Technological Literacy Research Articles

TECHNOLOGY LITERACY AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS FOR ENHANCING NUMERACY AND LITERACY SKILLS OF EARLY-GRADE PUPILS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENTS IN TANZANIA

Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have significantly transformed the educational landscape, and offer substantial benefits for learners with special needs including those with hearing impairments. The primary purpose of this research was to determine the technological literacy level among primary school teachers in using ICTs to support literacy and numeracy skills among learners with hearing impairments and compare them based on demographic information. A quantitative analysis approach was used, involving 121 teachers from the deaf unit primary school who completed a self-rating questionnaire based on the Technology Literacy Assessment Scale developed by UNESCO. Both mean scores, the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Kruskal-Walli’s test were used to compare teachers’ technological literacy using ICTs. The results indicated that teachers' demographic information is significantly related to technological literacy at the p=0.05 level. The results found that female teachers had higher technological literacy than male teachers. Also, teachers with lower education levels were found to have higher technological literacy than those with higher levels of education. Among the teacher characteristics, working experience and age were found to have no significant difference with technology literacy as they had p-values of 0.313 and 0.212 respectively. Interestingly, teachers who specialized in special needs education were found to have higher technological literacy than those who didn’t specialize in special needs education. The findings revealed that technology literacy among primary teachers who teach pupils with hearing impairments was high, which signifies confidence in basic ICT skills for enhancing literacy and numeracy skills among learners with hearing impairments. However, incompetence levels were found in integrating ICT in organization and administration, especially in managing individual variation among pupils with hearing impairments, and curriculum and assessment had lower mean scores than other elements of the UNESCO ICT-CFT areas. These findings suggest that adaptive and personalized learning systems are essential, and comprehensive training regarding ICT integration specifically tailored for teaching pupils with hearing impairments is needed for effective classroom usage.

The Sustainability Role of Women Entrepreneurs through the Digital Financial Literacy Movement

This study discusses how financial technology and financial literacy play a crucial role in supporting the sustainability of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in East Java. The utilization of financial technology, which includes various digital services such as online payments and access to financing, along with financial literacy, which refers to the understanding and ability to manage finances wisely, has been proven to be essential in maintaining the competitiveness and growth of businesses, especially among female entrepreneurs.The research was conducted using a survey involving 390 female entrepreneurs in East Java, selected through purposive sampling. Using multiple linear regression analysis, the findings indicate that both financial technology and financial literacy significantly impact the sustainability of women’s businesses in the region. However, this study is limited by its focus solely on female entrepreneurs in East Java, which may restrict the generalizability of the results to other cities. Therefore, a larger sample size across various regions would provide more comprehensive insights. This study suggests that the East Java government should pay closer attention to this sector, given its significant contribution to the regional and national economy.

Self-Reported Patient and Provider Satisfaction With Neurology Telemedicine Visits After Rapid Telemedicine Implementation in an Urban Academic Center: Cross-Sectional Survey.

Many clinics and health systems implemented telemedicine appointment services out of necessity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to evaluate patient and general provider satisfaction with neurology telemedicine implementation at an urban academic medical center. Patients who had completed 1 or more teleneurology visits from April 1 to December 31, 2020, were asked to complete a survey regarding their demographic information and satisfaction with teleneurology visits. Providers of all specialties within the same hospital system were given a different survey to gather their experiences of providing telemedicine care. Of the estimated 1500 patients who had completed a teleneurology visit within the given timeframe, 117 (7.8%) consented to complete the survey. Of these 117 respondents, most appointments were regarding epilepsy (n=59, 50.4%), followed by multiple sclerosis (n=33, 28.2%) and neuroimmunology (n=7, 6%). Overall, 74.4% (n=87) of patients rated their experience as 8 out of 10 or higher, with 10 being the highest satisfaction. Furthermore, 75.2% (n=88) of patients reported missing an appointment in the previous year due to transportation issues and thought telemedicine was more convenient instead. A significant relationship between racial or ethnic group and comfort sharing private information was found (P<.001), with 52% (26/50) of Black patients reporting that an office visit is better, compared to 25% (14/52) of non-Black patients. The provider survey gathered 40 responses, with 75% (n=30) of providers agreeing that virtual visits are a valuable tool for patient care and 80% (n=32) reporting few to no technical issues. The majority of provider respondents were physicians on faculty or staff (n=21, 52%), followed by residents or fellows (n=15, 38%) and nurse practitioners or physician assistants (n=4, 10%). Of the specialties represented, 15 (38%) of the providers were in neurology. Our study found adequate satisfaction among patients and providers regarding telemedicine implementation and its utility for patient care in a diverse urban population. Additionally, while access to technology and technology literacy are barriers to telemedical care, a substantial majority of patients who responded to the survey had access to devices (101/117, 86.3%) and were able to connect with few to no technological difficulties (84/117, 71.8%). One area identified by patients in need of improvement was comfortability in communicating via telemedicine with their providers. Furthermore, while providers agreed that telemedicine is a useful tool for patient care, it limits their ability to perform physical exams. More research and quality studies are needed to further appreciate and support the expansion of telemedical care into underserved and rural populations, especially in the area of subspecialty neurological care.

Navigating uncertainty: The interplay of future job forecasting, learning agility, responsiveness, and adaptability

Background: According to the 2023 World Economic Forum report, the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation on the job market was more significant than originally projected. Although 2018 research forecasted significant job losses balanced by job creation, current data indicates otherwise. Between 2023 and 2027, it is anticipated that 69 million new jobs will be created due to advancements in AI, however, this will be offset by the loss of 83 million jobs, leading to a net decrease of 14 million jobs worldwide. Roles related to AI, digitalization, and sustainability, such as AI specialists and renewable energy engineers are expected to grow, while those in clerical and administrative sectors are most at risk of decline. This shift underscores the need for reskilling and adapting to evolving fields, as nearly 44% of workers skills will face disruption by 2027. The demand for analytical thinking, technological literacy, and adaptability will grow as companies increasingly adopt frontier technologies. Objectives: (1) identify key variables influencing adaptability of college graduates in Indonesia, (2) quantify the strength of relationships between these variables to understand the combined effect on graduate adaptability. The research also aims to (3) develop theoretical and practical recommendations to strengthen ICIL policy and equip students with the relevant skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing job market. Methodology: The research focuses on predicting future employment trends, adaptability, and learning agility (LA), along with the implications for improving the Independent Campus Independent Learning (ICIL) policy. It focused on the significant unemployment rate among college graduates, along with the lack of research on the relationship between job change predictions, graduates’ adaptability, and the impact on graduates’ general well-being. The mixed-method strategy with quantitative analysis was used to conduct this research with data collected from 284 ICIL participants through online survey. The gathered data was evaluated using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Lisrel version 10. Results: The result showed that job trend projections significantly influence responsiveness, which demonstrated a robust association between employment trend predictions and LA. Responsiveness significantly influenced learning agility which indicated no significant direct association between job trend projections and graduate adaptability. Conclusion: The research emphasized the need to consider adaptability as a concept with multiple dimensions. It proposed incorporating these factors into strategies for education and human resources development in order to better equip graduates for the demands of a constantly changing work market. Unique contribution: This research focused on adaptability as a multifaceted concept that consist of the ability to forecast job trends, be sensitive, and possess LA. It offered a deeper understanding of the relationships between these variables as discussed in the human resources literature. Technology, corporate culture, and training played a critical role in connecting employment trend prediction with the ability to respond effectively. Key recommendation: Institutions should implement a comprehensive approach to the development of human resources, with emphasis on fostering critical thinking, analytical abilities, and the practical application of information. By employing these tactics, higher education institutions may effectively equip graduates with both academic proficiency and the ability to adapt and thrive in quickly changing organizational environments, leading to the production of robust and versatile workers.

THE ROLE OF DIGITAL LITERACY OF PRE-SERVICE AND IN-SERVICE EFL INSTRUCTORS IN POST PANDEMIC COVID-19

There is a need to pay more attention to the incorporation of digital technologies in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) due to the increased importance of digital technology and digital literacy highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The digital proficiency of teachers is crucial for effective teaching and learning in the 21st century, especially in the context of foreign language education [1]. In this context, this study investigates the role of digital literacy of pre-service and in-service EFL instructors post-pandemic. Participants are N:165 EFL pre-service and in-service instructors. The current study has a quantitative design, the data tool is the Digital Literacy Questionnaire for Language Teachers. The data is analyzed via the Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, descriptive analysis for one of the questionnaire items and content documentation for the last open-ended question for of the questionnaire. The findings of the study indicate that there are significant differences between Pre-service and In-service EFL Instructors for some of the items. Besides, as the findings suggest lack of skills and knowledge of teachers, lack of training, lack of budget, and lack of interest of teachers are among the factors affecting the use of digital technologies for foreign language teaching. The findings undeniably confirm the vital importance of digital literacy in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in the digital age, highlighting the need for teachers to actively acquire and employ it. Therefore, it is essential for EFL teachers to include digital literacy in their teaching methods by making use of a range of digital technologies, including Web 2 tools that provide several capabilities. The results also indicate the necessity of teacher training programs focused on enhancing the digital literacy skills of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instructors.

PEMANFAATAN TEKNOLOGI INFORMASI PADA SEKOLAH MENENGAH ATAS DI BELINYU

The implementation of infrastructure and development of information technology (IT) services in educational environments such as schools and campuses plays an important role in supporting quality learning experiences. Regarding the introduction of IT infrastructure and service development in the educational environment. IT infrastructure covers various aspects such as providing hardware and software to meet educational needs, providing a reliable communications network, and ensuring data and information security. Services provided include training for teachers in the use of learning technology, technical support for students and staff, as well as implementation of related policies. With the right infrastructure, students and lecturers can access learning resources efficiently and interact in a technology-integrated learning environment. This service also plays an important role in increasing the technological literacy of students and teachers and ensuring the smooth operation of systems in educational environments. The services provided at schools can have a positive impact on improving the quality of education, preparing students to face the challenges of the digital world, and creating an inclusive and innovative learning environment. A holistic and coordinated implementation approach and ongoing support from all stakeholders will be key to achieving this goal.

Strategies To Improve Financial Technology Literacy For Millennials And Generation Z

This study analyses the problems and priorities of strategies to improve financial technology literacy, especially among Millennials and Generation Z. This mixed method study uses the analytic network process (ANP) approach. The data sources used are primary and secondary data. Interviews, questionnaires, and literature carried out data collection techniques. Interviews and questionnaires were conducted with seven informants: one regulator, three academics, and three online loan users. The study results showed that the geometric mean determined the priority of fintech literacy problems. The prioritized aspects are the need for more public understanding of online loans, interest rates, and community needs. The priority strategy in improving fintech literacy among Millennials and Generation Z in Bengkalis Regency is to carry out Sharia literacy regarding online loans, regulate online loan interest rates, and reduce the community's need for online loans. Theoretically, this study strengthens the validity of the trade-off theory and provides new insights into strategies to improve fintech literacy. Practically, it contributes to providing strategies to improve fintech literacy for stakeholders.

Exploring the Impact of Handwriting vs. Keyboarding on L2 Assessments: Biases, Integrity, Authenticity, and Literacies

Is paper or computer better for assessing L2 students’ writing? The ineluctable transition to technology might suggest this question has already been answered. However, the technology divide in L2 assessments may have indeed widened since the pandemic: whereas some teachers have fully embraced technology in assessments as in instruction, others are reluctant to eliminate paper, owing to concerns about the reliability, integrity and authenticity of L2 production on computer. This article shares observations from several French classes at an American high school in which assessments that were otherwise identical were offered to students on both paper and computer. These observations revealed several overlapping areas of L2 research that merit further consideration, including instructor bias between media, academic integrity of student work, and the need to align the technological literacies between instructors and students. The reflection that follows points to specific directions for further empirical research on the effects of input medium on L2 learners in K-12 and higher education.

Using quick response codes to access digital health resources in the general practice waiting room

Background Quick response (QR) codes are an established method of communication in today’s society. However, the role of QR codes for linking to health information in general practice waiting areas has not yet been explored. Methods This mixed-methods study used both quantitative data measuring QR scans and qualitative data from follow-up semi-structured interviews with visitors to two general practice waiting areas to determine access to an online health information site and their experience of using the QR code. The technology acceptance model was used to guide the interview questions. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data were analysed thematically using an inductive approach. Results A total of 263 QR scans were recorded across the two sites between October 2022 and October 2023. Twelve participants were interviewed. Eleven themes were identified; six were categorised as facilitators and five were barriers to QR code engagement. Motivation for engagement included boredom and curiosity. Facilitators for engaging with the QR code included familiarity secondary to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, benefits of accessing potentially sensitive information with anonymity, convenience of revisiting later and reduced paper waste. Barriers included size and location of the QR code as a limiting factor to engagement, waiting room wait time, privacy and security concerns, and the potential to exclude those without access to technology or those with low technological literacy. Conclusion Using QR codes in the general practice waiting area is a convenient method of presenting health information to visitors and patients. Our findings indicate that this may be an appropriate method to share health information in waiting areas. Facilitators and barriers identified in this study may assist with optimising engagement with health information via QR codes while waiting for appointments.

Research on Promoting the Spirit of Scientists among Normal University Students under the Background of New Liberal Arts—A Case Study of Educational Technology

The spirit of scientists is the precious spiritual wealth accumulated by scientific and technological workers in the long-term scientific practice, and it is an important driving force to promote national development and progress. Normal university students are the promising youth who forge ahead and also are the future educators, who are responsible for the inheritance and dissemination of knowledge and spiritual civilization. Only by cultivating the spirit of scientists can normal university students promote the spirit of scientists better, which is profit for the younger generation to cultivate patriotic feelings and strengthen patriotic belief. It is also profit for cultivating the innovative and practical consciousness and gathering strength of enriching the people and strengthening the country. Moreover, it is profit for stimulating the spirit of dedication and coordination of the students, gathering strength for realizing the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation. Only in this way can the spiritual connotation of scientists be sown more deeply and widely in people’s hearts. The new liberal arts initiates that colleges and universities should break barriers between disciplines, deepen interdisciplinary integration, and integrate into modern educational technology. Normal colleges and universities should strengthen science education, improve the scientific literacy of normal university students constantly, promote the spirit of scientists throughout the whole process of education. They can break barriers between disciplines in the context of new liberal arts, so that normal university students establish ideals and beliefs, strengthen their convictions, and promote the spirit of scientists better. Educational technology, as a normal major, is an emerging discipline that integrates contemporary educational science and information technology science. It contains both theory and technology and aims to improve learners’ information technology literacy and scientific literacy. Advanced information technology is not only an important factor to promote the further development of humanities and social sciences, but also an important tool of spreading the spirit of scientists. Similarly, the development of educational technology disciplines requires the support of the new liberal arts to avoid falling into the misunderstandings of technology-only theory and application-only theory. This paper takes educational technology, which is a typical interdisciplinary subject of arts and sciences, as an example to explore the path of integrating the spirit of scientists into normal university students’ spiritual blood under the background of new liberal arts.

Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Sustainable Banking Services: The Critical Role of Technological Literacy

This study explores how customers recognize and accept artificial intelligence devices (AIDs) in the realm of sustainable banking services, applying the Artificially Intelligent Device Use Acceptance (AIDUA) model. This research not only seeks to corroborate the AIDUA model in the banking sector, but also aims to enrich it by introducing technological literacy as a moderating factor, particularly in the perspective of sustainable banking. Data were collected through 435 valid, self-administered face-to-face surveys from bank customers in China, determined through convenience sampling. The hypotheses, covering both direct and moderating effects, were examined using structural equation modeling. This study verifies the applicability and reliability of the AIDUA model, in assessing customer acceptance of AIDs within sustainable banking services. The findings indicate that customer acceptance of AIDs unfolds in three distinct phases. Initially, the consumers’ perceptions of social influence (SI), hedonic motivation (HM), and perceived anthropomorphism (PA) positively influence their green performance expectancy (GPE) and green effort expectancy (GEE) concerning AIDs. As a result, greater GPE and GEE among bank customers lead to stronger positive emotions, which greatly contribute to increased AIDs usage and a reduction in resistance to their implementation. Additionally, the findings determine that technological literacy plays a substantial moderating role in the association connecting green performance expectancy and customer emotions in relation to adopting AIDs, thereby highlighting its importance in advancing sustainable banking initiatives.

Difficulties Encountered by Mapeh Teachers in the Blended Learning Modality

Examining the challenges MAPEH teachers face in the blended learning environment aims to shed light on the difficulties they encounter. In this context, this study aimed to determine the difficulties experienced by MAPEH teachers in the blended learning modality (BLM) in three schools of District VI Division of Bacolod City during the school year 2021-2022. Data for this descriptive study was collected from 101 teachers using a researcher-made instrument that has gone through rigorous tests of validity and reliability. The ensuing analysis showed MAPEH teachers encountered high-level challenges in delivering instruction and utilizing technology in blended learning, with a moderate level of difficulty in assessing learning. Younger teachers with shorter teaching experience, particularly those assigned to primary grade levels, faced moderate challenges in technology literacy and application and assessment, whereas older teachers experienced higher difficulty levels. Significant differences were found in the challenges MAPEH teachers face across age groups in technology literacy, application, and assessment in blended learning. The findings of this paper call for support through seminars and training for the teachers, especially in delivering instruction and effectively utilizing technology in blended learning. Keywords: MAPEH teachers, empirical-based approach, difficulties in blended learning modalities, Bacolod City, Philippines

The influence of financial technology, personality traits, and financial literacy on financial attitude, personal saving orientation, and family financial planning, moderated by financial quotient among naval families. “A study of Hera naval base, Timor-Leste”

Family financial planning is becoming more and more crucial, particularly in military environments where certain challenges can affect financial habits. The study looks at moderating role of financial quotient on the correlation between financial technology, personality traits, and financial literacy and family financial planning of naval families at Naval Base Hera. Although certain factors of financial behaviour have been studied before, how these factors are interrelated within military families is still unclear. This research seeks to fill this gap by employing a causal explanatory research method that analyze sources from 248 married Navy personnel through using a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach with Smart PLS. The findings paint a picture that where Fintech influences the financial behaviours of individuals and families, such traits for personality and financial literacy inform their attitudes and ever financial planning. Posted here, it is revealed that financial quotients have a moderate influence on the results of family financial planning. Thus, this research highlights the need to design and implement financial education interventions that incorporate technology support and improve the financial literacy of naval officers with policy implication for the authorities as well as other denominations in the teaching of financial education. This research fills this gap making a positive contribution in the understanding of financial management in military environment hence contributing to the informing of policies that foster better financial stability and well-being of families of soldiers serving in the navy.

Transformational Leadership, Interpersonal Communication, Information and Communication Technology Literacy, and Knowledge Management

The purpose of this research is to identify strategies to enhance school effectiveness by strengthening transformational leadership, interpersonal communication, ICT literacy, and knowledge management. A quantitative method with path analysis was applied, and SITOREM analysis was used to optimize each indicator. The study involved 445 teachers from private vocational schools in Depok City, with a sample of 211 teachers. The findings reveal that school effectiveness can be improved by reinforcing transformational leadership, interpersonal communication, ICT literacy, and knowledge management. Key strategies include addressing weak indicators such as feedback, empathy, knowledge application, and access. Statistical tests show significant positive direct effects of: 1) transformational leadership on school effectiveness (Sig=0.032), 2) interpersonal communication on school effectiveness (Sig=0.000), 3) ICT literacy on school effectiveness (Sig=0.001), and 4) knowledge management on school effectiveness (Sig=0.001). Additionally, transformational leadership, interpersonal communication, and ICT literacy all positively affect knowledge management. Knowledge management serves as an effective mediator for the influence of transformational leadership (Sig=0.004) and interpersonal communication (Sig=0.001) on school effectiveness, but not for ICT literacy (Sig=0.356).

Improving students' openness to artificial intelligence through risk awareness and digital literacy: Evidence form a developing country

The integration of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) in learning process has the potential to enhance learning efficiency by offering diverse perspectives and quick information access. However, this reliance on AI can lead to overdependence, thereby diminishing the overall learning experience. This study aims to explore student acceptance and risk factors for learning using AI through the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). This cross-sectional study surveyed 218 accounting students using a structured questionnaire. The internal consistency of latent constructs was verified through Cronbach's alpha, followed by exploratory factor analysis to ensure the unidimensionality of these constructs. The theoretical framework was tested using Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The result suggests that students with higher self-confidence demonstrate greater enthusiasm for learning AI, while digital literacy significantly influences the perceived ease of use. While accessibility is not prioritized, functionality and information accuracy are deemed more critical. The research model posits that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, self-efficacy, digital literacy, and perceived risk impact student acceptance of AI. Perceived usefulness and self-efficacy positively influence student acceptance, while perceived risk has a negative impact. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of increasing basic technological literacy among students in online learning environments. Despite these insights, the study is limited by its focus on accounting students, and future research should consider a broader demographic. This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the role of digital literacy and self-efficacy in AI adoption, offering valuable implications for educators and AI service providers.

Development of a virtual teaching module for advanced semiconductor fabrication and its learning effectiveness analysis

AbstractSemiconductor fabrication is the process of manufacturing semiconductor devices, typically integrated circuits (ICs) such as microprocessors and memory. This involves transferring circuit diagrams onto a silicon wafer using photomasks and photoresists. After a series of fabrication processes, ICs are created on the wafer surface and then diced into individual chips, which are packaged and tested with quality control procedures to become the final products. Virtual reality (VR) simulates imaginary experiences or environments difficult to achieve in the real world through human senses and immersive equipment, allowing users to interact in a virtual 3D space in real time, making it well suited for applications in science education and industrial training. This study transforms the essential knowledge of advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes into an easily understandable virtual teaching module, thereby creating educational resources for high school and college students. The objective is to enhance their scientific and technological literacy, yielding substantial benefits for the general public. This study utilized VR technology to simplify and clarify the knowledge about the semiconductor manufacturing process, making it more engaging for learners. The virtual teaching module's learning content includes an overview of wafer preparation, semiconductor fabrication, chip packaging, and IC testing. Users can interact with the virtual teaching module and conduct virtual experiments to enhance their understanding by trial and error. Experimental results show that it can improve students' learning achievement and learning motivation. Therefore, the virtual teaching module is suitable for high‐school students and the general public to understand semiconductor technology and its applications. The effectiveness of the virtual teaching module is heavily dependent on the availability and quality of VR hardware and software. Limited access to advanced VR equipment or technical issues could have affected the learning experience, thereby influencing the learning outcomes.

Exploring the Influence of Market Trends on the Evolution of Digital Payments: A Comprehensive Qualitative Study of Fintech Expert Insights and Existing Research

This study, titled "Exploring the Influence of Market Trends on the Evolution of Digital Payments: The paper entitled “A Comprehensive Qualitative Study of Fintech Expert Insights and Existing Research” examines the effects of Artificial Intelligence and Cryptocurrencies on Digital Payment Systems. Based on the analysis of the identified themes, personalization has a positive impact on perceived usefulness through provision of customized services and easy cross border transfer of funds. Some of the features that have been incorporated in these systems include integrated savings and automated features which enhance the value of these systems. The following are the improvements in the areas of security and trust, fraud detection, and accessibility features. This work also discusses the concept of trialability in the technology adoption process, and barriers that exist in the form of technological constraints, data privacy concerns, and consumer awareness. Emerging technologies such as quantum computing, voice recognition, and the integration of the IoT will continue to revolutionise the future of digital payments and make it faster, safer and more individualistic. Meta-analysis supports the view that technology literacy is an essential factor influencing user comfort and acceptance, whereas cryptocurrencies and Artificial Intelligence represent drivers of strategic progress in payment systems with risks connected to legal issues and privacy being the barriers to further development.

Uptake of and factors associated with telemedicine use for palliative care among patients diagnosed with advanced cancers during the onset of COVID-19.

53 Background: The COVID-19 pandemic propelled a rapid shift to telemedicine use, including patients with advanced cancers needing palliative care (PC). Yet, little is known about disparities in telemedicine use for PC. We leveraged population-based data to examine the trend and factors associated with telemedicine use for PC among Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with advanced cancers during the onset of COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We identified patients aged ≥65.5 years diagnosed with advanced-stage breast, colorectal, non-small cell lung (NSCL), small cell lung (SCL), pancreas, and prostate cancers in 2015-2019 from the SEER-Medicare data. We included those with continuous fee-for-service coverage and had any PC claims from diagnosis to death, hospice admission, or by 12/31/2020 (whichever came first). Telemedicine was identified using procedure codes, modifiers, and place of service codes on PC claims. We described the percent of PC recipients using telemedicine each quarter in 2019-2020. Multivariable logistic models assessed patient and provider characteristics associated with telemedicine use among PC recipients in 2020. Results: Telemedicine use for PC was 0.24% to 0.48% across 4 quarters in 2019, which increased to 16.3% in Q1 and stabilized at about 30% in Q2-Q4 in 2020. Among 2,945 PC recipients in 2020, 22.5% used telemedicine. Older patients (75-84 years and 85+ years) were 4.4 percentage points (ppts) and 8.6 ppts (p-values&lt;0.05) less likely than patients ages 65-74 years to use telemedicine. Patients who were female (4.4 ppts), residing in higher socioeconomic status areas (Yost Quintile 5 vs 1: 7.7 ppts), treated by female providers (4.1 ppts), in hospital system (3.7 ppts vs. individual physician office) and organizations with hospice and palliative care specialists (8.9 ppts) were more likely to use telemedicine for PC (all p-values&lt;0.05). (Table). Conclusions: Telemedicine use for PC surged during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with considerable disparities by patient sociodemographic and provider characteristics. These disparities suggest potential barriers related to patients’ technology literacy and internet access, provider awareness, and healthcare organization resources. Future mixed-method studies need to elucidate these barriers to design interventions at patient, provider, and system levels to ensure effective PC delivery. Selected factors associated with telemedicine use for palliative care. Absolute Probability Difference (95%CI) Age group (ref: 65-74) 75-84 -4.4 (-7.6, -1.2) 85+ -8.6 (-13.4, -3.7) Female (ref: Male) 4.4 (0.9, 7.9) Yost quintile (ref : Q1-Q2) Q3-Q4 2.2 (-1.7, 6.1) Q5 7.7 (3.3, 12.1) Hospital system (ref: Individual physician office) 3.7 (0.6, 6.7) Provider: Female (ref: Male) 4.1 (0.7, 7.5) Organization with hospice and palliative care specialists 8.9 (5.4, 12.4)

Digital Transformation In Cooperatives: Opportunities And Challenges

This research paper explores the digital transformation of cooperatives in Uttar Pradesh, India, focusing on the opportunities and challenges that arise during this transition. The study highlights the role of digital technologies in enhancing operational efficiency, improving member engagement, and increasing market access for cooperatives. However, challenges such as technological literacy, infrastructure deficits, and resistance to change hinder this progress. The paper provides recommendations for stakeholders to harness the potential of digital transformation in the cooperative sector. Digital transformation represents a significant shift in how organizations operate, driven by the integration of digital technologies into all facets of business processes. This study explores the opportunities and challenges associated with digital transformation in cooperatives, which are uniquely positioned to leverage technology while adhering to principles of member participation and social responsibility. Despite the potential benefits, such as enhanced operational efficiency, improved member engagement, and access to new markets, many cooperatives encounter substantial barriers, including resource constraints, resistance to change, and cybersecurity risks. By understanding the interplay between technology, culture, and governance, cooperatives can better position themselves for sustainable growth and resilience in an increasingly digital economy

COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Uptake Among Vaccinated Population in Malaysia

This study identified the significant COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and intention to uptake motives and sociodemographic predictors among vaccinated Malaysian adults. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered online questionnaire adapted from the COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Scale and extended based on previous studies was used to solicit data from 698 Malaysians. A theoretical framework comprising Trust, Vaccine Concerns, Unreliable Entities, Uptake Influencers, Brand Influencers, and Brand_Side-effect was used as a guide to assess intention to receive COVID-19 vaccines in the future. Hierarchical linear regressions revealed Trust, Vaccine Concerns, Brand_Side-effect and Uptake Influencers to significantly predict intention to receive vaccines in the future when controlled for sociodemographic correlates. Ethnicity and technology literacy were found to have significant impacts on future vaccine uptake. Age significantly correlated with intention to be vaccinated as well. Underlying motives and sociodemographic correlates were identified for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake.