Design Methodology Research Articles

Exploring the impact of legitimacy on the competitiveness of international firms

Objective and interest of the work: The legitimacy of international firms is an important and complex issue that requires further academic development. International firms must enhance their legitimacy as a generator of competitive advantages to achieve their business objectives, both economic-financial and relational. However, there is a gap in the literature on the relationship between relationship marketing and legitimacy that needs to be filled. Methodology design: Through an empirical study of Shein’s buyers, the model is validated using the PLS-SEM methodology. Results: The implications of this research represent a breakthrough in the academic field by relating both theories applied to the internationalisation of companies. In addition, this research proposes implications for management by establishing strategies for international firms to achieve legitimacy, not only to enter international markets but also to create stable and long-lasting relationships with consumers. Practical implications: This research advances the theory of legitimacy for international firms. International companies must legitimise themselves and build customer loyalty in their host countries if they are to survive and generate economic benefits.

Use of School Data Management System (SDMS) For Performance of Students in Twelve Years Basic Education in Rwanda

This paper assessed the use of school data management system in performance of students in twelve years basic education in Musanze District. The Research project aimed to achieve the following objectives: to evaluate the DSMS types of financial services in use for the performance of students of 12YBE; to assess the role of SMS academic evaluation in the performance of students of 12YBE; to show how SDMS helps in school infrastructure management for the performance of students of 12YBE; and to ascertain the effects of SDMS personal identification in the performance of students of 12YBE. The research project employed a descriptive survey design, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The target population was 1,130 respondents projecting in education sector Musanze District. In this Research project 339 respondents were sampled from 1,130 teaching staff. This sample was scientifically determined using an appropriate research project formula. The sample size was determined using Slovin’s formula. Stratified random sampling was implemented, wherein strata were established according to the schools. The primary data were collected using questionnaires elaborated for 339 respondents. For validity, the questionnaire was shared with seasoned research project for their inputs which were taken into consideration before piloting the questionnaire and conducting comprehensive data collection. The data analysis encompassed both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative research project involved precise measurement techniques to yield accurate mathematical outcomes. Data were presented in tables and graphs, and quantitative data were analyzed and interpreted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The findings were done for only 330 respondents as 9 questionnaires were not returned. So, the findings from 330 respondents showed that the use of School Data Management Systems (SDMS) in Rwanda’s 12-Year Basic Education system has demonstrated significant potential to enhance educational practices and improve student outcomes. The comprehensive analysis conducted in this Research project reveals strong correlations between SDMS implementation and various facets of student performance, academic evaluation, infrastructure management, and personal identification. Recommendations have been provided to both SDMS users in schools and MINEDUC to optimize SDMS utilization, ensure sustainable implementation, and foster data-driven decision-making.

Design and Testing of a Web-Based Student Information Management System

Politeknik Piksi Ganesha is an institution of higher learning located in Bandung, Indonesia, specializing in engineering and technological curricula. The research's general objective is to describe the design and implementation of the web-based Student Information Management System (SIMS) to manage student data at Politeknik Piksi Ganesha Bandung. The functional and non-functional specifications are represented using Unified Modeling Language (UML) based on broad data collection through observation, interviews, and a literature review. It also entails black-box testing, which measures the system's performance against set criteria, focusing on the output without the details of its internal workings. The significant findings indicate that SIMS enhances highly administrative processes, accuracy in data, and good communication among stakeholders by applying clear UML diagrams of the system. This successful system development meets the institution's requirements and adds to the bar for other developments within the educational technology sector. The result has also emphasized the need for practical design methodologies and testing frameworks to develop reliable information systems to improve decision-making in academic institutions. The research has contributed significantly to the discipline because it has shown how different technological innovations can alleviate the problems surrounding managing student information at higher education levels.

Enhancing Algorithmic Thinking Skills through Phygital Games: The Case of Space Codyssey

This paper presents an educational phygital game, Space Codyssey, aiming at cultivating the algorithmic thinking skills of young children. Space Codyssey is a phygital game, and its contains programming activities for the Sequence, Repetition, and Selection Structures, as well as Code Debugging activities (Debugging). The game utilizes Augmented Reality technology to present missions via QR cards. Additionally, digital storytelling is used as a means of assistance and teaching for preschool and early primary students. In the game, reading skills are not a prerequisite, and programming is accomplished using symbolic commands through a "Visual Programming Language." The participatory design methodology that was adopted, involving 28 educators from various specialties, reflects a holistic approach to the development of educational technologies. This interdisciplinary collaboration allowed for the integration of diverse pedagogical perspectives, ensuring that the game meets the multifaceted needs of modern education. The paper highlights the educational goals and learning outcomes for the designtated age group. It presents the scenario, the subject, the elements of the game, the rules, and the game mechanics. It also describes the implementation stages and the development of the application. Finally, it presents the results from a study, which involved 28 educators and aimed to improve the game before its use in educational settings.

AI-Driven DRC Routing Convergence in IC Design : A Paradigm Shift in Semiconductor Development

This article explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Integrated Circuit (IC) design, particularly in Design Rule Checking (DRC) and routing convergence. As semiconductor technology advances to smaller nodes, traditional design methodologies struggle with increasing complexity, time-to-market pressures, and stringent manufacturing constraints. Integrating AI-driven approaches offers promising solutions, dramatically reducing design cycles, improving yield, and enabling continued scaling. The article discusses the challenges of modern IC design, the critical role of DRC, and the AI revolution in routing optimization. It examines the benefits of AI-driven DRC routing convergence, including reduced time-to-market, improved design quality, cost reduction, enhanced scalability, and adaptability to new processes. Finally, it addresses current challenges and future research directions in this rapidly evolving field.

Thermal Quenching Mechanism of Mn4+ in Na2SiF6, NaKSiF6, and K2SiF6 Phosphors: Insights from the First-Principles Analysis.

This study aims to identify the key factors governing the thermal quenching of Mn4+ ion luminescence in fluoride-based phosphor materials used as red emitters in modern-day phosphor-converted LED devices. Here, we employ first-principles calculations for Mn4+-doped Na2SiF6, NaKSiF6, and K2SiF6 hosts to explore how host properties and local coordination environments influence thermal quenching behavior. The ΔSCF method was used to model the geometric structures of the Mn4+4A2 (ground) and 2E, 4T2 (excited) states and the energies of the optical transitions between these states. Our results reveal that thermal quenching in Na2SiF6 and K2SiF6 phosphors occurs through thermally activated 2E → 4T2 → 4A2 crossover. In contrast, thermal quenching in NaKSiF6 is due to other nonradiative decay pathways. Investigations of the mechanical stability of these fluorides show that NaKSiF6 is mechanically unstable. We suggest that this property of the host limits the luminescence efficiency of the embedded Mn4+ ions. We also determined the reason for the difference in the intensity of the 2E → 4A2 emission transition (ZPL) in the systems. These findings advance our fundamental understanding of the thermal quenching mechanism of Mn4+ ion luminescence in fluorides, and the results can aid future discoveries of technologically useful phosphors through high-throughput design methodologies.

Designing Hand Orthoses: Advances and Challenges in Material Extrusion

The intricate structure of human hands requires personalized orthotic treatments, especially with the growing aging population’s demand for accessible care. While traditional orthoses are effective, they face challenges of cost, customization time, and accessibility. Additive manufacturing, particularly material extrusion (MEX) techniques, can effectively address challenges in orthotic device production by enabling automated, complex, and cost-effective solutions. This work aims to provide engineers with a comprehensive set of design considerations for developing hand orthoses using MEX technology, focusing on applying design for additive manufacturing principles, to enhance rehabilitation outcomes. This objective is achieved by establishing design requirements for hand orthoses, reviewing design choices and methodologies across conventional and state-of-the-art MEX-based devices, and proposing an innovative approach to orthotic design. Hand orthosis design requirements were gathered through workshops with occupational therapists and categorized into engineer-, medical-, and patient-specific needs. A review of 3D-printed hand orthoses using MEX analyzes various design approaches, providing insights into existing solutions. The study introduces a modular design concept aimed at improving rehabilitation by enhancing customizability and functionality. It highlights the potential of MEX for creating personalized, cost-effective orthoses and offers recommendations for future research, to optimize designs and improve patient outcomes.

Application of Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) in assessing the relationship between affect and movement behaviors among people with mood disorders: a scoping review

ABSTRACT Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) enables the generation of intensive longitudinal data to examine dynamic relationships between variables. This study aims to describe the use of EMA in assessing dynamic associations between movement behaviors (physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep) and affective experiences among people with affective disorders. This scoping review searched peer-reviewed journal articles in eight electronic databases in both June 2022 and October 2023. Twenty-two studies were identified. Affective constructs were inconsistently implemented conceptually and operationally. Most studies (4/5) comparing compliance rates between mood-disordered participants and healthy controls found no significant differences, supporting EMA feasibility for individuals with affective disorders. Sleep quality was consistently linked to higher positive affect, lower negative affect, and mood enhancements. Physical activity (6/8 studies) was consistently associated with mood enhancements or improved positive affect, but not negative affect (2/3 studies). One study investigated affect and an indicator of sedentary behavior. Our review highlights EMA feasibility for investigating movement behaviors and affective experiences among people with affective disorders. Understanding these associations may contribute to informing clinical management of affective disorders and developing behavioral interventions such as just-in-time adaptive interventions. However, enhancing EMA methodology design and reporting is necessary to improve study reliability and validity.

Performance Optimization of Alkaline Multi-Industrial Waste-Based Cementitious Materials for Soil Solidification.

This study presents the development of eco-friendly cementitious materials for soil stabilization, based on alkaline multi-industrial waste (AMIW), using steel slag (SS), blast furnace slag (BFS), carbide slag (CS), fly ash (FA) and flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGDG) as the raw materials. The optimal AMIW-based cementitious material composition determined through orthogonal experiments was SS:CS:FGDG:BFS:FA = 15:10:15:44:16. Central composite design (CCD) in response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the curing process parameters. The maximum 7-day unconfined compressive strength (7d UCS) was achieved under the optimal conditions of 18.51% moisture content, 11.46% curing agent content and 26.48 min of mix-grinding time. The 7d UCS of the AMIW-stabilized soil showed a 24% improvement over ordinary Portland cement (OPC)-stabilized soil. Rietveld refinement results demonstrated that the main hydration products of the stabilized soil were C-S-H and ettringite. After curing for 7 days to 28 days, the C-S-H content increased from 3.31% to 5.76%, while the ettringite content increased from 1.41% to 3.54%. Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that with the extension of curing time, the pores of the stabilized soil become smaller and the structure becomes denser, resulting in an improvement in compressive strength.

Water hyacinth biorefinery: Improved biofuel production using Trichoderma atroviride pretreatment

AbstractThe pyrolysis of water hyacinth is gaining attention and acceptance as a resource recovery technique due to its availability and economic viability. However, the presence of lignin, one of the three major biomass fractions, presents significant challenges for profitable water hyacinth processing for biofuel production. Fungal pretreatment of water hyacinth for lignin breakdown has been explored but the application of Trichoderma atroviride as a pretreatment for pyrolysis is relatively novel. The efficacy of T. atroviride pretreatment in improving water hyacinth's pyrolytic products using a fixed‐bed reactor was therefore investigated in this study. The optimization process was studied using a central composite design in response surface methodology with Design Expert 13. Delignification of the biomass was established because the elemental analysis showed a 25.42% increase in cellulose content and a 23.40% and 3.37% decrease in lignin and hemicellulose content, respectively. The biomass pretreatment applied influenced the physical and chemical characteristics of the pyrolytic products. The highest pyrolysis oil yield increased by 25.81% at 575 °C and particle size 2290 μm, and the highest char yield decreased by 4.23% at 273 °C and particle size 1500 μm. This research is crucial for policy and research conversations as it offers a scientific basis for the application of T. atroviride pretreatment in biomass pyrolysis technology and emphasizes the optimal utilization of water hyacinths to obtain socio‐environmental benefits.

Bioconversion of mango peels into itaconic acid through submerged fermentation and statistical optimization of parameters through response surface methodology.

Itaconic acid is an industrially crucial organic acid due to its broad range of applications. The main hurdle in itaconic acid production is the high cost of the substrate, i.e., pure glucose, required for the fermentation process. Pakistan annually produces about 1.7 to 1.8 million metric tonnes of mango fruit. Keeping this in view, the potential of a sugar-rich fruit by-product, i.e., mango peels, was analyzed to be used as a substrate for the biosynthesis of itaconic acid using Aspergillus niger by submerged fermentation. Different physicochemical parameters (incubation period, temperature, agitation rate, inoculum size, and pH) were optimized using the central composite design (CCD) design of response surface methodology (RSM). The maximum production of itaconic acid, i.e., 4.6 g/L, was analyzed using 10% mango peels w/v (water hydrolysate), 3 mL inoculum volume after 5 days of fermentation period at pH 3, and a temperature of 32 °C when the media was kept at a 200-rpm agitation speed. The itaconic acid extraction from mango peels was done using the solvent extraction method using n-butanol. The identification and quantification of itaconic acid produced in the study were done using the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum and the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. According to HPLC analysis, 98.74% purity of itaconic acid was obtained in the research. Hence, it is concluded from the results that sugar-rich mango peels can act as a promising substrate for the biosynthesis of itaconic acid. Further conditions can be optimized at the bioreactor level to meet industrial requirements.

Explainable machine learning models for predicting the ultimate bending capacity of slotted perforated cold-formed steel beams under distortional buckling

This study develops explainable machine learning (ML) models to predict the ultimate bending capacity of cold-formed steel (CFS) beams with staggered slotted perforations, focusing on distortional buckling behavior. Utilizing a dataset from 432 non-linear finite element analysis simulations of CFS Lipped channels, ten ML algorithms, including four basic and six ensemble models, were evaluated. Ensemble models, specifically CatBoost and XGBoost, demonstrated superior accuracy, with test-set performances reaching a coefficient of determination (R2) of 99.9%, outperforming traditional analytical methods such as the Direct Strength Method (DSM). SHapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) were applied to highlight how features like plate thickness and root radius critically influence predictions. The findings underscore the enhanced predictive capabilities of ML models for structural performance, suggesting a significant potential to refine traditional design methodologies and optimize CFS beam designs.

FPGA Realization of a Fractional-Order Model of Universal Memory Elements

This paper addresses critical gaps in the digital implementations of fractional-order memelement emulators, particularly given the challenges associated with the development of solid-state devices using nanomaterials. Despite the potentials of these devices for industrial applications, the digital implementation of fractional-order models has received limited attention. This research contributes to bridging this knowledge gap by presenting the FPGA realization of the memelements based on a universal voltage-controlled circuit topology. The digital emulators successfully exhibit the pinched hysteresis behaviors of memristors, memcapacitors, and meminductors, showing the retention of historical states of their constitutive electronic variables. Additionally, we analyze the impact of the fractional-order parameters and excitation frequencies on the behaviors of the memelements. The design methodology involves using Xilinx System Generator for DSP blocks to lay out the architectures of the emulators, with synthesis and gate-level implementation performed on the Xilinx Artix-7 AC701 Evaluation kit, where resource utilization on hardware accounts for about 1% of available hardware resources. Further hardware analysis shows successful timing validation and low power consumption across all designs, with an average on-chip power of 0.23 Watts and average worst negative slack of 0.6 ns against a 5 ns constraint. We validate these results with Matlab 2020b simulations, which aligns with the hardware models.

Deep optimal experimental design for parameter estimation problems

Abstract Optimal experimental design is a well studied field in applied science and engineering. Techniques for estimating such a design are commonly used within the framework of parameter estimation. Nonetheless, in recent years parameter estimation techniques are changing rapidly with the introduction of deep learning techniques to replace traditional estimation methods. This in turn requires the adaptation of optimal experimental design that is associated with these new techniques. In this paper we investigate a new experimental design methodology that uses deep learning. We show that the training of a network as a Likelihood Free Estimator can be used to significantly simplify the design process and circumvent the need for the computationally expensive bi-level optimization problem that is inherent in optimal experimental design for non-linear systems. Furthermore, deep design improves the quality of the recovery process for parameter estimation problems. As proof of concept we apply our methodology to two different systems of Ordinary Differential Equations.

Mapping the Patient Experience in a Pediatric Hemophilia Unit: Our Patient Journey.

Background: Hemophilia is a rare X-linked bleeding disorder. Prophylaxis has improved outcomes, but there are still unmet needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to develop a patient journey in pediatric patients with hemophilia, a visual tool that illustrates patients' relationship with the healthcare provider through time useful for identifying patient needs, potential concerns ("pain points"), and gaps in care. Methods: qualitative study in a pediatric hemophilia unit using a human-centered design methodology. First stage: discover and empathize: (a) semi-structured interviews to patients/families and stakeholders; (b) observation techniques ("shadowing") to patients/families and professionals. Second stage: analyzing the collected information to create the patient journey. Results: A preliminary "clinical journey" was built using information from eight interviews with professionals from the interdisciplinary hemophilia team. Interviews with patient association representatives, 13 patients/families, and six "shadowing" techniques with patients and professionals were used to compare the "clinical journey" with the patient's reported experience. Main "pain points" were detected before diagnosis, at diagnosis, during assimilation, at treatment initiation, during training, and when patients start asking about their condition. The empowerment process was detected as a potential moment to improve patient/family experiences. Conclusions: The patient journey helps to better understand patient/family experiences related to the disease in different scenarios. Caregivers and patient learning and empowerment processes are significant moments where the interdisciplinary team should focus to offer valuable solutions to improve outcomes. Further research is required in this area, particularly empirical research to amend or confirm the suggested patient journey.

Implementation Dynamics and Project Delivery: A Case Study of Tullow Oil Exploration in Turkana, Kenya

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of community stakeholder involvement in the implementation process on project delivery by the Tullow Oil Exploration Company in South Lokichar Basin in Turkana, Kenya. Methodology: The study utilized a descriptive research design that incorporated both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection. While qualitative design was predominantly utilized, a small amount of quantitative methodology was included to assess perceptions. A triangulated methodological design was employed to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data. The study involved the use of questionnaire method to collect quantitative data and key informants guide and focus group discussion to collect qualitative data. This research adopted multistage sampling utilizing cluster sampling as one of the sampling methods and the first stage of sampling, where villages were divided into clusters which were later randomly sampled based on their proximity to the oil wells. Two villages from Lokori / Kochodin Ward in Turkana South Sub-County and eight villages in Lokichar Ward in Turkana South Sub-County were randomly picked. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive analysis and inferential analysis (cross-tabulation with chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses) by use of SPSS version 25. Qualitative data was analysed based on Content Analysis (CA) method. Findings: The study revealed community stakeholder involvement in the implementation process had statistically significant effect on community project delivery by Tullow Oil Exploration Company in South Lokichar Basin in Turkana, Kenya (X2=8.161, df=1, p-value = .000 and p-value=.037 (<0.05 respectively). Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Stakeholder Theory emphasizes the need for companies to take a wider view of their economic activities and consider all other stakeholders' interests, not just the shareholders. Its contributions to the descriptive, normative, and instrumental elements of Stakeholder Theory are thus underlined by the fact that community engagement may make or break the success and sustainability of community projects in this industry even during the implementation phase itself. It hence requires a balancing of the expectations of a Company with those of the community so that all the stakeholders really share goals and vision in similar ways concerning the community project at hand. The actual study indicates that, in practice, the effective participation of community stakeholders throughout the entire community project cycle-identification, planning, and especially implementation-enhances project delivery while at the same time enhancing ownership and cooperation at the local level. Such understanding of stakeholder management is key when companies operate their business in marginalized areas for the purpose of mitigating risks, community resistance, and ensuring easier ways of executing community projects. This research, therefore, calls for legal and regulatory environments that enhance stakeholder involvement in resource extraction projects. From a policy perspective, the government of Kenya and any other relevant country should develop policies that ensure that companies adopt formal mechanisms involving direct consultations of communities in the decision-making and operations processes. It is through this that the process reflects transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability-one of the facets of successful long-term community projects in resource-rich areas. These contributions are aimed at the improvement of project delivery in a sustainable manner together with social harmony across large-scale extraction-impacted areas.

Comparative Analysis and Integrated Methodology for the Electrical Design and Performance Evaluation of Thermoelectric Generators (TEGs) in Energy Harvesting Applications

Comparative Analysis and Integrated Methodology for the Electrical Design and Performance Evaluation of Thermoelectric Generators (TEGs) in Energy Harvesting Applications

Enhanced enantioselective separation of racemic menthol via reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography: Method development and computational insights for pre-screening

A robust and efficient enantioselective separation of racemic menthol was achieved on a standard C18 column with reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and UV detector. (R)-α-hydroxy-4-methylbenzeneacetic acid was utilized as the pre-column derivatization reagent. The impact of mobile phase composition on diastereomer selectivity was thoroughly investigated, resulting in a high resolution of 2.11 under optimized conditions. The method was rigorously validated for linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ). Notably, a separation pre-screening mechanism (SPM) and a prediction model was developed based on density functional theory (DFT) studies. This model elucidated the relationship between molecular polarity differences (△MPI) and chromatographic behavior, facilitating the interpretation and prediction of racemic menthol resolution with various chiral derivatization reagents. The present work not only presents an efficient and economical approach for menthol enantiomeric separation, but also offers valuable insights for the innovative design and advancement of chromatographic methodologies for a wide array of chiral enantiomers.

Dual-mode 1 × 2 optical switch with simultaneous modulation based on inverse design devices

Abstract Mode division multiplexing (MDM) technology, based on the parallelism inherent in mode dimensions, provides an advancement in enhancing on-chip optical communication channel capacity. In MDM communication systems, the routing and switching of optical signals are of essential importance. However, conventional multimode optical switches typically follow the demultiplexing-processing-multiplexing technological route, leading to an unavoidable increase in device size. In scenarios where multiple modes need to be routed synchronously, the implementation of simultaneous modulation optical switches offers a more efficient and feasible solution. Here, we propose two 1×2 dual-mode optical switches with simultaneous modulation on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform in the 1525-1565 nm wavelength range, utilizing two optical phase modulation techniques: mode transformation and waveguide widening. Simultaneously, we employ inverse design methodologies based on the adjoint variable method (AVM) and level-set method to create the compact single-connected devices, which are compatible with CMOS fabrication processes. The experimental results show that the insertion losses for both TE0 and TE1 modes are less than 1.6 dB (2.5 dB), with the worst modal crosstalk at most -13.5 dB (-12.7 dB) for the switch based on mode transformation (waveguide widening) strategy at the wavelength of 1550nm. The extinction ratio (ER) of the two proposed optical switches exceeds 25 dB at the same wavelength. Furthermore, the switches exhibit a 10%-90% rise time of 15.2 μs and a 90%-10% fall time of 19.5 μs at 1550 nm, indicating the switching speed can be up to kilohertz (kHz). Our proposed 1×2 optical switches hold potential as a fundamental unit for optical signal switching in high-integration multimode optical communication systems.

O LÚDICO NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: CONCEPÇÕES E PRÁTICASDOCENTES

This article is a section of a Master's Dissertation and aims to analyze how the knowledge of playfulness in early childhood education is contextualized in teachers' pedagogical practices based on the reality of a municipal early childhood education school. The justification is to reevaluate the pedagogical work, seeking to understand that while educators encounter challenges in developing a playful approach with young children, their practice becomes much more expressive and enjoyable for the children’s school experience. A learning environment where playfulness, creativity, and spontaneity prevail becomes far more conducive to learning. The methodological design was non-experimental, descriptive, cross-sectional, with a mixed approach. It was non-experimental because there was no manipulation of variables or comparison groups. The researcher observes what naturally occurs without interfering in any way. It is a descriptive investigation because it aims to describe the characteristics of a certain population or phenomenon or establish relationships between variables. As for the results, we emphasize that, although there was a comparison regarding the teachers’ years of service, it did not influence the findings. What became evident is that both teachers work with the same goal: to motivate the students’ learning processes through playful tools.