Physical Visits Research Articles

Impact of capacity building through learning, training, and coaching on agricultural innovation.

Successful innovation requires employees to have intellectual and technical capacity. This study explored the effects of capacity building through educational learning, organizational training, and coaching on agricultural innovation. A sample of 142 operational-level agriculture scientists working within a public sector agricultural research organisation in Zimbabwe. Six key informants were also consulted. Descriptive statistics, factor analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), correlation analysis, and binary logistic regression analysis were employed. Results showed significant positive relationships between the variables stating that operational scientists receive adequate academic study opportunities from the research organisation and the one stating that they have relevant academic qualifications to help drive agriculture innovation (r = 0.421***). This reflects that once capacitated through educational learning, the employees gain the confidence and ability to innovate, which could be attributed to improved intelligence quotient (IQ). A significant positive relationship was also observed between the variables, stating that research employees required further training and that improving training would significantly improve innovation (r = 0.47***). Lastly, the variables, stating that direct supervisors offer adequate guidance to stimulate innovation positively correlated to the one stating that coaching has helped improve the operational staff's innovativeness (P = 0.493***). This implies that efforts being put in by supervisors significantly contribute to innovation. Budgetary constraints were the leading challenge mentioned by 90.1% of the sample. Notably, there is a critical need to improve physical training workshops, exposure visits, and short courses to enhance innovativeness, as revealed by more than 70% of the respondents. The study also suggests cost-effective strategies to enhance capacity building and consequently stimulate innovation.

Experiences with patient-initiated follow-up supported by asynchronous telemedicine in spondyloarthritis: a mixed methods study.

To evaluate the experiences of patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) and their healthcare providers (HCPs) with patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) supported by asynchronous telemedicine (TM) compared with their previous experiences with usual care, and to identify prerequisites for sustainable implementation of PIFU/TM. Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposefully selected patients (n = 21) and HCPs (n = 9) who previously participated in the 'TeleSpA' randomised controlled trial and thematically analysed. PIFU/TM consisted of a once-yearly pre-planned physical visit with in-between remote monitoring at 6 months. Additionally, 13 HCPs completed a quantitative survey, which was analysed descriptively. Most patients and HCPs found PIFU/TM acceptable, given the presence of sufficient health- and digital literacy and motivation. Most patients felt no burdensome changes to their personal responsibility, and both in-person and remote communication between stakeholders ran smoothly. Advantages for patients included time-savings, and improvements in disease insight and self-efficacy. Some HCPs experienced increased flexibility in their daily planning. Pivotal prerequisites for sustainable implementation were adequate infrastructure to conduct Ad hoc diagnostic tests, assured rapid access to the outpatient clinic when necessary, availability of technical and logistical support, and a user-friendly monitoring tool integrated with existing hospital information systems. Fine-tuning the design and delivery of questionnaires as part of TM is an opportunity for future research. PIFU/TM was perceived as an acceptable approach for the follow-up of motivated patients with SpA with adequate health- and digital literacy. Preserved accessibility to the outpatient clinic and availability of ancillary support are essential for its sustainable implementation.

Using Digital Art and Attachment Priming in a Web-Based Serious Game to Reduce Pain and Social Disconnection in Individuals With Chronic Pain and Loneliness: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Arts engagement using virtual reality and serious games represent promising nonpharmacological self-management treatment approaches to chronic pain. This study is the first randomized controlled trial to explore the impact of a web-based serious game that simulated a visit to an art museum on pain and social disconnection among individuals living with chronic pain and loneliness. This study aimed to test the joint and separate effects of exposure to digital art and attachment figure priming on pain and social disconnection among individuals living with chronic pain and loneliness. This randomized controlled trial used a 2 (digital artwork present and absent) × 2 (secure attachment and avoidant attachment prime) repeated measures factorial web-based experimental design with a hanging control condition. Mediation and moderation analyses examined how feelings about the social world triggered by the artwork and frequency of museum visits impacted the effects of the interventions on pain and social disconnection. The results are based on 308 participants. Mean age of the participants was 42.78 (SD 13.11; range 18-76) years, and 60.2% (n=186) were women. Posttest pain was lower than pretest pain for the artwork present (P=.001) and absent (P=.001) conditions. Similarly, posttest pain was lower than pretest pain for the secure (P=.001) and avoidant (P=.001) attachment priming conditions. Relative to the control group, artwork present (P=.001) and absent (P=.01) conditions had decreased posttest pain. The secure (P=.001) and avoidant (P=.001) attachment priming conditions also had lower posttest pain scores relative to the control group. Moreover, social disconnection decreased from pre- to posttest for both the artwork present (P=.04) and the secure attachment priming (P=.002) conditions. Relative to the control group, posttest social disconnection was lower for the artwork present (P=.02) and secure attachment priming condition (P=.03). The artwork-secure attachment (P=.001) and artwork-avoidant attachment (P=.006) conditions had lower posttest pain scores compared with the control group. Social disconnection decreased from pre- to posttest for the artwork-secure attachment (P=.01) and no artwork-secure attachment (P=.05) conditions. Posttest social disconnection was lower for the artwork-secure attachment condition compared with the control group (P=.04). Positive feelings about the social world triggered by artwork exposure and frequency of museum visits in the last year played a mediating and moderating role in these effects. Positive feelings about the social world were associated with decreased pain (B=-.53) and social disconnection (B=-.25), and these effects operated on individuals exposed to digital artwork at low, medium, and high frequency of physical museum visits. Relative to a control group, visiting a web-based art museum reliably decreased pain and social disconnection among individuals living with chronic pain and loneliness. Engaging with digital artwork that triggers positive feelings about the social world may mitigate the burden of chronic pain.

Api-tourism potential of Southern Tanzania: a case study of villages around Ruaha and Udzungwa National Parks

This study was conducted in villages adjacent to Ruaha and Udzungwa National Parks in Kilolo and Iringa Districts, Southern Tanzania, namely Luganga, Mahuninga, Tungamalenga, Msosa Irindi, and Watalisoli. Though Tanzania is among the countries in the world with the highest potential for the production of bee products and contributes about 33% of household income, the potential of beekeeping for api-tourism is not well known. The study assessed the potential for the establishment of api-tourism in the study area. Data were collected through household survey questionnaires (individual beekeepers), focus group discussions (village leaders, old people), key informant interviews, district officers, and physical visits to beekeeping sites. Results showed that respondents lack api-tourism knowledge. Traditional beekeeping is mostly practiced using log hives. Beekeeping (stinging and stingless bees) contributes to household-level income. Beekeeping activities are hindered by a lack of appropriate beekeeping skills, climate change, and habitat destruction. The surveyed area has potential for api-tourism because of abundant pollen and nectar-producing plants, including Brachystegia spiciformis, B. utilis, B. boehmii, Julbernardia sp., Pterocarpus angolensis, and Combretum species. The existence of unique local dances, local cuisine, hand crafts, unique mountains, and stones (with human footprints) reveal tourists’ experiences. The results will increase awareness of the need to establish api-tourism due to the significant bee resource base in the area. The study recommends api-tourism awareness creation, biodiversity conservation, exploration of stingless bees for api-tourism purposes, and key stakeholders in the sector to come up with strategies to integrate beekeeping into tourism.

Virtual reality as a sustainable alternative for authentic and satisfying tourism experiences

ABSTRACT Tourism significantly contributes to climate change while simultaneously providing essential leisure and relaxation opportunities. This study examines the potential of virtual reality (VR) as a sustainable alternative to physical tourism by examining its ability to authentically and satisfactorily replicate traditional tourism experiences. Anchored in technological mediation theory, this study explores whether VR’s embodiment features – ownership, location, and agency – can foster tourism authenticity and tourist satisfaction. To do so, this study employs a quasi-experimental design with 937 cases. The findings indicate that VR tourism can deliver authenticity and satisfaction levels comparable to physical visits, particularly among tourists with prior VR exposure. These results advance sustainable tourism practices by positioning VR as a viable alternative to physical travel, thereby contributing to environmental conservation efforts. These results also underscore the critical role of technology embodiment in crafting immersive and meaningful tourism experiences. Therefore, the data-driven insights provided herein can be used to guide the development of innovative, technology-driven tourism models that meet the growing demand for authentic and sustainable travel experiences.

Tourist crossing: examining the intersection of wildlife tourism attractions & animal welfare in Costa Rica

ABSTRACT Wildlife tourism attractions (WTAs) are key actors in promoting ecotourism and animal welfare. This field note focuses on the Toucan Rescue Ranch (TRR), a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation nonprofit organization based in central Costa Rica, and its efforts to promote animal welfare through education and outreach. TRR's key ecotourism challenges and achievements – particularly around wildlife protections and coalition building are explored. The article concludes with reflections on the future opportunities facing ecotourism regarding animal welfare regionally, as well as the tourism industry more broadly. These findings were gleaned from discussions with TRR staff during a physical visit as well as during Zoom calls in 2023.

Digital biomarkers for psoriatic arthritis: a qualitative focus group study on patient-perceived opportunities and barriers

ObjectivesThe widespread adoption of wearables, for example, smartphones and smartwatches in the daily lives of the general population, allows passive monitoring of physiological and behavioural data in the real world....

Surviving the Storm: The Vital Role of Entrepreneurs’ Network Ties and Recovering Capabilities in Supporting the Intention to Sustain Micro and Small Enterprises

Micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) play a positive and significant role in developing economies by creating job opportunities and mitigating poverty; this necessitates their attention and focus, mainly during challenging times. Accordingly, this study explored the key factors contributing to enhancing entrepreneurial competency (EC) and the intention to maintain business continuity among MSMEs in Yemen during adverse times. A sample of 280 responses was collected from MSMEs operating diverse types of businesses in the capital of Yemen, Sanaa. The collected data were analysed using partial least squares–structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), which is considered suitable for this purpose. The data collection process included an online questionnaire and a physical visit to the business locations of the business owners. The findings of the study reported that entrepreneurs’ network ties (ENT), as well as recovering capability (RC), positively and significantly influence the EC of MSMEs in the context of the study. Additionally, EC positively and significantly influences business continuity intention (BCI). Finally, EC partially mediates the relationship between ENT, RC, and BCI. The study concludes by providing recommendations and implications for policymakers.

Abstract A148: Perceptions of lung cancer screening among Native American patients: The Tribally Engaged Approaches to Lung Screening (TEALS) study

Abstract Introduction: Uptake of lung cancer screening (LCS) with low dose computed tomography is poor nationwide. The U.S. Native American (NA) population has a high prevalence of smoking and lung cancer mortality but low rates of LCS completion. Awareness and perceptions of LCS among NA men and women have rarely been studied. Methods: Using a community-engaged research approach in partnership with the Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority in Oklahoma, the “Tribally Engaged Approaches to Lung Screening” study developed and implemented a cluster-randomized controlled trial of a coordinated LCS program. In 2022, NA men and women eligible for LCS from six tribal health clinics completed a baseline survey prior to being referred for LCS. Surveys included demographic characteristics, smoking history, use of cancer preventive services, beliefs regarding personal risk of lung cancer, and perceptions toward LCS. Findings: Among 210 participants (57% women, 43% men), mean age was 63 years; 50% reported annual household income below $25,000, 83% completed high school or equivalent, with 40% having some college education. The median pack years of smoking was 46 years. The proportion of participants who currently smoke was 72%. Current cigarette users were slightly younger than former users (median age 61 vs 64 years, respectively) and similarly had lower maximum estimates of pack-years of use (median, 44 vs 52). Most (93%) had more than one primary care visit within the past 12 months, and 76% completed an annual physical or wellness visit in the past year. Overall, 73% had completed colonoscopy and, among women, 80% had a mammogram. Only 62% had heard about LCS. However, 74% agreed with the statement “It is likely that I will get lung cancer sometime in my lifetime”. More than 90% of participants agreed that LCS would help with each of the following: early detection, chances of dying from lung cancer, reduce personal worry about lung cancer, reduce their family’s worries, improve planning for the future and peace of mind. However, 44% worried that LCS would find “something wrong”, 15% endorsed that they would rather not know if they had any lung problems, and 10% were afraid the scan would damage their lungs. About 20% worried about being a social outcast or being blamed for having smoked. Regarding potential barriers, 32% felt that cost would be a problem, 28% felt they did not have the time, and 17% that transportation would be a problem. Overall,14% reported bad experiences with healthcare or a provider, and 8% did not trust the healthcare system. Regarding LCS, 28% felt they did not know enough about the test, 11% felt they were too old to benefit from LCS, and 8% felt LCS was not worth the effort. Conclusions: Perceptions of the potential benefits from LCS were overall favorable in this sample of NA adults. However, up to 30% perceived significant barriers to LCS uptake. Greater awareness of LCS and mitigation of barriers to LCS would help to reduce the marked disparities in lung cancer mortality among NA patients. Citation Format: Dorothy A. Rhoades, Cara Vaught, Ann Chou, Kathleen Dwyer, Mark P Doescher, Michele Gibson, Zsolt Nagykaldi. Perceptions of lung cancer screening among Native American patients: The Tribally Engaged Approaches to Lung Screening (TEALS) study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A148.

Patterns of utilization of advanced practice providers in reproductive endocrinology: a 2023 national survey

ObjectiveTo evaluate the current utilization of advanced practice providers (APPs) within the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). DesignCross sectional. SubjectsA total of 201 APPs surveyed through the American Society of Reproductive Medicine APP Professional Group. ExposureAnonymized online survey. Main Outcome MeasuresDemographics, scope of practice and responsibilities, and training and onboarding. ResultsRespondents were primarily Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs, 26.4%), Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs, 33.3%), or Physician Associates (PAs, 29.8%). Two-thirds (67.4%) reported that their scope of practice is limited by their employer or practice, 43.5% by state restrictions, and 25.2% by insurance. Survey respondents reported that 44.4% of their time at work is dedicated to performing procedures and scans and 30.6% to conducting consults and follow-ups. The most commonly reported duties were physical exams (88.6%), intrauterine inseminations (IUI; 86.6%), saline sonohysterograms (79.6%), endometrial biopsies (76.6%), ultrasounds (74.6%), and problem visits such as for pain, cysts, and bleeding (73.1%). The majority of survey respondents (61.7%) reported having autonomy in deciding protocols and treatment options for patients in their practice. Respondents described their onboarding training as including observation/on-the-job training (94.0%), independent reading of texts and journals (66.7%), ASRM online courses (45.3%), formal orientation (34.8%), and practice-organized training programs (29.4%). ConclusionsAPPs are highly trained members of the care team, but continue to be underutilized within the field of REI. Improvements in educational resources and/or use of a formalized program to train APPs to their full scope of practice may help increase clinic efficiency and improve patient access to care.

Forest Therapy as an Alternative and Sustainable Rehabilitation Practice: A Patient Group Attitude Investigation

The objective of this research is to investigate the awareness and opinions concerning forest therapy within a public health institution, specifically as a green prescription for patients with stable chronic disease. Through qualitative preliminary analysis, this study compared the responses of a group to gather physical activity and wood frequentation insights, as well as forest therapy patients’ attitudes. The results underline a general predisposition among respondents to engage in moderate physical activity and visit natural environments for relaxation purposes. Emerging parallelly is how forest therapy is largely an unknown practice, although it draws considerable interest and a general predisposition to participate. This research outlines the ideal conditions that emerge for participating in forest therapy sessions, including the availability to pay, pointing toward environmentally and socio-economically sustainable reflections. Further studies should extend this preliminary investigation using appropriate statistical methodologies on larger samples, involving different regions and medical conditions.

A 2-year follow-up to a randomized controlled trial on resistance training in postmenopausal women: vasomotor symptoms, quality of life and cardiovascular risk markers

BackgroundMost women experience vasomotor symptoms (VMS) during the menopausal transition. A 15-week resistance training intervention (RTI) significantly reduced moderate-to-severe VMS (MS-VMS) and improved health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and cardiovascular risk markers in postmenopausal women. Whether a short RTI could have long-term effects is unknown. We aimed to investigate whether there were intervention-dependent effects two years after a 15-week RTI on MS-VMS frequency, HRQoL, and cardiovascular risk markers in postmenopausal women.MethodsThis observational prospective cohort study is a follow-up to a randomized controlled trial (RCT) on a 15-week RTI in postmenopausal women (n = 57). The control group had unchanged low physical activity during these first 15 weeks. At the follow-up contact two years post-intervention, 35 women agreed to participate in an additional physical visit at the clinic with clinical testing, blood sampling, and magnetic resonance imaging, identical to the protocol at the baseline visit at the start of the RCT.ResultsAlthough all women showed reduced MS-VMS and increased moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) over the 2-year follow-up compared to baseline, the groups from the original RCT (intervention group; IG, control group; CG) changed differently over time (p < 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively) regarding MS-VMS. The IG maintained a significantly lower MS-VMS frequency than the CG at the 6-month follow-up. At the 2-year follow-up, there was no significant difference between the original RCT groups. No significant changes over time or differences between groups were found in HRQoL or cardiovascular risk markers. However, significant interactions between original RCT groups and time were found for visceral adipose tissue (p = 0.041), ferritin (p = 0.045), and testosterone (p = 0.010).ConclusionsA 15-week resistance training intervention reduced MS-VMS frequency up to six months post-intervention compared to a CG, but the effect was not maintained after two years. The RTI did neither contribute to preserved improvements of cardiovascular risk markers nor improved HRQoL after two years compared to a CG.Trial registrationClinical trials.gov registered ID: NCT01987778, trial registration date 2013–11-19.

Impact of Digitalization on Purchase Decision of Electronic Goods

Abstract: Digital transformation empowers individuals by saving time and money. It diminishes geographical barriers and fosters closer connections among people globally. Now, acquiring products or services doesn't require a physical visit to a store; a simple online click suffices. To engage with potential clients, organizations are leveraging digital mediums, facilitating their access to a broader audience. This ease allows customers to effortlessly compare products in terms of quality and price, while the availability of products further influences their purchasing choices. This research study explores the impact of availability of digital information on customer purchasing behaviour, focusing on key factors such as the reliability of online information, the accessibility of websites, and the effectiveness of digital communication channels in persuading customers to make purchases decision. The study is conducted with a sample of 208 participants. Regression analysis was used to draw findings of the study.

Pendampingan Penggunaan Layanan Perbankan Digital Pada Nasabah BANK BPD Bali Capem PUSPEM BADUNG

Abstract Assistance with Digital Banking Services Usage at Bank BPD Bali Capem Puspem Badung identifies low levels of digital technology adoption among customers as a major challenge. Despite Bank BPD Bali’s commitment to regional economic development and providing inclusive banking services, many customers still rely on cash transactions and physical visits to the branch. This Internship Program aims to enhance understanding and usage of digital banking applications through intensive support. This approach includes direct education on how to use the app, its benefits, and technical problem- solving. Results show an improvement in customers' understanding and skills in using digital services, but challenges related to digital literacy still need to be addressed. The program demonstrates effectiveness in increasing digital service adoption, supporting Bank BPD Bali’s goal of delivering more efficient and high-quality banking services, and contributing to the economic development of Bali. Evaluation and the development of a structured monitoring system are necessary to ensure the program’s sustainability and effectiveness in the future. Kata Kunci: digital banking, customer assistance, digital literacy, technology adoption

Embracing telepharmacy: Unveiling Malaysians' perceptions and knowledge through online survey.

The expansion of information technologies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has notably increased the use of remote services, including telehealth. Telepharmacy, a subset of telehealth, offers remote pharmaceutical care services, benefiting patients by providing advice and consultations without the need for physical pharmacy visits. This study aimed to assess public perceptions and awareness of telepharmacy in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from Nov 2022 to May 2023, involving 387 Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above. Data collection utilised Google Forms distributed via social medias, covering demographics, technological readiness, awareness, perceptions, and willingness related to telepharmacy. The study demonstrated high digital readiness among respondents, owning smartphones and being adept in utilising various digital features. However, there was a lack of awareness regarding the concept of telepharmacy. Despite predominantly positive perceptions of its potential, only 48.1% of respondents showed willingness to utilise telepharmacy services. While respondents exhibited readiness for digital engagement, there was a notable deficit in understanding telepharmacy. Though perceptions were positive, willingness to embrace telepharmacy was moderate. Addressing the knowledge gap through targeted education initiatives might enhance acceptance. Future research should focus on integrating telepharmacy into healthcare systems considering public preferences, thereby evaluating its actual implementation and outcomes among diverse demographics.

EVisits to primary care and subsequent health care contacts: a register-based study

BackgroundEvidence concerning health care use related to virtual visits is conflicting. More research has been called for regarding the effectiveness of text-based virtual visits (eVisits). Therefore, we investigated patient characteristics, diagnoses, and subsequent health care contacts after eVisits to primary care.MethodsWe conducted a register-based cohort study of eVisits to an all-virtual public primary care unit in Sweden and subsequent health care contacts within 14 days. Data for 2021 were acquired from the regional health care databases. Diagnoses were sorted into relevant diagnostic groups, such as skin diagnoses and respiratory tract diagnoses. Multiple logistic regression was performed with subsequent health care contact as the outcome variable and diagnostic group for the eVisit as the predictor variable. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and socioeconomic index.ResultsThere were 5817 eVisits to a nurse and 4267 eVisits to a general practitioner (N = 10 084). Most patients were 20 to 39 years of age (41.8%). Skin diagnoses were most frequent (47.3%), followed by respiratory tract diagnoses (19.9%). Approximately one-fourth (25.8%) of the patients who completed an eVisit with a nurse or a general practitioner had a subsequent face-to-face visit within 14 days, mostly in primary care. Subsequent contacts were more frequent after an eVisit to a nurse than to a general practitioner. After an eVisit to a general practitioner, patients with infections (especially respiratory tract but also urinary tract) and unspecified diagnoses (especially skin-related) were more likely to require further health care contact compared to a group with various other diagnoses.ConclusionseVisits to an all-virtual primary care unit may be appropriate for uncomplicated medical complaints. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of eVisits in terms of substitution of physical visits, and resource utilization in relation to the more complex care needs of a primary care population, should be further studied.

Design and Implementation of Digital Collection of Past Questions Papers in Auchi Polytechnic Library

This paper presents an overview of the implementation and implications of an electronic repository of past question papers within a polytechnic library setting. The electronic repository represents a significant advancement in academic resource management, offering a streamlined and accessible platform for students and staff to access past question papers. Through intuitive interface design and robust search functionalities, users can efficiently navigate through vast collections of question papers spanning various academic disciplines, courses and semesters. The repository enhances accessibility by allowing users to retrieve materials remotely, thereby eliminating the constraints of physical visits to the library. Security measures ensure the integrity and confidentiality of question papers, while also promoting sustainability by reducing paper usage. The availability of a comprehensive repository of past question papers fosters a culture of academic excellence by empowering students to enhance their understanding of course material and improved examination preparation. Overall, the electronic repository of question papers signifies a transformative approach to information management within educational institutions, reflecting a commitment to innovation and efficiency in academic processes.

Evaluating Samarinda City's Sub-district Digitalization Policy for Enhanced Public Services

General Background: The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly impacted public service delivery, with governments worldwide exploring digital transformation to enhance administrative efficiency and public engagement. Specific Background: In Samarinda City, the implementation of a digitalization trial program in sub-districts has been undertaken to address the existing dissatisfaction among the public with conventional public services. Knowledge Gap: While digitalization is presumed to improve service efficiency and accessibility, empirical evidence on its effectiveness, particularly at the sub-district level, remains sparse. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the policy of the digitalization trial program in Samarinda City's sub-districts, focusing on its capacity to improve service quality and its broader impacts on public administration. Results: The findings reveal significant enhancements in service efficiency and user satisfaction, marked by a decrease in physical visits to sub-district offices as residents increasingly access services online. Novelty: This research contributes to the understanding of digital transformation at a micro-administrative level, a less explored area in digital governance studies. Implications: The successful implementation of the digitalization program in Samarinda City suggests potential scalability to other regions, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and continuous training to realize the benefits of digital governance fully. Highlights: Efficiency Gains: Reduced physical visits signify increased service efficiency. User Satisfaction: Digital services improved accessibility and speed, enhancing satisfaction. Scalability: The program's success highlights its potential for broader application, requiring strategic planning and continuous training. Keywords: E-Government, Digitalization Program Policy, Community Services

Role of Augmented Reality in Improving Remote Technical Support in Nigeria

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of augmented reality in improving remote technical support in Nigeria. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The integration of Augmented Reality (AR) in remote technical support in Nigeria has significantly enhanced troubleshooting efficiency by allowing technicians to visualize issues in real-time, providing immediate and interactive guidance. This technology has improved customer satisfaction by reducing downtime and accelerating resolution processes, making support more accessible, especially in remote areas. Additionally, AR has contributed to cost reduction by minimizing the need for physical technician visits and extensive in-person training sessions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Technology acceptance model (TAM), media richness theory (MRT) &amp; cognitive load theory (CLT) may be used to anchor future studies on role of augmented reality in improving remote technical support in Nigeria. Implement AR solutions to provide remote technicians with detailed, real-time visual overlays that guide diagnostic and repair processes. Formulate policies that establish standards for AR technology in remote technical support. This includes guidelines for data security, privacy, and interoperability to ensure that AR solutions are safe, reliable, and can work seamlessly with other technologies.

Design Virtual Tour Technology Application to Improve Digital Literacy of Teachers and Students About Edu-tourism

More technological innovation in the tourism sector must be integrated with educational aspects and digital literacy, especially during a pandemic that limits physical visits to tourist attractions. Although several tourism applications have been developed, only a few have been specifically designed to improve digital literacy and visitor knowledge in terms of educational content and integration with the school curriculum. This research aims to create a virtual tour-based edu-tourism application that is packaged with virtual reality applications. This research is a research and development using the ADDIE model. The subjects of this research were randomly 250 teachers and high school / vocational school students. The data collection method was a questionnaire using an instrument in the form of an instrument sheet. After the data was collected, it was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative descriptive data analysis methods. The results showed that the design of the virtual tour technology application received a very good assessment in the aspects of media, material, discussion, and display. This is also in line with the teacher's response, which assessed these aspects positively, with the highest score given to the media aspect, followed by the material, discussion, and display. This study concludes that the virtual tour-based eduwisata application packaged with virtual reality applications is effective in improving the literacy skills of teachers and students regarding eduwisata. The results of this study indicate that virtual tour applications can be implemented as interactive learning media that can improve student and teacher literacy in the field of edu-tourism.