Public Education Institutions Research Articles

Impact of Inclusive Leadership on Innovative Work Behavior with Mediating Role of Work Engagement and Moderating Role of Perceived Job Autonomy

This study aims to investigate the effect of inclusive leadership on innovative work behavior in the field of education. It was hypothesized that inclusive leadership will positively affect innovative work behavior, which will be mediated by work engagement and moderated by perceived job autonomy. A sample of workers is drawn from public educational institutions in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. A total of 300 samples participated in a questionnaire survey, the results of which were utilized to analyze the final data. Online surveys were used to get information from public sector workers. In this research, a non-probability sampling method is used. The imbalance between productivity, learning rate, quality, and performance is Pakistan's biggest problem. Our education system should support inclusive leadership. Because of authoritarian leadership, employees face numerous challenges and problems, and their creativity is harmed in this way, so in the context of Pakistan, this study has a significant impact. So, in employees' creativity, leadership plays a vital role, specifically inclusive leadership, and this research helps to understand this relationship. The idea of this research is unique: to understand the relationship between inclusive leadership and creativity so that organizations would be able to survive in a more complex environment. This research has a few limitations as well. The first limitation is that not all of them should have been included in this research. Small sample size is the second limitation, as data is collected only from one source. Cross-sectional data was the third limitation. The fourth limitation is that not all aspects of perceived job autonomy were used. Strategies that not only promote and elevate employee engagement but also make it a regular part of work should be put into place by organizations. Executives ought to recognize each worker's capacity for creativity.

Mastering information security through standard implementation

This paper aims to enhance information security within an organization, considering the perennial concern for security in organizations utilizing ICT applications. Educational institutions also exhibit deficiencies in the domain of data security. The adoption of international organization for standardization (ISO) 27001-2013 served to pinpoint potential vulnerabilities and non-compliance with safety standards, aiming to minimize associated risks. Through this framework, an assessment of data security within public educational institutions in our country was conducted, focusing on a public university as a case study. Given the sensitive nature of this field, guidance is provided on identifying security-related issues based on ISO 27001 standards and on-ground situations. Surveys were employed, aligning with the required standards, to scan the prevailing situation. Data from surveys at public academic institution were collected and analyzed using the SPSS application. The findings underscore instances where security protocols can prevent or mitigate abuses, consequently enhancing the overall level of data security. Emphasizing education as a pivotal recommendation, this study advocates for educating personnel who handle sensitive data, derived from the application of these standards. This paper accounts for potential risks that could expose organizational weaknesses and thoroughly elucidates the steps and procedures undertaken in this approach, substantiated by illustrated examples.

Enhancing accountability through integrated reporting in public higher education institutions: international evidence

IMPACT This article examines whether the integrated reports of higher education institutions (HEIs) take into account the guiding principles of the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC) framework. In terms of reliability and integrity, the empirical results show the lowest disclosure score, suggesting that there is still considerable room for improvement. Commitment to stakeholder guiding principles had the second lowest disclosure score due to the limited communication channels for public HEIs and the identification of key priorities in response to stakeholder demands. Public HEIs need to promote stakeholder engagement and create more holistic value for stakeholders to improve accountability. In addition, the authors found that the concept of materiality is still unclear, and its definition may therefore vary depending on the guidance and disclosure in the reports. The results serve as a roadmap for extending integrated reporting to policy-makers and as a guide for organizations planning to implement integrated reporting.

The role of the Modern Cities Program in the renewal of the cultural and creative sector

The Modern Cities Program is the largest-scale urban development effort in the history of the country, with which the Government of Hungary aims to promote the simultaneous development of municipalities at the same hierarchical level. Its projects focus on the preservation of intangible and tangible cultural heritage, the transformation of urban public spaces and green areas into community spaces, the creation of institutions for sports and recreational activities, research and development, digitalization, projects for innovative and creative professionals, and public educational and cultural institutions. The study aims to analyze the funding granted for developing the cultural and creative sector of cities with county rights through the Modern Cities Program in the period 2016–2025, by comparing the size of their population, their strategic importance in regional economic policy and the relationship between the value of the cultural heritage with the amount of funding received. The paper unveils the distribution of grants over time and space, the modalities and proportion of grants, and the way the cities that has received grants align with the national strategy. This will also reveal a shift in the regional importance of the cities and their relationship. Until February 2024, the Government of Hungary has contributed more than HUF 322.6 billion (809.5 million EUR) to the implementation of 98 cultural and creative projects in 22 cities with county rights through its urban development support program that has been established for the development and regeneration of cities with county rights and to counter the dominance of the capital.

СОЦІАЛІЗАЦІЯ ДІТЕЙ ТА МОЛОДІВ НЕДІЛЬНИХ ШКОЛАХ УКРАЇНИ (ДРУГА ПОЛОВИНА ХІХ – ПОЧАТОК ХХ СТОЛІТТЯ)

The article, based on the analysis of historical and pedagogical sources, reveals the history of the formation and development of Sunday schools in Ukraine in the second half of the 19th - at the beginning of the 20th century as a center of socialization for children and youth. The author found out that in the history of education in the second half of the 19th- at the beginning of the 20th century a significant place is given to the educational activities of Sunday schools - non-traditional institutions of out-of-school education for children and adults, in which training took place on Sundays (for persons of Jewish nationality - on Saturdays) and holidays. Sunday schools of the researched period are considered as open public educational institutions, the principles, tasks and content of education and upbringing of which were aimed, first of all, at meeting the educational needs and requests of the people. The specificity of educational work in Sunday schools was determined, which consisted, first of all, in a special atmosphere of relations between the teacher and the student, which contributed to the socialization of children and youth. The internal rules of Sunday schools strictly prohibited corporal punishment, which, according to the teachers, hindered not only the mental, but also the moral development of students. It was proved that the constant search for flexible, constructive principles, the development and testing of new effective methods and methods of teaching and upbringing, the use of progressive achievements of Ukrainian and world pedagogy are the main components of professionalism and the main principles of the innovative activity of Sunday school teachers. The organizational principles of the activity of Sunday schools were singled out: the absence of strict internal regulations, a public approach to the management and planning of the pedagogical process, compliance with the main principle of activity – «school for students», the creation of special guardianships for the purpose of caring for students, a special atmosphere of relationships between members of the school team, humane treatment of pupils, common interests of teachers and students, etc.

Valoración de la enseñanza del inglés de secundaria en Costa Rica: una visión desde la perspectiva docente

The study focused on the vision of secondary school English teachers regarding the evaluation process of this language in Costa Rica. A qualitative approach was developed by applying a questionnaire to 72 English teachers from public educational institutions in Costa Rica using Google Forms and an in-depth interview to four teachers from different secondary education institutions in person and virtually through video calls. It was found that, in general, teachers have a negative view of the evaluation of English teaching with percentages between 60% and 100%. There is evidence of concern on the part of teachers about relevant aspects that affect the quality of teaching and its evaluation, such as the lack of continuity in English learning between primary and secondary school, the evaluation methodology, the number of students per group, and the lack of motivation of students to learn English. It is concluded that it is necessary to reflect on the need to implement significant changes, both in the way English is taught and in the way students’ knowledge and skills are evaluated.

Motivation, attitudes, and beliefs of public vs. private early childhood education teachers in Kosovo toward science and continuing education

Purpose This study aims to examine the factors influencing early education teachers’ motivation, attitudes and beliefs toward science and continuing education. It also explores perceptions of parental involvement and cooperation among public and private institutions in Kosovo. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a quantitative and cross-sectional design. Study variables were assessed using questionnaires with validated measures administered to 460 early education teachers from both public and private institutions. Findings Education teachers in the public sector had higher professional development, work experience and salaries, while private school teachers had higher education levels and worked with fewer children per class and more teachers per class. Public school teachers displayed better attitudes toward science and greater parental involvement. Attitudes toward science positively correlated with salary in both sectors. In the public sector, work motivation was correlated with experience, while in both sectors, it was linked to salary. Attitudes toward science were predicted by parental cooperation, teachers’ attitudes toward continuing education and work motivation. Originality/value This study provides insights into the distinct challenges and opportunities of integrating science into the curriculum in public and private early education institutions. The study emphasizes assessing needs and designing tailored, data-driven strategies to address barriers and leverage opportunities to improve teacher attitudes and parental engagement, ultimately strengthening science education and improving the quality of early education.

The Role of ICT Resources Available to Students Influencing their Academic Performance: A Comparative Study between Private and Public Schools in Sindh-Pakistan

In today's digital age, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources play a crucial role in shaping students' academic performance. This comparative study aims to analyze the impact of ICT resources on students' academic performance in both private and public schools in Larkana Sindh, Pakistan. The study utilizes a quantitative methodology, collecting data through questionnaires administered to 100 students using stratified random sampling. This study used Smart PLS 4.0 for Data Analysis. The questionnaires assess the availability and utilization of ICT resources, including computers, internet connectivity, and educational software. Additionally, student records provide insight into academic achievements. The research sheds light on disparities in access to and utilization of ICT resources between private and public institutions. It underscores how resources in private schools contribute to an enriched learning experience and improved academic performance. Conversely, public educational institutions in Sindh often encounter challenges in providing adequate ICT resources, which can negatively impact academic achievement. By highlighting these discrepancies, the study emphasizes the importance of addressing inequities in ICT resource allocation. Policymakers and educators must work to ensure that all students, regardless of school type, have equal access to ICT resources. Bridging this gap is crucial for enhancing students' academic success and preparing them for the demands of the digital era.

Motivation, Learning Styles and Strategies in English Language among First-Year College Students in Public HEI’s in Sulu

English, as the most frequently spoken second language, and sometimes referred to as the global lingua franca, acts as a bridge for communication across cultures and nations. Learning English is a strong tool that allows people to fully participate in the global society by encouraging understanding, collaboration, and personal growth. This descriptive-comparative paper analyzed the motivation, learning styles, and learning strategies of first year college students from public higher education institutions (HEIs) in Sulu, Philippines. Participants were purposively sampled (n=200) to participate in the study. Findings indicated that first year college students in the province were integratively motivated to learn the English language. They particularly engaged in psychological and sociological learning styles through speaking to fluent English speakers, understanding emotional cues, reflection, and self-assessment. They engage in metacognitive (planning, organizing thoughts) and cognitive (assessment, analysis) to learn and understand English. Educators should adopt a holistic approach to teaching English, one that motivates students, respects their individual learning styles, and equips them with effective learning strategies. Such an approach could likely lead to more effective and meaningful language learning experiences, which could improve students' proficiency and confidence in using English.

Mediterranean Food Pattern Adherence in a Female-Dominated Sample of Health and Social Sciences University Students: Analysis from a Perspective of Sustainability.

The goal of this pilot study is to evaluate adherence to the Mediterranean Food Pattern (MFP) in a self-selected sample of university students, addressing a perspective of food sustainability. In addition, it seeks to relate adherence to MFP with sociodemographic characteristics and nutritional status. This is a cross-sectional pilot study whose data collection was carried out by an online questionnaire between January and April 2023. Two hundred and forty-eight students participated-most of them were female (78.2%), had a median of 22 (20; 30) years, resided in the central region of Portugal (42.3%), and were pursuing a degree (73.4%) in a public higher education institution (66.5%). The prevalence of overweight (overweight and obesity) found was 33.1%. Females predominantly used olive oil as their main source of fat (95.9%, p = 0.009) and had a higher consumption of sugary drinks (81.4%, p = 0.004) compared to males, who reported usage rates of 85.2% and 63.0%, The median score of the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener was 7 points, presented with an interquartile range (Q1: 6, Q3: 8), indicating moderate adherence. The analysis showed no differences between the sexes (p = 0.087). There was also a negative correlation between adherence to the MFP and the body mass index (p = 0.007; r = -0.171). In addition, adherence to the MFP was associated with the area of study and the course attended, with students in health-related fields showing higher adherence. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions aimed at promoting adherence to the MFP among university students, which could contribute to improved health outcomes and enhanced environmental sustainability.

Depression, anxiety, and help-seeking among Slovenian postsecondary students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has faced students with many challenges, contributing to their mental distress. This article explores the role of demographic characteristics, psychological status, year of study, and social support during the COVID-19 pandemic in explaining Slovenian university students' mental health problems and help-seeking behavior. In February and March 2021, data were collected on 5,234 full-time Slovenian postsecondary students who were enrolled in public and concessionary independent higher education institutions. Participants completed a questionnaire, which included The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), General Anxiety Disorder questionnaire (GAD-7), Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3), and items measuring psychological status, help-seeking behavior and demographics. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and hypothesis testing for differences. Factors, such as gender, age, psychological status and social support, contributed to experiencing anxiety and depression among Slovenian students during the COVID-19 pandemic, with year of study additionally contributing to experiencing depression. Similarly, gender, age, psychological status and social support contributed to help-seeking behavior. Higher levels of depression and anxiety were reported by female students, students with prior mental disorders, and students with lower social support levels. Female students and students with lower social support levels reported more frequent help-seeking behaviors. The results provide insight into the mental state of the Slovenian student population in the context of imposed public health measures at the end of the second COVID-19 wave in Slovenia. The findings can help identify vulnerable groups within the student population to whom we must be particularly attentive in times of crisis.

Critical roles of leadership and management to the suffocation of tertiary education sector during the Covid-19 pandemic: A critique of human migration

This research explores the coping mechanisms of the tertiary education sector during the Covid-19 pandemic from the point of view of the restricted human migration. The research is conceptual and empirical in nature within the qualitative research paradigm. Interviewing technique and narrative enquiry were employed to generate data pertaining to the restricted human mobility during the Covid-19 pandemic. Out of the population of 25 public higher education institutions, in South Africa, only 2 were conveniently sampled for intensive study on restricted human migration of their employees during the Covid-19 lockdown. This paper is therefore, a case study of 2 public higher education institutions. Research findings revealed that firstly, organisational efficacy took a nosedive during the Covid-19 pandemic. Secondly, there was a controversy of the mandatory immunizations within the migrants. Thirdly, the application of migration segregation aggravated the state of affairs. Fourthly, inhibition of the already planned face-to-face conference attendance crippled the education sector. Lastly, compromising of quality assessment practices particularly at institutions of higher learning was a disservice and disruptions to the education sector. Exemption of the education sector from the suffocation of restrictive health protocols in case of similar Covid-19 pandemics in future is recommended.

Organizational Management Models in Public Educational Institutions: Strategies to Improve Performance in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

The objective of this research study is to analyze organizational management models for comprehensive basic education in low- and middle-income countries and Latin America. A systematic review was carried out, information had to be selected and extracted from 4 databases of scientific journals. The different experiences of organizational management models, which help to increase the levels of efficiency, effectiveness and interrelation in public entities, giving priority to the structure in various structural issues of international and national interest, emphasizing education. The research design is quantitative descriptive of systematic reviews of organizational management models in public educational institutions. Given its articulation design and from its interdisciplinary perspective, an organizational model has been included to improve the performance of each of these members of an institution's working group.

Effectiveness of an Educational Program in the Development of Mathematical Competencies in Peruvian Elementary School Students

The present research aimed to determine the effectiveness of an educational program in the development of mathematical competencies in Peruvian elementary school students. The research adopted a quantitative approach, the design was experimental, and the type was quasi-experimental. The sample consisted of 102 students enrolled in the third grade of elementary education in a Peruvian public educational institution. An educational program based on playful strategies was developed and a questionnaire was applied to evaluate its effectiveness. The results show that, in the pre-test, most of the students in the experimental group were at the "beginning" level (90.2%). However, in the post-test, most were at the "expected achievement" level (51%). Regarding the control group, during the pre-test, most were also at the "beginning" level (88.2%), However, in the post-test, although there was a slight improvement, most remained at the same level (82.4%). Finally, it was concluded that the application of an educational program was effective in the development of the mathematical competencies of Peruvian elementary school students. Received: 1 August 2024 / Accepted: 23 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024

A Comparative Study on Teacher’s Work Motivation and Job Satisfaction in Public and Private Educational Institutions: The Case of Marawi City National High School and Peaci-Senior High School

A Comparative Study on Teacher’s Work Motivation and Job Satisfaction in Public and Private Educational Institutions: The Case of Marawi City National High School and Peaci-Senior High School

Investigating the mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between internet addiction and mental health among university students.

The widespread use of the internet has brought numerous benefits, but it has also raised concerns about its potential negative impact on mental health, particularly among university students. This study aims to investigate the relationship between internet addiction and mental health in university students, as well as explore the mediating effects of emotional intelligence in this relationship. The main objective of this study was to examine whether internet addiction (dimensions and total) negatively predicts the mental health of university students, with emotional intelligence acting as a mediator. To address this objective, a cross-sectional design with an inferential approach was employed. Data were collected using the Wong Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS-S), Internet Addiction Scale (IAS), and Keyes' Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF). The total sample consisted of 850 students from two large public higher education institutions in Ethiopia, of which 334 (39.3%) were females and 516 (60.7%) were males, with a mean age of 22.32 (SD = 4.04). For the purpose of the study, the data were split into two randomly selected groups: sample 1 with 300 participants for psychometric testing purposes, and sample 2 with 550 participants for complex mediation purposes. Various analyses were conducted to achieve the stated objectives, including Cronbach's alpha and composite reliabilities, bivariate correlation, discriminant validity, common method biases, measurement invariance, and structural equation modeling (confirmatory factor analysis, path analysis, and mediation analysis). Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to assess the construct validity of the WLEIS-S, IAS, and MHC-SF. Additionally, a mediating model was examined using structural equation modeling with the corrected biased bootstrap method. The results revealed that internet addiction had a negative and direct effect on emotional intelligence (β = -0.180, 95%CI [-0.257, -0.103], p = 0.001) and mental health (β = -0.204, 95%CI [-0.273, -0.134], p = 0.001). Also, Internet Craving and Internet obsession negatively predicted EI (β = -0.324, 95%CI [-0.423, -0.224], p = 0.002) and MH (β = -0.167, 95%CI [-0.260, -0.069], p = 0.009), respectively. However, EI had a significant and positive direct effect on mental health (β = 0.494, 95%CI [0.390, 0.589], p = 0.001). Finally, EI fully mediated the relationship between internet addiction and mental health (β = -0.089, 95%CI [-0.136, -0.049], p = 0.001). Besides The study also confirmed that all the scales had strong internal consistency and good psychometric properties. This study contributes to a better understanding of the complex interplay between internet addiction, emotional intelligence, and mental health among university students. The findings highlight the detrimental effects of internet addiction on mental health, and the crucial mediating role of emotional intelligence. The findings discussed in relation to recent literature have practical implications for practitioners and researchers aiming to enhance mental health and reduce internet addiction among university students. Emotional intelligence can be utilized as a positive resource in interventions and programs targeting these issues.

The Relationship between Servant Leadership and Job Satisfaction: Research on Teachers

It is known that employees' job satisfaction is impacted by leaders. In this regard, the aim of the research is to reveal the relationship between teachers' servant leadership perception and job satisfaction. "The Job Satisfaction Scale" was used in the study to measure the job satisfaction levels of employees. "The Servant Leadership Scale" was used to determine the perception of servant leadership. The research was conducted on 351 teachers working in public and private educational institutions in Ağrı. The survey method was used as a data collection tool and the data were analyzed with SPSS 20.0 program. Reliability analysis, regression analysis, correlation analysis, and factor analysis were used to evaluate the data. According to the analysis of the data obtained as a result of this study, which examined the relationship between teachers' servant leadership perception and job satisfaction, a strong positive (r = 0.582) and significant (p < 0.05) relationship was determined between servant leadership and job satisfaction. According to the results of the regression analysis regarding the effect of the relationship; it has been determined that servant leadership affects job satisfaction positively and significantly.

MedDietMenus4Campus: Integrating Views from Nutrition, Marketing and Psychology to Improve Diets

Abstract Food service is an important setting for public health interventions, educating consumers and modulating behaviours through the meals provided. Social Marketing is one of the strategies designed to promote behaviour change, which contributions to health and well-being of consumers are widely recognised. This project aims to identify the compliance of food service menus with the Mediterranean Diet (MD) in public high education institutes (HEI) canteens, pinpointing opportunities to intervene, namely: 1) promoting changes in the food offer addressing proximity to the MD, creating, and offering plant-based meals, with seasonable and local food products and 2) developing tailored social marketing strategies to engage stakeholders to encourage healthier and sustainable food habits. It gathers a team comprised of nutrition experts on public health and food service, food technologists, gastronomy experts, psychologists, and marketers. To achieve the objectives researchers will: 1) develop an index to evaluate compliance of menus with the MD; 2) define priority stakeholders and define a methodology for engagement; 3) evaluate perceptions, barriers and facilitators; 4) develop a meal plan framework; 5) develop a new food concept “student bag” (meal on the go) and test it for industry scale-up; 6) use previous diagnosis to develop social marketing strategies directed to stakeholders and consumers to achieve food behaviour change and 7) measure the impacts of the implemented strategies. This research intends to create and implement a new healthy and sustainable food service concept, expecting to define the standpoint to inspire other food service settings to achieve an effective and sustainable food offer change and positively influence food service consumers’ food pattern towards Mediterranean recommendations, while addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (3 - good health and 12 - responsible consumption and production; 17 - partnerships for the goals).

A Good Practice for Learning with Public Health Professionals Globally: Humphrey Fellowship Program

Abstract Background International collaborations are valuable yet often undervalued assets that enhance the quality of public health education and bolster the development of the public health workforce. Objectives The Humphrey Fellowship Program, part of the Fulbright Exchange Program, facilitates mid-career professionals’ visits to US-based host universities for an academic year. Fellows engage in a semi-structured fellowship period to achieve self-defined goals, emphasizing professional development, expanded experience, and intercultural exchange. This study advocates for the program’s contribution to enhancing public health education. Results Currently, two universities host fellows in public health. Over decades, fellows have engaged with faculty and professionals, participated in classes and meetings, visited institutions for development purposes, and completed US-based affiliations, contributing significantly to their own and the public health workforce’s advancement. This interaction-based learning approach aids in navigating social and ethical challenges by fostering a deeper understanding of public and global health issues across countries. Conclusions The Humphrey Fellowship Program in public health stands as a commendable model. Similar initiatives could be beneficially replicated in the European region, leveraging local and global successes to strengthen ties with public health education institutions, student communities, and beyond. Key messages • Programs that facilitate international interactions can enhance public health professionals’ understanding of global perspectives. • The Humphrey Fellowship Program in the US stands as a commendable practice for mid-career public health professionals, contributing significant value to the education at host universities.

Predictors of Dietary Supplement Use Among Children Attending Care and Educational Institutions in Krakow, Poland.

Socioeconomic status and parental lifestyle influence dietary behaviors, including the administration of oral dietary supplements in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of selected health, dietary, and sociodemographic factors on the use of dietary supplements by children. In this cross-sectional observational study, a diagnostic survey based on the computer-assisted web interview method was conducted in November 2022 among 2826 parents whose children attend public educational institutions in Krakow, Poland. The study group included data on 497 nursery children (17.6%), 599 kindergarten children (21.2%), 1594 primary school children (56.4%), and 136 secondary school children (4.8%). Among all respondents, 72.2% were taking oral nutritional supplements, with vitamin D supplementation being particularly popular in all groups. Logistic regression analysis identified predictors of supplement use, including special diet (p < 0.001), use of medication for chronic disease (p = 0.012), regularity of main meals (p = 0.022), and attending a sports school (p = 0.021). A decrease in supplement use was observed with the increasing level of education of children (p < 0.001). These results highlight the importance of various health, dietary, and sociodemographic factors in influencing decisions regarding dietary supplementation in children. Further assessment of dietary supplement usage should be conducted alongside evaluations of nutrient intake from the children's diet.