Innovation Theory Research Articles

Public Energy R&D Spending and Green Energy for Sustainable Development: COP28 Perspective of G7 Economies

Achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) is one of the top priorities for countries worldwide, and the recent COP28 has focused mainly on achieving sustainable development via clean energy investment financing. However, countries and regions still struggle to find various policy-level indicators to achieve sustainability engagement. In this context, finding the right combination of policy indicators becomes crucial. Therefore, the current study seeks to identify the key drivers of sustainability for the G7 economies by utilizing data from 1990–2019. This study employed the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) panel time series method of estimating primary results and a novel sustainable development index as the dependent variable. The study revealed that public energy R&D budgets, increasing income levels, improving the political risk index, and promoting clean energy are important for achieving sustainable development in the G7 countries and that the depletion of natural resources has an adverse influence on sustainability. These empirical results are supported by various economic and environmental theories, i.e., the environmental Kuznets curve, the innovation theory of sustainability, the Dutch disease hypothesis, and the political economy of development and energy transition theory. Based on these findings, energy investment is recommended, especially for clean energy projects, and increasing income levels via sustainable economic activities to achieve sustainability in the G7 economies.

A novel photoluminescence theory and design rule based on solution entropy for rare earth ion doped alkaline metal silicates

This paper introduces an innovative theory for customizing photoluminescence (PL) emission wavelengths in rare earth ion (Eu2+) doped alkaline earth metals (Ca, Mg) silicates, rooted in the entropy of fusion and configurational entropy of congruent and incongruent silicates, respectively, aiming to reveal dynamic deformation of the tetrahedral SiO4 ligand within these materials. Using FactSage, we computationally calculate the fusion entropy of congruent silicates in the CaO-MgO-SiO2 system. Synthesized ternary silicates confirm our theory by highlighting correlations between lower/higher fusion entropy (for congruent) and configurational entropy (for incongruent) silicates, leading to red/blue shifts in PL emission wavelengths. In binary silicate systems, we observe an inverse correlation between PL emission wavelengths and fusion entropy of congruent silicates or pseudo-congruent silicates like MgSiO3, whose solid-liquid decomposition temperature is close to its melting point. Furthermore, the non-ideal liquid phase entropy of incongruent silicates positioned between congruent CaMgSi2O6 (Pyroxene) and congruent Ca2MgSi2O7 (Akermanite) in the MgO-CaO-SiO2 ternary phase diagram comprehensively explains diverse PL emission wavelengths. Beyond its scholarly impact, this work expands perspectives in lighting and photonic research, opening an exciting frontier in entropy-lighting research and enabling predictions of host chemical composition and tunable PL emission wavelengths, particularly relevant to LED technologies.

Role of Cooperative Leadership in Driving Technological Innovation for Sustainable Solutions

This paper examines the critical role of leadership in fostering technological innovation within cooperatives, drawing from multiple recent studies across diverse sectors. The researcher set to determine the role of cooperative leadership in driving technological innovation and to evaluate how such leadership can facilitate the development and implementation of sustainable solutions within cooperative organizations. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. To guide this study, research questions and hypothesis were formulated in line with the objectives of the study. The study was anchored on Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) Theory because of its relatedness. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The sample size of the study was 150 selected cooperative leaders, cooperative members and external stakeholders in Awka South Local Government. Data collected were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Inferential statistics such as chi-square tests was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that there is a 5 % significant effect between strategic Cooperative leadership and technological innovation that can foster sustainable solutions within the Cooperative organization with a critical value of 5.991. The study therefore, recommends that cooperatives can strengthen their leadership capabilities, adopt innovative technologies, and achieve sustainable growth while remaining aligned with their core values.

Social Media Use for Evangelization and Vocational Discernment by Priests in the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa

Purpose: This study explored how priests in the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa utilize social media for evangelization and vocational discernment. Adopting a descriptive research design approach, the research sought to establish the extent of priests’ engagement on social media for evangelization and vocational discernment, discover strategies employed on social media that enhanced faith sharing and building communion, examine the appropriate use of social media for catechesis and vocational discernment and identify factors that hindered priests from effectively using social media for evangelization and vocational discernment. Methods: The study was guided by the Diffusion of Innovation Theory. The target population comprised of 97diocesans and 22 religious. Using the Krejcie and Morgan formula of sample size determination, a sample size of 91 respondents was selected. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. A pilot study was done to check the reliability and validity of the questionnaires. Data was analyzed quantitatively. For the quantitative data, descriptive and correlation analysis were used. Results: The study findings revealed that while many priests are active on social media, their engagement levels vary significantly. However, challenges such as lack of training, digital literacy, and concerns about online behaviour hinder optimal use. Moreover, technology competency and years of service as priest significantly influenced the use of social media for evangelization and vocational discernment by priests. Conclusion: The research gap is, despite the growing use of social media, there is limited research on its specific impact on vocational discernment and the unique challenges faced by priests in this context. The following recommendations were made: a need to implement comprehensive training for priests on digital literacy and effective social media use, establish support systems to assist priests in managing their social media presence, and address challenges.

From Theory to Practice: Virtual Reality Technology Facilitates Efficient Transformation of Preschool Teacher Education

This paper explores the application of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in the efficient transformation of preschool teacher education, from theory to practice. The research background highlights the importance of preschool education, the crucial role of teacher training in enhancing its quality, and the potential of VR technology in education. The study aims to investigate how VR technology can facilitate the efficient transformation of preschool teacher education, analyze its specific applications and effects, and propose strategies and recommendations for teacher training based on VR technology. The literature review summarizes current research on VR technology in education, progress in preschool teacher training models, and preliminary explorations of VR in teacher training. The theoretical foundation is based on learning theories such as constructivism and situational learning, technology acceptance and use theory, and theories of educational innovation and technology integration. An analysis of the current situation in preschool teacher training reveals limitations in traditional models, such as the disconnection between theory and practice, the lack of immersive learning experiences, and inadequate personalized training. The paper then discusses the advantages of VR technology, including immersive learning, flexible teaching scenarios, and personalized learning paths. The conclusion summarizes the value of VR technology in preschool teacher training, successful experiences, and existing problems, and provides future directions for the deep integration of technology and education, continuous innovation in teacher training models, and implications for educational policy and practice.

Digital Transformation in Community Radio: Extending the Reach of Social Inclusion Efforts at Mathare FM, Nairobi, Kenya

This study explores the potential of Mathare FM, a community radio station in Nairobi’s Mathare slum, to enhance social inclusion through digital transformation. The main objectives were to assess how digital platforms can expand Mathare FM’s role in promoting social inclusion and to explore the perceptions of listeners and staff regarding the integration of these tools. Purposive sampling method was employed to select participants who could provide relevant insights regarding the station's social inclusion impact for Mathare residents. Grounded in Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Uses and Gratifications Theory, this research analyses the benefits of incorporating social media, mobile applications, and online streaming into the station’s operations. Data collected from the questionnaires were analysed using SPSS to perform descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. A descriptive research approach was used, combining questionnaires and interviews with a sample size of 400 members. Findings indicate that Mathare FM plays a significant role in promoting social inclusion, with 53% of respondents reporting high satisfaction with the station's community engagement efforts. Notably, 76% of respondents believe that digital platforms would facilitate greater engagement for marginalized groups, and 73% expressed a willingness to integrate these tools with traditional broadcasting. The study recommends developing a comprehensive digital strategy, enhancing social media engagement, and leveraging mobile applications to increase accessibility and interaction within the community.

Putting the Ghost in the Machine: Emulating Cognitive Style in Large Language Models

Abstract Large Language Models (LLMs) have emerged as pivotal technology in the evolving world. Their significance in design lies in their transformative potential to support engineers and collaborate with design teams throughout the design process. However, it is not known whether LLMs can emulate the cognitive and social attributes which are known to be important during design, such as cognitive style. This research evaluates the efficacy of LLMs to emulate aspects of Kirton’s Adaption–Innovation theory, which characterizes individual preferences in problem-solving. Specifically, we use LLMs to generate solutions for three design problems using two different cognitive style prompts (adaptively framed and innovatively framed). Solutions are evaluated with respect to feasibility and paradigm relatedness, which are known to have discriminative value in other studies of cognitive style. We found that solutions generated using the adaptive prompt tend to display higher feasibility and are paradigm-preserving, while solutions generated using the innovative prompts were more paradigm-modifying. This aligns with prior work and expectations for design behavior based on Kirton's Adaption–Innovation theory. Ultimately, these results demonstrate that LLMs can be prompted to accurately emulate cognitive style.

Influence of Novelty Centered Business Model Innovations on the Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Kenya

Strategic management scholars agree that innovation in business models is essential for long-term survival in challenging commercial environments. The study was designed to determine the influence of novelty centered business model innovation on the Kenyan manufacturing companies’ performance. The study was anchored on diffusion of innovation theory. The study adopted the descriptive research design and positivism philosophy that was aligned to the classical scientific method of research inquiry. Multi-stage sampling method was adopted to collect data from top management team in the manufacturing sector using a semi- structured questionnaire. The data was analysed using descriptive analysis techniques such as mean, percentages and standard deviation. The study established that novelty centered business model innovation positively and significantly influenced manufacturing firms’ performance. The study recommends that manufacturers should endeavour to innovate their business models in order to achieve superior long-term performance. The study findings inform the extent to which novelty centered business model innovation predicts the performance of manufacturing firms.

Multidimensional analysis of art education teachers’ attitudes and self-efficacy toward artificial intelligence: exploring relationships and strategies for enhancement

ABSTRACT This study investigates the attitudes and self-efficacy of university art education teachers in Wuxi, China, toward Artificial Intelligence (AI). Using Social Cognitive Theory and Diffusion of Innovations Theory, 384 valid questionnaires were collected. The results show that teachers generally lack confidence in AI, with only the “ease of use” dimension receiving positive feedback among five dimensions: relative advantage, compatibility, ease of use, trialability, and observability. Differences in attitudes and self-efficacy were found, with single teachers, associate professors, and digital art instructors exhibiting more positive attitudes and higher confidence. A significant positive correlation was found between teachers' attitudes toward AI and their self-efficacy in applying it in classrooms. The study proposes strategies to foster more positive perspectives and self-efficacy regarding AI for art educators.

The Potential of the Society 5.0 Strategy to Be a Solution to the Political and Structural Problems of Countries: The Case of Türkiye

Türkiye is making great efforts to generate new projects within the scope of the “Türkiye Century” strategy, with the aim of increasing its effectiveness in the international community and the welfare of its citizens. In this respect, it is of great importance to conduct new studies and develop suggestions to further increase the effectiveness of new projects. This study seeks to provide a solution to the problems in politics, education, economy, public administration, justice, and corruption identified and reported by international organizations such as the OECD, the European Union, and the public institutions of the Republic of Türkiye, by associating them with the Society 5.0 strategy. The study aims to test the applicability of Society 5.0 in solving these problems through structural equation modeling using niche innovation and convergent stakeholder theories. In the light of the data obtained, it is realized that Society 5.0 has an effect on all the other variables except for one and the policy variable mediates this situation. In this regard, in accordance with the findings, it can be stated that Society 5.0 can be regarded as a significant alternative for solving the problems experienced on a suitable political basis.

Digital Marketing Strategies and Brand Awareness of Afrinnovators Group Ltd

Purpose: In today's digital age, the significance of digital marketing strategies in enhancing brand awareness among businesses was emphasized. This research aimed to assess the influence of digital marketing strategies on brand awareness in Rwanda, focusing on Afrinnovators Group Ltd. The study had three objectives: to evaluate the impact of different digital marketing channels, the effect of digital marketing expenditure, and the role of social networking platforms on brand awareness. Methodology: The theoretical framework reviewed Bandura's Social Learning Theory, Howard's Consumer Behavior Theory, and Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Theory. A mixed-method approach was employed, involving quantitative and qualitative research designs. The target population included 102 individuals, with a sample size of 81 respondents determined using Slovin's formula. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Findings: Regression analysis highlighted digital marketing expenditure as the most significant predictor of brand awareness, with an unstandardized coefficient of 0.096 (p = 0.022). Other predictors included social media marketing with a coefficient of 0.085 (p = 0.035) and search engine marketing with a coefficient of 0.078 (p = 0.041). The study concluded that strategic digital marketing efforts profoundly impacted brand awareness for Afrinnovators Group Ltd. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Recommendations included prioritizing social media marketing, enhancing email and search engine campaigns, and investing in online ads and videos. Future research was suggested to explore long-term effects, emerging technologies, and comparative studies to optimize digital marketing strategies. This study contributed to academic knowledge, offered practical implications for businesses, and aligned with Sustainable Development Goals by promoting economic growth.

Energetic Rhythmic Health Service Innovation at Bojonegoro Regional Public Hospital

This study aims to describe and analyze the Rhythmic Energetic service innovation implemented at Sosodoro Djatikoesoemo Bojonegoro Regional General Hospital. This innovation was analyzed using Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation theory. The research method used is descriptive research with qualitative data analysis. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of the study indicate that the Rhythmic Energetic service innovation mostly meets the attributes of innovation according to Rogers' theory. However, there are still some problems, such as the community's difficulty in understanding and interacting with the program, the hospital's lack of understanding of the essence of innovation, lack of supervision in program implementation, and the program's inconsistency with what it should be. In addition, there is a shortage in the number of workers needed and some officers who have not received training. To fix these problems, Sosodoro Djatikoesoemo Bojonegoro Regional General Hospital needs to conduct regular evaluations so that the Rhythmic Energetic service innovation can provide greater benefits to the community. In addition, there needs to be an efficient division of service teams and training for officers who have not received training. Thus, Sosodoro Djatikoesoemo Bojonegoro Regional General Hospital can continue to improve the quality of public services they provide to the community.

Rural pharmacist and consumer perspectives of expanded pharmacy services to address inequity in accessing health services.

Australians living in rural and remote communities have inadequate access to health services, contributing to poorer health outcomes compared to their metropolitan counterparts. This study investigated consumers' and pharmacists' perspectives of expanded pharmacy services in rural and remote communities in Australia. It aims to identify the role of the pharmacist in addressing the inequity of access to healthcare through the provision of expanded services in rural and remote practice. A concurrent parallel mixed-methods study was undertaken in rural Western Queensland, Australia to include a survey of 167 consumers and in-depth interviews with 10 pharmacists. Quantitative data analysis employed descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analysed thematically against the constructs of the Diffusion of Innovations Theory. Consumers indicated that they would like to access weight management services (53%), whereas pharmacists thought it was important to offer respiratory clinics and services. Both pharmacists and consumers would like to see diabetes checks (30% and 56%, respectively) and vision, hearing, and ear checks (40% and 53%, respectively) implemented as services in community pharmacies. Most consumers (97%) believe pharmacists have the skills and knowledge to deliver expanded services and in doing so, they would improve the overall health of the community. Pharmacists reported staffing availability, workload and time constraints, cost, and jeopardizing inter-professional relationships as barriers to implementing expanded services. Consumers were supportive of pharmacists working to their full scope of practice to provide expanded services, whereas pharmacists, while open to the idea, highlighted that there were barriers to overcome.

Leveraging Information Technologies for Organisational Learning and Knowledge Management: Enhancing Access and Educational Outcomes for Rural Students

PurposeThis study investigates the role of information technologies in enhancing organisational learning and knowledge management in South African rural universities, with the goal of improving access and educational outcomes for rural students. The research focuses on how digital tools can create more equitable learning environments and address the unique challenges faced by rural institutions. Study design/methodology/approachA scoping review of literature from 2000 to 2024 was conducted, employing the Diffusion of Innovation theory and Social Pedagogy Justice framework to analyse the impact of digital platforms on organisational learning and knowledge management in rural universities. The study examines how these tools can help bridge the gap between rural and urban students and address the challenges of limited resources and digital divides. FindingsThe study finds that information technologies can significantly improve organisational learning processes and knowledge management in rural universities by providing tools that promote inclusion and participation. Digital technologies, when thoughtfully implemented, can help reduce educational disparities by enhancing access to resources and supporting collaboration between students in urban and rural areas. The research suggests that a strategic approach to technology adoption, tailored to the local context, is key to achieving more equitable educational outcomes. Originality/valueThis research provides valuable insights for policymakers and educational leaders on how to leverage information technologies to advance social justice in education. By focusing on rural universities in South Africa, the study highlights the importance of addressing infrastructural and resource challenges while using digital tools to foster inclusion and equity. The findings offer practical strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of digital platforms in improving educational outcomes for traditionally underserved communities.

Influence of Electronic Procurement Processes on Procurement Performance of Uasin Gishu County Government, Kenya

This study aimed to investigate the influence of electronic procurement processes (e-procurement) on procurement performance in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The growing importance of web-based procurement models and information communication technology (ICT) in enhancing supply chain value generation is the backdrop for this research. Although prior studies have indicated the advantages of e-procurement in terms of reduced processing time, cost savings, enhanced data accuracy, and increased efficiency, several gaps and limitations exist in the existing literature. This study addresses these gaps by providing a comprehensive exploration of the impact of various e-procurement dimensions on procurement performance, with a specific focus on a devolved government entity in Kenya. This examination evaluated the influence electronic on performance of Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The study sought to establish the effect of electronic sourcing and ordering on procurement performance within the county government. The study drew on theoretical frameworks, including the Disruptive Innovation Theory and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory, to determine extent to which electronic procurement influence the performance of procurement unit. A concurrent parallel mixed design was employed to facilitate an in-depth analysis of the research variables. The target population comprises of supply chain officers, user department heads, and accounting officers in Uasin Gishu County Government, totaling 96 respondents. A census sampling method was employed due to the relatively small population size. Data was collected through questionnaires and analyzed quantitatively. The analysis included descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions, means, and standard deviations. The study findings were presented using tables and figures for clarity and easy interpretation. The study concluded that integrating electronic payment into Uasin Gishu County’s e-procurement framework enhances efficiency by speeding up transactions and reducing manual effort and electronic sourcing strengthens supplier engagement, ensures clear communication of requirements, and enables effective performance tracking. The study recommended that adopting electronic invoicing accelerated payments, reduce errors, and improve accuracy. Additionally, investing in an integrated e-procurement system will facilitate seamless communication among departments involved in procurement.

Reimagining urban design futures: Innovative theories and practices from the Global South

Reimagining urban design futures: Innovative theories and practices from the Global South

The Influence of Green Strategic Management, Strategic Flexibility, Entrepreneurial Orientation on Sustainable Competitive Advantage, and Moderation of Disruptive Technology in Book Publishers in Central Jawa

Purpose: This study investigates the influence of Green Strategic Management (GSM), Strategic Flexibility (SF), and Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) on Sustainable Competitive Advantage (SCA) in the book publishing industry of Central Java, with Disruptive Technology (DT) acting as a moderating factor. Theoretical Reference: The research is grounded in Resource-Based View (RBV), Dynamic Capabilities Theory, and Disruptive Innovation Theory. These frameworks explore how GSM, SF, and EO create a competitive advantage while disruptive technologies impact their relationships. Method: The study utilized survey data collected from 242 book publishers in Central Java, determined using Slovin's formula for sample size calculation. The data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method to assess the studied variables' direct and moderating effects. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that GSM, SF, and EO positively and significantly influence SCA. Furthermore, DT positively moderates the relationship between GSM and EO but does not moderate the relationship between SF and EO. This suggests combining green strategies and entrepreneurial actions can enhance competitive advantages due to technological disruptions. Research Implications: The study suggests that book publishers adopting GSM, SF, and EO will achieve better competitive performance, particularly when leveraging disruptive technologies. The practical implications include guiding publishers in developing adaptive strategies to meet sustainability and technological challenges. Originality/Value: This research provides novel insights into the role of GSM, SF, and EO in sustaining competitive advantage within the context of the rapidly evolving publishing industry and how disruptive technologies can further amplify or limit these effects.

Drivers to utilise evidence-based practice among nurses: A study in tertiary military hospital in Saudi Arabia

Nurses' knowledge, facilitators, and barriers related to Evidence-based Practice (EBP) are among the main issues that may determine the readiness of nurses to practice EBP it in their clinical settings. To identify factors that facilitated or hindered the adoption of EBP and to evaluate nurses' readiness to implement EBPs for evidence-based decision-making. The quantitative study involved 300 nurses currently working in the organization studied and used Rogers' diffusion of innovation theory to evaluate the factors that promote or hinder the implementation of EBP in their work settings. The data were gathered using a questionnaire and has been analyzed descriptively and inferentially, specifically using one-way ANOVA and regression analysis. Simple regression analysis showed a significant link between nurses' knowledge of EBP and facilitating factors on their readiness to implement EBP. Multiple regression confirmed that knowledge of EBP significantly influences nurses' readiness. While job positions had an insignificant impact, years of experience moderately influenced EBP readiness, and higher qualifications were positively correlated with readiness. The moderating effect of facilitating factors or barriers was not significant. The findings suggest that nurses' readiness to implement EBP is more influenced by their knowledge of EBP than by the barriers they face or the facilitating factors they receive. Nurses' knowledge towards EBP are crucial in determining their readiness to implement EBP in the healthcare settings. Hence, the healthcare organizations should emphasize improving their knowledge and ability to evaluate evidence by providing adequate education, training and support, develop protocols and guidelines and to fortify EBP readiness.

Assimilating IFRS into Yemen’s accounting curriculum: a diffusion of innovations approach to understanding adoption challenges

PurposeThis study examines the factors influencing the integration of international financial reporting standards (IFRS) into accounting curricula in Yemen, a developing economy in a post-conflict setting. It applies Rogers’ diffusion of innovation theory to understand adoption challenges.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional survey collected data from 133 accounting faculty members across Yemeni universities. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test a multilevel model incorporating faculty characteristics, institutional factors and practical barriers as predictors of perceived IFRS coverage.FindingsThe results demonstrate that faculty characteristics positively affect perceived IFRS coverage, while practical barriers negatively impact both institutional factors and perceived coverage. Contrary to expectations, institutional factors did not significantly influence perceived IFRS coverage. A multigroup analysis revealed differences between professional certificate holders and non-certificate holders in their perceptions of IFRS adoption factors.Practical implicationsThe findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to IFRS integration in accounting education. Policymakers and universities should focus on faculty development initiatives, address practical obstacles and create a supportive institutional environment to enable successful IFRS assimilation. The study also suggests a potential role for audit firms and regulatory bodies in supporting IFRS integration.Originality/valueThis study provides a contextualized application of the diffusion of innovation theory to understand IFRS integration dynamics in a post-conflict developing economy. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay of individual, institutional and contextual factors shaping IFRS adoption in accounting curricula, particularly in challenging environments.

Study on the Path of Arming College Student Party Members with the Party’s Innovative Theories in the New Era

The Chairman of the CCP pointed out in the report of the 20th Party Congress that “arming the whole party with the party’s innovative theories is the fundamental task of the party’s ideological construction”, and emphasized “improving the system of arming the whole party with the party’s innovative theories, educating the people, and guiding the practice of the work.” College student party members are the youngest group and the freshest blood in the party members’ team, the most energetic and vibrant group in the party members’ team in colleges and universities, and an important force to ensure the successors of the party and the country’s cause and to promote the realization of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Based on the questionnaire survey, this paper analyzes the influencing factors of arming college student members with the party’s innovative theories in the new era by combining the related knowledge of pedagogy, psychology, communication, sociology, etc., and advances the construction of the path of arming college student members with the party’s innovative theories in the new era.