Research Paradigm Research Articles

Governmental student funding systems for higher education: an international perspective

The worldwide surge in demand for higher education (HE) aligns with an increasing need for effective student funding systems, particularly in countries where poverty poses a significant barrier to accessing HE. An international perspective on governmental student funding systems allows us to examine how other governments have implemented these systems to benefit their citizens. The aim of this article is thus to provide a global view of the functioning and challenges pertaining to student funding systems and to shed light on the policies in place in the international landscape. The realist systematic literature review methodology was deemed the most suitable for this study as various scholars have previously studied different facets of the topic. This study aligns with the interpretive research paradigm and qualitative methods. The desired information therefore already exists within the body of knowledge, although it has not yet been analyzed through this particular method. It is evident that both developing and developed countries experience challenges regarding student funding, both in the purpose thereof as well as in the implementation. This is a universal issue, and an in-depth literature review confirmed this phenomenon.

Replication research in the domain of perceived L2 fluency: Approximate and close replications of Kormos and Dénes (2004) and Rossiter (2009)

Abstract The primary objective of this paper is to contribute to the advancement of second language (L2) fluency research by outlining a specific proposal for future replication studies. The overarching goal is to assess the generalisability of the original findings of the two influential studies in the area of perceived fluency: Kormos and Dénes (2004) and Rossiter (2009). This objective will be achieved by first introducing the concept of L2 fluency that often conflates two categories: (1) overall language proficiency; (2) temporal features of speech production. The paper then highlights limitations in the current fluency research paradigm emphasising the variability in the methods employed for speech analysis and rating data collection. This diversity makes it somewhat challenging to compare results across various studies. In response to these challenges, the second part of the paper proposes several close and approximate replications of the two studies.

Navigating the uncommon: challenges in applying evidence-based medicine to rare diseases and the prospects of artificial intelligence solutions.

The study of rare diseases has long been an area of challenge for medical researchers, with agonizingly slow movement towards improved understanding of pathophysiology and treatments compared with more common illnesses. The push towards evidence-based medicine (EBM), which prioritizes certain types of evidence over others, poses a particular issue when mapped onto rare diseases, which may not be feasibly investigated using the methodologies endorsed by EBM, due to a number of constraints. While other trial designs have been suggested to overcome these limitations (with varying success), perhaps the most recent and enthusiastically adopted is the application of artificial intelligence to rare disease data. This paper critically examines the pitfalls of EBM (and its trial design offshoots) as it pertains to rare diseases, exploring the current landscape of AI as a potential solution to these challenges. This discussion is also taken a step further, providing philosophical commentary on the weaknesses and dangers of AI algorithms applied to rare disease research. While not proposing a singular solution, this article does provide a thoughtful reminder that no 'one-size-fits-all' approach exists in the complex world of rare diseases. We must balance cautious optimism with critical evaluation of new research paradigms and technology, while at the same time not neglecting the ever-important aspect of patient values and preferences, which may be challenging to incorporate into computer-driven models.

Genuine small talk in hospitality services encounter

Purpose This study proposes “genuine small talk” in hospitality settings, particularly in coffee shops and its impact on enhancing guest experiences. This study aims to delineate how genuine small talk, characterized by sincerity, mutual respect, truthfulness and empathy, differs from traditional conversational engagements and influences service outcomes. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts a case research approach, focusing on the global coffee shop industry, particularly in high-context cultural settings. Using an abductive research paradigm, it intertwines theoretical concepts with empirical data gathered from face-to-face interviews with coffee shop visitors and managers. Data analysis involved qualitative coding techniques to synthesize and interpret findings related to genuine small talk. Findings Genuine small talk in hospitality, marked by sincerity, mutual respect, truthfulness and empathy, significantly enhances customer experiences. It transforms service encounters, turning negative experiences into positive ones and fostering customer loyalty. The study finds that genuine small talk is a strategic tool for emotional resonance and repeat patronage, yet its effectiveness depends on the staff’s ability to discern and adapt to customer moods and preferences. Social implications This study highlights that genuine interpersonal interactions are key to enhancing customer experiences in hospitality. These genuine exchanges, characterized by sincerity, mutual respect, truthfulness and empathy, not only improve the immediate service encounter but also foster long-term customer loyalty. By transforming transactional interactions into meaningful connections, genuine small talk serves as a strategic tool in the hospitality industry, potentially reshaping service dynamics and elevating the perceived value of customer service. This research underscores the importance of staff training in emotional intelligence and adaptability to customer preferences, crucial for implementing genuine small talk effectively. Originality/value This research contributes to the hospitality literature by elucidating the nuanced role of genuine small talk in service encounters. It extends existing discourses of service interactions by highlighting the potential of genuine small talk in fostering connections and enhancing guest experiences.

Redefining the Association Between Memory, Mnemonics and Vocabulary Acquisition—Reviewing Paradigms in Research

The role of memory in language learning is indispensable. A child uses an extraordinary amount of memory when learning to recognise words in the language, creating rules for their use, and connecting speech to the environment and mind. Memory and learning are interdependent, as memory is the process of encoding, storing and retrieving information that is crucial to learning. The value of learning new words, along with the role of memory and mnemonic devices in the process of vocabulary acquisition, is rarely discussed. The article aims to give a comprehensive account of the word and its significance, as well as the numerous aspects that influence word learning, together with the value of learning new words and the functions of memory and mnemonic devices involved in the process of vocabulary acquisition. The various memory models, the efficient processing of information with the aid of mnemonics and how mnemonics have changed over time in studying languages and other subjects are reviewed here. The other major aspects of this study are the dual coding method and an explanation of how mnemonics operate and how mnemonics have evolved with time in studying languages and other subjects.

Corporate governance for sustainable development: A study on mechanism configuration

There is a dearth of configuration analysis on the factors that constitute corporate governance mechanisms within the framework of corporate sustainable goals in existing literature. Specifically, the impact mechanisms related to various combined mechanisms have not been comprehensively defined. This study employs Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) approach to explore the effects of various configurations of corporate governance mechanisms on sustainable development, based on a sample of 2959 Chinese listed companies. Our analysis identifies four distinct pathways that facilitate the achievement of sustainable development goals: 1) enlarging board size, providing managerial incentives, establishing sustainability committees, and enhancing corporate transparency; 2) promoting board diversity, providing managerial incentives, establishing sustainability committees, and enhancing corporate transparency; 3) reducing ownership concentration, providing managerial incentives, establishing sustainability committees, and enhancing corporate transparency; 4) encouraging individual investment, providing managerial incentives, establishing sustainability committees, and enhancing corporate transparency. Additionally, a comparative analysis of different pathways has revealed substitutional relationships between board size and diversity, ownership concentration and investor structure, while highlighting the complementary relationship of managerial incentives, sustainability committees, and corporate transparency. Challenging the erstwhile linear research paradigm, this study contributes to understanding the pathways for achieving sustainable development goals from a configurational perspective and elucidates the relationships between corporate governance mechanisms. It offers novel and comprehensive evidence for examining the intricate nexus between corporate governance mechanisms and sustainable development. Keywords: Stakeholder theory; Sustainable development; Corporate governance mechanisms; Mechanism configurations; fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA).

Teachers’ digital competency level according to various variables: A study based on the European DigCompEdu framework in a large Turkish city

AbstractThe aim of this study is to determine teachers’ digital competency on the basis of European DigCompEdu framework and its relationships with some demographic and teacher characteristics. It was designed as a cross–sectional survey within the quantitative research paradigm. The sample consisted of 368 (199 male and 169 female) teachers working in a major city located in the Central Anatolia of Türkiye during the 2021–2022 academic year. Data were collected through a questionnaire including the Digital Competencies Scale for Educators and questions regarding teachers’ demographic and professional characteristics such as age, gender, subject taught, educational background, school level and location of employment. The findings reveal that participating teachers are at the integrator (B1) level of digital competency on average and those who are male, teach math and science related courses, have postgraduate degree, and work in metropolitan cities are more digitally competent than their counterparts. Teachers’ digital competency is independent of their age and type of school whereas it is positively and moderately associated with the number of digital devices teachers had. Furthermore, the regression analysis explains 25% of its variance through gender, educational background, subject and the number of information technology devices as being the significant predictors.

Adaptation of Migrated Upper Mustangi People in Pokhara, Nepal

The adaptation process of migrant people from the Upper Mustang to Pokhara found a social issue. The trend of permanent and seasonal shifting was prominently observed in this study. The individual and community-level adaptation process of the in-migrants in Pokhara, and multi-ethnic societal adjustment were considerable. This research concentrated on specific ethnics of the Himalaya region of Mustang district who migrated to Pokhara and adapted in hilly ecology. The study was trying to seek the pattern of migration from the Upper Mustang their circumstance and their adaptation in Pokhara. The study area of this research was covered the migrant population in Pokhara from Lomanthang and Lo Ghekar Damodar Kunda Rural Municipalities of Upper Mustang. This study was based on a qualitative research design with interpretative research paradigm. Six informants residing in Pokhara seasonally or permanently both rural municipalities were selected representatively. For the qualitative information in-depth interview was taken with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire. Due to the climatic vulnerability, people from Upper Mustang were shifting in Pokhara permanently or seasonally for survival. The extreme cold, occasional summer rainfall, soil erosion and glacier outburst are major threats of the life security of migrants. Whereas, the common destination of migrants found Pokhara becaue favorable climate, life survival opportunities and historical legacy of socio-economic connection.

Granice historii języka

Granice historii języka

Power improvement of triboelectric nanogenerator by morphological transformation strategy for harvesting irregular wave energy

Wave is inherently characterized by disorder and randomness, which is a great challenge for the conventional wave-based triboelectric nanogenerator (W-TENG) and necessitates conducting adaptability research on the device. Therefore, we proposed a morphological transformation strategy, that is, W-TENG can actively transform the motion patterns of self-structure to accommodate the variations in waves and achieve power improvement. And a morphological transformation TENG (MT-TENG) with multi-mode operation is developed for harvesting irregular wave energy. Furthermore, the disorder wave motion is transformed into a bidirectional continuous rotation of power generation units, which realizes the continuous waveform output. Experimental results demonstrate that the wave power grows by 9.22 times with frequency increase, and the device's performance increases by 114.136 times utilizing this strategy. MT-TENG can output 39.67 mA through the energy management circuit (EMC) and a peak power density of 30.62 W/m3 under the wave excitation of 1.1 Hz. Finally, the self-powered environmental monitoring system is constructed, which can illuminate ten 30 W LEDs in series and provide a continuous energy supply to the wireless sensor module. This work presents a research paradigm for the design of wave-environment adaptability, holding significant implications for improving performance and constructing self-powered sensing systems.

Evolution of the national theory of cooperation in the conditions of gradual development of the agrarian sector of Belarus

The article presents the results of the study of the historiography of cooperative ideas in the context of the development of the agrarian industry in Belarus. The stages of evolution of the national theory of cooperation are identified, the most significant academic approaches and scientific provisions formed by them are defined. The historical moments of change are established, the elements of genetic dynamics of scientific paradigms of research of the

The Privacy Price of School Safety Stakeholders' Perceptions Towards the Use of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) in Schools

CCTV surveillance cameras have played an influential role in safeguarding security, discipline, and a conducive learning environment in Nepali schools. However, as surveillance technology is gradually being installed and used, there is a growing concern about privacy violations. In this context, the article aims to explore the distinct perceptions and understanding of the key stakeholders, namely students, teachers and administrators, regarding using CCTV surveillance technology in their natural setting. This article especially seeks the stakeholders’ perceptions on the impact of surveillance technology on students and teachers about their privacy rights. To meet the objective, I have employed a qualitative study that follows the interpretivists’ research paradigm. I have purposively selected five respondents from each school, incorporating three students and two teaching faculties cum administrative persons. I employed semi-structured interviews at three secondary schools from inner Terai of Nawalpur district. Moreover, I utilized non-participant observation, field notes and google-form as a tool to gather content-rich data and verify the information accumulated through semi-structured interviews, regarding their lived and subjective perceptions about using CCTVs. Findings indicate effectively managing and mitigating various risk factors within schools’ premises, and cultivating a culture of shared responsibilities among students and teachers for building a conducive learning culture in schools. It is also found that surveillance technology in Nepali schools nurtures suspicion among stakeholders, along with acknowledging the importance of comprehensive policy, and students’ privacy concerns to ensure a safe and friendly learning culture.

The raced and gendered persistence of human‐exemptionalism

AbstractThis paper makes the case for a reconsideration of the human exemptionalist paradigm in sociological research. Reviewing recent research on the racialized and gendered dimensions of environmental use and abuse in North America, this paper argues that the persistent belief that humans dominate over all other biota is a direct result of the white supremacist, patriarchal gender system. Traditional Anglo‐European performances of and expectations for masculinity not only mandate the subjugation of women, but of all biota. Consequently, the burdens for repair and regeneration are disproportionately placed upon feminized subjects. This racialized gender system is strengthened as long as human exemptionalism persists. Ultimately, sociologists should contend with ‘human supremacy’ as a system of inequality that strengthens all other systems of inequality that plague human society. Moving forward, theories of liberation must go beyond the species boundary to account for an end to unjust domination of all life on Earth.

Creating financial inclusion in “Belt and Road” countries in Europe, Asia and Africa: regulation, technology and financial literacy

Purpose This study aims to comparatively measure the impact factors of financial inclusion and their spillover effects for Belt and Road countries using panel data from 57 countries in 2011, 2014, 2017 and 2021 and relevant indicators from three dimensions: availability, usage and quality to construct a digital empowerment index of financial inclusion. Design/methodology/approach A spatial Durbin panel model is constructed to empirically test the impact mechanism of financial inclusion under digital empowerment. Findings Results reveal that improving a country’s quality of regulation, technology and residents’ financial literacy significantly contributes to the development of its financial inclusion, while improving its neighboring countries’ financial literacy also boosts its financial inclusion development. This study provides theoretical support for evaluating the development level of inclusive finance in “Belt and Road” countries, promoting the development of inclusive finance and alleviating the problem of financial exclusion. Originality/value This study is original as it creates a research paradigm for “Belt and Road” countries, enabling systematic testing and comparative analysis of inclusive finance development. It incorporates traditional and digital services, evaluating them based on sharing, fairness, convenience and specific group benefits. An inclusive financial index is constructed using the coefficient of variation and arithmetic weighted average methods. Additionally, it introduces a more rational analysis approach for the influence mechanism and spatial effect, using an economic geography nested matrix and spatial Durbin model to explore spatial effects in inclusive finance.

Comparative pedagogy: changing research perspective

Introduction. Given dramatic changes in social, cultural priorities and values taking place across the globe today, with all around changing strategic partners, it becomes apparent that comparative pedagogy desperately needs its methods to be updated. Post modern research paradigm resources are running out. We need new data, approaches, and methods to enhance the comparative analysis. The paper aims to propose rationale for new comparative pedagogy avenues via expanding its subject fields. Methodology. The methods employed show the author’s stand on updating scholarly knowledge in comparative pedagogy. Within the frame of conventional historical approach this research relies on the diachronic and synchronic analysis method, coupled with axiological and cultural approaches and complemented with the contextualization method. The anthropological approach is based on the biographical method. The discursive approach was used as a narrative in the form of commentary of authentic texts – their interpretation, the main source of knowledge in comparative pedagogy. Findings. Modern discourse of comparative research in education contains certain inconsistences which might be put down to an inadequate analysis of upsides and downsides of foreign education system, which eventually restricts our opportunities to rely on overseas experience. It is also true as concerns correlating values demonstrated by foreign practices with national mentality and traditions, use of appropriate conceptual semantics and comparisons. Some questions also arise about the limits of the author’s interpretation. The ways of handling these issues were sought during the review of modern works devoted to the problems of education in different social and cultural contexts. Most problems stem from the language, communication, cultural codes, symbolic forms conveying identity, knowledge and values in Latin America, Middle East, South-East Asia, Africa and some European countries. Conclusion. Comparative pedagogy equipped with updated methods is presented in the paper as one of the up-todate research avenues in interdisciplinary humanities. It helps integrate national education systems allowing for their ethnically and culturally specific differences. A comparative perspective enabled to look into foreign pedagogical experience as another worldview based on historic, cultural, spiritual potential of these countries and their significance. Comparative analysis opened door to a scholarly dialogue in the educational space to promote better understanding and international cooperation.

Dynamics of Thought and Paradigm in Islamic Education Research with Bibliometric Analysis

This research conducts a comprehensive examination of the dynamics of thought and paradigm in Islamic education research through a mixed-methods approach, combining bibliometric analysis with qualitative content analysis. The study investigates the landscape, trends, and impact of scholarly discourse within the domain of Islamic education, aiming to elucidate patterns of publication, thematic orientations, and intellectual influences. Through bibliometric analysis, key citation metrics are presented, showcasing the significant scholarly impact and productivity within the field. Furthermore, the identification of top cited research papers provides insights into seminal contributions that have shaped the discourse on Islamic education. Visualizations such as network, overlay, and density maps offer nuanced understandings of research themes, temporal trends, and potential areas for future inquiry. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of Islamic education scholarship, offering valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of the field and foster positive change in educational practice and policy.

Philosophical paradigms in information technology research

Having been in existence for nearly 30 years, information technology has revolutionized how human beings carry out their day-to-day life. Its use and adoption have brought about many philosophical issues that need to be reviewed. There are ethical issues concerned with the use of information technology ranging from fake news, autonomous systems, biasedness in AI systems and data privacy among others. As research is being carried out to answer some of these concerns, it will be important to look at the core building blocks of a paradigm and some of the research paradigms that can be used in this field. This paper introduces the field of information technology, where its definition and notable contributions are highlighted. Then it goes on to do a review of existing research paradigms with an emphasis on key components of a research paradigm and the types of research paradigms. Lastly, the paper reviews philosophical issues that exist within information technology with an emphasis on ethical issues. With an understanding of this, it will be easier for researchers in this field to choose a paradigm within the area of information technology that best suits their research.

Speech Puzzles (Spuzzles): Engaging the Reduced, Causal, and Semantic Listening Modes for Puzzle Design in Audio Games

This paper proposes a novel approach to audio game design by introducing the concept of speech puzzles (spuzzles) to describe the utilisation of recorded voice for the creation of audio puzzles in ways that challenge players’ different listening modes. In the fields of audio games and audio-interactive applications, speech serves instructive, descriptive, narrative, and in some cases—in the form of hints or quizzes—gameplay purposes by addressing users through language. The suggested approach of spuzzles extends this potential by including, besides encoded meaning, the acoustic properties of sound, thus engaging the user’s causal and reduced listening modes in parallel with the semantic listening mode. An audio game consisting of four inherently different spuzzles was designed as proof of concept and tested by seven third-year students of Audiovisual Arts, who elaborated on their experience through a focus group semi-structured discussion. Despite their difficulty, the spuzzles were well accepted by most of the participants (5/7), whereas all participants agreed on their acoustic richness, need for concentration, and independence from pre-existing musical knowledge. Therefore, the authors suggest that the proposed design approach could serve as a paradigm for future research in the design of complex audio-based game mechanics.

From Dose to Exposure: Shifting the Paradigm of Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology Research and Education.

From Dose to Exposure: Shifting the Paradigm of Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology Research and Education.

Pushed or Pulled? Becoming Gig Workers in Sri Lanka

The gig economy is expanding with more workers joining digital labour platforms globally. Gig work has become popular in Sri Lanka as well, especially during the recent past. Since the gig economy is still a relatively new concept in Sri Lanka, the area is understudied. Hence, the objective of this research is to examine what motivates Sri Lankans to become digital workers. We use push-pull theory as the theoretical lens of the study. Based on qualitative research methodology under the interpretive research paradigm, 22 digital workers from various backgrounds were interviewed in person to identify their motives and experiences with web- based digital labour platforms. This study found four important reasons for Sri Lankans to choose digital work, 1) pursuit of passion 2) pursuit of money (earning in foreign currency, gaining financial independence and an additional source of income), 3) pursuit of agency and 4) pursuit of developmental opportunities. While the motivation for participants to join gig work was mainly identified as pull motivation, in some instances it was identified that the participants were also pushed to join gig work.