Theoretical Knowledge Research Articles

How does movie foster experiential learning in auditing education?

PurposeThis study explores virtual platforms’ capabilities, particularly emphasising the influence of educational movies embedded with lifelike narratives to serve as a potent medium for immersive learning within the auditing discipline. Through this exploration, we aim to discern how cinematic depictions can educate and encapsulate the intricate dynamics of real-world auditing scenarios, thereby enriching the educational experience for budding auditors.Design/methodology/approachBy employing an action research methodology, this study engaged 134 auditing students from China in an experiment, using a questionnaire to assess their grasp of auditing concepts like internal control, corporate governance, and professional ethics.FindingsPreliminary findings underscore the efficacy of movies as pedagogical tools. These movie experiences bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and its real-world application, particularly highlighting the nuances of professional ethics and corporate governance. Results show that such a method amplifies students’ comprehension of auditor skillsets, practical complications, and ethical insight and nurtures professional scepticism about tangible audit issues.Research limitations/implicationsThis study illuminates a novel virtual learning approach using movies that primes students to exercise critical thinking and augments cognitive skillsets, especially when navigating ethical conundrums. The broader implication is the potential enhancement of auditing education quality in China, presenting educators with an innovative teaching modality that bolsters students’ critical analysis and cognitive development.Practical implicationsThis study has multiple implications for auditing education policy. It underscores the imperative need for curriculum revision in contemporary auditing education. Our study can significantly change contemporary auditing education by incorporating movie-based experiential learning. Educators and institutions in China and other parts of the world explore this avenue, customising it to fit the unique requirements of their respective courses and the country’s contexts. Our study also highlights the challenges and recommendations for real-world audit simulation for auditing education. While our research highlights the promise of educational movies, it also sheds light on the potential difficulties in their integration. Audit educators need adequate support and training for effective assimilation, ensuring they leverage educational movies to maximise learning outcomes. Careful curation and selection of movies, combined with strategic planning, are paramount to this teaching method’s success. With the continual evolution of video tools, there is an opportunity for a more immersive and holistic education model, shaping the next generation of auditors.Originality/valueThis study offers insights into innovative strategies to imbue real-world experience into traditional curricula, ensuring relevance and applicability across diverse educational landscapes.

Backstepping Synchronization Control for Four-dimensional Chaotic System Based on DNA Strand Displacement

Abstract Backstepping control is an important nonlinear control design method, which realizes the control of complex systems by constructing control law step by step, and has significant advantages for dealing with complex nonlinear systems. This article proposes a synchronization technique for four-dimensional chaotic systems using a combination of backstepping control method and DNA strand displacement technology. By relying on theoretical knowledge of DNA molecules, five basic chemical reaction modules such as trigger reaction, reference reaction, catalytic reaction, annihilation reaction and degradation reaction are given to construct a four-dimensional DNA chaotic system. On the basis of the relevant theory of chaotic dynamics, the constructed system is analyzed by Lyapunov exponent diagram and spectral entropy complexity algorithm, and the results come to the conclusion that the system reveals extremely complex and varied dynamic behaviors. Combining DNA strand displacement technology with backstepping control method, four controllers are developed to ensure that the trajectories of two homogeneous chaotic systems are synchronized. The numerical simulation results validate the feasibility and applicability of the proposed method. The method proposed in this paper may provide some references in the field of DNA molecular chaos synchronization control.

Epistemic Goals and Practices in Biology Curriculum—the Philippines and Japan

AbstractDespite cultural differences, the Philippines–Japan partnership is developing an intentional teaching curriculum with parallel standards. However, disparities among their respective educational systems have prompted inequalities. As education plays a critical role in collaboration, we explored the Epistemic Goals (EGs) and Epistemic Practices (EPs) in the biology curriculum, with the research question: How do the epistemic goals and practices of the biology curriculum transmit knowledge and skills in the Philippines and Japan? Using an ethnographic design, we conducted two iterative explorations of EGs and EPs. First, we examined the curriculum policy to determine its EGs. Using the A-B-C-D protocol, we employed discourse analysis to evaluate knowledge and skills in the biology grade-level standards. Second, we examined the articulation of goals in classroom teaching practices. We conducted classroom immersion and observed classes to determine EPs and supported our observations through interviews, synthesizing the data using inductive content analysis. Our findings revealed that the Philippines’ EGs were to transmit factual knowledge enhanced by basic science skills, and their EPs were audio-visual materials, gamified instructions, guided inquiry, posing questions, and learning-by-doing. In comparison, Japan’s EGs were to provide a solid foundation of theoretical and metacognitive knowledge, integrated science skills, and positive attitudes. Its EPs involved cultivating lasting learning, observation, investigation, experimentation, collaborative discussion, and reflective thinking. Our study makes a meaningful contribution by shedding light on crucial ideologies and cultural identities embedded in Biology curricula and teaching traditions.

Understanding Clinical Learning Quality Aspects in Mental Health Nursing Practice Course among Students: A Comprehensive Examination

There is a growing demand for comprehensive evaluations of the clinical learning quality of nursing education and the necessity to establish robust predictors and mediators for enhancing its outcomes within the context of mental health practice. This study is threefold: 1. Evaluating nursing students’ clinical learning quality before and after mental health nursing practice; 2. Establish if the grade of a theoretical course in mental health nursing and the student’s perception of their theoretical knowledge level predicts the grade of mental health nursing practice; 3. Explore how model learning opportunities, self-directed learning, safety, and nursing care quality mediate learning environment quality and tutorial strategies quality following mental health nursing practice. Using a before and after the study, 107 undergraduate nursing students at an Israeli university completed a questionnaire and the Clinical Learning Quality Evaluation Index tool to assess their perceptions of clinical learning quality before and after mental health nursing practice. The results showed a decline in students’ perceptions of tutorial strategy quality following mental health practical learning in clinical settings, with the theoretical course grade predicting the practical experience grade and underscoring the mediating role of learning opportunities between the learning environment and tutorial strategies. The study’s findings emphasize the importance of an adaptive learning environment and a solid theoretical foundation in fostering effective tutorial strategies and enhancing the overall learning outcomes for nursing students in mental health education.

Therapies go digital. What drives physicians' acceptance?

National healthcare systems face multiple challenges, including the increasing demand for care and decreasing availability of healthcare professionals. Digital health technologies represent opportunities that offer improved efficiency, accessibility, and patient care. In this scenario, Digital Therapeutics are technological advancements to treat or alleviate a disease and deliver a medical intervention with evidence-based therapeutic impacts and regulatory approval. Digital Therapeutics are a paradigm shift for physicians, who exercise caution in terms of trust and wide usage. Digital Therapeutics represents an opportunity and a challenge in healthcare system integration. The research investigates the factors explaining physicians' acceptance of Digital Therapeutics. A research model that combines organizational mechanisms derived from Institutional Theory and rational factors derived from the Technology Acceptance model was developed. The model was tested through 107 responses from a survey distributed to the members of the leading Italian scientific society in Diabetology. Literature-based hypotheses were empirically tested through Structural Equation Modelling. The analysis confirmed the influence of Perceived Ease of Use on Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Usefulness on the Intention To Use Digital Therapeutics. Rules and norms impact Perceived Usefulness when considering the influence of the scientific society. Culture and mindset towards innovation within the hospital positively affect Perceived Ease of Use. The readiness of hospital facilities enhances the extent to which physicians perceive the ease of employing Digital Therapeutics in their daily practice. Instead, esteemed colleagues' opinions and guidelines from the scientific society reveal to physicians the value of Digital Therapeutics in patients' care pathways. Institutions should prioritize cultural, normative, and regulative aspects to accelerate physicians' endorsement of Digital Therapeutics. Findings advance the theoretical knowledge around clinicians' adoption of innovative digital health technologies, unveiling the interaction between rational and institutional factors. The results highlight practical implications for healthcare institutions and Digital Therapeutics manufacturers willing to promote their adoption.

Interactive Batik & HR Incubation for Art-Technopreneurship: Mantraman Village Pilot Project

The implementation of this activity presents an innovative approach to promote the sustainability of the Javanese batik industry by developing interactive batik designs and fostering human resources in the arts and technopreneurship fields. The research project undertaken in Mantraman Village, Pagelaran, aims to brand Mantraman Village as a unique destination embodying Javanese Cultural Village characteristics. The cutting-edge approach combines age-old batik techniques with the latest in digital augmented reality technology. By doing so, it aims to boost visitor engagement and offer a hands-on experience in the batik design process. This implementation also focuses on fostering human resources in the arts and technopreneurship fields. These educational activities are designed to impart both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, empowering individuals to venture into or further develop their own art-technopreneurial pursuits. Training programs and workshops are conducted to develop participants’ skills and knowledge in batik design, business management, marketing, and related technological aspects. This implementation methodology involves conducting participatory surveys, observations, and interviews with relevant stakeholders, as well as testing and evaluating prototypes of interactive batik design systems. The data collected will be analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to measure the project’s impact on increasing public interest, improving the quality of batik products, and developing human resources in the arts and technopreneurship fields. The results of the implementation of this activity made a positive contribution through an inventory of interactive batik motif designs with augmented reality technology, contributing to the development of the batik industry in Mantraman Village, Pagelaran Village as an iconic tourism village branding. Through these efforts, the project contributes positively to the sustainable growth of the batik industry and cultural branding of the village. Keywords: interactive, pattern, batik, mantraman village, pagelaran

The Mixed Methods Treasure Hunt: Reflecting on the Legacy of Dr. Michael D. Fetters in Teaching Mixed Methods Research

This article aims to elevate the appreciation of Dr Michael D. Fetters’s contributions to mixed methods pedagogy by highlighting his innovative teaching methods called the “mixed methods treasure hunt.” Utilizing Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, this paper provides a detailed examination of how Fetters’s legacy can be adapted and extended to Japan and beyond. It explores the efficacy of the mixed methods treasure hunt as a pedagogical tool, offering promising solutions for mixed methods research education. This paper contributes to the field by providing a practical methodology that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application and enhances learning opportunities, especially for mixed methods learners in the East Asian cultural context, thereby broadening the applicability and impact of Fetters’s legacy.

Developments and implications of tourism information technology: a horizon 2050 paper

Purpose This study aims to provide an overview of the development of tourism information technology from a macro perspective of the chronological lineage of tourism and information technology from its origins to the present. This study also explores the progression of tourism information technology, its implications and its future directions based on a macro environmental analysis framework comprising political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal perspectives. Design/methodology/approach This study serves as a valuable connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application, combining the experiences of academic researchers and industry practitioners to thoroughly examine the progress and developments in tourism information technology. This research also identifies critical points in the domain to provide a unified and comprehensive explanation that aligns with the current research findings. Findings This research reveals the continuous timeline of tourism and information technology development. It discusses the origins, progress and interactions of tourism and information technology, revealing the structural political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal drivers of tourism information technology. This paper also presents suggestions for future agendas on the basis of a compendium and outlook of influences and implications for the domain. Originality/value Findings of this study set the foundation for a comprehensive analysis of the transformative influence of information technology on tourism and provide a contextual framework and insightful future agenda guide for subsequent academic and industry exploration and analysis of tourism information technology.

The Role of AI in Management

This study investigates "The Role of AI in Management" and aims to understand the impact of AI technologies on various management practices within organizations. The problem of the study arises from the increasing adoption of AI in the business world and the need to comprehend its implications for managerial decision-making, organizational efficiency, and employee experiences. The study focuses on both theoretical and practical aspects, providing insights that can inform academic research and guide organizations in leveraging AI effectively. To address the research problem, a cross-sectional study design using a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool has been selected. This design allows for the collection of quantitative data at a specific point in time, providing a snapshot of the relationship between AI and management practices. The questionnaire will be administered to professionals and managers across diverse industries, representing organizations that have implemented AI technologies in their management processes. The importance of this study lies in its theoretical and practical contributions. Theoretically, it expands the understanding of the role of AI in management by examining its impact on decision-making processes, organizational structures, and employee roles. It contributes to the existing body of knowledge by exploring the nuances and complexities of AI implementation in managerial contexts. Practically, the findings will provide insights and recommendations for organizations seeking to adopt or optimize AI technologies in their management practices. It will guide decision-makers in understanding the potential benefits, challenges, and best practices associated with AI integration. The scope of this study encompasses professionals and managers across various industries, ensuring a diverse representation of AI adoption in management practices. The focus is on organizations that have implemented AI technologies and are actively utilizing them in their decision-making processes, resource allocation, and performance evaluation. The study aims to capture the perceptions, experiences, and attitudes of participants related to the role of AI in management. Data will be collected through a structured questionnaire distributed electronically to the selected participants. The questionnaire will capture quantitative data on participants’ perceptions, experiences, and attitudes towards AI in management. It will include closed-ended and Likert-scale questions, enabling efficient data collection and analysis. The collected data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques, including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. By employing this methodology and research tools, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of AI on management practices. The findings will contribute to both theoretical knowledge and practical insights, guiding organizations in leveraging AI effectively to enhance decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and foster innovation in management processes.

The Impact of Big Data Analytics on The Detection of Errors And Fraud in Accounting Processes

Purpose: This study aims to discuss and investigate the role of big data analytics (BDA) in promoting error detection and preventing fraud in accounting operations. Methodology: It uses a secondary method of data collection (desk study) to explore the potential impact of BDA in enhancing error and fraud prevention on six key considerations including data quality and integrity; data privacy and security; real-time monitoring and alerts; integration with internal controls; ethical implications; and human experience. Finding: The analysis shows that the BDA enhances fraud detection by integrating data from multiple sources, using sophisticated algorithms to identify anomalies. Reduces false positives and improves accuracy. However, human expertise is essential for ethical standards and transparency. Implications: It has significant implications for the accounting profession, as it provides an addition in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications, theoretical implications include developing accounting knowledge, developing data-driven models, establishing ethical frameworks, and promoting interdisciplinary insights. On a practical level, it provides guidance for improving financial accuracy, fraud prevention, regulatory compliance, data-driven decision-making, and professional development for accountants. Contribution: It contributes to bridging the research gap in the aspect related to the analysis of big data and its impact on the quality of accountants' work, as this topic is of high importance to researchers, governments, policymakers, industries, companies, investors, and regulators, bridging the gap between accounting and data analytics. This interdisciplinary approach is critical in understanding the evolving landscape of the impact of big data analytics on financial transparency and accuracy of financial reporting. Article Type: Research Paper.

USE OF INTELLIGENT FUZZY IMAGE SEGMENTATION SYSTEMS IN THE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF FUTURE SPECIALISTS IN ENGINEERING AND PEDAGOGICAL FIELDS

Relevance: The article addresses the critical issue of integrating intelligent image segmentation systems that utilize fuzzy logic into the training processes for future specialists in engineering and pedagogical fields. This integration is a significant aspect of the digitization of higher education. Aim: The goal is to implement intelligent vehicle image segmentation systems using fuzzy logic to train specialists in engineering and pedagogical fields. Methods: The preliminary processing of the images of the studied objects (vehicles) involved digital filtering methods, contour detection, profile analysis, and contrast enhancement. Image segmentation was performed using watershed methods, contour lines, and region growing. After segmentation, the obtained segments were selected based on size. Fuzzy membership functions were then applied to determine the degree of affiliation of the segments to the meaningful parts of the studied objects, ensuring reliable recognition of these parts and stable operation of the intelligent system despite external influences on the acquired images. Results: A computer system has been developed for the segmentation of vehicle images using fuzzy logic, which has been integrated into the training of specialists in engineering and pedagogical fields. The segmentation methods isolate objects within the images, which are then recognized using fuzzy logic. Thanks to the fuzzy membership functions, elements of vehicle images are reliably recognized even when there is some ambiguity in the shapes of the segments. The practical significance of the developed system is demonstrated through the processing of car images. Conclusions: The integration of the developed system into the educational process provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to intelligent image processing systems.

PEDAGOGICAL MONITORING OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING FUTURE SPECIALISTS IN THE SOCIAL SPHERE IN THE PROCESS OF APPLICATION OF ELECTRONIC LEARNING

The article examines the content of pedagogical monitoring of e-learning of future social workers in higher education institutions. The modern level of e-learning in the institution of higher education has been revealed. Special forms and methods of working with students - future specialists in the social sphere are analyzed and substantiated. The list of necessary conditions for the formation of applicants for higher education with a system of theoretical knowledge, practical abilities and skills necessary for the effective realization of oneself as a professional social worker is provided; development and formation of theoretical knowledge that will contribute to the development of the student as a future specialist in the social sphere. The purpose of the article is to identify the problems of professional training and to study the special requirements for the development and implementation of electronic training courses in the process of professional training of social sector specialists capable of solving social problems. Considerable attention is paid to the problems of pedagogical interaction between the teacher and the student, based on the analysis, the strengths of e-learning are highlighted, and the expediency of its use is clarified. The main tasks are defined as follows: to identify and generalize the components of professional self-development as one of the complex forms of transformation of the inner world, which occurs in the process of self-movement of a person along his life path, on which a person knows himself, builds himself, understands the essence of his functioning; to investigate the peculiarities of vocational pre-university education as a focus for personal development on self-building, professional self-determination for the successful growth of professionals in the social sphere. Based on the results of the generalized analysis, it was concluded that the effectiveness and feasibility of e-learning takes into account not only the general principles of learning, but also the specifics of a specific field or subject. These technologies allow students to independently organize their educational process, develop independent work skills and improve their knowledge. The proposed e-learning technologies can be used in universities, faculties and departments where future specialists in social spheres are trained, as well as in advanced training courses with the aim of increasing readiness to interact with clients based on mastering a set of knowledge and skills aimed at transforming informational and reflective, professional-practical and professional-development technologies in the real conditions of the environment of the higher education institution. The conclusions confirmed the substantiation of the necessary pedagogical conditions for improving the quality of extracurricular activities in the environment of institutions of professional pre-higher education regarding future social workers in the conditions of globalization.

Press START to Teach – Can Simulation Games Close the Theory-Practice Gap?

Background Student teachers commonly struggle to apply theoretical knowledge to their teaching. This theory-practice gap is a serious problem in teacher education. Over the past decade, simulations and serious games have been shown as an effective way to practice the transfer of theoretical knowledge in authentic settings of skill-use. Approximating theory-based teaching practice via repeated use of simulation games, thus, may be able to close the theory-practice gap in teacher education. Aim We aimed to assess whether repeatedly engaging with simulated teaching and theory-based feedback would improve student teachers’ teaching self-efficacy, transfer of theories into teaching situations and their perceived usefulness of theories. Method N = 86 student teachers learned twice with either a digital simulation game depicting decision-making in the classroom (simulation condition) or with screenshots of the game (control condition). After each phase, student teachers received theory-based feedback about (their) teaching. Results Against our hypothesis, there were no changes in both conditions regarding student teachers’ teaching self-efficacy, perceived usefulness of theories for practice, or integration of theory-based arguments into practical reasoning. Nonetheless, we found positive effects for learning time and motivation favoring the simulation condition. Conclusion Our results point towards the motivating potential of simulation games that was, however, not sufficient to close the theory-practice gap. It seems that the theory-practice integration within the simulation game needs to be even stronger to reveal the desired effects, which needs to be subject to further research.

Practical training using BEWE aimed at improving the diagnosis ability of erosive tooth wear for dental students-A randomized trial.

Erosive tooth wear (ETW) has been gaining attention due to its high prevalence. However, ETW clinical diagnosis is difficult and may go unnoticed by many professionals. The present study aimed to develop, implement and evaluate a theoretical-practical training using active methodologies in the development of undergraduate students' skills for the diagnosis of ETW compared to the traditional teaching method. This randomized controlled study involved two parallel groups: control group (n = 22), with learning based only on theoretical content and test group (n = 24), learning by theoretical-practical activity mediated by monitors/tutors. The theoretical class covered the current concepts of ETW, aetiology, diagnosis, use of the BEWE index, prevention and treatment. The practical training included exercises and discussions based on the diagnosis using BEWE scores of a collection of images and extracted teeth. To evaluate the efficacy of the teaching-learning methods, a theoretical multiple-choice questionnaire and a practical test using images and extracted teeth were applied. The outcome was the number of correct answers. Groups were compared by Mann-Whitney (theoretical knowledge) and T tests (practical ability in diagnosis) (p < .05). There was no significant difference between groups in the theoretical evaluation (p = .866). The test group showed higher ability to diagnose ETW lesions compared to the control group in the practical tests (p = .001). The performance of ETW diagnosis was similar when images were used in comparison to extracted teeth (p = .570). The practical activity associated with theoretical classes can be a promising strategy to improve the development of undergraduate students' skills in the diagnosis of ETW.

A qualitative study of the value of simulation-based training for nursing students in primary care

BackgroundClinical placement is an essential component of nursing education, providing students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practice. However, challenges such as lack of supervision and passive involvement in tasks can hinder the learning experience. Supplementing clinical placement with simulation-based training (SBT) has been explored as a potential solution, though this approach has been underexplored within primary care. This study aimed to explore the educational value of a supplemental SBT course for nursing students during primary care placement, as well as the adaption of this approach to a primary care setting.MethodsA qualitative descriptive study was conducted at a medical education and simulation academy in Denmark. Sixth-semester nursing students on placement in primary care were invited to participate. The intervention consisted of a three-day simulation course covering core nursing competencies and common clinical conditions encountered within primary care. Simulation adopted a standardised patient approach. Data was collected using focus group interviews, which was analysed using inductive thematic analysis.ResultsThirty-one nursing students participated in the study. Seven themes emerged from the analysis, including perceptions, educational value, simulation adjustments to primary care, educators’ competencies, learning needs within primary care, challenges of clinical placement and career guidance. Generally, participants perceived the intervention positively, appreciating its relevance to their clinical placement and its educational impact in this context. Participants also provided insights into the adaptation of SBT to a primary care setting, as well as nursing students’ learning needs within this context.ConclusionThe findings indicate that the intervention had a positive impact on participant competencies within this context and enhanced their clinical practice within primary care. Furthermore, the results inform educators on how to effectively employ primary care-related SBT. Overall, this study supports the need for an increased application of SBT within primary care.Trial registrationNot relevant.

Exploring Pedagogical Adaptation Challenges Faced by Novice EFL Teachers in Higher Education: A Study from Hubei Province, China

The novice teachers encountered numerous challenges upon embarking on their careers in schools. The primary obstacles typically arose from the misalignment between their teaching abilities and the practical demands of their work. This study, focusing on novice EFL teachers in Hubei Province, addressed the following inquiries from the perspectives of the theory of teachers' career development stage and the theory of work adjustment:What were the challenges confronting novice EFL teachers regarding their teaching abilities in Higher Education Institutions in Hubei Province?What factors contributed to these challenges related to teaching capability?What approaches did novice teachers adopt to address these challenges?This study employed a qualitative approach, with three novice EFL teachers newly employed by three different institutions serving as informants. Data were gathered from teaching diaries, lesson plans, classroom observations, and interviews. The researchers identified and categorized challenges related to teaching capability and coping strategies mentioned in the diaries, corroborating them with data from other sources such as lesson plan reviews and classroom observations. Subsequently, the researchers conducted interviews to explore the underlying causes of these challenges and assess the effectiveness of the teachers' coping strategies.Based on the analysis of the qualitative data, the study draws the following conclusions:Novice EFL teachers encountered challenges across four dimensions: language proficiency, instructional design, classroom management, and feedback skills, as evidenced by data from language use, lesson structure, objective setting, and multimedia integration.The challenges stemmed from personal factors, contextual influences, and external interventions.Novice EFL teachers endeavored to address these challenges, often effectively, by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, engaging in peer consultation, and conducting independent research.

The Influence of Social Media and Perceived Barriers on Formation of Social Entrepreneurial Intention: A Conceptual Framework

Social entrepreneurship is garnering global attention and emerging as a noteworthy business model. Scholars and practitioners assert that social entrepreneurship is pivotal in addressing and resolving social problems through sustainable solutions. However, evidence suggests that barriers can impede individuals from becoming social entrepreneurs or postpone the decision to initiate a social venture. Furthermore, despite the influential role of social media in shaping general public attitudes and behavior, there is limited attention given to its impact on social entrepreneurship. Consequently, this study employs the theory of planned behavior to create a new framework that incorporates various variables potentially influencing social entrepreneurial intention (SEI). This study contributes to the social entrepreneurship literature by offering new insights into the factors affecting SEI. Beyond advancing theoretical knowledge, it enhances policymakers' understanding of the antecedents of SEI, enabling them to formulate effective policies that encourage suitable individuals to pursue social entrepreneurship.

‘That golden sentence of Tacitus’: Tacitean quotation as the medium of political knowledge in Boccalini’s Ragguagli di Parnasso

ABSTRACT Boccalini’s Ragguagli di Parnasso (1612) provides us with a satirically inflected view of how Tacitean quotation was used throughout the sixteenth century as a medium of political knowledge. A detailed analysis of some Tacitean scenes in Ragguagli will help us to elicit some of the issues underlying the turn to Tacitus in the intellectual climate of the period: the search for truth in a new era of moral relativism; debates about the applicability of ancient maxims to contemporary realities; and the connection between externally acquired techniques and internalized wisdom. In both Ragguagli and Comentarii Tacitus’ characterization of the emperor Galba becomes emblematic of the gulf that can open up between theoretical knowledge and practical understanding. When the same model is used to measure Tacitus’ own unsuccessful tenure of power over Lesbos in Ragguagli, Boccalini presents a case study of how ‘properly’ to make use of Tacitean political insight.

Enhancing the learning-to-drive process for autistic learners in Qatar

Obtaining a driver’s license can be a stressful task for autistic drivers because of autism related characteristics. Due to the absence of an autism-tailored driving training program in Qatar, instructors may lack the expertise and skills to apply a personalized approach. The current study investigated improving the learning-to-drive process for autistic learners in Qatar. The study consisted of three progressive phases: (1) Assess driving instructors' prior knowledge and practices regarding autism and driving. (2) Explore driving instructors' knowledge on autism and driving before and after an evidence-based workshop. (3) Compare the learning-to-drive process for autistic learners following 28 days of driving lessons from trained driving instructors to non-trained driving instructors. Eighty-four male driving instructors and six male autistic learners were included in the study. Results from the assessment phase indicated that most instructors lacked theoretical and practical knowledge about autism and driving. During the training phase, the workshop improved the driving instructors' knowledge on autism and driving. After the practice phase, trained driving instructors reported that they could better match their lessons to their autistic learners than non-trained driving instructors. Moreover, autistic learners who received driving training from the trained instructors showed a more positive attitude toward driving, had fewer driving concerns, and experienced less perceived stress compared to those who received training from non-trained instructors. The current results support the idea of a customized driving training program for autistic learners.

Financing education spending in the context of interbudgetary relations in the Republic of Kazakhstan

In the current conditions, education is endowed with strategic importance as a sphere of social activity that directly forms the level of intelligence of the population, ensuring competitiveness and innovation in the development of the country's economy. Therefore, the study’s relevance is because the educational capital obtained in the learning process is a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, work experience, and personal characteristics that bring a person income during his career and stimulate further investment in education. Education impacts each citizen’s income and directly affects the economic development of the country, its financial capabilities, and national competitiveness. Thus, this article aims to reveal the critical aspects of republican and local financing of education in Kazakhstan and the prospects for its development. The methodological basis of the research is formed by a system of general scientific and unique research methods: synthesis, system-analytical analysis, and abstract-logical method. The critical result of the work is the systematization of acquisitions within the framework of the researched topic and the study of the features of optimizing the decentralization of education financing in Kazakhstan. Proposed: to increase the efficient distribution of financial resources at all levels of the budget system; increase the opportunities for educational institutions to raise additional funds through educational innovations, expand the list of paid services provided by such institutions; carry out decentralization of education, taking into account the characteristics of the regions, their production potential, the demographic situation and the interests of territorial communities. The results of this scientific study, as well as the conclusions formulated on their basis, are of significant importance both for the scientific community and for financial experts and practitioners from the educational field since they have a structured presentation of the material based on which logical and constructive conclusions are drawn, which may have an impact on the subsequent processes of reforming the financial provision of education in Kazakhstan.