance comfort in open spaces, especially in historically significant markets with extended operational histories. This research is expected to help policy makers understand the conditions of the local users and gather data for further research in the future.

Urgent Need of Plastic Waste Management: A Review

Plastic waste has emerged as an environmental challenge globally and has become a critical issue with widespread impacts on the environment, produces chemical pollution, creates micro-plastics, kills terrestrial wildlife, human health and animals, choking our oceans, killing and harming marine life and requires an immediate action. Plastic contaminates the air, soil, and water without appropriate collection and disposal methods, harming ecosystems and humans in the process. Plastic persists in the ecosystem for long, endangering species and dispersing pollutants. The use of plastic also fuels global warming. The majority of plastics comprises of chemicals derived from the combustion of fossil fuels including coal, oil, and gas. The paper examines types of plastic wastes and their sources; it's environmental and socio-economic impacts and the current state of PWM practices and strategies worldwide. It examines the current methods for gathering, recycling, and disposing of plastic garbage while seeking ways to improve them. Plastic pollution can modify natural processes and habitats, making ecosystems less able to adapt to climate change. This has a direct impact on the social well-being, food production, and livelihoods of millions of people. Plastic garbage is causing terrible issues and other serious health problems, especially in urban areas. These challenges have raised alarming public concerns leading to implementation of policies aimed at minimizing the amount of plastic waste generated in the environment. Additionally, it also emphasizes on importance of collaboration between governments, industries and people to achieve meaningful progress. By reviewing existing literature and data, the paper aims to focus on the complexities of PWM and highlight the areas of improvement.

Peningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa melalui Strategi Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) pada Mata Pelajaran IPAS di Kelas IV Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Swasta Nurul Yaqin Simpang Sungai Duren

This study examines how the Contextual Teaching and Learning paradigm might improve fourth-grade IPAS students' academic performance at MI Nurul Yaqin Simpang Sungai Duren. This study is a classroom action research (PTK) focused on the subject of IPAS concerning force material in the surrounding environment, employing CTL methodologies. The employed data gathering methods included the observation of student and instructor activities, test questions, documentation, and interviews. This PTK was conducted across two cycles, each comprising three meetings. The results of this study are 1) The results of observations of student learning activities and teacher teaching practices in Class IV MI Nurul Yaqin have increased. The outcomes of student learning activities in Cycle I were 57.61%, which climbed to 90.47% in Cycle II. Observations of teacher learning activities in Class IV MI Nurul Yaqin indicated a rise from 61% in Cycle I to 90% in Cycle II. The academic performance of grade IV pupils at MI Swasta Nurul Yaqin, originally below the standard, improved with the use of CTL approaches, achieving an average completeness rate of 59% in cycle I and 85.18% in cycle II. Fourth-graders at MI Nurul Yaqin Simpang Duren can improve their IPAS academic performance using CTL.

The Other Side of the Hill – Endeavouring to Define Intelligence in the 21st Century: A Perspective

This paper discusses not a definition but defining characteristics of intelligence, those it has inherited from the Cold War, and those which new conditions are forcing it to adapt to. Intelligence cannot be reduced to a simple sentence-length definition. Intelligence is iterative – its nature varies depending on the context in which it is produced. Its unconventional methods combined with its exclusivity of method and content makes intelligence information different from other sorts. These essential characteristics allow us to understand the relationship between different intelligence’s and between them and related concepts of ‘intelligence-adjacency’ as well as good old fashioned, but ever reliable, basic ‘research’. Intelligence has a wide ambit; it is not a discipline in itself, but something combining varying methods of information gathering and analysis to create ephemeral knowledge of genuine, but ephemeral, value – within the varying contexts in which it is used.

Soliciting Diaries for "Real-Time" Insights Into the COVID-19 Pandemic: Methodological Reflections on Using Digital Technologies to Engage the Public.

To discuss the opportunities and challenges of the qualitative solicited diary approach using digital technologies as an innovative way to access insights into people's lives and their unique stories in times of COVID-19-related social distancing in Switzerland. This case study provides reflective arguments from a social science perspective for the selection of different (digital) diary designs to optimize data collection in the SNSF-funded project "PubliCo - an experimental online platform for COVID-19-related public perception." The findings highlight some opportunities of using (digital) diaries, such as empowering participants, gathering real-time data, and ethical and methodological challenges when it comes to gaining access to alternative narratives. To gain in-depth insights during a crisis and to reach the lesser-heard voices that are central to democratic debates, it is necessary to adapt data gathering methods and build trust with diverse communities. While digital technologies open up new possibilities for public engagement, there is a need to think critically how data gathering is approached, how trustworthy the results are, and whose voices are captured, amplified, or left out.

What is non-formal learning (and how do we know it when we see it)? A pilot study report

In this paper we consider the issue of formality in learning. Both formal and informal learning appear to be well-defined in educational discourse, in contrast with non-formal learning which is less clearly articulated. This lack of clarity around non-formal learning has consequences for its recognition by teachers and learners. To contribute to the conceptualisation of non-formal learning we carried out a literature review that helped us to identify dimensions of learning formality. This framework allowed us to discriminate the ways in which non-formal learning differed or matched with aspects of formal or informal learning. It also suggested to us that formality is fluid, and that learning with different formalities might co-exist in some learning environments. We then used our framework to develop tools for capturing evidence of non-formal learning. We describe these tools and how we used them in a pilot study to explore the features of non-formal learning in a formal, Year 12 classroom learning context in an English school. We use our pilot study outcomes to reflect on the utility of our data gathering methods. We also use the study outcomes to update our non-formal learning framework.

Examining the instructional process of citizenship education in Ethiopia: The case of secondary schools in the Amhara state

This study aimed to examine the instructional process of citizenship education in secondary schools in the Amhara state of Ethiopia. To that end, a mixed-method research approach with a concurrent triangulation design was employed. A total of 107 citizenship education teachers and 480 students were selected from 24 secondary schools. Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and classroom observations were used as data gathering methods. The results of the study revealed that the status of classroom instructional methods in citizenship education was low. Instead of using a variety of specific instructional methods advocated by prominent scholars of the field, teachers were using traditional teacher-centered methods that were less appropriate to engage students in the teaching-learning process. Whole-school events were also found at their lowest stage. Many of the school-wide opportunities were not widely practiced in relation to citizenship education. The same was true for service-learning. The status of this instructional approach was not only extremely low, but its pedagogical significance was also not well understood by citizenship education teachers. Hence, areas of intervention that could improve the instructional process of secondary school citizenship education are indicated.

Comparing the effects of marking techniques on the survival of Piping Plover chicks

AbstractThe use of unique markers in ornithology has a long history and is predicated on the assumption that markers have negligible effects on behavior and survival. The assumption that marks are harmless is particularly important with imperiled species. We studied the effects of two different marking schemes on Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus), a small shorebird protected under the U.S. Endangered Species Act that is intensively monitored and managed. We used two marking schemes, (1) color bands and (2) uniquely engraved flags during breeding seasons from 2013 to 2023 to determine whether the injuries were causing additive mortality and thus actually limiting populations. We estimated the effect of perceived limping and injury (e.g., swelling, laceration, etc.) on chick and hatch-year survival. We detected injuries in some years and associated with both marking schemes (range 0.0–6.0%, average = 2.7% of marked chicks each year). Interval survival for banded chicks was like that of flagged chicks ($$\beta $$ β = − 0.55, 95% BCI: − 1.30–0.33, f = 0.92). Mean survival to fledging, however, was higher in years where flags were used ($$\overline{\phi }=$$ ϕ ¯ = 0.55 ± 0.14) than when bands were used ($$\overline{\phi }=$$ ϕ ¯ = 0.34 ± 0.14), but we surmise that this difference was partly conflated with negative density-dependent factors ($$\beta $$ β = − 0.49, 95% BCI: − 0.73 to − 0.25, f = 1.00) and predation. Our results show that pre-fledge survival of birds with uniquely coded flags was similar to that of birds receiving color bands. There was also no evidence that injured birds had a significantly lower hatch-year survival than those that were not injured. However, the relatively high (up to 6%) injury rate in some years remains a concern. Injury and survival rates need to be considered and evaluated when deciding on whether to mark individuals. Ultimately, wildlife practitioners should strive to use the best methods for information gathering and management, without negatively impacting the species.

4IR Applications in the Transport Industry: Systematic Review of the State of the Art with Respect to Data Collection and Processing Mechanisms

Transportation systems through the ages have seen drastic evolutions in terms of transportation methods, speed of transport, infrastructure, technology, connectivity, influence on the environment, and accessibility. The massive transformation seen in the transportation sector has been fueled by the Industrial Revolutions, which have continued expansion and progress into the fourth Industrial Revolution. However, the methodologies of data collection and processing used by the many drivers of this progress differ. In order to achieve a better understanding of the impact of these technologies, in this study, we methodically reviewed the literature on the subject of the data collection and processing mechanisms of 4IR technologies in the context of transport. Gaps in present practices are identified in the study, especially with regard to the integration and scalability of these technologies in transportation networks. In order to fully reap the rewards of 4IR technologies, it is also necessary to apply standardized methods for data gathering and processing. In this report, we offer insights into current obstacles and make recommendations for future research to solve these concerns through a comprehensive evaluation of the literature, with the goal of promoting the development of intelligent and sustainable transportation systems.

Estimating the compressive strength of lightweight foamed concrete using different machine learning-based symbolic regression techniques

The development of concrete with excellent water and frost resistance providing high level of sound and thermal insulation has triggered the formulation of foamed concrete. However, multiple laboratory studies are required to produce reasonable data to design the relevant codes and mathematics with which design of mixes is made easier at low cost. In this research paper, the artificial intelligence (AI)-based symbolic regression technique estimation of the compressive strength of foamed concrete has been reported. Foamed concrete has been a subject of serious research in sustainable built-environment due to its lightweight and structural functionality. In this research work, data gathering method was applied to gather a globally representative data base comprising concrete density to water density (concrete density g/cm3) (γ/γw), water-cement ratio (W/C), and sand-cement ratio (S/C) as input variable and the compressive strength (Fc) as the study output. The dimensionless factors have been derived to eliminate data handling complexities and improve model performances. The 230 data entries from foamed concrete mixes were partitioned into 75% and 25% for training and validation data, respectively. At the end of the model execution, it was found that the response surface methodology (RSM) produced a symbolic closed-form equation like the genetic programming (GP), evolutionary polynomial regression (EPR), and the group method of data-handling-neural network (GMDH-NN). Even though the RSM closed with a minimum error, the GP, EPR and GMDH-NN were faster in runtime. The overall outcomes show that the GP outclassed the EPR, RSM and the GMDH-NN, though with minor margin. Meanwhile the EPR produced the highest outliers from the ±25% test of accuracy envelope. Overall, the present models outperformed those reported in the literature due the parameter reduction through dimensionless factors derivation and provided a decisive model to predict the Fc of foamed concrete.

Collaborating for co-researching: A multi-stakeholder case narrative of student nurses co-researching technology-supported care

AimEvaluate the impact of LS@H project participation on stakeholders. BackgroundAs populations age and workforces decline, care technology in nursing is becoming increasingly commonplace. Collaboration between nurse academia, education and practice can result in practice-based research and meaningful learning for nursing students and staff. However, little is known about the factors influencing effective collaboration. Based on the knowledge that narratives can be an effective vehicle for healthcare practice change, a Dutch school of nursing and its practice partners collaborated on the Living Longer and Safe at Home! (LS@H) project. This project aimed to explore a more person-centred approach to the use of technology in nursing care. Having gathered data from multiple sources to construct case narratives on the use of technology in older persons care, students nurses were able to contribute to practice development as their narratives were fed back to local and regional teams. DesignTo evaluate the impact of the LS@H project, we employed the same methodology used in the project: mixed data gathering methods to construct a case narrative. LS@H project students, supervisors, mentors and higher management shared their experiences and the research team constructed the case narrative. MethodsQualitative data were gathered via individual, duo and group interviews and supplemented with a survey among students. Transcription and thematic analysis followed, with multiple rounds of critical peer review before the thematic framework was agreed, survey results integrated and the case narrative constructed. ResultsAccording to stakeholder participants, the LS@H project led to an unfreezing of the status quo in both education and practice. The approach was new and guidelines with community support was needed to allay fears. The project design enabled a sense of shared ownership, across individuals and organisations for improving practice. Perspectives on the use of technology and older persons nursing were transformed. Critically dialoguing case narratives encouraged purposeful action to improve practice and fostered reflective practice among students and teams. ConclusionsCollaborative practice-based research can be a valuable learning experience for student nurses, positively influencing their view of nursing practice as well as enabling them to actively contribute to practice development. Adequate preparation, supervision and practice mentorship is vital, alongside practice (leader) commitment to ensure continued student assignments with subsequent critical dialogue of the multi-stakeholder case narratives produced. Registration numberAt point of submission put this on title page

Introducing PLEMS: the application of a low-cost, portable monitoring system in environmental walks.

The application of innovative systems using low-cost microcontrollers in human biometeorology studies is a promising alternative to conventional monitoring devices, which are usually cost-intensive and provide measurements at specific points, as in stationary meteorological stations. A Portable Low-cost Environmental Monitoring System (PLEMS) aimed at the pedestrian scale is introduced. The backpack-type equipment consists of a microcontroller with attached sensors that assess environmental conditions in a broad sense, integrating measurements of air quality, lighting and noise levels alongside variables typically measured at meteorological stations. The application of the system took place in altogether 12 environmental walks carried out with questionnaire-surveys with concurrent environmental monitoring with the PLEMS in Curitiba, Brazil, a subtropical location characterized by a Cfb climate type. Results allowed us to test the equipment and method of data gathering within a limited period (approximately 50 min) and for a short walking circuit of 800 m. The equipment was successfully able to capture even slightest differences in environmental conditions among points of interest, whereas subjective responses (n= 3843 responses to a total of 11 questions) showed consistency with measured data. From a multi-domain perspective, relevant insights could be obtained for the measured variables.

Factors affecting citizen intention toward AI acceptance and adoption: the moderating role of government regulations

Purpose This paper aims to explore factors impacting citizen intention toward artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, considering government regulation as a moderating variable. It focuses on the Palestinian Cellular Communications Sector in Gaza Strip, providing insights into the citizen-AI relationship dynamics. The research contributes to enhancing comprehension of AI technology from clients’ perspective. Design/methodology/approach To test the hypotheses, a questionnaire was used in an empirical study to collect primary data. In total, 347 Palestinian citizens responded to the survey. Findings The findings of this paper reveal that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risks, social influence, user experience and privacy and security concerns significantly influence citizen intention toward AI adoption. Furthermore, government regulations as a moderating variable strengthen the impact of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risks, social influence, user experience and privacy and security concerns on citizen intention toward AI acceptance and adoption. Thus, further research should explore specific domains and cultural contexts to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping acceptance and adoption. Research limitations/implications The findings of the study should be understood in the context of their limitations. First, the study ignored cultural or domain-specific subtleties in favor of generic characteristics, which calls for more research in these particular circumstances. Second, relying on self-reported data might result in biases and limitations due to subjectivity in reporting, indicating the necessity for alternate data gathering methods and approaches in future research. Practical implications Policymakers, developers and organizations working to promote the acceptability and implementation of AI applications should consider the practical implications of this study’s results. To secure the long-term use of AI technologies in a responsible and user-centric way, policymakers should give priority to public education and awareness, user-centered design and ethical AI development techniques. They should also stimulate partnerships and create monitoring systems. Originality/value This paper investigates the originality of factors that influence citizen intention toward AI acceptance and adoption. It uniquely examines the moderating role of government regulations in shaping this intention. By addressing this novel aspect, the paper contributes to advancing our understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding citizen intentions toward AI applications.

Investigation of the Competencies of Teacher Candidates in Using Web 2.0 Tools

This study aimed to examine the web 2.0 tool usage competencies of Turkish and Turkish language and literature teacher candidates. The participants' proficiency with Web 2.0 tools was assessed in this context based on several characteristics. 279 teacher candidates (219 female and 59 males) were the subjects of the study, which was carried out at an eastern Turkish university. The data was gathered using Google Docs (Google Forms) and the “Web 2.0 Tools Usage Competency Scale (WAKYÖ)” created by Çelik (2021) as the data gathering method. The results of the study indicate that the digital competency of teacher applicants is frequently in the medium range. The results show that while most teacher applicants use social media, they don't use it frequently. In the gender-based examination, male teacher candidates performed much better than female teacher candidates when using Web 2.0 tools. However, an analysis of age groups shows that there are no discernible differences in Web 2.0 tool proficiency. The examination conducted based on the department or main science that each student pursued at the university revealed that teacher candidates with varying degrees of education possessed comparable levels of digital proficiency. However, there was no discernible difference in the analyses conducted based on the individuals' devices, their use of social media, the amount of time they spent on it each day, and whether or not they had taken computer or information technology courses during their undergraduate studies. The results showed no appreciable variation based on family income level. The results suggest that the focus of educational activities should be on more effective ways to improve digital skills. This makes it obvious that specialized training and support programs should be developed to fulfill the requirements of teacher candidates while taking into consideration factors like academic specialization and gender.

Assessment of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and SMEs’ Growth in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State

SMEs often face resource constraints, ranging from financial capital to human resources and market access. Understanding how entrepreneurial ecosystems facilitate resource allocation and address these constraints is crucial for enabling sustainable growth. This study therefore investigated the impact of entrepreneurial ecosystems on firms’ growth, with a focus on SMEs operating in Ilorin metropolis, Kwara State. A cross-sectional survey research design and a quantitative data gathering method were used in this study. Three hundred and forty-three (343) SMEs make up the study's sample size, which was chosen to represent the 3124 SMEs that are registered with the Kwara State Board of Internal Revenue and pay taxes totaling one hundred thousand naira or more. Standard multiple linear regression analysis was employed to analyze the data obtained from the administration of a structured survey questionnaire. Findings of the study revealed that entrepreneurial ecosystems through access to capital, entrepreneurial support infrastructure and talent and knowledge exchange have significant impact on SMEs growth. The study concluded that entrepreneurial ecosystems constitute the bedrock upon which SMEs thrive and catalyze economic growth. By providing startups with the necessary resources to invest, innovate, and expand, access to finance plays a pivotal role in fueling entrepreneurial activity, job creation, and economic growth. The study recommended among others that, programs and initiatives aimed at improving financial literacy among entrepreneurs, empowering them to make informed decisions about financing options and investment opportunities should be invested on and implement policies and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the financial ecosystem, ensuring equitable access to finance for women, minority entrepreneurs, and underserved communities.