Mixed Methods Research Approach Research Articles

Code-switching as a pedagogical practice for senior phase teachers teaching content subjects in OR-Tambo district

Background: The notion that teaching content subjects in schools utilising code-switching as a pedagogical approach contributes positively to academic achievements is well documented.Aim: This article demonstrates the effectiveness of code-switching as a pedagogical practice for senior-phase teachers teaching content subjects in some selected schools of the OR-Tambo education district.Setting: The study was conducted in three semi-rural schools in the Eastern Cape province.Methods: The study utilised a mixed-method research approach in three public schools. Participants were purposefully selected. Thematic content analysis was used to interpret the results.Results: The findings of this study indicated that teachers’ frequent use of code-switching during the senior phase teaching of the English language is a norm in a classroom. At the same time, learners were frustrated to learn the content subjects in English. Moreover, poor learner academic background affects their academic performance in the content subjects. The study reveals a notable lack of pedagogic support for teachers from officials in the Department of Education as well as a sizable component of the school administration team.Conclusion: The use of code-switching is a useful tool to improve the effectiveness of teaching and learning in senior-phase lessons.Contribution: The study recommends that teachers and learners be encouraged to use code-switching, especially when dealing with difficult material to be taught in English. The study recommends that the Department of Education conduct extensive workshops on professional growth. This all-encompassing strategy might seek to strengthen the senior phase classroom, creating a lively and encouraging atmosphere for teachers and learners alike.

Influence of Higher Education E-Service Quality on E-Learning Student Satisfaction; As Moderated By Digital Literacy: A Mixed Method Research Approach

Introduction: This paper explores the impact of college e-service quality on student satisfaction in the context of the innovative practice of "Internet + Education" in order to research whether there is any difference in students' perception of college e-service quality under the influence of different levels of digital literacy. The research object of this paper is students of universities in Kunming, and the SERVQUAL model is extended. Among them, the independent variables are the five dimensions of e-service quality. The dependent variable is online education student satisfaction. The moderating variable is digital literacy. This research is based on relevant service theories. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods is used. The results of the research show that the impact of service quality on college students' e-learning satisfaction is different under different levels of digital literacy. Objective: The research objective of this paper is to investigate the impact of the quality of e-services in higher education on student satisfaction in order to research whether there are differences in students' perceptions of the quality of e-services in higher education under the influence of different levels of digital literacy. Theoretical Framework: This research was expanded with the SERVQUAL model and followed the exploratory sequential mixed methods process of scientific investigation, from the initial selection of variables to the final discussion of recommendations and countermeasures. Method: In this study, the scientific survey process of exploratory sequential mixed methods was used to research the satisfaction of college students with online education based on the theory of digital literacy and service quality, using college students in Kunming, China, as the target of the survey, and a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Results and Discussion: The results of the analysis showed that the independent variable: the five factors of e-services (the higher, the higher the satisfaction of students. And under the moderating variable, digital literacy moderated all the other factors, only the relationship between responsibility and e-learning student satisfaction had no significant moderating effect. [synthesize the main results of the research]. In the discussion section, these results will be correlated according to the theoretical framework, highlighting the identified effects and relationships. This section also considers possible limitations of the research. Research Implications: 1. theoretical significance: by constructing a comprehensive theoretical model, this research aims to provide new insights into the field of e-learning. It not only helps to understand the impact of E-learning platform design and service quality, but also emphasizes digital literacy as an important moderating variable. 2. Practical significance: The research results will provide value to educational technology developers and educational policy makers, helping them to optimize e-learning platforms to enhance user experience and learning outcomes. Originality/Value: This research expands the SERVQUAL model by taking online education as the background, combining the actual situation of online education in China, and taking digital literacy as the variable. It allows colleges and universities to break through the original traditional education model. And lifelong learning and personalized learning are the focus of the reform of continuing education in colleges and universities. The results of this research will promote colleges and universities to continuously improve the quality of online education and provide reference for schools and teachers to carry out online education and continuing education.

A STUDY ON MANAGING MATERIAL HANDLING, STORAGE AND PACKAGING IN FREIGHT FORWARDING AT FLYJAC LOGISTICS PVT LT

This study looks into the difficulties and practices that the freight forwarding industry is currently facing in these areas. A combination of quantitative data collection through surveys and qualitative insights gained from interviews with industry experts were combined in a mixed-method research approach. Thematic analysis and statistical methods were used for data interpretation and analysis. The results indicate that there exist noteworthy prospects for enhancing material handling procedures, optimizing storage, and refining packaging tactics. Among the recommendations are the use of cutting-edge technologies for inventory control, the application of lean concepts to optimize processes, and the creation of environmentally friendly packaging options. Freight forwarding businesses can increase customer satisfaction, cut expenses, and increase efficiency by putting these recommendations into practice. KEY WORDS: Inventory management software, Conveyor systems, Inventory control, Space utilization and Packaging materials.

Amplifying victim–survivor voices: media power, collective action, and ultra-Orthodox Jewish identity in the Leifer case

This article underscores the transformative impact of victim–survivor voices in reshaping public discourse on child sexual abuse (CSA). The research project took as the backbone for analysis the Malka Leifer case that spanned 15 years and is linked to the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse's report of Case Study 22, which examined responses in ultra-Orthodox Jewish schools to child sexual abuse. Adopting a mixed methods research approach, this study combines qualitative media analysis of 102 news articles and 8 in-depth focus groups to investigate the impact of media outlets in amplifying victim voice and influencing public discourse, and how this impacts the subjects of mediatised public crises. Drawing on the theorising of Couldry and Cottle, the article considers the capacity and limitations of survivor-advocates to leverage media power in the contemporary media system. By exploring the ‘Privileging Victim Voice’ frame, this paper sheds light on how victim–survivor advocates utilised mainstream, local religious, and social media to solidify their central place in the narrative and its reportage. The media analysis served as the foundation for a ‘peer conversation’ style of focus groups with Jewish community members to investigate local impacts of the case's media reportage. The focus group methodology sought to represent this diverse community as wholly as possible. Findings reveal the significant power of journalists’ framing and sourcing practices, and how Jewish institutional child sexual abuse is framed by media outlets within the Australian media landscape. Further, it showcases the broader implications of public inquiries, such as Australia's Royal Commission, in empowering victim–survivors and centreing their narratives in media reportage.

Education stakeholders’ perceptions on the relevant management model towards development of infrastructure facilities in public secondary schools

PurposeThis paper aims to communicate the relevant management model with optimal performance in the collection of construction resources (human, non-human), supervision of workers and activities in the development of adequate and quality school infrastructure facilities.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a mixed methods research approach in collecting and analysing research findings. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews and questionnaires which consisted of closed questions were the data collection tools. Numerical data collected were processed and analysed by using quantitative methods and techniques such as descriptive analysis, whereas text data were subjected to content analysis.FindingsThe findings revealed that the Post-New Public Management (PNPM) is relevant in the collection of construction resources and suitable for the supervision of workers and tasks towards the development of adequate and quality school infrastructure facilities. Based on the evidence generated, the PNPM model was recommended to be adapted to collection of construction resources and supervision of workers and activities.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the need for construction committees and other education policy implementers to adapt a relevant management model in realising optimal performance in the development of adequate and quality school infrastructure facilities.

STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES ON CHATGPT: AN EXPLORATION OF PERCEPTIONS

This master's thesis represents a meticulous scholarly endeavor meticulously crafted to illuminate the multifaceted perspectives of Indian students enrolled in MBA, B.Tech, BBA, and B.Com programs regarding the integration of ChatGPT within the academic landscape. Positioned at the intersection of technology and education, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of students' viewpoints, experiences, and perceptions concerning ChatGPT—an advanced language model renowned for its potential to revolutionize learning environments. Adopting a meticulous mixed-methods research approach, this study embarks on a journey to delve into the intricate nuances of students' interactions with ChatGPT, encompassing facets such as usability, impact on learning experiences, and overall satisfaction. Through meticulously structured surveys and in-depth interviews meticulously tailored to capture the diverse array of perspectives held by students, the research methodically collects and analyzes data to unveil the underlying factors shaping students' perceptions. By rigorously examining the data gleaned from these methodologies, the study aspires to unravel the complexities inherent in students' engagement with ChatGPT, thereby offering invaluable insights into the implications of its integration into the Indian higher education landscape. As such, this thesis serves as a pivotal contribution to the scholarly discourse surrounding the responsible adoption and implementation of advanced language models in educational settings. In essence, this research endeavors to inform decision-makers, educators, and stakeholders about the transformative potential of ChatGPT within the realm of higher education. Through its meticulous examination of students' perspectives, the thesis seeks to facilitate informed decision- making, foster meaningful dialogue, and ultimately drive positive change in educational practices, leading to enhanced learning experiences and academic outcomes for students across diverse academic disciplines. Moreover, this study recognizes the evolving nature of educational practices in the digital age and the imperative to adapt to emerging technologies. By shedding light on students' perceptions of ChatGPT, the research not only provides insights into the current state of technological integration in education but also paves the way for future advancements and innovations in pedagogical approaches. As such, this thesis contributes to the ongoing dialogue on the intersection of technology and education, shaping the trajectory of educational practices in the digital era. Furthermore, the comprehensive nature of this research underscores its significance as a foundational resource for policymakers, educators, and researchers seeking to navigate the complex landscape of technology-enhanced learning. By synthesizing diverse perspectives and offering actionable insights, this thesis lays the groundwork for informed decision-making and strategic planning in the integration of advanced language models like ChatGPT into educational settings. In doing so, it fosters a culture of evidence-based practice and continuous improvement, driving positive change and innovation in higher education.

The Turkmen Language Survival in the City of Erbil: A Sociolinguistic Study

The main aim of the current study is to shed light on the current status of the Turkmen language in the city of Erbil. The main research questions for the current study are: Is the Turkmen language in any danger of extinction in Erbil? Does the Kurdistan Regional Government have any role in surviving the Turkmen language as an ethnic minority language in Erbil? The Turkmen language in Erbil is believed to be safe from extinction as Turkmen people use it in daily life without facing political or social issues. In order to obtain data, an open-ended survey is used involving 60 Turkmen teachers and instructors at Turkmen Atabag primary and secondary school for girls, Fuzuli primary and secondary coeducational school, Oghuzkhan primary and secondary school for boys, Gharibi high school for girls, Imaddadin high school for boys, and the Turkish Department at Salahaddin University/ College of Languages. For analysing the achieved data, the researcher used a mixed methods research approach, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative methods. The researcher follows the work of Mühlhäusler (1992) as an adopted model. The current study concludes that the Turkmen language is not in any danger at all in the city of Erbil. Moreover, the Kurdistan Regional Government plays a great role in surviving the Turkmen language in the city of Erbil.

The Effect of School Labelling on Student Academic Performance at Morogoro Municipality in Tanzania

This article investigated the effect of school labels such as private schools, special schools, and government schools on student academic performance at Morogoro municipality in Tanzania. It adopted a case study design and the sample size was drawn using purposive and  simple random sampling techniques where a total of 20 respondents from the study area were involved in the study. The study adopted  the mixed method research, using qualitative and quantitative approaches. The questionnaire was used to collect requisite information  for students and quantitative data were analysed by using descriptive statistics to determine frequency and percentage whereas  qualitative data were subjected to content analysis. Concerning the specific objectives of this study, it was revealed that the issue of  performance-related pay was reported to be more implemented in special, seminary, and private schools than in public schools. In this  system, teachers are paid an extra amount of money when they perform superior. The system does not often apply in public schools.  Even when applied in public schools, there is full subjectivity to obtain the superior performer. Based on these findings, the study  recommended that school administrators, especially in government secondary schools should ensure proper teacher motivational  packages and that their schools have enough desks and chairs both in the classrooms and libraries. These items should frequently be  checked for damage and whenever possible replaced.  

Beyond the Dictionary: Redefining Translation Education with Artificial Intelligence-Assisted App Design and Training

This study addresses researchers’ concerns about the effectiveness of integrating AI-assisted app design and training into university-level translation courses. It aims to explore how this integration influences students’ motivation, reflective practices, academic performance, and the quality of language translation. Employing a mixed-methods research approach with a two-group post-test-only design, the study uncovers the transformative influence of integrating an AI-based translation assistant. Purposive sampling techniques were utilised to conduct interventions and focus groups with students majoring in Philology enrolled in the 3 ECTS course in Industry-Specific Translation at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. The findings from the Independent Samples t-test revealed significant improvements in motivation, reflective practices, academic performance, and translation quality among students in the experimental group (EG) compared to the control group (CG). Thematic analysis using the Speak web-based tool indicated an overall positive sentiment (0.224), highlighting Positive and Very Positive sentiments. The Neutral category suggested a balanced perspective, while the combined Slightly Negative and Negative categories represented less favourable sentiment. This research contributes valuable insights to the discourse on AI in language education by addressing gaps in related literature. We suggest avenues for future research into linguistic nuances and contextual challenges, advocating ongoing exploration to maximise the benefits of these technological interventions. Ultimately, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of AI integration in language education and underscores the need for continued exploration and adaptation in this area.

Insights into Consumer Behavior: A Deep Dive into Online Shopping Trends in Kerala During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed transformative shifts in consumer behaviour globally, prompting a notable surge in online shopping activities. Kerala, renowned for its diverse cultural landscape and vibrant markets, has witnessed a paradigmatic evolution in consumer preferences during this unprecedented period. This study endeavours to provide a comprehensive analysis of online shopping trends in Kerala amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, offering nuanced insights into the factors influencing consumer behaviour, the emergence of new consumption patterns, and the challenges and opportunities encountered by e-commerce stakeholders. Leveraging a mixed-methods research approach, including surveys and qualitative interviews, the study aims to illuminate the dynamic interplay between socio-economic factors, public health concerns, and technological advancements shaping the e-commerce landscape in Kerala. By elucidating these dynamics, the research seeks to inform strategic decision-making processes for e-commerce businesses, policymakers, and other stakeholders invested in Kerala's retail ecosystem.

Standing tall like Caesar? Qatar’s unwavering voice for Palestine at the United Nations

This article examines the complexities of Qatar’s Palestine policy, emphasising Doha’s multifaceted role as a mediator, problem-solver, humanitarian aid provider, and representative of the Palestinian issue at the United Nations. The study employs a mixed-methods research approach. Firstly, it utilises qualitative data from official statements, key policymakers’ remarks, and literature on Qatar’s foreign policy and Palestinian engagement. Secondly, it introduces text analytic methods such as latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic modelling, word clouds and network analysis to identify key themes, relationships and trends in Qatar’s speeches. The findings reveal that the Palestinian issue has been a prominent and consistent topic in Qatar’s United Nations General Assembly General Debate addresses over the past five decades. Qatar has consistently advocated for a resolution to the conflict, emphasising the importance of peace, justice and the two-state solution. Qatar’s support for Palestine remains steadfast, despite pressure from other regional actors to end its engagement with Hamas and divert its attention from the Palestinian issue. This commitment to the Palestinian cause aligns with Qatar’s broader state preferences for an independent foreign policy, its opposition to external interference, and its aspiration to restore its role as a trusted international partner on global platforms.

African Academics in Norway: Experiences of Inclusion and Exclusion and Impact on Mental Wellbeing

This study explored the experiences of inclusion and exclusion of African academics in Norway in various sectors of the society and their participation in these sectors. Using a mixed method research approach, 166 African academics completed a 20-item questionnaire entitled Perceived Exclusion Scale (PES) and two open-ended questions about their mental effects and coping mechanisms of exclusion. Descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis procedures were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the participants experienced exclusion in almost all the sectors of the Norwegian society with concomitant effects of depression and insomnia for most of the participants. Participants mentioned acceptance, confrontational strategy, avoidance strategy, theological group discussion and positive attitudes as key coping mechanisms to exclusion and discrimination. This study could be used as a baseline for future research on the psychological and mental health effects of discrimination of Africans and African- Norwegians. The study is a pointer to the public discourses on the positive sides of immigration in general and the role of migrants’ contribution to the Norwegian society. Keywords: Norway, African academics, inclusion and exclusion, mental wellbeing, minorities

Project-Based Learning in Teaching Adsorption Isotherm: The Implementation and Students’ Opinion

Project Based Learning is one of the learning models that can be chosen by lecturers in learning activities. This learning model is applied in surface chemistry learning, especially on the topic of the adsorption isotherm models. This research aims to find out more about implementation and students’ opinions in project-based learning models. This study employs a mixed-method research approach, utilizing both questionnaires and documentation as data collection methods. The questionnaire instrument consisted of an open and closed questionnaire for the respondents. An open and closed questionnaire was used to collect respondents’ descriptive data on the perception of the model. The project-based learning model received a positive response from students. This positive feedback encompasses interactions with the lecturer, motivation to learn, comprehension of the material, and the execution of project-based learning. This model recognized for its capacity to foster profound comprehension of subject matter, cultivate advanced cognitive skills, and stimulate learners' intrinsic motivation, serves as an effective approach to enhance student learning experiences.

Embracing throwntogetherness: Unravelling the relational dynamics of borderlands in divided cities

This research delves into the relational character of borderlands examining the nuanced concept of throwntogetherness within contested cities. Whilst prevailing literature often characterises walls and borders as static entities, this study proposes a paradigm shift, advocating for the recognition of borderlands as complex and relational networks. Using a mixed-method research approach, the study examines the profound ramifications of divisions, addresses socio-spatial imbalances, and hidden interconnected human experiences within divided landscapes. Through a comprehensive analysis of the city of Belfast, this research uncovers three interrelated patterns that reflect the spectrum of in-betweenness within interface areas encompassing separation, openness, and seclusion. These patterns extend beyond local geography, revealing broader socio-spatial phenomena. The findings highlight interfaces as junctions of both connection and division, prompting inquiries into effective urban planning and design strategies that foster meaningful relationships and cohesive urban dynamics. By dissecting socio-spatial dynamics that exist in these contested environments, this research unveils the array of tensions and synergies embedded in throwntogetherness, intricately woven into the urban fabric of divided cities.

Social Innovations for Empowering Pastoralist Women: Evidence from Dasenech, South Omo, Ethiopia

Innovations are vital for empowering women and youth by introducing alternative pathways for development. This study focuses on a social innovation project executed in Dasenech, South Omo, Ethiopia. The project introduced innovative initiatives (index-based livestock insurance (IBLI), a goat market value-chain system, an eco-friendly hydraulic ram pump, fodder production, and a vet drug store). Key among the goals of these initiatives was the empowerment of pastoralist women by promoting the livelihood base of the Dasenech Pastoralist Community. The present study assessed the contributions of these innovations to the empowerment of women and youth. We employed a mixed-method research approach to pool both quantitative and qualitative data using a household survey through Kobocollect, FGDs, KIIs, and case stories. We computed empowerment by employing a 5DE model with five domains, i.e., production, resources, income, leadership, and time use. The findings suggest that 93% of the project participants were empowered, recording “adequate achievements” in line with the 5DE model, i.e., with scores of at least 80% in four of the five requirements. Technological innovations that properly assess the context of the intervention area and, most importantly, that use proper avenues of implementation with women and youth as owners and leaders, have the capacity to empower such individuals in the economic, social, and political spheres.

Japanese investment for skills development program in attaining sustainable employability: The case of Bangladesh

Bangladesh lacks many trained workers. The existing technical training curriculums are not advanced enough to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target for human capital development. Therefore, it is a time demand to address the need for skilled human resources. Japan prioritizes Bangladesh's skills development sector to assist the nation in achieving SDGs and importing skilled labor forces into Japan's already declined labor market. This research focuses on the prospects and challenges of Japanese investments in skills development projects in Bangladesh. To this end, this research adopts a need-based approach to prepare a uniform framework for skills development in Bangladesh and finds several challenges in the process of skills development programs that influence the development partners. This study employs a mixed-method research approach. This study finds that the trainees consider the skills development programs significant for their future careers and sustainable employability, although they face various challenges, such as a lack of qualified instructors and training programs and lack of training equipment apart from their lower socio-economic backgrounds. This study especially highlights the significance of Japanese investment in skills development programs in Bangladesh to meet human capital development requirements and develop a framework for sustainable accomplishment of those programs to achieve the SDGs. Finally, this research makes some policy recommendations for relevant stakeholders, including development partners engaged in skills development programs in Bangladesh.

Exploring the effect of dynamic capabilities on operational excellence, moderated by environmental dynamism in the apparel industry

PurposeThe effect of dynamic capabilities on operational excellence and the moderating effect of environmental dynamism on the relationship between operational excellence and dynamic capabilities in the apparel industry in Sri Lanka were investigated while developing new psychometric scales to assess operational excellence and dynamic capacities constructs.Design/methodology/approachWe followed the exploratory sequential research design with a mixed-method research approach, aligning with the pragmatic research philosophy. Thus, both qualitative and quantitative research methods were followed.FindingsDynamic capabilities positively affect operational excellence, and environmental dynamism moderates the relationship between operational excellence and dynamic capabilities in the apparel industry in Sri Lanka such that when a higher environmental dynamism exists, a weaker positive relationship exists between dynamic capabilities and operational excellence. The two main dimensions of the operational excellence construct are continuous improvement of sustainable operational performance and sustainable competitive advantages. It empirically confirmed that sensing, seizing and reconfiguring capabilities are the three main dimensions of the dynamic capabilities construct.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was limited to the apparel industry in Sri Lanka. This research phenomenon should be explored in other industrial sectors worldwide to generalize the findings. The practitioners in the apparel sector may improve the organizational dynamic capabilities to achieve operational excellence and keep a strong positive relationship between dynamic capabilities and operational excellence in a highly dynamic environment if they address out-of-family situations with out-of-the-box thinking.Originality/valueWe generated two new empirical findings: (1) dynamic capabilities positively affect operational excellence, and (2) environmental dynamism moderates the relationship between dynamic capabilities and operational excellence. Also, we introduced validated new scales for assessing operational excellence and dynamic capabilities.

Trolling as a Disruptive Tool for Human Rights Violations: An Exploration of the Challenges Faced by Performance Artists

The proliferation of online platforms and digital tools has introduced both opportunities and challenges for individuals, particularly within the realm of social media. While platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, etc. have served as avenues for cultural, social, economic, educational, state-run, and political discourse, they have also facilitated the emergence of paranoiac phenomena, such as trolling. This paper delves into the portrayal of trolling as a disruptive technological tool and cultural phenomenon in Bangladesh, specifically targeting TV actors, theatre performers, and local rural artists. The study highlights the pervasive use of trolling as a means to harass, criticize, and intimidate artists online. It reveals how trolling not only violates the human rights of these artists but also undermines their creativity, credibility, and sense of belonging within society. For methodological justification, it has employed a mixed-method research approach incorporating questionnaire surveys administered to 38 participants, interviews with two aspiring artists, three theatre artists, and three students studying theatre and performance studies, and analysis of social media comments. The paper unravelled that trolling is used exclusively as an online harassment tool to embarrass performance artists in Bangladesh. It underscores the detrimental impact of trolling, leading to psychological distress, depression, and alienation among targeted artists. In response to these challenges, the paper offers recommendations aimed at empowering artists to confront and combat online harassment, thereby safeguarding their well-being and fostering a more supportive digital environment conducive to artistic expression and innovation.

Defect modelling and correlation mapping for bridge inspection

PurposeThis paper covers the development of a novel defect model for concrete highway bridges. The proposed defect model is intended to facilitate the identification of bridge’s condition information (i.e. defects), improve the efficiency and accuracy of bridge inspections by supporting practitioners and even machines with digitalised expert knowledge, and ultimately automate the process.Design/methodology/approachThe research design consists of three major phases so as to (1) categorise common defect with regard to physical entities (i.e. bridge element), (2) establish internal relationships among those defects and (3) relate defects to their properties and potential causes. A mixed-method research approach, which includes a comprehensive literature review, focus groups and case studies, was employed to develop and validate the proposed defect model.FindingsThe data collected through the literature and focus groups were analysed and knowledge were extracted to form the novel defect model. The defect model was then validated and further calibrated through case study. Inspection reports of nearly 300 bridges in China were collected and analysed. The study uncovered the relationships between defects and a variety of inspection-related elements and represented in the form of an accessible, digitalised and user-friendly knowledge model.Originality/valueThe contribution of this paper is the development of a defect model that can assist inexperienced practitioners and even machines in the near future to conduct inspection tasks. For one, the proposed defect model can standardise the data collection process of bridge inspection, including the identification of defects and documentation of their vital properties, paving the path for the automation in subsequent stages (e.g. condition evaluation). For another, by retrieving rich experience and expert knowledge which have long been reserved and inherited in the industrial sector, the inspection efficiency and accuracy can be considerably improved.

INSIGHTS INTO YOUNG MINDS: UNVEILING THE SPECTRA OF MARRIAGE PERSPECTIVES

Marriage, a complex social institution, undergoes dynamic shifts influenced by societal, cultural, emotional, and economic factors across different times and regions. The process of mate selection involves a multifaceted interplay of factors, including physical attributes, socio-economic status, and societal norms. The study delved into the marriage perspectives in Bangladesh, examining the attitudes of unmarried young individuals toward marriage and mate selection. Employing a mixed-method research approach, the study collected information from a sample of 319 unmarried young individuals aged between 18 and 35 years, from Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Brahman aria and Camilla districts of Chattogram division in Bangladesh. The study analyzed varied viewpoints on marriage, highlighting it as a bond where individuals live together or as a social, religious, or familial unit. Preferences for love and arranged marriages entailed considerations like mutual understanding, family satisfaction, societal acceptance, and personal desires. Diverse viewpoints emerged regarding traits prioritized when choosing partners. While gentleness, education and beauty were highly valued, socio-economic factors such as economic stability, job status, and religiousness also held significance. Furthermore, participants emphasized differing characteristics when selecting grooms versus brides, demonstrating a distinct set of preferences for each gender. Understanding these perspectives offered valuable insights for policymakers, suggesting initiatives like educational programs on healthy relationships, cultural sensitivity training for matchmakers and advocating for open communication to ensure satisfactory decision-making in marriage. These insights would be helpful to contribute to a deeper comprehension of evolving marital paradigms in Bangladesh, laying the groundwork for informed social policies and a better understanding of the future societal landscape.