Goal Of Technology Research Articles

The Epistemology of Bio-Inspired Disciplines: Unpacking Modelling in Biorobotics

ABSTRACT This paper examines the philosophical discourse surrounding the role of models in bioinspired disciplines, focusing on biorobotics as a case study. I address the ongoing debate on the distinctions between ‘model of’ and ‘model for’ within the context of biomimetics, a field that seeks inspiration from nature to address different scientific and technological goals. I will develop the argument that in biorobotics it is quite impossible to indicate what a model per se is. Instead, a bio-inspired model, such as a robot, can be seen as a ‘model for’ or a ‘model of’, depending on the epistemic activity and scientific and technological game (in the sense of Wittgenstein) this is part of. By doing so, I contribute to the broader discussion on modelling practices as well as to exploring the epistemology of biomimetics. First, I outline biomimetics’ peculiarities and address mimetic symmetry, the challenge of integrating bio-inspired technologies into biological systems. Second, I recall the distinction between ‘model for’ and ‘model of’. Third, I examine biorobotics’ modelling practices. Fourth, I explore the interconnection of ‘model for’ and ‘model of’ in biorobotics. Fifth, using the notion of technological game (Wittgenstein) and epistemic actions (Chang), I investigate reconsider the mimetic asymmetry problem.

Construction of Full-Spectrum-Response Bi3O4Br:Er3+@Bi2O3- x S-Scheme Heterojunction With [Bi─O] Tetrahedral Sharing by Integrated Upconversion and Photothermal Effect Toward Optimized Photocatalytic Performance.

Designing and optimizing photocatalysts to maximize the use of sunlight and achieve fast charge transport remains a goal of photocatalysis technology. Herein, a full-spectrum-response Bi3O4Br:Er3+@Bi2O3- x core-shell S-scheme heterojunction is designed with [Bi─O] tetrahedral sharing using upconversion (UC) functionality, photothermal effects, and interfacial engineering. The UC function of Er3+ and plasmon resonance effect of Bi2O3- x greatly improves the utilization of sunlight. The equivalent layer structure of Bi3O4Br and Bi2O3- x facilitates the construction of high-quality S-scheme heterojunction interfaces with close atomic-level contact obtained from the [Bi─O] tetrahedral sharing and the resulting Bi3O4Br:Er3+@Bi2O3- x core-shell morphology, enabled efficient charge transfer. Furthermore, localized temperature increase, induced by photothermal effects, enhanced the chemical reaction kinetics. Benefiting from the distinctive construction, the Bi3O4Br:Er3+@Bi2O3- x heterojunctions exhibit excellent performance in the photocatalytic degradation of bisphenol A that is 2.40 times and 4.98 times greater than that of Bi3O4Br:Er3+ alone under full-spectrum light irradiation and near-infraredlight irradiation, respectively. This work offers an innovative perspective for the design and fabrication of full-spectrum-response S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with efficient solar energy utilization based on high quality interfaces, UC functionality, and the photothermal effect.

MODUL TƏLİM TEXNOLOGİYASININ MAHİYYƏTİ, MƏZMUNU, TƏSNİFATI VƏ PRİNSİPLƏRİ

In the article, the classification of content and principles of technology is searched, the goals of modular technology are indicated. It is also noted that the use of modular technology is a modern approach to the organization of the educational process, this approach requires flexibility and individual learning to meet the needs of modern learners, the main idea of modular learning technology is to instill more flexibility in choosing the educational path to learners and ensure the speed of mastering the material.

Enterprise architecture principles for higher education: Bridging technology and stakeholder goals

This review paper explores the critical role of Enterprise Architecture (EA) in higher education, focusing on its capacity to bridge the gap between technological advancements and stakeholder goals. It begins by outlining core EA principles, including alignment with institutional mission and vision, flexibility, stakeholder-centric design, security, privacy, and data-driven decision-making. The paper then addresses the significant challenges in implementing EA in higher education, such as organizational complexity, resistance to change, resource constraints, and technology integration issues. The paper proposes several strategies to overcome these challenges, including collaborative governance models, phased implementation approaches, continuous improvement processes, and professional development programs. The implications of adopting EA principles are discussed, highlighting the potential for enhanced efficiency, improved resource allocation, and increased institutional agility. The paper suggests future research directions, particularly in integrating emerging technologies and adapting EA frameworks to evolving educational models. This review underscores the importance of EA as a strategic tool for aligning technology with the goals and needs of higher education institutions. Keywords: Enterprise Architecture (EA), Higher Education, Stakeholder Goals, Technology Integration, Institutional Strategy.

Effect of Surface Coatings on the Service Life of Unimax Casting Tool Steel

The tool steel materials are expensive this is the reason why the lifetime increase is a goal of the production technology. The tool life is determined by the various complex mechanical, thermal, chemical, and tribological properties. Tools properties depend on the chemical composition and their microstructure. The microstructure depends on the chemical composition, the production process, the heat treatment and surface treatment technologies. The goal of this research was to increase the service lifetime of the casting mould tool. It was prepared and investigated four kinds of test specimens. The first kind of specimen was made from conventional steel (W302). It was made an austenitization (1020°C) and was cooled with 9 bar nitrogen gas to 40°C and kept for 6 minutes. The quenching was followed with three times tempering processes (570°C, 580°C, 560°C) in 2 bar N2 gas. The second kind of test specimen was made from Unimax electro-slag remelted steel (ESR). It was made an austenitization (1020°C) and was cooled with 9 bar nitrogen gas to 40°C and kept for 6 minutes. After quenching the process continues with three times tempering (610°C, 620°C, 600°C). The third kind of test specimen Unimax a electro-slag remelted steel (ESR), to which firstly an austenitization (1020°C) was made, quenched in nitrogen gas with 9bar and then cooled in liquid nitrogen till minus 150°C. After cryogenic treatment, the process continues with three times tempering (610°C, 620°C, 600°C). The fourth kind of specimen was made by the same process as the second and after it a PVD coating process was made to coat the surface by a TiBN layer. It investigated the hardness and wear resistance of all heat-treated and surface-coated steel specimens. The comparative wear resistance testing was investigated by a ball cratering tester. The rank of the tested specimen was the next: the lowest wear resistance measured in the case of the heat-treated W302, the middle in the case of cryogenic heat-treated Unimax and the highest wear resistance earned in the case of the PVD-coated Unimax. The results of the investigations proved that the Unimax tool steel service lifetime can increase better than the conventional tool steel by heat treatment and surface treatment. The practice certified that the surface-treated Unimax tools' service lifetime is much longer than the conventional ones.

Increasing the cumulative live birth rate: Low-grade blastocysts, potential overlook

It is now widely recognized that, following prolonged culture, the transfer of a high-quality morphologically graded blastocyst is the preferred strategy in embryo transfer. Low-grade blastocysts are often considered to have a low implantation potential, and their use remains highly limited. We conducted a general review of the literature, including publications from August 2017 to October 2023, to assess the current state of knowledge regarding these embryos, which are generally excluded in routine practice. Our primary outcome measure was the "live birth rate" following the frozen transfer of a low-grade morphologically classified blastocyst according to the Gardner classification. The "miscarriage rates" were also evaluated. The bibliographic research led to the selection of 9 articles. Low-grade blastocysts can result in live births, with rates ranging from 5.97 to 40%, and in the birth of healthy children, which remains the primary goal of assisted reproductive technology. It would therefore be relevant to reconsider the routine use of these embryos.

Research progress on laser processing of carbon fiber composite materials

AbstractCarbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) is a high‐performance composite material composed of carbon fibers embedded in a polymer matrix. CFRP is extensively used in various sectors such as aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and construction due to its advantageous properties. Laser processing offers numerous advantages when working with carbon fiber‐reinforced composites, including its non‐contact nature, precision, efficiency, and controllability. However, disparities between carbon fibers and the polymer matrix can lead to challenges during laser processing, such as delamination, heat‐affected zones, and fiber pullout. Consequently, there is a substantial body of literature focusing on improving the quality and efficiency of laser processing for CFRP materials. This paper provides a comprehensive review of various studies investigating the impact of laser parameters (laser mode, pulse frequency, pulse width, and laser wavelength) on carbon fiber‐reinforced plastics. It discusses how different laser parameters affect the processing quality and performance of these materials. Additionally, drawing from recent research findings, the paper explores potential future trends in laser processing for carbon fiber‐reinforced plastics.Highlights The application of laser technology in CFRP, including laser cutting, drilling, welding, and surface treatment, has been extensively researched. A detailed discussion is held regarding the impact of laser mode, wavelength, frequency, and pulse width on the quality of machining. More auxiliary processing has evolved in CFRP manufacturing due to the ongoing advancements in laser technology. The goals of laser processing CFRP technology are increasingly focused on reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and minimizing waste.

Impact of Technology Improvements on the Cost of Hydrogen Produced Using Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell Technology at Large Scale

National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) provides system-level process, cost, and market analyses on solid oxide cell (SOC) based technologies. Specifically, techno-economic analyses (TEA), market assessments, and other technology evaluations serve to guide the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) Reversible Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (R-SOFC) Program technology goals and objectives. These studies are key to describing how the technologies contribute to improving domestic energy infrastructure in a clean, efficient manner. This effort focuses on hydrogen generation technologies, which have received recent attention due to their potential role in economy-wide decarbonization. In particular, the study is part of a series of investigations at NETL that seek to understand the techno-economic impacts of including SOC technology in energy production, hydrogen production, and/or storage configurations.The objective of this study is to establish a detailed TEA to assess the effectiveness of incremental technology improvements needed for solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) technology to achieve the U.S. DOE’s Hydrogen Shot goal of hydrogen production at less than $1 per kilogram. To take advantage of the benefits of economies of scale, the SOEC hydrogen facilities are sized to produce ≈250,000 metric tons of hydrogen annually with an electrolysis load of one gigawatt (direct current). Some additional critical assumptions include stacks that operate near the thermo-neutral voltage of 1.28 V to avoid adverse thermal gradients, all necessary steam and heat is generated by electric boilers and heaters to enable green hydrogen production, and an air sweep is used to control the oxygen concentration in the air electrode exhaust stream.A literature review on long-duration SOEC stack tests informed the state-of-the-art basis for the techno-economic pathway. The pathway considers incremental technology improvements to key system parameters, with system performance and cost assessed for each pathway step. Briefly, the steps include cell voltage degradation rate improvements, operational current density increases, operating temperature reduction, improved steam utilization, increased system capacity factor, and reduced cell/stack capital costs. Each step is assessed at both atmospheric and pressurized (8 bar) operating conditions.To supplement assessment at each of these discrete stepwise improvements, sensitivity studies are conducted to understand the relative impact of each parameter and identify avenues for additional cost reductions. Reductions in electricity price and replacing the electric boiler heat duty with waste heat from an existing industrial source are the most sensitive parameters enabling further cost reductions.System efficiency and levelized costs of hydrogen (LCOH) for each case will be presented. Excluding the costs associated with electricity consumption, the direct impact that research and development can have on the LCOH can be made explicit. For the end-of-pathway case, which includes all the incremental research and development improvements, the cost of hydrogen produced is reduced by 50 percent from the state-of-the-art case. These results provide critical guidance to the DOE-FECM R-SOFC Program to set realistic targets for research and development-based improvements of SOC technology for hydrogen production.

Transforming Strategy and Value Creation Through Digitalization?

Digital transformation (DT) directly influences organizational competitiveness, reshaping value creation and necessitating adaptation across industries. This study investigates how DT redefines strategic imperatives and the mechanisms of value creation within organizations, synthesizing findings from five thematic clusters: “Strategic Management in Digital Transformation of Organizations”, “Emerging Trends in Digital Entrepreneurship and Sustainability”, “Digital Capabilities and Business Model Innovation”, “Digitalization and Transformation of SMEs”, and “Value Creation through Innovation and Digital Transformation”. The analysis uncovers crucial insights, including the shift towards business-to-business (B2B) value-oriented sales, the role of big data analytics in collaborative innovation, and the integration of AI-driven business models across retail, logistics, and healthcare. Strategic alignment between technological advances and organizational goals emerges as essential, especially for SMEs facing resources, regulatory compliance, and skills development challenges. Despite these insights, significant gaps remain. Future research should delve into the underexplored area of cross-industry best practices, particularly how SMEs can leverage digital tools to enhance resilience and adaptability in market volatility. Further investigation into the long-term impacts of digital entrepreneurship on sustainability is recommended, including metrics for measuring social and environmental value creation. Additionally, digital leadership roles, such as Chief Digital Officers, warrant more in-depth examinations to identify how these leaders can navigate the complexities of DT and maximize value co-creation. This systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis aim to consolidate current knowledge, address critical gaps, and lay the groundwork for future studies that support resilient and sustainable growth in an increasingly digital economy.

Policy Framing, Social Networks, and Teacher Perspectives in a Technology Rollout

Drawing on theories of framing and social networks, we examine how educators define policy goals in a technology rollout, and how this framing process shapes teacher attitudes for technology. We analyzed social network data and 37 interviews with district leaders, digital learning coaches, and school staff from six elementary schools in a mid-sized district in California. These data suggest that school leaders and teachers re-framed district reform messages in different ways depending on the density of dialogue in their networks and who had social influence. These framings supported teacher motivation for using technology in ways that aligned to or built upon the district's instructional goals, or prompted teachers to resist change and/or make compliance-oriented and superficial shifts in their practice. We argue that district leaders should attend to school context when implementing technology rollouts and proactively engage school actors to define the goals of technology. We caution that technology rollouts demand sudden and intensive shifts in teacher work roles and can foster resistance to change without adequate time and support.

Smooth Talking: Generative Versus Scripted Coaching Chatbot Adoption and Efficacy Comparison

Workplace coaching is an essential individual and organizational development intervention, but high costs limit its application. AI coaching chatbots could scale coaching, however, traditional scripted chatbots lacks mainstream adoption due to limited context awareness and robotic responses. Recent advances in large language models and generative AI offer an alternative, however, generative AI is linked to risks and controversies. Should coaching chatbots use generative AI? We compared a scripted, rules-based coaching chatbot (ScriptBot, n = 126) with a generative AI chatbot (GenBot, n = 116) in a randomized controlled trail experiment. We measured technology adoption (UTAUT2), self-determination (autonomy, competence, relatedness) and goal attainment. For all technology adoption and self-determination variables, GenBot outperformed ScriptBot. However, for goal attainment there was no significant difference. Using generative AI in coaching chatbots improves adoption and coaching outcomes, but for highly structured interactions such as goal attainment, scripted conversations (with lower risk) seem to work just as well.

3D Printed Personalized Colon-targeted Tablets: A Novel Approach in Ulcerative Colitis Management.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are two types of idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that are increasing in frequency and incidence worldwide, particularly in highly industrialized countries. Conventional tablets struggle to effectively deliver anti-inflammatory drugs since the inflammation is localized in different areas of the colon in each patient. The goal of 3D printing technology in pharmaceutics is to create personalized drug delivery systems (DDS) that are tailored to each individual's specific needs. This review provides an overview of existing 3D printing processes, with a focus on extrusion-based technologies, which have received the most attention. Personalized pharmaceutical products offer numerous benefits to patients worldwide, and 3D printing technology is becoming more affordable every day. Custom manufacturing of 3D printed tablets provides innovative ideas for developing a tailored colon DDS. In the future, 3D printing could be used to manufacture personalized tablets for UC patients based on the location of inflammation in the colon, resulting in improved therapeutic outcomes and a better quality of life.

Design of Mixed-Metal MOF-74-MgNi for Water Adsorption-Driven Solar Thermal Energy Storage and Heat Transformation Applications.

Adsorption solar thermal energy storage and heat transformation are ecologically benign and energy-efficient technologies. Efficient adsorbents are the key to this technology. In this paper, two metal ions, Mg2+ and Ni2+, were introduced into the metal-organic framework MOF-74. The synthesis conditions were adjusted to obtain MOF-74 with a high water adsorption capacity and stability. The results show that MOF-74-MgNi-2 has the maximum water adsorption capacity. At a low moisture pressure P/P0 = 0.1, its water adsorption capacity is 0.44 g/g, 0.12 g/g, and 0.10 g/g greater than that of MOF-74-Mg and MOF-74-Ni, respectively. Its saturated water adsorption capacity at P/P0 = 0.9 is as high as 0.62 g/g, which is 1.3 times that of MOF-74-Ni and 1.1 times that of MOF-74-Mg, respectively. Its superior water adsorption capacity is explained by the combination of experiment and molecular simulation, which takes into account the pore structure and electrostatic potential energy distribution. Its thermal breakdown temperature is greater than 250 °C. Its water adsorption capacity decreases by only 9.0% in the 10th cycle. Under conventional refrigeration conditions, its refrigeration coefficient and working capacity are 0.75 and 0.43 cm3/cm3, respectively, which are greater than those of the majority of the regularly used adsorbents. In addition, it satisfies the primary technological goals of adsorption-based thermal batteries with a heat storage capacity of up to 1394 kJ/kg. The mixed-metal method is shown to be useful in the design of high-performance MOF-74 for solar thermal energy storage and heat transformation.

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs): Design, characterization, release mechanism and remote-controlled application for targeted therapeutics

MNPs as novel drug delivery system (NDDS) approach possess several magnetic properties for targeted and controlled delivery in various biomedical application. Unlike normal nanoparticles, MNPs enable to respond to external magnetic fields, allowing for manipulation, guidance, and functionalisation within the body. This review encompasses a wide range of scientific and technological goals aimed in understanding their properties, synthesis methods, characterization techniques, surface functionalisation strategies and application. Drug delivery based on magnetic properties has advanced dramatically to enhance therapeutic bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivwery. Converting nanoparticles into MNPs involves introducing magnetic properties to the nanoparticles through core-shell structures, doping or coating with magnetic materials, physical or chemical reactions, or biological synthesis methods. However, this study demonstrates the versatility and potential of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for various biomedical applications. Moreover, the in vitro and in vivo studies highlight MNPs' promising role in targeted drug delivery, imaging contrast enhancement, and magnetic hyperthermia for cancer therapy. Moving forward, further research is warranted to optimize MNPs' design, explore novel functionalization strategies, and address challenges related to biocompatibility, scalability, and regulatory approval. Therefore, MNPs reflects transformative impact across various fields, emphasizing their potential to drive advancements in healthcare, environmental protection, and technology. Continued research and innovation in this field are expected to unlock new opportunities and address global challenges, driving progress towards a healthier, cleaner, and more technologically advanced future.

Achieving Optimal Business-IT Alignment in Small Firms: A Dynamic Perspective

This study uses Charmaz's (2006) constructivist grounded theory to examine how small enterprises dynamically connect IT adoption with business goals. To explore small company IT alignment practices, the research uses a qualitative approach to conduct in-depth interpretive interviews with 31 owner-managers. The study methodically analyses grounded data to find processes and concept interrelationships, examining contextual elements, actions, reactions, repercussions, and results. This analysis creates a new framework for business-IT alignment: adaptation, anticipation, synchronisation, and collaboration. Each state shows how small enterprises balance technological and commercial goals, presenting a detailed view of how they do so. This reactive alignment method allows small enterprises to adapt their IT plans to external changes or business needs. Anticipation is a proactive alignment strategy that positions organisations to strategically harness technological advances by anticipating future business and IT needs. Synchronisation occurs when IT and business strategy match in real time, harmonising IT systems and business operations. Collaboration involves deeper integration where IT and business goals are co-created through communication and cooperation. The study's methodology helps policymakers, researchers, and small firm owner-managers predict and analyse business-IT alignment behaviours. This methodology diagnoses alignment states and improves IT adoption strategies and business objectives-IT integration. These findings are important for IT-business alignment theories, especially in small enterprises with resource restrictions and unpredictable contexts.

A Review of Traffic Flow Prediction Models in 5G Using Machine Learning Techniques

Abstract: Wireless technology has advanced significantly since its origin and is now an essential aspect of our daily life. The advancement of wireless communication from the first generation (1G) to the fifth generation (5G) of technology has been revolutionary. An extensive summary of the development of wireless communication from 1G to 5G has been given in this paper. Cellular networks are heading towards becoming more diverse, broadband, integrated, and intelligent networks with the introduction of 5G networks. The goals of 5G wireless technology are to provide more users with more consistent user experiences, ultralow latency, vast network capacity, faster multi-Gbps peak data speeds and increased reliability. While the resources needed for computation and communication are also growing with the maturity of 5G technology .At the same time, cellular traffic has increased dramatically due to the widespread use of smart devices. Cellular traffic prediction is a crucial component of the resource management system for cellular networks but it confronts many difficulties due to strict standards for accuracy and dependability. Among the most important issues is how to enhance the predictive performance of Mobile data traffic. This review describes the need of traffic forecasting in cellular network in 5G technology. A study of different models for network analysis and traffic prediction by different researchers is presented in this paper. The distinctiveness and guidelines of earlier research for traffic prediction in 5G are examined. To determine the distinctive qualities of each method used for traffic prediction in mobile network, a thorough analysis of the most popular techniques using Machine learning for predictive analysis are discussed.

The axiological foundations of innovation in STEM education – A systematic review and ethical meta-analysis

IntroductionValues are crucial in decision-making, including processes related to science and technology, despite scientists often being unaware of them. Because a goal of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is to foster innovation, values have become fundamental in directing science and technology policies and shaping organizational cultures to leverage innovation. However, most research on STEM education has focused on improving performance or access to STEM education while overlooking its axiological configuration. This study analyzes the different value systems emerging in the current literature on STEM higher education and identifies the relevant stakeholders. MethodIn this systematic review and ethical meta-analysis, we aimed to assess the most prominent studies on STEM education and its core values. We followed a Ricoeur-inspired hermeneutical methodology using Atlas ti 8.4.4. Values are identified and classified using a systematic approach to integrate axiological landscapes. ResultsThe literature does not explicitly discuss the value of STEM education for innovation. However, social values appear to be at the intersection and the cornerstone of basic, economic, aesthetic, and epistemic values, as most social values also manifest these four systems. The most common manifestation of the value system is the capability approach to justice, followed by the beauty of recognition and success and, in third place, racism and social disparities. The analyzed literature emphasizes STEM education's social, political, and economic determinants. However, there is an epistemic gap in the indispensable value of innovating and assessing STEM education. ConclusionsWe propose an organizational culture model for STEM education that considers the goals, ends, values, and behaviors of students, teachers, educational institutions, and the government. This model can help fill the axiological gaps in STEM education.

Cybersecurity’s Role in Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development: Bridging Technology and Sustainability Goals

This study investigates the pivotal role of cybersecurity in bolstering environmental protection and sustainable development, a critical yet underexplored nexus in contemporary research. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research scrutinizes peer-reviewed articles, conference proceedings, and industry reports from 2015 to 2023, sourced from databases such as IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The methodology is anchored in a rigorous search strategy, leveraging keywords related to cybersecurity, sustainability, and communication technologies, and adheres to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and quality of the literature reviewed. Key findings highlight cybersecurity as an indispensable enabler of sustainable development initiatives, safeguarding the technological infrastructure essential for environmental conservation efforts. The study identifies evolving cyber threats as a significant challenge, necessitating adaptive security measures that anticipate and mitigate potential vulnerabilities. Furthermore, it underscores the opportunities presented by advanced cybersecurity technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, in enhancing the security and efficiency of sustainable practices. Strategic recommendations emphasize the need for comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, cybersecurity education, and alignment with regulatory standards to fortify the resilience of sustainability initiatives against cyber threats. The study concludes that integrating robust cybersecurity measures is paramount in the pursuit of sustainable development goals, calling for ongoing vigilance, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to navigate the complex landscape of digital threats and opportunities. This research contributes valuable insights into the critical intersection of cybersecurity and sustainability, offering a foundation for future studies and strategic initiatives aimed at securing sustainable development in the digital age. Keywords: Cybersecurity, Sustainable Development, Environmental Protection, Advanced Security Technologies.

Boosting photocatalytic performance in Cu doped ZnO nanocomposites: Investigation of exciton-free carrier conversion and oxygen vacancy dynamics

The production of photocatalytic materials with strong light absorption ability and high quantum efficiency by simple means is a long-term goal of photocatalytic technology. In this work, we have synthesized Cu doped ZnO nanoparticles by a facile sol-gel method. By introducing Cu impurities, it is shown that the excitons in ZnO have been efficiently separated into free carriers, leading to optimized photocatalytic performance. The surface amorphous layers of the nanoparticles grew thicker at the introduction of Cu atoms into ZnO lattice, which boosted the photocatalytic ability due to the increase of surface oxygen vacancy concentration. This finding provides a direct evidence of quasi-particle-free carrier conversion in Cu doped ZnO, as well as a guidance for fabricating high efficiency ZnO based nano-photocatalysts.

Assessing Teacher Knowledge and Skills for Competency Based Formative Assessment of Mathematical Activities in Public Pre-primary Schools in Gem Sub-county, Kenya

Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is a reform initiative in Kenya’s education that focuses on Competency Based Formative Assessment (CBFA) practice. The conduct of CBFA requires teachers to be knowledgeable on the new assessment strategies, expected to be attained after training. However, only 42.79% of the pre-primary teachers in Gem have been trained on the CBC, a percentage lower than other sub-counties in Siaya. Further, mathematical activities in Gem registered lowest ranking in performance compared to other learning areas.This raises questions whether the teachers poses the requisite knowledge to conduct formative assessment, which aids learning and achievement. The purpose of the study was to assess teacher knowledge and skills for CBFA of mathematical activities in public pre-primary schools in Gem.Objectives were to establish teacher pedagogical content knowledge to conduct CBFA, determine teacher knowledge of feedback provision to conduct CBFA, examine teacher knowledge of goal setting to conduct CBFA and to determine teacher knowledge of ICT to conduct CBFA. The study was based on Schildkamp et al. (2020) model which places acquisition of knowledge as key requisite for competency based formative assessment of mathematical activities. The study employed descriptive survey research design using mixed methods of data collection. The sample size for the study was 76 teachers, 1 Sub-County ECD Coordinator (SCECDC) and 10 headteachers. Data was obtained using questionnaire, classroom observation checklist and interview schedule. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics involving frequency distribution tables, percentages and means while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic categories. Findings indicate that teachers have limited knowledge on using formative assessment tools, setting lesson goal and use of Information Communication and Technology (ICT). They could not differentiate formative from summative evaluation when giving feedback. The results imply that there is need for better structured inset based on prior identification of teachers needs.