Online Platform Research Articles

Impact of Online Learning Platforms in Enhancing Employees' Skills and Knowledge in Academia

Abstract: The study investigates the impact of online learning platforms like Coursera and NPTEL on enhancing educators' skills and knowledge in academia. With digital transformation accelerating post-COVID-19, platforms offer flexibility for professional development, yet challenges persist. The study, conducted through a survey of 73 educators in Bengaluru, uses quantitative and descriptive methods, applying statistical tools like Correlation, Chi-Square tests, and ANOVA to assess platform effectiveness. Key findings reveal that platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy are popular, but balancing work and learning is a challenge for many. While educators appreciate the flexibility, 56.2% express dissatisfaction with the long-term career growth and skill development offered by these platforms. The study highlights the need for better interactive features, practical learning opportunities, and improvements in course content to support effective professional growth in academia. In conclusion, while online platforms provide valuable resources, they must address these gaps to fully meet educators' needs for continuous upskilling

Engaging co-creators network in a public mental health intervention: MENTBEST

Abstract Background MENTBEST, a 5-year EU-funded project, addresses mental health challenges among vulnerable groups using community-based interventions and innovative technologies. It aims to mitigate adverse impacts, focusing on migrants, older individuals, younger individuals, long-term unemployed individuals, and those with mental disorders in Albania, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Greece, Ireland and Estonia. MENTBEST seeks to provide tailored support to vulnerable populations, promoting mental well-being and resilience through two interventions (a) Mentina a mobile app and (b) a complex community intervention based upon the European Against Depression 4-level intervention. Methods A Participatory Action Approach has been employed through each research stage of MENTBEST where stakeholders across Europe have become part of the research team and provide input towards designing and evaluating the two interventions mentioned above. The PRODUCES framework was used to establish the Co-creators Network, ensuring inclusivity and relevance through: stakeholder mapping, prioritization, and engagement strategies. An online platform has been established for the network to collaborate as a community of practice, but also as means of upskilling co-creators through MOOCs and brief courses. Results The Co-creators Network comprises 24 diverse members strategically distributed among vulnerable groups through all participating Mentbest countries. Engagement activities include workshop participation on taking decisions on a range of research topics such as designing content, evaluation of the interventions, implementation of the interventions etc. Conclusions The Co-creators Network represents a milestone for MENTBEST, ensuring a collaborative approach to public mental health intervention. Innovative strategies highlight the project’s commitment to addressing the mental health needs of vulnerable populations. Key messages • Collaborative approach in MENTBEST fosters inclusive public mental health interventions. • Co-creators Network drives innovative strategies to address mental health needs of vulnerable groups.

The Relationship Between Mental Health Status and Daily Step Count in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Aim This study was conducted to determine the relationship between the mental health status and daily step count of adult individuals. Methods The research was conducted between November 2023 and April 2024 with a descriptive cross-sectional design. The research population consisted of 386 individuals over the age of 18 who voluntarily filled out public electronic forums on online platforms. Data were collected with the socio-demographic characteristics diagnostic form consisting of 21 questions, the average number of steps in the last week, and the General Health Survey-28 (GHQ-28). Data were evaluated using descriptive statistics, normality statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), t test, Kruskal Wallis variance analysis, Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance level was accepted as p < 0.05 Results GHQ-28 total score average was found to be 5.59 ± 6.52. 42.0% of the participants received a score of 5 or above on the GHQ-28 and were considered at risk for mental health. The individuals’ average weekly step count was mean=5269±3065 steps and 43% were basal-limited active. According to GHQ-28, the average weekly step count of individuals in the mental health risk group (4528.62 ±2892.31) was lower than those who were not at risk (5804.63 ±3081.67) (p < 0.05). According to step count categories, individuals who were basal-limited active (51.2%) and low active (39.4%) were found to be at higher risk for mental health than those who were slightly active (36.0%) and active-highly active (18.4%) (p < 0.05). A weak negative correlation was found between the average number of steps and the scores obtained from the GHQ-28 (r = -.187; p = 0.000). Conclusions It was determined that more than half (51.2%) of the individuals (42.0%) in the risk group in terms of mental health were sedentary, that is, basal-limited active (less than 2500-4999 steps). Key messages • Increasing awareness about the positive effects of individuals’ daily step counts on mental health can contribute positively to the promotion of health. • As part of policies aimed at enhancing mental health within society, implementations directed towards increasing daily step counts can contribute positively to the improvement of public health.

Efficacy of online japanese intensive cardiac rehabilitation for secondary prevention for coronary artery disease: a comprehensive program including exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, and group support

Abstract Background/Introduction While comprehensive programs for cardiac rehabilitation are recommended for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), systematic programs including nutrition, stress-management, and behavior change have not been clearly established. Purpose To comprehensively change the lifestyle of patients with CAD as secondary prevention, we developed an online based educational program "intensive cardiac rehabilitation for Japanese patients with CAD (J-ICR)" modifying ICR, a regimen covered by health insurance in the United States, to the program that has affinity with Japanese. Methods Online J-ICR program is set up as sessions for maintenance-phase CAD patients using an online application. J-ICR has 12 sessions held weekly for 3 hours per session, total 36 hours, aimed to integrate 4 components: 1) exercise guidance based on exercise prescription which contain aerobic exercise, resistance training, and multi-component exercise through online platforms, 2) dietary education focusing on "the Japan Diet", 3) stress management utilizing mindfulness, and 4) group support to enhance patient and medical-staff interaction. Twenty-two participants were randomly separated to Early Phase group and Late phase group. For verification of the efficacy of this program, we survey the adherence to the program and compared the changes in risk factor of CAD at 3 months defining Early phase group as intervention group and Late phase group as control. (Fig.1). Results After excluding 3 participants who withdrawn to participate, the remaining 19 participants were conducted the evaluation and 10 participants were in intervention group and 9 participants in control group, respectively. As for patient characteristics, the mean age was 66 years old, and all participants were male. History of CVD was comprising 8 cases of myocardial infarction and 15 cases of angina pectoris. As for the risk factors of CVD, there were not significant differences in mean low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (Intervention group 71.5mg/dl vs Control group 83.4mg/dl; p=0.12) or systolic blood pressure (SBP) (126mmHg vs 130mmHg; p=0.40) at base line between two groups. The average participating rate in program was 93.8% and there was no dropped out participant during the program in investigation group. After 3months, LDL cholesterol was not significantly decreased in both groups (mean reduction of Intervention group -0.3mg/dl, p=0.93 and control group -3.8mg/dl, p=0.43, respectively). However, there was significant reduction of SBP in intervention group (mean reduction 5.6mmHg, p=0.02) but in control group (mean reduction 2.4mmHg, p=0.42). (Fig.2). Conclusions This randomized controlled study showed the good adherence of J-ICR program and it suggested that J-ICR program has the effect on lowering systolic blood pressure at 3 months. Longer follow up data and the results of more participants are warranted to clarify the efficacy in real world prevention of CVD.

Gender Disparity of Orthopaedic Surgery Grand Rounds Speakers

Introduction Women are significantly underrepresented within orthopaedic surgery and academia. Limited opportunities to present at local and national conferences may impact professional advancement for women. The purpose of this study was to determine how often female orthopaedic surgeons presented at orthopaedic grand rounds between 2016-2021, if there was a difference between the types of presentations (technical vs non-technical) given by female and male speakers, and whether the COVID-19 pandemic increased the number of opportunities available for female orthopaedic surgeons to speak at orthopaedic grand rounds with the increase of online platforms. Methods A cross sectional study of 8 ACGME accredited orthopaedic residency programs, who are a part of COERG, was performed. Program directors were asked to describe the demographics of grand rounds speakers and the types of presentations given by those speakers before and after the COVID-19 pandemic from September 2016 to September 2021. Results Between September 2016-February 2020, 472 male (83.7%) and 92 (16.3%) female orthopaedic surgeons presented during grand rounds. There was no significant difference in the gender distribution of speakers from March 2020-September 2021 during which 81 men (79.4%) and 21 women (20.6%) presented (p=0.315). Men were more likely than women to present on technical topics before (p=0.006) and after the COVID-19 pandemic (p=0.023). Conclusion Male orthopaedic surgeons more frequently present at grand rounds in comparison to female orthopaedic surgeons. This was unchanged during the COVID-19 pandemic when online platforms were increasingly utilized. Male speakers were more likely to present on technical topics; whereas female speakers were more likely to present on non-technical topics. Understanding the gender disparity amongst orthopaedic grand rounds speakers is necessary for programs to re-evaluate and revise the methodology by which speakers are selected. This can allow for more balanced topic discussions and can foster female career advancement in academia.

Multidisciplinary strategies for cardiotoxicity management in ambulatory care: exploring practices, insights, and prospects for advancement

Abstract Background The management of cardiotoxicity, a significant concern in chemotherapy patients, necessitates a multidisciplinary approach. This study investigates the variability in cardiotoxicity management in outpatient settings across different medical specialties, which may lead to inconsistencies in patient care. Methods An extensive questionnaire-based study was conducted to assess the current practices and viewpoints of cardiologists, oncologists, and gynecologists in the management of cardiotoxicity among patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy in Germany. The survey engaged 1,329 medical professionals through an online platform, with a participation rate of 9.9%, amounting to 132 respondents. Results Respondents reported managing a combined total of 1,905 chemotherapy patients monthly, with individual patient loads ranging from 1 to 200. Notably, only a fraction of these patients – 37% under oncologist care and 48% under gynecologist care – underwent routine cardiological examinations. As shown in Figure 1, the three most common causes of cardiological presentations in patients undergoing chemotherapy were due to acute patient complaints (65.2%), before the start of chemotherapy (91.3%), and after the end of chemotherapy (78.3%). Furthermore, 37% of healthcare providers reported incorporating chemotherapy-induced cardiovascular toxicity risk assessments in their clinical routines. Medical history, ECG, and echocardiography were the most frequent examinations. Notably, 91.3% did not include cardiac biomarker measurements in their follow-up procedures (Figure 2). More than half of the participants (56%) expressed a need for simplified cardio-oncology guidelines. The majority of participants (84% and 83%, respectively) requested tools to assist in cardiovascular toxicity risk assessment and the implementation of appropriate therapeutic measures for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Conclusions The study draws attention to significant interdisciplinary care gaps in managing cardiotoxicity, which may contribute to an increased risk of undiagnosed cardiovascular complications in chemotherapy patients. The evident variability in cardiotoxicity management practices among different medical specialties underscores the critical need for heightened awareness and enhanced collaborative efforts. The implementation of comprehensive interdisciplinary clinical pathways and the establishment of a dedicated cardio-oncology network could potentially address these challenges, particularly in supporting primary care physicians.Figure 1Figure 2

Digital Health Interventions’ Impact on Health Literacy: A Systematic Review

Abstract In the digital era, health literacy is crucial for informed health decisions and outcomes. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of digital health interventions (DHIs) in enhancing health literacy, as defined by the World Health Organization. We included a variety of studies, such as cross-sectional studies, surveys, and case reports, focusing on interventions like mobile health apps, online platforms, and telehealth services. Our search, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, spanned databases like PubMed, IEEE, and ACM, covering publications from 2013 to 2023. From 1,029 initial articles, 58 met our inclusion criteria after rigorous screening and duplicates removal. Our findings highlight that DHIs, including multimedia tools and remote sessions, significantly bolster health literacy across diverse populations. However, the impact varies due to the digital divide, influenced by factors like age and socioeconomic status. This review underscores the potential of DHIs in public health and the necessity to address accessibility to reduce health disparities. The full synthesis of data and methodological details will be discussed in the presentation, aiming to guide future digital health strategies and policies. Key messages • Digital Interventions Enhance Health Literacy Across Diverse Populations. • Addressing the Digital Divide to Ensure Equitable Access to Health Benefits.

Digital Health Literacy Enhancement Strategies Across Diverse Groups: A Scoping Review

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of digital health technologies. Digital health literacy (DHL) is essential for effectively understanding and applying electronic health information. However, unequal access and use of these technologies require interventions to improve DHL for fair healthcare access. Objectives This scoping review aimed to identify strategies to enhance DHL in patients and the general population. Methods The review used the Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Review Methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligibility criteria included a wide population, interventions aimed at improving DHL, with no restrictions on outcomes. The search strategy included electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science), and AI-based software, AS Review, was used for screening. Results The review found 5149 articles, 44 met the eligibility criteria. Studies focused on different demographic groups and health conditions. Most interventions were in North America and Europe. The study designs varied. Interventions via mobile apps, online platforms, and in-person sessions aimed at various conditions yielded positive results, including increases in DHL, self-management skills, and health-related behaviors. These interventions involved either independent interventions that focused on DHL or integrated interventions that were part of another intervention that aimed at a health outcome and had an element of DHL enhancement. Conclusions The review highlights the importance of DHL in informed decision-making and navigating digital health environments. While many interventions had positive outcomes, methodological limitations challenge the findings, emphasizing the need for more rigorous study designs. Future research should address sustainability, scalability, and the impact of DHL on health disparities, considering cultural sensitivity when developing interventions. Key messages • Scoping review identifies strategies to enhance Digital Health Literacy (DHL), crucial for effective use of health technology. • Despite positive outcomes, methodological limitations exist. Future research should focus on sustainability and scalability.

Prediction of incident major adverse cardiac events in patients starting haemodialysis for end stage kidney disease, using clinical laboratory cardiac biomarkers - a real world analysis.

Abstract Background and Aims Despite its many advantages, haemodialysis (HD) is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, with some studies reporting 48% higher mortality within 2 years of starting HD. Cardiac biomarkers provide insight into cardiac structure and function, including myocyte stress, inflammation and fibrosis. We aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of routine cardiac biomarkers (troponin and natriuretic peptides) in the prediction of incident major adverse cardiac events (MACE) within 5 years if commencing HD. Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed using electronic medical records from a global federated research network from the US. The network was searched on 26th February 2023. The cohorts commenced HD post-diagnosis of end-stage kidney disease. Data censoring for MACE was invoked prior to the index event of HD. Cardiac biomarkers were the first reported result within 3 months of starting HD. Cohorts were grouped according to biomarker-specific thresholds and 1:1 propensity-score matched for age, gender and co-morbidities (hypertension, diabetes mellitus and smoking status). Logistical regression produced odds ratios with 95%CI for 5-year incident MACE. MACE was defined, a priori, as a composite of ischaemic heart disease, angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, AF, stroke and all-cause mortality. All statistical analysis was performed on the online platform. Results The results are shown Tables 1(Troponin I and BNP alone) and 2 (Combined Troponin I and BNP). Results that reached statistical significance (p<0.05) are shown. Conclusion Routinely available cardiac biomarkers can predict MACE and cardiac outcomes in incident HD, although results differ between markers of myocyte injury (troponin) and stress (BNP). A combined approach may prove most beneficial. The results suggest the clinical need for CV mortality and morbidity risk profiling in incident dialysis using a combination of clinical and laboratory variables and the need for prospective validation.Table 1Table 2

From Technology Acceptance to Platform Attachment: Hospitality Training in Metaverse

ABSTRACT Evolving from augmented and virtual reality environments, the metaverse offers unique immersion, presence, interaction, and persistence, setting it apart from other online platforms. This study employs an experimental design to test a model examining how technology acceptance and platform attachment, driven by situatedness in the metaverse, impact learning in hospitality education. We propose a framework combining technology acceptance with place attachment theory to explore the metaverse’s role in hospitality training. Statistical analysis reveals a significant positive correlation between technology acceptance and platform attachment (β = 0.399, p < .001), which in turn positively influences mental model change (β = 0.758, p < .001). These findings highlight the metaverse’s transformative potential in hospitality education by influencing cognitive frameworks, specifically mental model changes, and enhancing task performance during virtual training. The study also identifies the mediating role of platform attachment in shaping user experiences, providing a theoretical basis for understanding the metaverse’s impact and practical insights for improving hospitality training.

Document Indigenous Food Ingredients in China through Youth Participation

Abstract Problem Indigenous food systems can affect multiple aspects of Indigenous people’s health and contribute to more efficient, sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems. However, although tens of Indigenous groups live in China, very few projects have targeted their traditional or Indigenous food systems and ingredients. Description of the problem The main purposes include documenting traditional and Indigenous foods and medicine, building multiple social media for public impact, encouraging Indigenous youth participation, and advocating a more sustainable food system in China Results With the collaboration of Good Food Fund China, the project recruited 257 volunteers from 27 ethnic groups. The project collected 418 traditional food ingredients, produced 18 TikTok short videos to introduce Indigenous ingredients with the maximum number of views in a single post of more than 100,000, organized 16 Indigenous food culture knowledge webinars, translated 14 international case studies in Indigenous food systems with the permission of authors, and published 16 articles about Indigenous food ingredients and culture in the writing camp. The online lives also received more than a million total views. The results were presented at COP26 and COP28. More results will continue to be presented to the public through articles, books, academic papers, documentaries, short videos, online webinars, and other forms. Lessons The project demonstrates the potential to use online platforms to advocate and document sustainable food systems and biodiversity through youth participation. More similar projects can be designed in different parts of the world to support sustainable food systems transformation and ignite down-to-earth changes. However, funding and publication channels are still difficulties in the project. Key messages • The first national level youth participation project to document Indigenous food biodiversity in China. • Take advantage of social media and the internet for public impact.

UnDErstanding consumer food choices &amp; promotion of healthy and sustainable Mediterranean diet and LIfestyle in Children and adolescents through behavIOUral change actionS: the DELICIOUS project

Abstract Over the last decades, the abandonment of traditional dietary patterns and engagement in unhealthy lifestyles (including poor physical activity, prolonged screen time, poor sleep behaviours) in children and adolescents has been considered an important threat for the future health of the younger generations living in the Mediterranean area and the safeguard of the environment. The DELICIOUS project aims to promote healthy lifestyles among children and adolescents by implementing activities and tools to increase the adherence to the Mediterranean diet with an attention to the environmental impacts of dietary habits. The DELICIOUS project as a single-arm, uncontrolled behavioral intervention program providing formal and non-formal education activities, development of new snacks and recipe reformulation, web/mobile app development, and physical activities to school children and adolescents in five European countries. Over 2000 families joined a preliminary survey to investigate potential determinants of adherence to a healthy diet. Children and adolescents recruited from schools in the parterns’ countries are now currently being recruited to participate to the intervention activities. A web application for school canteen and a mobile application for parents have been developed to help both schools and families to track and provide healthy and sustainable meals. The project aims to increase awareness of the nutritional benefits and the sustainability aspects of the Mediterranean Diet and to promote consumers’ empowerment through an online platform for sustainable and healthy meal planning in the school canteen.

Promoting and ImprovinPromoting and Improving the Tourism Industry in Malaysia through Tourist Satisfactiong the Tourism Industry in Malaysia through Tourist Satisfaction

Tourism is an important sector that contributes to the countries’ economies. Tourism has a direct relationship with other industries such as hotels, transportation, and retail as tourists who come to the country will spend their money on these categories. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry was badly affected and so did the other related industries. Now, people are back visiting attractive places, staying in hotels during their visits, and spending money on food and other items. However, little is known about why people are attracted to visit some places or countries and not others. The study is meant to investigate the factors that lead to tourist satisfaction when they visit a country. A total of 150 respondents answered the survey that was distributed to students, and public and private sector employees in Malaysia through an online platform. The results indicated that accommodation, tourism products and host attitudes were significant in leading to tourist satisfaction. While price was not a significant predictor of tourist satisfaction. The practical and theoretical implications of the study are discussed at length in this paper.

Knowledge and Consequences of Violence Against Health Professionals in Southern Portugal

Background: Violence against health professionals is a global and growing problem, with significant impacts on the quality of care and the mental health of workers. Objectives: To analyze the level of knowledge, reporting practices and consequences of violence against health professionals in the Alentejo region (southern Portugal). Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study involving 440 health professionals (doctors and nurses). Data were collected using an online platform and a structured questionnaire created specifically for this study. In the statistical analysis, the data were described as counts and proportions and the X2 test was used considering a significance level of 0.05. Results: This study reveals that violence against health professionals in the southern region of Portugal is a frequent problem (40%), with a higher incidence among nurses (80%). Despite awareness of the existence and functioning of reporting channels, reporting is low (52%). The main causes are related to the health system, professionals and users. The consequences include mental health problems and a reduction in the quality of care provided. Suggested measures to combat violence include improving security, training and punishing aggressors. Conclusions: This study reveals that violence against health professionals in the southern region of Portugal is a frequent, under-reported problem with serious consequences for professionals and the quality of care.

Gig Economy: Is It a Trap or Stepping Stone for the Informal Sector?

The informal sector and technology have complex interactions, shaping economic activity, job trends, and social outcomes, especially with the rise of the “gig economy”, in which individuals work on an as-needed basis through online platforms. This article explores several theoretical frameworks, such as modernization theory, dependence theory, structuralist approaches, and post-structuralist viewpoints, and investigates how different frameworks explain the effects of technology on informal economic activity. This article also reviews for comprehending the correlation between the informal sector and technology. Besides that, this article explores the dual nature of the gig economy, examining whether it serves as a trap that perpetuates the vulnerabilities of the informal sector or as a stepping stone toward more excellent economic stability and mobility. Although the gig economy provides opportunities for income generation, skill development, and flexible working conditions, it also presents substantial challenges, such as job insecurity, a lack of benefits, and potential exploitation. This paper also addresses the implications for policy and future research directions by the sustainable development goal (SDG) of fostering sustainable, inclusive, and long-term economic growth, as well as full and productive employment and decent work for all.

Adopting Digital Tools in Higher Education: Opportunities, Challenges and Theoretical Insights

ABSTRACTThe digital transformation of higher education, driven by technological advancements and evolving societal needs, presents both significant opportunities and critical challenges. This study integrates the technology acceptance model (TAM), diffusion of innovations (DOI), comprehensive literature review, in‐depth case studies and empirical survey data to explore these dynamics. The findings reveal the potential of digital technologies—such as online platforms, adaptive learning tools and immersive technologies—to expand access, personalise learning and foster collaboration. However, the research also identifies major barriers, including the digital divide, faculty resistance and data privacy concerns. By combining qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative statistical analysis, this study underscores the importance of strategic planning, inclusive policies and ongoing professional development in maximising the benefits of digital education. The paper contributes to the field by offering actionable insights, theoretical implications and practical recommendations for institutions to implement adaptive pedagogical strategies, ensure equitable access to technology and build robust, secure digital learning environments.

The Effect of Corrective Feedback to Improve Students’ Motivation In Speaking Skills A Perspective From EFL Learners

The effect of corrective feedback can result in various negative to positive effects on the student’s motivation in speaking skills. Corrective feedback has been used to correct the students’ mistakes. This research aims to explore the use of corrective feedback to the student’s motivation in learning speaking skills. It was conducted through an online platform for higher-level students at Brawijaya University. The respondents are 56 students who claimed to have experience in receiving corrective feedback as well as having knowledge of corrective feedback. The researcher used a Quantitative-Descriptive method by collecting data using questionaries. Using quantitative methods, this study employed close-ended questions. As a result, numerical data was expected to be analyzed for the source of the research data. The results showed that although corrective feedback can be seen as a way that can improve students’ academic skills, it is proven that it can be a negative aspect in improving students’ motivation in speaking skills. This research is expected to bring out an awareness about giving feedback to the students in order to improve their speaking skills.

Evaluation of Quality Online Banking Services Using WASPAS Method

The rapid expansion of the Internet and advances in digital technology have revolutionized traditional banking methods, leading to the emergence of online banking. Online banking enables customers to conduct financial transactions anywhere, anytime, with unprecedented convenience and accessibility. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of online banking, examining its benefits, challenges and impact on both banks and consumers. Key aspects such as security concerns, customer satisfaction, cost effectiveness and complexity in implementing online banking systems are discussed. Also, how online banking is reshaping the banking landscape, promoting greater competition, financial inclusion and digital transformation in the global economy. The advent of the Internet and digital technologies has fundamentally changed the way financial institutions operate, paving the way for online banking. Online banking, also referred to as internet or e-banking, allows customers to access a wide range of financial services through digital platforms. These services include checking account balances, transferring funds, paying bills and managing investments all from the convenience of a personal device. As customers increasingly demand fast, convenient and secure banking services, financial institutions have responded by embracing digital transformation. The shift to online banking has brought significant benefits such as reduced operational costs, improved customer experience and increased efficiency in financial services. However, along with these advantages, banks also face challenges related to cyber security, customer trust and the need for continuous technological upgrades to meet evolving consumer needs. The importance of research related to online banking lies in its profound impact on the global financial system and its growing relevance in the digital age. Understanding online banking is important for financial institutions, regulators and customers as it changes traditional banking practices and introduces new opportunities and challenges. Technological Advances and Innovations: Online banking is at the forefront of financial technology (FinTech), creating innovations in service delivery. Exploring this area allows for a deeper understanding of how technological advances such as mobile banking, artificial intelligence (AI) and block chain are improving efficiency, customer experience and the competitive landscape of banking institutions. Customer Behavior and Satisfaction: As more consumers shift to digital platforms, research on online banking provides insights into changing customer expectations and behavior. It highlights key factors influencing customer satisfaction, including usability, convenience and trust, helping banks refine their services to meet growing demands for seamless, personalized experiences. Cost Efficiency and Operational Impact: The financial sector has experienced significant cost reductions and operational improvements through the adoption of online banking. Understanding how banks can use online platforms to optimize resource allocation, reduce transaction costs and improve efficiency is critical for stakeholders looking to stay competitive and increase profitability. Security and risk management: As online banking systems become more pervasive, so do the associated risks—especially those related to cyber security. Research in this domain is essential for developing effective security protocols, understanding fraud prevention strategies, and managing data privacy concerns. It ensures continuous improvement of security measures to protect both financial institutions and consumers. Customer Satisfaction (Benefit), Transaction Speed (Benefit, sec), Implementation Cost (Non-Benefit, $000), Security Rating (Non-Benefit). System A, System B, System C, System D, System E.

FranchiseGlobal.com: Digital Media Strategy in the Development of Franchise Industry and Business Opportunities in Indonesia

The franchise and business opportunity industry in Indonesia has experienced significant growth, particularly with the emergence of digital media platforms that facilitate connections between franchisors and prospective franchisees. FranchiseGlobal.com stands as a key online media platform playing a pivotal role in this industry. This study aims to analyze the digital media strategies employed by FranchiseGlobal.com in advancing the franchise and business opportunity sector in Indonesia. The research adopts a descriptive analysis with a case study approach, focusing on FranchiseGlobal.com's business model, digital marketing strategies, and its role in supporting franchise expansion. The findings reveal that FranchiseGlobal.com has effectively utilized digital media to enhance franchise visibility through services such as advertising, content distribution, and online business matching. The study concludes that an effective digital strategy can significantly contribute to the growth of the franchise industry in Indonesia, particularly by leveraging online platforms that reach a broad and targeted audience.

Attitudes of EFL Learners to the Implementation of the Area9 Lyceum Online Platform Based on the UTAUT Model

The advancement of technology has led to the creation of numerous platforms that could potentially be used for remote education. For example, the recent development of the English Diploma Programme at a top university in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) deploys a new platform known as Area9 Lyceum (Area9). Because the English Diploma Programme is a recent development, and especially given its use of a new platform, this proposed research will investigate learners’ attitudes to and acceptance of using the platform. Furthermore, it will look at how other universities could benefit from this experience to develop their own English as a Foreign Language (EFL) programmes along technological lines, specifically by deploying a survey tool based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). The results reflect the positive attitude of the participants. Recommendations can be drawn from this study to help persuade stakeholders in higher education to adopt such platforms in the teaching of EFL or English as a Second Language (ESL).