Random Sampling Method Research Articles

LENGTH-WEIGHT RELATIONSHIPS AND CONDITION FACTOR OF MALAJA FISH (Siganus canaliculatus) IN LUWU REGENCY WATERS

Malaja fish or baronang lingkis (Siganus canaliculatus) is a typical fish of the Luwu Regency community. This fish is favored in fishing activities by the local community because of its delicious taste. The main problem experienced by this fishery resource is that high fishing activities and increasing production volumes can result in stock decline. Therefore, it is necessary to study the growth patterns and condition factors of malaja fish in the waters of Luwu Regency as a basis for information for management activities. The purpose of this study was to determine length weight relationship and condition factor of malaja fish in Luwu Regency waters. Sampling was conducted from Mei to August 2024 with stratified random sampling method from catch landed at Karang-Karangan Village, Bua Sub-district, Luwu. The results showed that 168 fish captured consists of 88 males and 80 females. The length weight relationship was W = 0,000001L3,4556 for male and W = 0,00001L3,0421 for female. The results indicated that the length weight relationship was highly correlated (r > 90%). The relative condition factors of fish varied from 0,4475-2,6567.

Pengaruh Gaya Kepemimpinan dan Lingkungan Kerja Non Fisik terhadap Kinerja Karyawan pada bagian produksi automotive di PT Seikou Seat Cover

This study aims to analyze the influence of Leadership Style, and Non-Physical Work Environment on Employee Performance in the automotive production section at PT Seikou Seat Cover using quantitative research methods and verification and descriptive analysis approaches. Primary data used can be by distributing pre-surveys, questionnaires, document collection, and interviews with employees of PT Seikou Seat Cover. The research sample taken using the method The sampling technique used in this study is Probability Sampling with a stratified random sampling method (Stratified Random Sampling), a method based on strata or levels, namely the level is only non-managerial. The sample in this study was drawn from private employees, while the managerial level and above were not sampled, so that 67 employees were obtained as the population and research sample. The results of the regression analysis show that Leadership Style and Non-Physical Work Environment significantly affect Employee Performance. The results of the determination coefficient show a value of 0.915 or 91.5%, which means that there is a strong relationship between Leadership Style and Non-Physical Work Environment on Employee Performance with a contribution of 0.837 or 83.7%. While the remaining 16.3% is applied to other variables.

Interactive short films and online activities using the grow model to guide senior students

This research aimed: 1) to develop and evaluate the quality of interactive short films combined with online activities using the GROW Model to guide fourth-year students before entering internships, 2) to compare the perceptions of the sample group before and after viewing the media combined with online activities, and 3) to assess the satisfaction of the sample group towards the developed media and online activities using the GROW Model to guide fourth-year students before entering internships. Data were collected from undergraduate students enrolled in the ETM 363 Knowledge Management course during the first semester. A simple random sampling method was used, with a sample of 30 students. The statistics used included mean, standard deviation, and t-test. The research findings are as follows: The researchers developed 15-minute interactive short films combined with online activities using the GROW Model to guide fourth-year students before entering internships. Expert evaluation results indicated that the content quality of the media and activities was at a good level (X̅ = 4.32, S.D. = 0.38), and the quality of media presentation was at a good level (X̅ = 3.80, S.D. = 0.32). The perception results of the sample group showed that their perception after viewing the media combined with online activities using the GROW Model to guide fourth-year students before entering internships was significantly higher than before viewing, at the .05 statistical significance level. The satisfaction evaluation of the sample group towards the media and online activities was at a high level (X̅ = 4.34, S.D. = 0.50).

Factors affecting customer`s intention to purchase and use telecommunication services in Siem Reap

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the factors that influence the intention to purchase and use telecommunication services in Siem Reap. The study utilized a sample size of 384 participants selected from clients residing in Sangkat Sala Kamroeuk and Sangkat Svay Dangkum, Siem Reap, using a simple random sampling method. The data was gathered through a closed-ended questionnaire that employed a five-point Likert scale. The information collected from participants was carefully reviewed before being processed using SPSS v.26 for data analysis. The findings from the linear regression analysis indicated that subjective norm factors, Face Consciousness, and perceived value positively influenced purchasing intentions. Conversely, attitude was found to have no significant effect on purchasing intentions. Finally, purchasing intentions independent variables positively impacted dependent variables related to customers' intentions to use telecommunication services. These results provide valuable insights for telecommuni-cation companies, highlighting the importance of developing applications and security systems that protect customer privacy. This, in turn, can help build customer trust and encourage the purchase and usage of the company’s telecommunication services.

Building superior performance: the role of work ethics in a university

This study uses a quantitative correlation research approach, which aims to examine the relationship between two main variables: Islamic work ethics and employee performance at the State Islamic University of Alauddin Makassar. The study covered a population of 218 individuals, with a sample size 66 employees selected through simple random sampling method. Data collection was conducted through the administration of questionnaires, and the data collected was further analysed using assessment techniques. The analyses included the application of product moment correlation test, F-test, Two-sided hypothesis testing, and Chi-square test. Based on the findings detailed in the previous section of this study, the conclusion of this study is that there is a relationship between Islamic work ethics and the employee performance of UIN Alauddin Makassar. This conclusion is evidenced by the significant value of 0.00, which is greater than 0.05, along with Fcalculate = 17.048 compared to Ftable = 3.98. As a result, H1 is accepted, while H0 is rejected. This confirms the significant influence between Islamic work ethics and employee performance.

Analyzing the Effects of Hard Skills and Soft Skills on Employment in Urban Versus Rural Communities

This paper critically examines the concepts of hard and soft skills, emphasizing their crucial role in future development. Focusing on Albania, the study aims to investigate the influence of hard and soft skills on employment within both urban and rural contexts. Additionally, the paper seeks to unravel the disparities in employment policies between these areas, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities present in Albania's evolving employment. The literature review serves as the foundation for our research, providing essential insights into the influence of soft and hard skills within both urban and rural contexts, particularly in developing countries. Understanding the dynamics of these skills in employment is paramount for comprehending the nuances of workforce development and policy formulation in diverse geographic settings. The questionnaire, developed based on the insights gleaned from the literature review, was administered to managers and individuals involved in the recruitment process. Data collection involved a random sampling method, resulting in 182 respondents from rural areas and 179 respondents from urban areas. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, version 23, with regression analysis employed to empirically assess the formulated hypotheses. In conclusion, the study underscores the fundamental role of education in facilitating employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas where diplomas hold prominence. However, the ability to retain employment and thrive in the labor market is contingent upon possessing essential soft skills. Thus, while education serves as a gateway to employment, cultivating soft skills is paramount for long-term success in both urban and rural employment areas. The findings of this paper hold significant value for individuals directly engaged in the recruitment process, including employers and employees alike. Employers stand to benefit from insights into the importance of prioritizing soft skills alongside hard skills when evaluating potential candidates, particularly in urban settings where these skills hold greater sway. Similarly, employees can leverage the understanding that possessing and refining soft skills is critical not only for securing employment but also for maintaining long-term market relevance. Overall, this study provides valuable guidance for enhancing recruitment practices and fostering career development in diverse employment contexts. This paper stands out for its focus on employment practices within both urban and rural areas, a perspective that offers a nuanced understanding of workforce dynamics. Furthermore, the inclusion of Albania as a case study adds a unique dimension, providing insights into employment practices within the context of a developing country. By exploring the employment landscape in Albania, the study offers valuable perspectives that may not be captured in studies conducted in more developed nations. This original contribution enhances our understanding of the intersection between urban-rural employment dynamics.

Investigation of the Relationship Between Children's Digital Game Addictions and Spatial Reasoning Skills

This study aims to examine children's digital game addiction and spatial reasoning skills in terms of various variables and to determine the relationship between them. The participants of this descriptive and correlational study consist of 318 students from 4th and 5th grades attending primary and secondary schools in the central districts of Diyarbakır province, selected through a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using the "Digital Game Addiction Scale for Children" and the "Spatial Reasoning Test." In the analysis of the data, an independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used. The study found that male students had significantly higher levels of digital game addiction and spatial orientation compared to female students, 5th-grade students had significantly higher levels of digital game addiction than 4th-grade students, and students attending private schools had significantly higher spatial reasoning skills compared to those in public schools. Furthermore, it was revealed that children of parents with higher education levels had lower digital game addiction and significantly higher spatial reasoning skills compared to children of parents with lower education levels. Additionally, it was found that students with generally lower mathematics grades had higher digital game addiction and lower spatial reasoning skills compared to students with higher grades. On the other hand, a low, negative, and significant relationship was found between students' digital game addiction and spatial reasoning skills.

Perceived Influence of Child Labour on Learning Performance of Junior Secondary School Students in Rivers State for Sustainable Educational Development in Nigeria

This study investigated the influence of child labour on the Learning performance of junior secondary school students for sustainable educational development Rivers State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was used with a population of fourteen thousand, one hundred and sixty-seven students. The Taro Yamene formula yielded a sample size of 389. The researcher employed simple random sampling methods. The study was conducted with two research questions seeking answers to know how child labour influence junior secondary school attendance and how it influence the learning performance of these students in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, Port Harcourt Rivers State, with two formulated hypotheses. The data was gathered using the “Influence of child labour on students’ learning performance Questionnaire”. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, with the mean range determining the acceptability level as 2.50 to 3.49 and above, and the T-test statistic was used to test the hypotheses formulated at the 0.05 level of significance. It was discovered that Child labour demands that these students work long hours, leaving them with little or no time and energy to attend school, causing educational disruption with long-term effects on the child’s learning performance, Child labour was also discovered to cause physical and mental fatigue, which impairs the child’s ability to focus and concentrate on their academics. As a result, it was recommended that all children involved in child labour activities should have equal access to education while communities and individuals should be educated on the influence of child labour, Nigeria government should also eliminate poverty by creating employment opportunities for its population, which is seen as a leading cause of child labour, among others. This work will be a handy tool to educational administrators, counselors, parents, policy makers and other researchers.

Development and validation of a three-dimensional nomogram prediction model for knee osteoarthritis in middle-aged population

ObjectivesThis study aims to identify predictors of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) risk in middle-aged population, construct and validate a nomogram for KOA in this demographic.MethodsFrom June to December 2020, we conducted a cross-sectional survey on 5,527 middle-aged individuals from Changsha and Zhangjiajie cities in Hunan Province, selected using a stratified multi-stage random sampling method. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire encompassing general demographic, physical condition, and lifestyle behaviors dimensions. The dataset was randomly split into a training set (n = 3868) and a validation set (n = 1659) at a 7:3 ratio via computerized randomization. We analyzed the prevalence of self-reported KOA and identified its influencing factors using logistic regression. A nomogram was constructed based on these "three-dimensional" factors. Subsequent validation was conducted, and the nomogram's performance was further evaluated through ROC curves, C-index, Hosmer–Lemeshow test, and calibration curves.ResultsThe self-reported prevalence of KOA in the middle-aged population was 11.4% (632/5527). The risk factor with the greatest impact is: diagnosed with osteoporosis(95% CI 2.269–3.568, OR = 2.845), followed by age between 51 to 60 years (95% CI 2.176–3.151, OR = 2.619), diagnosed with hypertension(95% CI 1.633–2.499, OR = 2.02), diagnosed with diabetes (OR = 1.689), ethnic Han Chinese (OR = 1.673), exercise according to physical condition (OR = 1.643), pay attention to keeping the knee joint warm (OR = 1.535), eating habits are mainly light vegetables (OR = 1.374), male gender (OR = 1.343), drink occasionally in small amounts (OR = 1.286); a higher level of education (OR = 0.477) and frequently or always apply an external or plaster to relieve symptoms after knee discomfort (OR = 0.377; OR = 0.385) are protective factors.The C-index of the training set model was 0.8107 (95% CI: 0.8102–0.8111), with a statistically significant area under the ROC curve (AUC = 0.818), and the calibration curve showed a good fit. The C-index for the validation set was 0.8124 (95% CI: 0.8109–0.8140), with an AUC of 0.812. The Hosmer–Lemeshow test resulted in a P-value of 0.46 (P ≥ 0.05)indicating good calibration of the model.ConclusionThe three dimensions nomogram generated in this study was a valid and easy-to-use tool for assessing the risk of KOA in middle-aged population, and helped healthcare professionals to screen the high-risk population.

The Influence of Company Reputation, Service Quality and Directors’ Tax Knowledge on Tax Compliance Behaviour of Malaysian Large Companies

Tax compliance behaviour among Malaysian large companies is a crucial area of investigation, particularly considering the significant contribution of corporate taxes to national revenue. Researchers have suggested that tax compliance behaviour of large companies in Malaysia is likely influenced by their surrounding compliance practices. However, to date, no published studies have explored the relationship between company reputation, service quality, and directors’ tax knowledge, and corporate tax compliance behavior, which has led to this research. For the purpose of this study, the Behavioural Decision Theory (BDT) was employed to explain optimality in decision-making, judgment, and human choice, in tax compliance behaviour. An online questionnaire was distributed to 500 Malaysian large companies in Peninsular Malaysia through the systematic random sampling method, of which 161 companies (32.2%) responded. The data was analysed using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results reveal a significantly positive relationship between directors’ tax knowledge and large companies’ tax compliance behaviour. On the other hand, negative relationships are documented for company reputation and service quality, and tax compliance behaviour. The results, however, are not significant. This study recommends that the tax knowledge of company directors is important to ensure companies comply with the tax law voluntarily. Hence, training programmes for directors should be conducted regularly so as to assure their knowledge is current, ultimately promoting ethical decision-making, i.e., minimising tax evasion and misreporting.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among oncologists regarding the implementation of DRGs payment system: a cross-sectional study in Beijing

BackgroundThe KAP survey evaluates health-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices through a structured questionnaire. By collecting qualitative and quantitative data, it measures the current situation, tests hypotheses, and provides insights for enhancing health behaviors and education. In 2019, the National Health Security Administration (NHSA) initiated DRG payment reforms. This study aims to improve the quality of health insurance and policy implementation by assessing physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the DRG system.MethodThis study was a cross-sectional study designed with a questionnaire through simple random sampling method, and respondents were the doctors in the clinical departments of the sampled hospitals. The questionnaire included basic information, knowledge about DRGs, attitude toward DRGs and practice of implementation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis, correlation, path analysis and generalized linear model.ResultA total of 210 questionnaires were included. The majority of respondents aware that their healthcare organizations had already begun to implement the policy. With a mean score of 7.67 for knowledge, respondents basically had a good level of knowledge of DRGs. The mean attitude score of the respondents was 30.20, which was lower than the “positive attitude” criterion, and their main concerns were about matters other than treatment. Knowledge scores were significantly correlated with attitude scores (P < 0.001), whereas attitude scores were not associated with practice scores. Path analysis and generalized linear modeling indicate that knowledge effectively influences attitudes, whereas attitudes do not have an apparent impact on practice.ConclusionOncologists' understanding of DRGs needs to be improved, and their knowledge and attitudes have not yet translated into demonstrable positive practice behaviors. This gap underscores the need for knowledge training and effective incentives.

Investigating ethical considerations in the communication network of married women undergone hysterectomy: instrumentation of a questionnaire

IntroductionConsidering the importance of complying medical and general ethics and the lack of a study on determining ethical considerations in the communication network of women undergoing hysterectomy surgery, this study aimed to present these aspects in the patients’ lives by a standard researcher-made instrument.MethodThis mixed method analysis (exploratory sequential mixed methods design was conducted in the whole of 2020 to create the “ethical considerations in communication network of women undergone hysterectomy” questionnaire and investigate its psychometric properties. A researched-made instrument was validated and its psychometric properties were checked among 218 women by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).ResultsAccordingly, the 8 factors extracted included “complying ethical consideration by the physician (a)”, “complying ethical consideration by medical team (b)”, “complying ethical consideration in the hospital (c)”, “complying ethical consideration by the secretory in the clinic (d)”, “complying ethical consideration by the spouse (e)”, and “complying ethical consideration by the family and friends (f)”, “complying ethical consideration by the media and society (g)” and “complying ethical consideration by herself (h)”. The results of Cronbach’s alpha test showed that there is moderate to good internal consistency in all dimensions. Cronbach’s alpha for the whole questionnaire was calculated as 0.75, which shows that the internal consistency is at a good level.ConclusionAccording to the results of this study, the reliability (internal consistency) and construct validity of the ethical considerations in the communication network of women undergoing hysterectomy questionnaire were confirmed. However, in light of the study limitations, caution should be practiced in the interpretation of the results. There is a need for further longitudinal studies in multiple settings using random sampling methods.

Correlation of Board Compensation and Non-performing Loans of Commercial Banks in Western Uganda

Commercial banks across the globe are significantly impacted by Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) in terms of their profitability, liquidity, and potential insolvency. The presence of persistent NPLs undermines the lending capacity of financial institutions, resulting in a destabilization of finance and halting economic growth. While research has focused on the reasons behind NPLs, scant studies have revealed just how board remuneration functions, particularly in developing markets like Uganda. The issue. To address the gap, this study examines the connection between NPLs and board remuneration in commercial banks, focusing on two sub-constructs: Diversity and Expertise (BD) or Independence and Objectivity (BRb). In this study, descriptive, cross-sectional and correlational research designs were used using mixed-methods approaches. Using Slovin's formula and stratified, purposive, and random sampling methods, data was collected from 232 respondents out of a population of approximately 550. To gather the essential information, they conducted systematic questions and interviews, with a pilot study to verify its validity and reliability. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) were employed for quantitative analysis, while qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis using Nvivo software. Board independence and objectivity (BRb) were found to be more effective in reducing NPLs than diversity and expertise (BD) (path coefficient = 0.168). The SEM framework was deemed robust by its model fit indices, which were SRMR (0.08) and NFI (>0.90). Such findings also highlight the importance of making independent, unbiased decisions about credit risk reduction. The investigation into the relationship between board remuneration and NPLs in Uganda's banking sector is the first to provide fresh insights into governance factors in a new market. The outcomes offer practical recommendations for financial institutions and policymakers to create efficient compensation structures and governance mechanisms that can improve financial stability.

The Association Between Motor Competence and Inhibitory Control in Preschool Children

Background: Inhibitory control is a higher-order cognitive function that affects children’s lives and learning, and the development of inhibitory control plays a vital role in the overall development of preschool children. However, most studies have paid more attention to inhibitory and physical fitness, but less focus on motor competence. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the association between motor competence and inhibitory control in preschool children. Methods: A total of 160 preschool children aged 3 to 6 years were selected using a stratified random sampling method, and both motor ability and inhibitory control were assessed. Motor competence was assessed via the Children’s Motor Assessment Battery, Version 2 (MABC-2). Inhibitory control was assessed using the one-on-one iPad-based Early Year Toolbox and reflected by reaction time and accuracy. Results: A total of 153 preschoolers were included in the final statistical analysis. After adjusting the confounders, motor competence was associated with accuracy (β = 0.010, 95% CI: 0.003, 0.017). Similarly, a negative association was observed between motor competence and reaction time (β = −0.008, 95% CI: −0.014, −0.002). Compared with the participants in the lowest group, motor competence (β = 0.051 95% CI: 0.003, 0.098), manual dexterity (β = 0.106 95% CI: 0.043, 0.170), and balance (β = 0.065 95% CI: 0.002, 0.129) were all positively associated with accuracy of those in the highest group. Conclusions: A positive relationship between motor competence and the accuracy of inhibitory control was observed in preschoolers, whereas a negative relationship between motor competence and the reaction time of inhibitory control was also identified. Enhancing preschool children’s motor competence is likely to facilitate their development of inhibitory control.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare workers towards healthcare- associated infections in Jimma University Medical Center, southwestern Ethiopia: using structural equation model

BackgroundHealthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) are a common challenge faced in healthcare facilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Evaluating the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among healthcare personnel regarding HCAI prevention and identifying the relevant factors is important for handling and controlling these infections. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the direct and indirect effects of knowledge, attitude, and practices of healthcare workers (HCW) towards HCAIs prevention in Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC).MethodAn institutional cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2022. A total of 262 was sampled from 1354 health professionals working in JUMC using the population proportion stratified random sampling method. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to identify the direct and indirect effects of KAP of HCWs on HCAIs.ResultsOf the 262 participants, 55% (n = 144) were nurses and 52.7% were female. The study found that HCW occupational skills (os) had a direct effect on knowledge (k) and attitudes (a) in preventing HCAIs (βos→k = 1.43, Pos→k = 0.004, and βos→a = 0.65, Pos→a = 0.004). HCWs’ practice on HCAIs had an effect (βos→p = -0.79; Pos→p = 0.004). HCWs’ attitudes toward HCAI preventive practice (p) and knowledge had an effect, p-values Pa→p = .002 and Pa→k = .003, respectively. Indirect effects revealed that HCWs’ attitudes towards preventing HCAIs through practice had an impact (γa→k = .426, Pa→k = .003). HCWs’ occupational skills and attitudes towards preventing HCAIs had an effect (γos→p = .523, Pos→p = .002).ConclusionThe finding indicated that attitude and occupational skills can be improved through practice which finally brings a significant improvement in the knowledge of HCWs about HCAIs prevention. Besides, there were direct effects of occupational skills on the practices of HCAIs prevention. This highlights ongoing training and mentoring of HCWs during practice is essential to enhance HCAIs prevention.

Consumption of wild edible plants in the Kofale and Heban-Arsi districts, West Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

BackgroundWild edible plants (WEPs) are neglected and have received little attention despite their significant contributions to the sustenance and livelihoods of rural communities. This study was conducted in the Kofale and Heban-Arsi districts of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, to document the diversity, to assess the most preferred WEPs, their utilization, and threats they face.MethodsThe study was conducted in the Kofale and Heban-Arsi districts of the West Arsi Zone of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Data collection took place from February to September 2022 in Kofale and from November 2022 to April 2023 in Heban-Arsi district. To gather ethnobotanical information, the research employed semi-structured interviews, field observations, focus group discussions, and guided field walks. The interviews involved 290 informants who were selected via snowball sampling and systemic random sampling methods. Preference ranking values, direct matrix rankings, and use values (UVs) of documented species were computed.ResultsA total of 62 WEPs species belonging to 38 families and 56 genera were identified. The Moraceae family includes 7 species, followed by Fabaceae and Rubiaceae (each 4 species), and Lamiaceae (3 species). Shrub was the dominant growth form (32 species), followed by herbs (13 species). The largest number (24 species) of WEPs was collected from grazing lands/fields, followed by forest habitats (17 species). The most widely used edible plant part was fruit (40 species) and leaf (11 species). Most WEPs were collected for consumption from March to May (30 species), and the majority of the species (48, 77.4%) were utilized in their raw state. A large number of WEP (41 species) were consumed only during periods of food shortage, and the remaining (21 species) were used as staple food supplements. Multiple other uses of WEPs in the study area also reported. Fifty-two species mentioned for medicinal use, and the species that had the highest use value was Cordia africana Lam. (0.9). The direct matrix ranking results indicated that agricultural expansion was a principal threat to the WEPs in the study area.ConclusionThis study indicated that WEPs are widely used during food shortages in the study area, but many WEP species are under threat due to growing pressure from various anthropogenic factors. Thus, public awareness and community-based management need to be encouraged at all levels to conserve and sustainably use these resources to address food insecurity.

Marketing intelligence and competitive advantage of small businesses in Lagos State

Every business entity wants to perform and have a reasonable position in the market and this could be achieved when the business entities have and transform information in their disposal. Thus, the study examined marketing intelligence and competitive advantage of small businesses in Lagos State. The study used descriptive research design and simple random sampling method. The study collected data from the primary source of data collection through the use of questionnaire as the research instrument. 381 copies of questionnaire were administered to the small business owners in Lagos State but 277 were returned and found usable. The regression analysis indicated that product intelligence has a positive and significant effect on competitive advantage of small businesses. Also, competitive intelligence has a positive and significant effect on competitive advantage of small businesses. The study concluded that marketing intelligence is a determinant to attainment of competitive advantage of small businesses in Lagos State. Thus, the study concluded that small businesses should continue to collect information about their product and process the information to achieve business objectives and the small business should continue to gathers and analyzes information about its industry, business environment, competitors, and products with the goal of directing their future strategy as to have performed better and have a position in the market.

Influence of Classroom Dynamics on Students’ Academic Performance in Day Secondary Schools in Mwingi East Sub County, Kitui County, Kenya

The study aimed to investigate the influence of classroom dynamics on student academic performance in day secondary schools in Mwangi East Sub-County, Kitui County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were: To evaluate the influence of class size on academic performance, To examine the influence of school rules and regulations, To assess the influence of parental involvement in school activities and To examine the influence of teacher's class supervision on academic performance. Goal-Centered Theory (GCT) was used to explain the dynamics of learning. The target population of the study was 2280. 341 responses were obtained using Slovin sample formulae. The random sampling method was used to select schools, while the stratified sampling method was used to select the sample size from principals, class teachers and students from selected secondary schools. Data collection was done using questionnaires, interview schedules and observations. Validity and reliability of Research Instruments were conducted to ascertain the internal consistency and legitimacy of the research instruments. Data analysis was done using SPSS (version 25). Analyzed data was presented in the form of frequency tables, percentages, graphs and charts. The researcher found that on the first objective, the test of hypothesis r-calculated value of 4.88 was greater than the R-critical value of 2.17 at a p-value ~ 0.05, and the null hypothesis was rejected. On the second objective, the test of hypothesis r-calculated value of 4.88 is greater than the R-critical of value 2.17 at p-value ~ 0.05, and the null hypothesis was rejected. On the third objective, the test of hypothesis r-calculated value of 4.11 is greater than the R-critical of value 3.1 at p-value ~ 0.05, and the null hypothesis was rejected. Lastly, on the fourth objective, the test of hypothesis r-calculated value of 5.2 was greater than the R-critical of value 4.2 at p-value ~ 0.05, and the null hypothesis was rejected. The study concluded that there was evidence of reduced class time for syllabus completion for teachers and low mastery of contents due to pressed instructional time. Rules and instructions in the classroom environment help to improve the class learning procedures, as evidenced by the respondent responses. Timely class attendance was paramount for students' academic performances. Interactive demonstrations for problem-solving techniques were used by selected teachers, thus making teachers have different opinions, and there have been high records of insufficient learning materials that resulted in poor class management and attributed to the contribution of poor performance. The researcher recommended that teachers learn different methods of managing class sizes. Headteachers and teachers should coordinate in drafting and enforcing school rules and regulations, and every teacher should have working strategies that promote class integration.

Assessment of Pesticide Selection and Application Behaviors of Sugar Beet Farmers in Konya Province

This study is undertaken to determine the behaviors of sugar beet farmers regarding pesticide selection and applications in the Çumra, Altınekin, and Seydişehir districts of Konya province, where sugar beet production is concentrated in 2023. A total of 20 sugar beet farmers were randomly selected from each district through a random sampling method, and evaluations were made based on their responses to 16 face-to-face questions. The results were calculated as percentages and presented in tables. The behaviors of farmers regarding pesticide selection and application practices were assessed in two stages. It was found that sugar beet farmers often seek information from pesticide dealers when choosing and determining the dosage of agricultural chemicals, and they mostly obtain pesticides from agricultural chemical dealers. It was noted that they acquire the chemicals when they start growing the crop, do not spray regularly for pests and diseases as a preventive measure, and pay attention to the legality, cost-effectiveness, and effectiveness of the pesticides they purchase. Half of the sugar beet farmers reported conducting at least two pesticide applications during the season, and the majority stated that they perform pesticide applications in the morning and afternoon. Farmers acknowledged the importance of pesticide residues but emphasized that the effectiveness of the pesticide was more crucial. They also reported not adhering to the waiting periods between the last pesticide application and harvest. Regarding pesticide handling, application, and post-application practices, it was observed that farmers partially protected themselves. They tended to spray excess pesticide-contaminated water at the edge of the orchard or on vacant land and disposed of empty pesticide containers haphazardly on the edge of the field.

Determinan Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak Orang Pribadi di Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Kabupaten Gianyar

Taxpayers in Indonesia can calculate, remit and file taxes independently through the personal assessment system. Taxpayers' trust in this system is highly dependent on their level of loyalty. This study aims to identify the factors that influence the level of individual tax compliance at the Gianyar Primary Tax Office (KPP). Using a random sampling method, the study successfully collected 100 respondent samples. The research findings reveal that aspects of environment, understanding, awareness, and the application of tax sanctions comprehensively contribute to increasing individual compliance in fulfilling tax obligations. The results of the analysis reveal that increasing understanding at KPP has the potential to be significant in increasing taxpayer compliance. Such compliance is influenced by the existence of tax sanctions and the level of individual awareness. This study proves that there is a strong relationship between taxpayers' level of understanding and their compliance. In addition, a conducive environment and the proper application of sanctions can be a driving factor in increasing tax compliance.