Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University Research Articles

Analyzing ChatGPT's Sustainability as a Language Learning Tool: Saudi EFL Learners' Perspectives, Problems and Pedagogical Prospects

The study assessed Saudi EFL students' perspectives on ChatGPT's incorporation into EFL classrooms for language acquisition and instruction, challenges and barriers, and pedagogical prospects. 212 respondents were randomly selected from different stages of the undergraduate programs at the College of Business Administration and College of Science & Humanities, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, KSA. A questionnaire with self-designed and partially incorporated items from existing studies was utilised to collect the data from the respondents. The data was analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics. It was found that Saudi EFL learners held an immensely favorable perspective on the efficacy of ChatGPT incorporation into EFL classrooms. It was also found that ChatGPT-powered classrooms posed certain challenges such as erroneous results, plagiarism and reproduction, professional integrity, listening and speaking, failure to think critically, and incapability to understand cultural and psychological contexts embedded in idioms and language expressions. However, it was also found that ChatGPT, despite its limitations, offers significant educational implications as it can satisfy learners' specific needs better than conventional language learning and teaching methods.

Linguistic Competence Among Egyptian vs. Saudi EFL Majors in Light of Utilizing Artificial Intelligence Technology

This study aimed at probing Egyptian and Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) majors' perceptions of the impact of AI technology on enhancing linguistic competence and predicting the level of linguistic competence development due to the utilisation of AI. The descriptive survey method was used to accomplish the purpose of the study. A 27-item questionnaire was developed to collect the study data from the participants, totalling 523 EFL majors: 256 Egyptian EFL majors at the Faculty of Education at Al-Azhar University, Egypt and 267 EFL majors at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. The results of the statistical analysis demonstrated that AI technology is perceived positively by the EFL majors in both contexts. However, the Egyptian students showed higher positive perceptions than their Saudi counterparts. More importantly, the simple regression analysis has shown a statistically significant positive correlation between the EFL majors' perceptions and their linguistic competence. The study recommends enhancing the EFL majors' proficiency in using AI tools for developing language skills.

BOLA family genes are the drivers and potential biomarkers of survival in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma patients.

To analyze the diagnostic and prognostic potential of the BOLA gene family in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC). This study is an observational study. The whole study was carried out at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia from January to November 2023. As it involves in silico and in vitro methods, ethical consent was not required. Various in silico and molecular experimental techniques were employed in this study. Significant up-regulation and hypomethylation of BOLA1, BOLA2, and BOLA3 were observed across 12 KIRC cell lines. Retrospective analysis of the cancer genome atlas program (TCGA)-KIRC cohorts confirmed hypomethylation of these genes in KIRC tissues. The cBioPortal analysis showed minimal genetic alterations, with amplification being the most common. Kaplan-Meier plotter data revealed that high BOLA1, BOLA2, and BOLA3 expression correlated with shorter overall survival and relapse-free survival in KIRC. Tumor-immune system interactions database analysis linked BOLA1 expression to immune and molecular subtypes. Gene silencing of BOLA1, BOLA2, and BOLA3 in 786-0 cells reduced cell growth and proliferation, enhancing wound healing capacity. BOLA genes may serve as diagnostic and prognostic markers in KIRC, offering insights into therapeutic targets and disease progression.

Psychological empowerment and its relation to the personality traits of Saudi university students

This study explores the psychological empowerment of students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University and the differences by specialization and study level. It also attempts to identify if dimensions of psychological empowerment predict personality traits. The study followed a descriptive and correlational design and used two scales to collect data on the participants’ psychological empowerment and personality traits. The two scales were administered to a stratified random sample of 202 female students from Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. Means, standard deviations, the t-test for independent samples, and regression analysis were used to answer the research questions. The results revealed that the students had a high level of psychological empowerment. There were no statistically significant differences by study level in all dimensions of psychological empowerment, except human relations and the total score. The differences were in favor of the seventh-level students. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences by specialization in all dimensions, except human relations and the total score. These differences were in favor of arts students. The regression analysis revealed that psychological empowerment, particularly the dimensions of goal internalization and human relations, could predict personality traits. It is recommended that psychological empowerment dimensions that contribute to positive personality traits be targeted in training and academic counseling services provided to students.

Investigating the Impact of Educational Aspirations, Study Habits, Parental Involvement, and Institutional Environment on Saudi EFL Learners’ Language Proficiency

The study assesses the impact of educational aspirations, study habits, parental involvement, and institutional environment on Saudi EFL learners’ language proficiency. It also examines if the demographic profiles of Saudi EFL learners differently shaped their worldviews and responses. As the study focuses on how certain independent variables (educational aspirations, study habits, parental involvement, and institutional environment) impacted the dependent variable (language proficiency), a descriptive quantitative approach was employed to collect data from respondents using a self-designed questionnaire with partial adoption of modified items. A simple random sample method was used to select 131 respondents (10% of the population) from the undergraduate population at the College of Science & Humanities and College of Business Administration, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. The findings revealed that educational aspirations followed by institutional environment, study habits, and parental engagement affected the language proficiency of Saudi EFL learners. One way ANOVA analysis showed that year/level of study causes significant differences in the means of the study respondents. However, no statistically significant difference was observed in the means of the responses based on the professional profiles of their parents. The findings of the study hold significance for both language instructors and policymakers for effective teaching and policy making.

In Their Own Words: Narratives of Sudanese Pediatricians Displaced By Conflict

Background: This study examines the profound personal and professional impact of the armed conflict in Sudan since April 2023 on pediatricians, particularly focusing on their displacement from Khartoum and the resultant challenges in providing essential health services to children in conflict-affected areas. Methods: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this study targeted displaced pediatricians from Khartoum identified via purposive sampling. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire, featuring both quantitative items and an open-ended question for qualitative insights, administered electronically. The analysis combined descriptive statistics and thematic analysis with ethical oversight provided by the IRB of Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University. Results: In a study of 42 displaced pediatricians from Sudan, 66.67% were female and the majority were aged between 30 and 45 years. Despite facing adversities due to armed conflict, these pediatricians displayed remarkable resilience and continued to provide pediatric care under challenging conditions. Key themes emerged from their narratives, including professional commitment amid scarcity, emotional turmoil coupled with spiritual reflection, and relentless pursuit of providing care. Safety concerns primarily drove displacement, with 95.24% citing this as a reason. While 61.90% of the respondents relocated within Sudan, 38.10% moved abroad, reflecting the profound personal and professional impact of the conflict. Conclusion: The armed conflict in Sudan has severely disrupted the pediatric healthcare system, leading to widespread displacement of pediatricians and jeopardizing child healthcare. The study highlights the resilience of healthcare professionals amidst adversity, their struggle to maintain care delivery, and the critical need for support and strategic planning to restore healthcare services in conflictaffected areas.

Efficacy of Mixed Model Instruction to Improve English Language Skills of Business Management Students: An Experimental Study

Aim. The current study explored and compared the efficacy of technology-based instructions, specifically web-mediated, blended, and online instructions, on the enhancement of English language skills among students pursuing Business management (BM) in Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. Method. A total of two hundred and four participants were chosen randomly and divided into four groups. The control group, comprising 51 individuals, received general English instruction utilizing the communicative language teaching (CLT) approach, and engaged in exercises that focused on developing their general English skills. On the other hand, the web-mediated learning experimental group, also consisting of 51 participants, received general English instruction through the Duolingo educational model. Similarly, the blended experimental group, comprised of 51 individuals, received general English instruction through the Enriched Virtual Blended Learning Model. Lastly, the online learning group, consisting of 51 participants, received general English instruction through the LMS instructional model. Results. Prior to the intervention, all students underwent a pretest, and subsequently, a posttest and a delayed posttest were administered to evaluate their proficiency in standard general English, as measured by the TOEFL exam. The study's results indicated that all groups displayed progress in their English language skills. However, the Duolingo and Enriched Virtual learning models demonstrated superior performance in enhancing English language skills compared to the other groups. Conclusion. These findings hold significant pedagogical implications for curriculum designers, the development of training programs for future HR professionals, material producers, and all stakeholders involved in the field of BM education.

The Role of Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in Promoting Environmental Sustainability Among Students in Light of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030

Education for sustainable development aims to develop students' awareness of sustainability issues and foster their attitudes towards environmental, economic, and social sustainability. The study aimed to identify the role of Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in promoting environmental sustainability among its students, in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. A descriptive analytical approach was used, with a sample of 341 university students. The study found that faculty members ranked first in promoting sustainability, followed by curricula, student activities, and university administration. The most important ways to activate the university's role in promoting sustainability from students' perspectives were rated as very important. Statistically significant differences were found between the sample's responses, with females expressing more support in university administration. Academic specialization also influenced responses, with scientific specializations showing more favor in university administration, faculty members, and curricula. The researchers made several recommendations based on the findings.

Factors affecting corporate cash holdings: Evidence from the energy sector of Saudi Arabia

This study investigates the impact of firm-specific components of cash holdings on the cash reserves of energy firms. Decisions related to cash management are significant and treated as confident made by financial managers to increase the value of a firm. Therefore, financial managers are obligated to hold an optimum level of cash to enhance the firm value. The study depends on secondary data from seven energy firms listed on the Saudi Arabian Stock Exchange over the period between 2014 and 2023. The study considers cash holdings as a dependent variable, leverage, networking capital, and profitability as explanatory variables, and firm size as a control variable. The study employed a linear regression model and a generalized linear regression (GLM) model with Gaussian and Gamma distributions to analyze the data. The results show that Saudi Arabian energy firms reserve approximately 7% of cash, while external financing is 51%. The pooled regression results show that the association between leverage and firms’ cash reserves was negative (–0.064) and significant at less than a 1% significance level. Further, the networking capital and profitability were positively related (0.063 and 0.113) and significant at 5% and 1% significance levels. Moreover, the firm size was positive but insignificant. The generalized linear regression model results with Gaussian and Gamma distributions were similar to the simple linear regression with minor variation. AcknowledgmentThis current project under research project number PSAU/2023/02/25767 was funded by Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University.

Understanding Saudi EFL Learners’ Perspectives on the Efficacy of the Flipped Learning Model: Problems and Prospects

The study assesses Saudi EFL learners’ perspectives on the efficacy of the flipped learning model, problems and challenges, and opportunities and prospects in Saudi Arabia. 261 respondents from different levels of the undergraduate program at the College of Science and College of Business Administration, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, KSA, were selected using a random sampling method. A questionnaire, with the adoption of modified items from some previous studies, was designed to collect the data. As the research looks at how specific independent variables (gender, year of study, and parents’ professional profile) shape the dependent variable (perspective/perceptions), the data was evaluated quantitatively (utilizing descriptive statistics). The findings revealed that Saudi EFL learners considered flipped classrooms an excellent alternative mode of instruction. In addition, it was observed that this approach to learning encountered certain challenges, such as lack of motivation, learners' incapacity to maintain self-discipline, and unmonitored instruction. It was also revealed that flipped classrooms in Saudi Arabia had considerable prospects due to its young tech-savvy population and its well-advanced infrastructure for learning. One-way ANOVA analysis found no significant statistical difference among the respondents based on their demographic profile. The study implies that issues related to motivation, self-regulated learning, and the learners' failure to stay disciplined in flipped classrooms must be addressed to make it an effective alternative mode of instruction.

Examining Foreign Language Learners’ Speaking Anxiety: The Case of English L2 Learners

Examining speaking anxiety in learners of foreign languages is important not only for the learners but also for teachers and curriculum designers. The study aimed to examine foreign language learners’ speaking anxiety in 100 M.A. students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia. The survey was directed to M.A. students. The study used the PSCAS. The findings demonstrated that a variety of factors, including a limited vocabulary, pronunciation difficulties, social pressure, a lack of confidence, and negative past experiences, might contribute to speaking anxiety. Together, these components create a complex web of worry that keeps students from being open to vocal communication. However, the study also discovered several practical strategies that M.A. candidates could employ to boost their speaking confidence and lessen their speaking anxiety. These strategies included role-playing games, conversations in small groups, the use of technology, group projects involving collaborative speaking, regular constructive criticism, availability of interactive language labs, practical language application, progressively more difficult assignments, cultural immersion programs, and workshops on public speaking. By using these strategies, students can establish a supportive learning environment that promotes language proficiency and confidence. Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations were proposed, such as integration of supportive learning environments, utilization of technology, implementation of practical language application, training in public speaking, gradual complexity in assignments, and promotion of positive thinking.

Impact of capital structure and free cash flow on the efficiency of energy firms in Saudi Arabia

The components of free cash flow and a firm’s capital structure affect the value of the firm. A firm with efficient cash management and optimum capital structure tends to have a better firm value. The current study examines the effect of capital structure and free cash flow on energy firms’ efficiency in Saudi Arabia. The data required for analysis were collected from a sample of seven energy companies from 2014 through 2022. The study used Data Envelopment Analysis to measure the efficiency of energy firms. Further, the simple regression and Generalized Linear Model were used to estimate the results. The study reports an average efficiency score of 1.13 for the energy companies, showing an efficiency increase. The results of simple regression are consistent with the results of the Generalized Linear Model. The study findings demonstrate that the association of firms’ capital structure is positive and significant (with a coefficient of 41.60, significant at a p-value of 0.01) to the efficiency of Saudi Arabian energy firms. Further, current research results indicate that firms’ free cash flows negatively affect the efficiency (with a coefficient of –0.79 and insignificant) of Saudi Arabian energy firms with no evidence. Therefore, the study accepts the association of free cash flow and firms’ efficiency as positive and rejects the alternative hypothesis that there is a negative association between free cash flow and efficiency in Saudi Arabian energy firms. AcknowledgmentThe researcher extends appreciation to Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University for funding this research through the project number 2023/02/25856.

Cyberbullying: An Analytical Study of its Psychological and Social Effects on Female Students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University

The aim of this study is to identify the reality of cyberbullying among female students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University in order to recognize the phenomenon in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its most common types, negative effects, and the university's efforts in this regard. The study relied on a quantitative descriptive approach to process the primary data through a questionnaire distributed to 67 students from various specialties. The data analysis revealed a number of results, the most important of which was that the level of exposure of female students to cyberbullying was moderate, with an average of about 2.58, and the most prominent forms were mockery and defamation. Without severe negative effects, according to the sample individuals, the average was about 2.93, and it manifested in isolation, increased sleep hours, and loss of confidence. The positive role of university management in confronting bullying through student activities was also evident, with an average of about 4.41. The study emphasized the importance of respecting university laws, values, and behaviors, raising the awareness of female students about the consequences of cyberbullying while maintaining personal secrets, and directing students on how to make the best use of modern technologies.

Investigating EFL Students’ Perceptions about the Use of Beyond Textbook Materials for University Courses

Proficiency in English, in today’s globalized atmosphere, needs to be prioritized. This can be achieved by incorporating diverse, dynamic, and productive strategies intended to improve language proficiency. The use of different beyond textbook materials for teaching skills courses such as reading, writing, listening and speaking can be one such strategy. This study advocates that student teacher’s reliance should not always be based on prescribed textbooks, which may not always satisfy all students’ needs in different circumstances. Instead, resources other than textbooks can be a supportive supplement. This quantitative study investigates EFL students’ perceptions about the use of beyond textbook materials while studying skills courses in Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU). The sample consisted of 68 student-participants: 30 males and 38 females studying in level three of 4-year BA program in the Department of English. Based on purposive sampling, only those student-participants were chosen who had already studied skills courses as freshmen. To collect data, a 20-item questionnaire was created, online, using Google Forms. The responses were collected using 5-point Likert scale containing agreement, frequency and quality response options. The findings reveal that students positively reacted to the use of beyond textbook materials for skills courses and acknowledged the contributions of such non-textbook resources towards learning EFL. This study is limited to a selected context. Therefore, it is recommended that future studies may focus on student-participants from different locations to, supposedly, achieve results that are more comprehensive. It is hoped, findings of this study will provide valuable insights for students, teachers, and future researchers alike in the context of EFL.

The impact of training on digital citizenship skills in developing students’ attitudes towards sustainable development at the university level

The research aimed to investigate the impact of training on digital citizenship skills in developing attitudes toward sustainable development among university students. The study involved 25 first-year students from Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, including 13 Medical Sciences College students in the experimental group and 12 Engineering College students in the control group. The researcher administered the following tools: the training program and the Sustainable Development Attitude Scale. A quasi-experimental design was employed, and data were analyzed statistically using the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests. The research results revealed statistically significant differences between the mean ranks of the scores of individuals in the experimental and control groups on the Sustainable Development Attitude Scale after the implementation of the program in favor of the experimental group. Additionally, statistically significant differences were found between the mean ranks of the scores of individuals in the experimental group on the Sustainable Development Attitude Scale in the pre-test and post-test measures in favor of the post-test. However, no statistically significant differences were found between the mean ranks of the scores of the experimental group on the Sustainable Development Attitude Scale in the post-test and follow-up measures (after one month). The researcher provided a comprehensive discussion of the study variables: attitudes towards sustainable development and its components, as well as the training program based on digital citizenship skills in the current study. Furthermore, the researcher presented some recommendations and proposed further research.

The relationship between quality of academic life and passion for learning among Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz university students

This research aims to identify the level of quality of academic life and Passion for learning among university students and to reveal the relationship between the two variables. A sample of 454 male and female students from Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University participated in the study. Utilizing scales for assessing the quality of academic life and passion for learning, researchers employed a descriptive-analytical methodology, particularly the correlational technique, to elucidate the relationship between the variables under investigation. The findings revealed a high level of quality of academic life among the research sample and a high level of Passion for learning (harmonious) with a low level of Passion for learning (obsessive). Furthermore, the research results indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between the four dimensions of quality of academic life (good social relationships, enjoyable academic integration, meaningfulness, effective time management, and overall satisfaction) and harmonious academic passion. On the other hand, a statistically significant negative correlation was found between certain dimensions of quality of academic life (enjoyable academic integration, meaningfulness, effective time management, and overall satisfaction) and obsessive academic passion. However, the relationship between good social relationships and obsessive Passion for learning was not statistically significant. This study highlights the importance of nurturing a harmonious Passion for Learning and addressing obsessive Passion for Learning among university students to enhance academic experiences and overall well-being. Recommendations include targeted interventions within academic institutions, while future research could explore innovative methodologies and comparative studies across diverse cultural and educational settings.

Developing Expressive Skills through Non–Linear Thinking Tasks: An Exploratory Study

EFL learners face dual challenges in writing sessions due to inadequate writing skills and the inability to generate and organize ideas as expected by the instructor. Differences in cultural backgrounds too act as hindrances and prevent them from thinking in a uni-directional way. Thus, a good number of learners show disinterest in writing sessions. Therefore, it becomes imperative to encourage learners to think differently from peers and acknowledge their efforts. The study adopted an exploratory sequential method to find the impact of non-linear/multiple-solution tasks on the expressive writing skills of learners. The sample comprised 39 students pursuing the first level of an undergraduate course at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. This study went through two stages of data analysis, first: Performance Evaluation, based on a four-level assessment process. The performance indicators were: fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration. Second, a questionnaire was distributed to the participants after the fourth intervention to measure four indicators of motivation: attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. The results showed a significant relationship between divergent thinking, motivation, autonomy, and expressive writing skills. Based on the results of the present study, it can be suggested to give adequate importance to divergent thinking to develop expressive writing skills in students.

Undergraduate Translation Courses: Students' Perceptions at Prince Sattam Universities

The primary goal of this research was to investigate students' perceptions of translation classes in the English language department at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. The obtained data underwent fundamental analysis to determine students' concerns and identify components needing alteration to align with their learning objectives. According to the study, students developed an intellectual inclination, focused on recent discoveries, and were motivated to learn more about translation. They comprehended the course's learning objectives, believed it enhanced their professional development, and found it to meet their expectations. Students gained knowledge of translation concerns and key concepts, along with proficiency in translation processes and problem-solving techniques. According to students, the course was thorough, with an appropriate workload, fair evaluation, clear test requirements, and valuable feedback. They appreciated open communication, interaction with tutors, and collaborative problem-solving in translation challenges. The study suggests investigating students' impressions of web-based distance learning courses and how these attitudes evolve during translation courses. Recommendations include faculty training and incentives to participate. This training would assist instructors in becoming more familiar with the material and building effective teaching strategies. It would also guide academics in applying their own research and/or clinical practice, serving as a model for students' reflective practice. It is recommended that students hear from graduates currently applying this knowledge. Finally, future research may focus on translation programs at other universities in Saudi Arabia.

Assessing Saudi EFL Learners’ Use and Understanding of English Idioms: Perceptions, Problems, and Patterns of Learning

This study aims to investigate Saudi EFL learners’ perceptions of English idioms, their problems, and the patterns of their learning and understanding of English idioms. 458 students (around 10%) were selected through a random sampling method from the undergraduate learners in different levels of programs at the College of Business Administration and the College of Science & Humanities, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, KSA. As the study looked at how certain independent variables (gender, level/year of study, and parents’ profession) shaped dependent variables (perceptions/attitudes), a questionnaire was self-developed which includes modified items from existing research. A quantitative approach (descriptive statistics) was used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that Saudi EFL learners’ perceptions were very positive about English idioms and their impact on enhancing their English proficiency. It was found that lack of background information, unfamiliarity, variation in literal interpretation, lack of Arabic parallels, and insufficient EFL classroom training made learning English idioms challenging for respondents. It was also revealed that Saudi EFL learners acquired and comprehended English idioms via using them in sentences, consulting a dictionary, guessing from contexts, group discussions, and breaking them down into their constituent parts. One-way ANOVA analysis found no statistically significant difference among the respondents based on their demographic differences. The study holds implications for both teachers and students as it will help them teach and learn English idioms effectively. The most common method is translating English idioms into their language.

WITHDRAWN: Empowering tomorrow's healers: Unveiling the impact of a palliative education program on nursing students' efficiency in caring for dying patients

BackgroundMany nursing students lack comprehension of palliative care, which affects their readiness to care for individuals at the end of life. Implementing a focused educational strategy can improve their understanding, emotions, behavior, and attitudes, leading to exceptional care. AimTo evaluate the Impact of a Palliative Education Program on Nursing Students' Efficiency in Caring for Dying Patients. MethodsA quasi-experimental design involved 216 nursing students from Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. Data collection included demographic details and questionnaires: Palliative Care Quiz, Frommelt Attitudes, and Death Attitude Profile—Revised. ResultsMore than half (51.9 %) of the participants were below 20 years old, with an average age of 22.8 ± 13.5 years. The majority were female (51.4 %), and 86.6 % had not received palliative care education. Post-program implementation, a significant improvement was observed in total mean scores of knowledge (62.46 ± 4.51), Frommelt Attitudes (240.16 ± 8.9), and Death Attitude Profile-Revised (4.51 ± 42.46). ConclusionThe study validates the efficacy of the Palliative Education Program, demonstrating a notable enhancement in nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, and preparedness to care for dying patients. These findings substantiate the beneficial influence of targeted educational approaches in augmenting students' proficiency in palliative care. RecommendationsIncorporate similar Palliative Education Programs widely to better equip nursing students for providing compassionate end-of-life care.