Mixed Methodological Approach Research Articles

Digitalization of cultural industries: Evidence from the official Spider-Man movie TikTok account

The digitalization of culture and creative industries has presented both challenges and opportunities. To effectively engage audiences and ensure their constant interest, these industries must continually adapt their circulation strategies. The objectives of this study are threefold: 1) analyze the strategies employed by the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to engage with the fan community; 2) examine the interplay between fiction and reality based on the relationships between characters and actors, as shown in social network posts; and 3) determine how the discourse in the film ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ is reconstructed on TikTok, leveraging its particular ‘affordances’ (Gibson, 1979). A mixed methodology approach was utilized, combining the use of Analisa.io software to provide a comprehensive view of the Spider-Man official account’s activities and user engagement with a detailed analysis of the thematic, multimodal, and discursive aspects of TikTok videos published by the account. The findings reveal that the MCU employs TikTok as a marketing tool for the new movie, utilizing three main strategies that align with the characteristics of transmedia storytelling and enhanced audience engagement: 1) strategic selection of publication moments for the growth of follower engagement; 2) extensive use of teasers; and 3) leveraging the presence of actors as a key element to facilitate fan identification.

Web‐based corporate social responsibility disclosure practices: A systematic literature review and research directions

AbstractThe current paper aims to conduct a comprehensive systematic review of the existing literature on web‐based Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) disclosure practices and introduce suggestions for scholars in this research area. To achieve this main objective, a systematic literature review technique was adopted, consisting of the content analysis of 119 papers from different scientific databases utilizing specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings of the study show that scholars have a strong and continuing interest in a variety of web‐based Corporate Social Responsibility disclosure (CSRD) aspects. Moreover, the investigation revealed that stakeholder, legitimacy, institutional, and Media‐Richness theories were more prevalent in the online CSRD literature. According to the investigation, the two key determinants of online CSRD are firm‐ and country‐level characteristics. The results further confirm that content analysis is the most common research methodology. Furthermore, the bulk of online CSRD studies are from Spain, Malaysia, and the United States. Moreover, findings indicate that samples of 91 up to 200 entities from listed companies from multiple industries and banks are the most common sample sizes and sectors. The review suggests that there is a gap in the use of mixed methodological studies. The current work has some limitations. In more detail, this study limited the search to reviewing 119 papers published in English peer‐reviewed journals that focused on web‐based CSR disclosure practices until February 2023, so there might be other academic studies accidentally missed. Future studies will require a mixed methodological approach, including quantitative (e.g., document analysis) and qualitative research methods (i.e., interviews and case studies), to examine, for example, the determinants (e.g., corporate governance mechanisms, cultural dimensions, ESG performance scores, and prosperity status like country governance, investment environment) and consequences (i.e., corporate cash holdings, credit ratings) of web‐based CSR disclosure in various sectors such as the banking sector, Universities, SMEs, and MNCs. The study reveals a strong interest in web‐based CSR aspects, emphasizing its significance in fostering societal relationships among businesses and their stakeholders. Furthermore, the study suggests that professional bodies, regulators, and policymakers should establish effective standards for CSRD on websites to ensure the quality, quantity, and type of information available. The originality of this paper derives from its being one of the first papers to date that analyses comprehensively and systematically all the articles related to internet CSR disclosure practices and brings out interesting directions for future research.

Approaches to Developing the Manufacturing Industry of Small and Medium Enterprises for Readiness Towards Large Businesses in Thailand

This research aims to 1) study the structure and operational characteristics of the manufacturing industry in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thailand for readiness towards becoming large-scale businesses; 2) investigate the components of development approaches for the manufacturing industry in SMEs for readiness towards becoming large-scale businesses; and 3) develop a structural equation model (SEM) for the development approaches of the manufacturing industry in SMEs for readiness towards becoming large-scale businesses. The study employed a mixed-methodology approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative research. The qualitative research involved in-depth interviews with a sample of 9 experts from 3 different groups: 3 entrepreneurs or executives in the manufacturing industry, three from the government sector, and three academics. For quantitative research, data was collected via surveys from 500 entrepreneurs or executives and analyzed using frequency, percentage, average, standard deviation, and structural equation modeling (SEM) with the advanced statistical analysis software AMOS. The research on the general characteristics of organizations found that they have been operating for 10-15 years, are predominantly Thai-owned, use financial institutions for funding, are established as limited companies, and mostly have offices located in Thailand. In terms of structure and operational characteristics, the research revealed that the most suitable business strategy for these organizations is creating a product advantage, emphasizing mentorship systems from knowledgeable employees, and key leadership qualities, including treating colleagues with kindness and generosity and developing leadership at various levels focusing on experience, comprehensive knowledge, and business expertise.The study on the importance of different components indicated that all aspects were highly important, with the order of importance from highest to lowest being digital technology, entrepreneurial leadership, knowledge management, and innovative organization. The results of the analysis of the structural equation model for small and medium-sized enterprises management for sustainable strength found that the chi-squared probability (CMIN-r) was 0.128, the relative chi-squared (CMIN/DF) was 1.126, the GFI was 0.955, and the root mean squared index of error estimation (RMSEA) was 0.015. It can be concluded that the model is consistent with the empirical data.

Can you credit it? Towards a process for ascribing credit to apprenticeships in England

PurposeApprenticeships in England, while defined by level and typical duration, are not quantified regarding the number of learning hours required to achieve the outcomes specified, as with other regulated qualifications and accredited programmes. This paper proposes an approach to ascribe credit to apprenticeships recognising both on-and-off-the-job learning to remove some of the existing barriers to accessing higher education (HE) and the professions.Design/methodology/approachA mixed methodological approach resulting in a total learning hours/credit value was proposed.FindingsThere is significant HE-wide confusion regarding the amount of learning/training that is required to complete apprenticeships in England. Whilst sector guidance made it clear that there was no prescribed method to ascribe credit to qualifications, programmes, modules, units or apprenticeships by drawing out the core principles within current practice, a key outcome of this project was the development of a method to ascribe a credit value to apprenticeships.Research limitations/implicationsThere is potential to support further research into the recognition of prior learning as a specialised pedagogy and for reflecting on apprenticeship practice in other roles and sectors.Practical implicationsWhilst the project underpinning this paper focused on the healthcare sector, the method used to ascribe credit to the level-3 healthcare support worker apprenticeship was not sector specific and can therefore be applied to apprenticeships within other contexts providing more widespread benefits to workforce development.Social implicationsPolicy makers must ensure that employers and providers are clear that the minimum statutory off-the-job hours constitute an apprentice employment entitlement, which must not be conflated with total apprenticeship learning hours requirements. This recommended policy clarification could assist in simplifying the process required for ascribing credit to apprenticeships and at the same time support a move towards better and more consistent recognition of the value of apprenticeship learning.Originality/valueIt is a first attempt to ascribe a credit value to an apprenticeship in England for the specific purpose of facilitating progression to HE.

Factors and Manifestations of Resilience in Graduate Students: A Multidimensional Perspective

In the current environment of higher education, universities face the challenge of fostering resilience in graduate students, a crucial element for their academic success and personal development. This study focuses on analyzing the factors that contribute to resilience in graduate students at the State University of Milagro (UNEMI). A mixed-methodological approach was used, integrating quantitative and qualitative analyses of data collected through questionnaires applied to students from three different master's programs. The research, exploratory and descriptive in nature, adopted a non-experimental and cross-sectional design, which allowed for data collection at a specific point in time, without altering variables. The sample consisted of 733 students, utilizing a detailed questionnaire and qualitative analyses for in-depth interpretation. The electronic distribution of the questionnaires facilitated broad participation. The results, structured into seven subscales, revealed significant variations in student experiences across different disciplines. These differences underline the need for educational policies tailored to the specific characteristics of each field of study. Subtle but important differences in the perception of resilience and well-being between genders were observed, highlighting the importance of more inclusive educational approaches. Factorial analysis provided a detailed view of how various factors impact aspects such as health, well-being, motivation, and student satisfaction. It is concluded that this holistic approach is key to understanding the complexity of the university experience and developing educational strategies that promote comprehensive and enriching learning. Received: 17 January 2024 / Accepted: 6 April 2024 / Published: 5 May 2024

Using Latent Class Analysis to Identify Need Typologies and Recidivism Likelihood Among Women Who Perpetrate Violence.

Understanding the heterogeneity of women who engage in violence is critical to provide effective treatment and reduce the likelihood of recidivism. Existing typologies of women who engage in violence have been created using mixed methodological approaches; the field would benefit from replication using a quantitative clustering method-latent class analysis (LCA)-as it is arguably more objective than methods used to date. A LCA was conducted using archival data involving 3,773 justice-impacted women in Western Canada to identify unique subgroups of women who perpetrate violence. Three distinct profiles emerged: (a) intimate partner violence (IPV)-only (40.5%), wherein almost all women reported only perpetrating domestic violence and had zero or only one previous violent conviction, (b) patterned (19.1%), wherein violence was perpetrated toward domestic partners and unknown victims, and the majority had two or more previous violent convictions, and (c) isolated (40.4%), wherein very few perpetrated domestic violence, some perpetrated violence toward unknowns, and the majority had either zero or only one previous conviction for a violent offense. Need profiles and recidivism outcomes were further analyzed as a function of group membership. As hypothesized, the group with the greatest criminal history and use of violence reported the greatest needs. Recidivism also increased as the number of dynamic needs increased. Notably, 80.9% of the sample was predominantly low risk/low need and were identified as IPV-only or isolated women. Implications of these findings may be used to inform risk classification, treatment targets, and treatment intensity required to reduce the likelihood of recidivism among women who perpetrate violence.

POLICY RECOMMENDATION FOR INTEGRATED SMART HEATING SYSTEM

In the context of the challenges posed by global climate change and the need for a sustainable energy transition, this study addresses the ways in which innovative strategies contribute to the formulation of public policies aimed at optimising heating systems. This research aims to identify solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to increase energy efficiency in the field of heating, essential aspects in achieving global sustainability goals to formulate policy recommendations for an integrated heating system. Adopting a mixed methodological approach, this analysis combines the literature review with a systematic examination of different initiatives and solutions adopted at the urban level to extract patterns of good practice and highlight relevant relationships and differences. The research emphasises the importance of the synergy between innovation, governance, and financing mechanisms in promoting sustainable and effective solutions. In the light of good practices and lessons learned from cities such as Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Vancouver, and Freiburg, the authors' contribution focuses on identifying governance strategies that facilitate the transition to optimised heating systems. These cities demonstrate how the implementation of well-designed public policies can act as a catalyst for the adoption of sustainable heating solutions, highlighting the essential role of public policy in mediating urban development needs and the effective implementation of sustainability initiatives. The research results show that adopting an integrated and participatory approach involving all relevant actors can speed up the adoption of more efficient heating systems with reduced environmental impact. This underlines the importance of adopting legislative and public policy frameworks that stimulate heating innovation and encourage collaboration between the public, private and community sectors. Beneficiaries of this research include policy makers, energy professionals, and the academic community, providing them with a solid foundation for the development and implementation of effective public policies. The study concludes that it is essential to develop public policy strategies that promote the adoption of sustainable heating solutions, based on lessons learned from cities that have successfully implemented such initiatives. Thus, progress towards a sustainable energy future can be accelerated, contributing significantly to global efforts to reduce the negative impact on the environment.

An advanced netnographic framework for analyzing brand community overlap conflicts in the phygital brand community (PBC) environment

Purpose This study aims to introduce and define the concept of phygital brand community (PBC). It discusses the potential conflicts that can arise from engaging in multiple PBCs and propose an enriched netnographic methodological approach to explore the role of PBC engagement overlap and its influence on the phygital experience. Design/methodology/approach Following a critical analysis of the inherent limitations of netnographic methodological approaches in the context of PBCs, this study develops an enriched netnographic research protocol that accounts for the challenges of engagement overlap among PBCs. Findings This study proposes two methods of analysis, namely, “participatory netnography” and “witness netnography,” which are derived from a mixed-methodology approach that integrates elements of netnography. Research limitations/implications The findings of this study underscore the requisite methodological refinements imperative for enhancing netnographic analysis, particularly in its application for a better comprehension of individual behaviors within the realm of PBCs. In pursuit of this objective, the identified adjustments encompass ethical considerations, evaluation methods and their application in a digital milieu, where intricate mechanics and technologies frequently elude conventional methodologies. Originality/value In this study, the authors present a novel conceptualization of PBCs, highlighting their role and development, as well as the challenges they pose. To adequately capture the impact of PBC engagement overlap, the authors propose the need for an enriched mixed-methodological approach.

Analysis of the Effects of Environmental Entrepreneurship on Sustainable Development among Small and Medium Enterprises in Lusaka’s Central Business District (CBD)

Currently, there is a pressing need for entrepreneurs to adopt environmentally friendly strategies, technologies, and products that will result into sustainable solutions to problems of the day. This study was adopted to analyze the effects of environmental entrepreneurship on sustainable development among small and medium enterprises in Lusaka’s CBD. A sample of 278 respondents was selected using the Cochran formula which resulted into a response rate of 91% with 252 respondents. A mixed methodology approach was used and data was analyzed through the use of SPSS from which correlation and a summary of coefficient were used to measure the relationship among variables. The overall coefficient of correlation of 0.947 from the SPSS results suggests that there is a strong positive relationship between the variables under observation in relation to sustainable development among SMEs with regards to environmental entrepreneurship strategies which are: environmental efficacy, and environmental innovation. The R-Square (coefficient of determination) of 0.897 suggests that sustainable development is influenced 89.7% by the independent variables observed.

Educational Practices and the Use of Artificial Intelligence: A Multifaceted Analysis in the Current Context

Objetive: The research aims to examine current educational practices related to the understanding and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in the educational field. Theoretical framework: The research collects information related to the conceptual framework, detailing concepts involving the research variables; likewise, a compilation of background research from similar studies in the years 2022 and 2023 is conducted. Method: The research employs a mixed methodology, incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. A comprehensive review of academic literature and official documents is conducted to identify prevalent educational practices in the field of AI. Additionally, surveys and interviews are designed targeting teachers, students, and AI experts to gather detailed information about their experiences, knowledge, and perceptions regarding AI in education. Results and conclusion: The results of the study reveal a diverse range of educational practices related to AI. These practices include the use of AI tools for personalized learning and the integration of AI concepts into the school curriculum. Common challenges such as the lack of resources and adequate training for teachers, as well as ethical and privacy concerns surrounding AI use in the classroom, are identified. Research implications: The findings of this research have significant implications for educational practices related to AI. They underscore the need for enhanced teacher training, the development of ethical guidelines, and the promotion of digital literacy in educational settings. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of addressing challenges such as resource constraints and privacy concerns to facilitate the effective integration of AI into education. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into current educational practices regarding AI. By employing a mixed methodology approach, the study offers a comprehensive understanding of the subject, identifying common practices and challenges. Moreover, the research suggests practical recommendations for promoting the responsible use of AI in education and calls for further exploration of innovative approaches in this field.

INNOVATIVE PARTICIPATORY DESIGN METHOD USING SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE PLATFORMS

The study examines the effects of social media (SM), online platforms (OP) and digital instruments (DI) on participants' communication and the structure of the participatory design processes (PDPs). It addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the potential of these SM and OP to enhance stakeholders' involvement in PDPs. Through a case study of a participatory children's furniture design project involving diverse stakeholders, including children, parents, scholars, specialists, industry, university and the community, the study investigates how SM, OP and DI facilitate enriched and expedited communication in PDPs. The paper discusses these tools' challenges and opportunities within a conceptual framework. A mixed methodology approach is employed for data collection, incorporating observations, surveys, interviews and various participatory activities. By examining the findings, the study seeks to answer two key research questions: How do SM and OP influence communication patterns in PDPs? What is the impact of these DI on the structure and dynamics of the PDPs? The study proposes an innovative approach to overcome associated challenges. The positive effects of SM, OP and DI can significantly reshape the nature of participation in PDPs, such as the number of participants, the duration of the process and budget limitations.

Urban Brand: Implications of Legal Management, Branding, and Urban Icons in the Decentralized Autonomous Government of the Municipality of Ambato

Currently, the development of a city brand represents a key strategy for governments interested in boosting tourism within their borders. However, improper use of this resource can be counterproductive. The purpose of this study is to determine the criteria for assessing the effectiveness of the city brand and its tourist appeal, applying the Anholt Hexagon model. A mixed-methodological approach was adopted, analyzing the six dimensions of the model as a theoretical framework, and complementing it with a quantitative study based on surveys about the perception of tourists, both local and international, with a sample of 384 participants. The research aimed to establish a relationship between the hypothetical factors and each of the evaluated dimensions (presence, pulse, place, people, potential, and prerequisites) to identify the key elements for the success of a city brand, such as its architecture, climate, natural reserves, and promotional strategies. It is concluded that the effective development of a city brand requires careful consideration of these factors to enhance tourist retention and complement the sustainable development of the city of Ambato.

DEVELOPMENT OF A NEAR REAL-TIME WARNING AGRICULTURAL SYSTEM FOR DISASTER PREDICTION

The effects of disasters are not uniform across all individuals and communities. One’s preparedness and socioeconomic factors determine how much they will pay. Preparedness plays a crucial role in reducing the impact of disasters and aiding in their management and recovery. However, effectively preparing for unforeseen disasters becomes difficult when there is insufficient knowledge and expertise. Without accurate predictions and timely alerts about disasters, a community's level of readiness remains extremely low. Namibia has experienced various unavoidable climate-related dangers over time, making it vulnerable in the future. Inconsistencies in disseminating weather information and early disaster notifications are factors that obstruct the mitigation of climate-related disasters. Furthermore, disaster early warning system implementation has been slower in most African countries due to limited technical resources. Another notable challenge is upholding internationally standardized early warning systems in rural settings without overlooking the dynamics of the rural community, which leads to system ineffectiveness. Therefore, this study employed a mixed-methodology approach to gather qualitative and quantitative data from local farmers through the use of questionnaires to review the readiness to adopt early warning systems in northern Namibia, assess available technical resources, study the existing disaster mitigation practices in Namibia. Subsequently, historic and near real time weather data was collected from weather agencies, which ultimately designed and developed an early warning system to enhance resilience and preparedness for hazards and risks in farming communities by issuing comprehensive and timely alerts. The study confirmed the dire need for disaster prediction systems in Namibia, although it also highlighted pressing accessibility concerns that future researchers could study, especially under-resourced potential users.

THE IMPACT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES ON THE TEACHER-LEARNER INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP IN THE QUALIFYING SECONDARY CYCLE

Our study focuses on the impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) on interpersonal relationships within the educational context, particularly between teachers and learners. In the era of the digital revolution, we explore how these technologies alter the quality of these relationships, which can be both beneficial (encouraging mutual assistance, empathy, and motivation) and problematic (risks of cyber-violence and harassment). Utilizing a mixedmethodology approach, combining semi-structured interviews with secondary school teachers and an online questionnaire for high school students in Agadir, our research aims to assess the extent to which ICT influences these interpersonal dynamics. The findings suggest that, despite the challenges, social networks and other digital platforms can enhance teacherlearner relationships through positive interactions, while highlighting the need to navigate cautiously in the face of negative aspects

DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW INSTRUCTIONAL MODEL FOR ENHANCING STUDENTS’ WILLINGNESS TO COMMUNICATE AND PERFORMANCE IN COLLEGES, CHINA

The learner’s willingness to communicate is one of the essential elements in learning and implementing foreign languages effectively. The researchers are eager to develop a new intercultural instruction model to enhance non-English major college students’ intercultural communicative willingness in English classrooms in China. A mixed methodology approach that combined qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis was utilized to analyze data from a questionnaire, the new intercultural teaching model, in-depth interviews, and productive tasks such as speaking tasks and writing tasks. There were 98 Chinese students participating in this research in the academic year 2019–2020. The results revealed that after the development and implementation of the new intercultural teaching model, the students showed progress in their willingness to communicate, their satisfaction with the results of the in-depth interviews, and their high performance in those productive tasks. On this basis, this research presents how to develop and implement an instructional model effectively to enhance the students’ intercultural communicative willingness and productive performance.

A case study of the Methodist Church in the light of Luke 18:1–8 to address the plight of women

As much as Zimbabwe is considered one of the highly literate countries in the Global South, with well documented succession and inheritance laws, womenfolk continue to be stripped of their assets after the death of their husbands. This trend became even worse during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic when movement was restricted, making it difficult to access the courts of law. Using a mixed methodological approach of a desk research and qualitative interviews conducted in the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Zororo Comfort circuit in Harare, it has been noted that women and girls face numerous horrific experiences, pushing them to wallow in the margins of society. This study therefore calls for the church to address the vulnerability of women and girls using a deviant theory. To date, there are increasing figures of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child marriages. Financial and communal disturbances corresponding through continuous pandemic challenges for women are aggravated, and those who survive find it challenging to hunt for fairness because of stockpiled court issues and freedom for the perpetrators. The fact that women are dispossessed of their belongings because of the cultural status of being a woman calls for a cultural cue. Using a deviant theory in the narrative of a tenacious widow in the gospel of Luke 18:1–8 from a sociological dimension, this study provides a critical edge into interpreting the action of this widow who deviated from expected societal customs. The study concludes by calling faith communities to re-read the widow’s story through deviant theory spectacles to raise questions on how this widow courageously represented herself from societal margin to undermine the centre (patriarchal standards) and to utilise the text as a resource for addressing the plight of women to be repositioned and be empowered in Zimbabwe.Contribution: This study contributes to the ongoing academic studies on women, pandemics, religion and gender, using the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Zororo Comfort circuit as a case study. It concludes by an invitation to faith communities to re-read the widow’s story using a deviant theory in order to use the text as a resource to alleviate the plight of women and empower them to the position of equilibrium with men.

Desnaturalización del doble conforme y desbordamiento de carga procesal en el Perú a propósito de la Ley N° 31592, ley que modifica la condena del absuelto

The objective was to analyze the implications associated with the enactment of Law No. 31592, which introduces significant amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure regarding the acquitted person's conviction. For these purposes, it was analyzed whether such legislation complies with national and international standards regarding judicial conformity, as well as to examine its feasibility and effectiveness in terms of judicial proceedings aimed at challenging acquittal convictions. A mixed methodological approach was adopted over an extended period, covering the analysis of judicial decisions issued between the period 2010 - 2022. Through a thorough analysis, it was concluded that the principle of double jeopardy should be applied exclusively to the convicted person, highlighting that challenges related to acquittal convictions should be the competence of a Criminal or Mixed Chamber belonging to a specific Judicial District, instead of being attributed to the Supreme Court. Consequently, the modification introduced by this Law is highly detrimental by virtue of the possible difficulties it could cause in the operability of the appeal processes, as well as its potential to weaken the principle of double conformity, which constitutes a fundamental pillar in the judicial system.

Promoting green growth through identification of sustainable strategies: a hybrid approach

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to rank and analyze the key strategies to sustainable finance adoption in the manufacturing sector using Fuzzy Delphi method (FDM), Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and MICMAC (impact matrix cross-reference multiplication applied to a classification) analysis.Design/methodology/approachThe study develops a novel framework to identify and analyze the mutual relationships among set of sustainable policies using extensive literature survey and experts opinion. Initially, the study found 14 strategies to implement sustainable finance with the help of vast literature. Then, the list of identified factors were screened through Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM). Based on driving and dependence power, the final list of factors are divided into three categories.FindingsThe study findings reveal that “environmental rules and practices”, “financial incentives, tax reduction and subsidy”, have strongest driving power for promoting sustainable financial system in Pakistani manufacturing sector. Furthermore, “environmental awareness” and “long term vision” are found to be highly influenced by other corresponding elements in a system.Practical implicationsThe ISM approach assists professionals, academics, and managers in identifying and ranking policies in implementing green business techniques. The hierarchical representation of ISM results provides a roadmap for decision-makers to navigate and prioritize factors effectively, facilitating the implementation of strategies that contribute to sustainable growth within organizations.Social implicationsThe study results provide interesting clues regarding green finance policies that provide the foundations, incentives, protections or other provisions that support the ecological conservancy’s mission. Specifically, the findings guide that government must offer research grants to private enterprises, research and development institutions, and universities to promote environmental protection and develop transformative technologies such as waste recycling, renewable energy, carbon capture, and power consumption.Originality/valueThe exploration of strategies for sustainable finance adoption with the help of mixed methodological approach and classification of these strategies on the basis of importance level is a new attempt in the field of manufacturing sector.

Kairos study protocol: a multidisciplinary approach to the study of school timing and its effects on health, well-being and students' performance.

Recent evidence from chronobiology, chssronomedicine and chronopsychology shows that the organisation of social time (e.g., school schedules) generally does not respect biological time. This raises concerns about the impact of the constant mismatch between students' social and internal body clocks on their health, well-being and academic performance. The present paper describes a protocol used to investigate the problem of (de) synchronisation of biological times (chronotypes) in childhood and youth in relation to school times. It studies the effects of student chronotype vs. school schedule matches/mismatches on health behaviours (e.g., how many hours students sleep, when they sleep, eat, do physical activity, spend time outdoors in daylight) and learning (verbal expression, spatial structuring, operations) and whether alert-fatigue levels mediate this effect alignments/misalignments on learning (verbal expression, spatial structuring, operations) and their mediation by alert-fatigue levels. The novelty of our protocol lies in its multidisciplinary and mixed methodology approach to a relevant and complex issue. It draws on up-to-date knowledge from the areas of biology, medicine, psychology, pedagogy and sociology. The methods employed include a varied repertoire of techniques from hormonal analysis (cortisol and melatonin), continuous activity and light monitoring, self-registration of food intake, sleep timings, exercise and exposure to screens, alongside with systematic application of cognitive performance tests (e.g., memory, reasoning, calculation, attention) and self-reported well-being. This comprehensive and interdisciplinary protocol should support evidence-based education policy measures related to school time organisation. Appropriate and healthier school timetables will contribute to social change, healthier students and with more efficient learning. The results of studies using a similar methodology in other countries would ensure replication and comparability of results and contribute to knowledge to support policy making.

Financial Technologies for All MENA citizens: Tackling barriers and promoting inclusion

The digital divide within the financial sector, closely intertwined with the rapid evolution of financial technologies, commonly known as "FinTech," has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of financial services. These innovations have ushered in novel avenues for accessibility, enhancing the security of financial transactions and transcending traditional spatiotemporal constraints. This paper embarks on a journey to address key inquiries within the MENA region. It explores digital financial inclusion levels across MENA countries, identifies segments facing digital financial exclusion, scrutinizes the role of the digital divide, often compounded by a lack of financial literacy, as a barrier to financial inclusion, and investigates how FinTech can serve as a catalyst for inclusive development, with a specific focus on marginalized groups like women and the elderly. Our research employs a comprehensive mixed-methodological approach. We draw from micro-level data sourced from 9053 individuals, extracted from the World Bank's latest Global Findex 2021 database. Our comparative analysis, rooted in a two-step principal component analysis method to create the MENA Digital Financial Inclusion Index (DFII), shedding light on the current state of digital financial inclusion in the MENA region. Despite recent initiatives, our findings underscore that digital financial inclusion in the region remains relatively low. Furthermore, our estimations, based on the Heckman selection methodology, emphasize the pivotal role played by factors such as educational attainment, labor force participation, information and communication technologies, and internet access as primary drivers of digital financial inclusion in the MENA region. Our research contributes a substantial body of empirical evidence regarding digital financial inclusion levels across MENA countries, charting a path toward bridging the digital divide within the financial sector. These strategies encompass enhancing digital financial literacy, catalyzing broader participation in the labor market, and facilitating expanded access to mobile phones and the Internet. In light of our comprehensive dataset, the policy implications drawn from our study are of paramount interest to financial sector regulators in the MENA region, grounded in the real-life experiences of the individuals constituting our database, with the overarching goal of elevating digital financial inclusion in the region to new heights.