Systems Theory Research Articles

Project-based learning as an innovative approach for overcoming tertiary EFL students' barriers to learning English and coming closer to their L2 ideal self

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the potential effect of project-based learning (PBL) in alleviating the negative psychological factors that hinder language learning in an intensive-English course at a private Lebanese university through its meaningful, student-centered, collaborative, and creative pedagogical approach and supporting students in constructing a positive self-identity as an English language learner and user.Design/methodology/approachThe L2 Motivation Self System theory describes the roles of the Ideal L2 Self, the Ought to L2 Self, and the L2 Learning Experience as the three dimensions that trigger L2 motivation, which is an important factor in achieving L2 learning outcomes. This pre- and post-test questionnaire study aims to investigate the impact of designing and implementing project-based learning as a creative pedagogical method on the L2 Learning Experience of tertiary EFL students undertaking an intensive English language course.FindingsThe paper found that such a pedagogical approach decreased students’ foreign language anxiety and positively impacted their attitudes toward L2 learning as they actively engaged in their projects in a meaningful, connected, and creative manner. This paper concludes that the adopted innovative pedagogical approach created an L2 language learning experience for EFL students to move closer from their actual self to their potential or imagined Ideal L2 Self as they embraced their creative self, social self, and risk-taking self within the frame of identity negotiation and construction. Findings from this study map to the wider literature on L2 language acquisition and foreign language learning.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, this research contributed to the existing body of literature on L2 education from a nuanced lens that maps students’ motivation, engagement, characteristics, and psychology to their identity as L2 learners to make their learning journeys more rewarding, productive, and connected.Practical implicationsPractically, this study showcases how the implementation of the PBL approach in a creative and aligned manner can positively impact students’ attitudes toward English teaching and learning, making novel reading a more engaging task that prompts students’ creativity, critical thinking, and risk-taking while facilitating the negotiation and construction of their identity as L2 learners and users. Additionally, the implementation of such creative pedagogical approaches prompts on an educational policy level the shift from the traditional ways of English teaching and learning to a more student-centered, engaging and connected state, creating a set of exemplars for EFL and ESL instructors to use to ensure that L2 learners connect to their own experiences and develop a range of transferrable skills while acquiring language capabilities.Originality/valueThis paper concludes that the adopted innovative pedagogical approach served as a channel for EFL students to move closer from their actual self to their potential or imagined Ideal L2 Self as they embraced their creative self, social self, and risk-taking self within the frame of identity negotiation and construction. Findings from this study map to the wider literature on L2 language acquisition and foreign language learning.

Are humans ready for peace? The view from attachment and human system theories

Are humans ready for peace? The view from attachment and human system theories

A Systems-Based Approach to Criminal Thinking and Behavior.

Nearly all theoretical approaches and therapies to criminal thinking and behavior have been reductionist, meaning that they focus on a part or a subsystem of a system or a supra-system. While these reductionist theories and therapies have provided, and continue to provide, valuable information and rehabilitation, they offer a limited view of criminality and rehabilitation as a consequence of reductionism. Using general systems theory (GST), this article presents an integrated and interdisciplinary theoretical approach to criminal thinking and behavior. This article posits that criminality can be better understood, prevented, and treated using GST.

Homicidality risk prediction based on ecological systems theory in an early adolescent cohort using machine learning

PurposeIdentifying high-risk adolescents prone to homicidality, linked to serious criminal activities and homicide, offers vital avenues for homicide prevention. MethodsThis study analyzed data from 1596, 1596, and 1526 students at baseline, one-year, and two-year follow-ups, respectively, drawn from the Chinese Early Adolescent Cohort study. Based on Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, predictors of adolescent homicidality were categorized into individual, family, and school and peer levels. Five machine learning methods were utilized to construct prediction models for homicidality risk and to pinpoint predictive factors. ResultsLogistic regression models using only significant features effectively predicted adolescent homicidality and new onsets in the short term, as well as homicidal trajectories throughout early adolescence. Key factors identified included suicidal ideation, emotional abuse, life satisfaction, physical violence, and verbal violence, with suicidal ideation and emotional abuse emerging as the most critical predictors. ConclusionsThis study successfully developed risk-predictive models for adolescent homicidality using machine learning, emphasizing suicidal ideation and emotional abuse as primary predictors. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions focused on these key variables for the early prevention of adolescent homicide.

How is parental psychological control associated with adolescent mental health in economically disadvantaged areas? The serial mediating role of psychological reactance and problematic smartphone use.

Adolescent mental health has been an issue of global concern, and the mental health of adolescents in economically disadvantaged areas may require additional research. The research delves into factors associated with economically disadvantaged areas' adolescent mental health, employing family systems theory, self-determination theory, and psychological reactance theory. Specifically, the present study which was done in Jingzhou country, an economically disadvantaged area of Hunan Province, China, aimed to examine the link between parental psychological control and adolescent mental health, as well as the mediating roles of psychological reactance and problematic smartphone use in this relationship. A sample of 1300 Chinese middle school students (620 girls, mean age = 14.22 ± 1.29) completed self-reported measures of parental psychological control, psychological reactance, problematic smartphone use, and adolescent mental health. Results showed that parental psychological control was negatively associated with adolescent mental health. Psychological reactance and problematic smartphone use mediated the association between parental psychological control and adolescent mental health, separately and serially. The findings of the present study enrich the literature on parenting styles and adolescent mental health in economically disadvantaged areas, and this provides an intervention perspective to reduce the negative impact of poor parenting on adolescent mental health in economically disadvantaged areas.

Responsible AI in Organizational Training: Applications, Implications, and Recommendations for Future Development

Through a literature review, this study investigates the responsibility, application, and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in organizational training based on the theoretical frameworks of Psychological, Economic, and Systems Theories in Human Resource Development (HRD). It emphasizes the importance of responsible AI training systems that adhere to non-discrimination, privacy, interpretability, professional responsibility, and accountability to ensure AI’s beneficial and equitable contribution to training. The application scenarios of AI in areas such as knowledge management, training needs analysis, training delivery, and feedback to provide personalized and efficient training solutions are analyzed. Moreover, it highlights the differing impacts of AI-supported training on organizations, trainers, and trainees and the significance of stakeholder engagement. Finally, it proposes recommendations for future research to broaden our understanding of AI’s application in training and assess its effects on policies and practices, guiding organizations to adopt AI technologies per HRD principles and ethical standards.

The dynamics of changes in linguistic complexity and writing scores in timed argumentative writing among beginning-level EFL learners

Abstract This study investigates longitudinal changes in linguistic complexity and holistic scores in EFL timed argumentative writing among beginning-level learners using Complex Dynamic Systems Theory. It also explores relationships among linguistic complexity over time and with writing scores. Over nine months, 42 Japanese EFL learners completed six timed essays. Linguistic complexity was assessed through lexical, phraseological, and syntactic features. Findings indicate linear growth in writing scores, lexical sophistication, and noun phrase (NP) complexity, alongside stable phrasal complexity and non-linear subordination. Interrelated growth patterns included connections between lexical sophistication and phrasal complexity, and phraseological complexity and subordination. Competitive dynamics were observed between lexical diversity and NP complexity, and phraseological complexity and phrasal sophistication. Linear associations emerged between writing scores and lexical sophistication or syntactic complexity, while a non-linear relationship occurred with phraseological sophistication. This study illuminates the intricate dynamics of linguistic complexity and L2 writing scores among beginning-level learners in argumentative writing.

Gender Identity and Its Influence on Social Support Networks among LGBTQ+ youth in New Zealand

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the gender identity and its influence on social support networks among LGBTQ+ youth in New Zealand. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Research on gender identity and its influence on social support networks among LGBTQ+ youth in New Zealand highlights that individuals with diverse gender identities often face unique challenges in accessing and maintaining supportive relationships. Findings indicate that LGBTQ+ youth experience varying levels of support based on their gender identity, with those who identify as non-binary or transgender sometimes facing more barriers compared to their cisgender or gay/lesbian peers. Social support networks play a crucial role in providing emotional and practical assistance, but the quality and availability of these network Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social identity theory, minority stress theory & ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on gender identity and its influence on social support networks among LGBTQ+ youth in New Zealand. Implement educational programs for families to foster understanding, acceptance, and support for transgender and non-binary youth. Advocate for and implement comprehensive anti-bullying and inclusivity policies in schools that protect LGBTQ+ students. Policies should mandate the creation of safe spaces and support groups within educational institutions.

Profilicity and online safety legislation

AbstractThis article applies the concept of profilicity to the emergence of online harms legislation. Grounded in social systems theory, profilicity designates a mode of self‐presentation prevalent in social media environments, though discernible in the growing number of situations where personal identity is mediated via a profile intended to be publicly observed. Profilicity is distinctly different to ‘sincere’ and ‘authentic’ modes of self‐presentation, though they survive alongside it. The concept productively reframes what is at stake in the regulation of ‘harmful’ content on platform‐based communications, exemplified in the Online Safety Act 2023, which is subject to extensive criticism for invading privacy and mandating the censorship of lawful speech – values that evolved in relation to authenticity and autonomy. Profilicity engages law first via the identity techniques that law presupposes and second via the design decisions that it now regulates.

The mediating role of health behaviors in the relationship between internal locus of control and life satisfaction in public health students

Well-being is a continuous process requiring decisions and actions to maintain or build health. This study examines the indirect effect of health locus of control on life satisfaction via healthy behaviors based on living systems theory. Participants were 730 students of various majors related to medicine and health, aged between 19 and 30 (M = 22.29, SD = 1.64), including 79.04% women. Self-report measures were used to assess life satisfaction, multidimensional health locus of control, and health behavior. Women scored higher than men on the total health behavior scale, especially in a healthy diet and preventive behavior. Men scored higher than women on internal health locus of control (HLC), while women scored higher than men on the powerful others HLC in making decisions about their health. The study confirmed the mediating effect of healthy behavior on the relationship between the internal HLC and life satisfaction. The present mechanism highlights the crucial role of internal motivation in increasing subjective well-being by maintaining health behaviors among young adults. The role of intervention programs focused on improving internal HLC and health behaviors is discussed.

Exploring Structures and Processes Supporting Interprofessional Education During Experiential Learning Placements for Student Pharmacists

ObjectiveTo explore stakeholder views on the structures and processes supporting planned and unplanned interprofessional education (IPE) during experiential learning (EL) placements for student pharmacists in Scotland. MethodsOnline semistructured group interviews were conducted with academic staff, practice educators, and EL facilitators (preceptors). Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Systems theory underpinned the study. Ethical approval was granted by the School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Ethics Review Committee at Robert Gordon University. ResultsThree main themes were identified: current IPE delivery and context, factors affecting IPE delivery and student pharmacist learning, and rethinking current IPE provision. Stakeholder views provided valuable insights into presage factors relating to contextual elements (cultural, logistical, regulatory) and their influence on IPE delivery and interprofessional learning. EL facilitator and student pharmacist characteristics were also highlighted as influencing factors; process factors included examples of planned and unplanned IPE experiences on offer in community, hospital, primary care, and specialist areas of pharmacy practice; product factors highlighted the importance of IPE to support the development of collaborative competencies. Future developments need to focus on a continuum of IPE learning and a coordinated approach between higher education institutions and placement providers and interprofessional practice teams. ConclusionCurricular development and implementation of new IPE is not without its challenges. This study has provided a strong foundation that will inform future developments to ensure new initiatives are conducive to supporting effective interprofessional learning during placements.

BIO-inspired intelligent navigation: from methodology, system theory, to behavioural science

BIO-inspired intelligent navigation: from methodology, system theory, to behavioural science

ВИМІРЮВАННЯ ТА КОМПЕНСАЦІЯ НЕАКТИВНИХ ПОТУЖНОСТЕЙ ТРИФАЗНИХ СИСТЕМ ЕЛЕКТРОЖИВЛЕННЯ ЗАСОБАМИ ПАРАЛЕЛЬНОЇ АКТИВНОЇ ФІЛЬТРАЦІЇ

In this paper, the power theory of three-phase power supply systems was further developed by substantiating new formulas for calculating the unbalance power of three-phase four-wire power supply systems based on the measurement of active and reactive powers of individual phases, which can be used to form compensation signals in distributed active filtering with centralized control. A new structural scheme for controlling an autonomous shunt active filter with extended functionality and increased speed is proposed, which can be used in both three-wire and four-wire power supply systems. Computer modeling confirmed the adequacy of the new formulas for calculating the unbalance power components and the effectiveness of the proposed active filtering strategies to minimize power losses in the transmission line. References 11, figures 3, table 1.

The development of a calling by hospitality employees during an extreme event

This study explores the development of a calling by hospitality employees during extreme events. Despite the importance of a calling in the hospitality industry, the process of its cultivation has not been explored. Using event system theory and research on sensegiving and sensemaking, we explore the evolution of employee perceptions of an extreme event and the impact of this evolution on the development of a calling. Our interviews with hotel employees who worked during a lockdown due to COVID-19 demonstrate that extreme events can stimulate and develop a calling among employees, particularly when their perceptions of the event converge. This study contributes to the literature on hospitality and organizational behavior by revealing that an extreme event can shape, transmit, and communalize a calling among employees.

Grey relations

PurposeThe goal of this article is to introduce the notion of a grey relation between grey sets using grey numbers.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses the grey number to create novel ideas of grey sets. We suggest several operations that can be performed on it, including the union, intersection, join, merge, and composition of grey relations. In addition, we present the definitions of reflexive, symmetric, and transitive grey relations and analyze certain characteristics associated with them. Furthermore, we formulate the concept of the grey equivalence relation, apply it to the study of the grey equivalence class over the grey relation, and go over some of its features.FindingsWe present new algebraic aspects of grey system theory by defining grey relations and then analyzing their characteristic features.Practical implicationsThis paper proposes a new theoretical direction for grey sets according to grey numbers, namely, grey relations. This paper proposes a new theoretical direction for grey sets according to grey numbers, namely, grey relations. As such, it can be applied to create rough approximations as well as congruences in algebras, topologies, and semigroups.Originality/valueThe presented notions are regarded as new algebraic approaches in grey system theory for the first time. Additionally, some fundamental operations on grey relations are also investigated. Consequently, different types of grey relations, such as reflexive, symmetric, and transitive relations, are discussed. Then, the grey equivalence class derived from the grey equivalence relation is demonstrated, and its properties are examined.

Exploring intrinsic and extrinsic sources of academic well-being among university teachers through Q methodology research

PurposeThis paper investigated the intrinsic and extrinsic sources of academic well-being among university teachers at one university in Qatar, to understand how different factors influence their well-being within academia.Design/methodology/approachDrawing on systems theory, this study employs Q methodology research. Data were collected and analyzed using 35 statements (Q-items) related to academic well-being. Twenty-one university teachers participated in the study, providing a range of perspectives on the factors that influenced their academic well-being.FindingsThe analysis revealed two distinct perspectives among the participants concerning the sources of academic well-being. Factor 1 (F-1) emphasized workplace conditions as the primary source of well-being, whereas Factor 2 (F-2) highlighted individual conditions. Additionally, a significant portion of participants did not align strongly with either factor, indicating diverse and individualized sources of well-being that suggest a complex interplay of various elements affecting academic well-being.Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s sample size is limited to twenty-one university teachers at a single institution, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Future research should consider a larger, more diverse sample to explore the universality of the findings across different academic contexts.Practical implicationsThe implications for university teachers, researchers, leaders and policymakers include a better understanding of the sources that contribute to academic well-being and the need for adopting systems thinking in addressing these sources.Originality/valueThis study employs a unique application of Q methodology within a systems theory framework to explore the sources of academic well-being among university teachers. Unlike previous research that has primarily focused on anxiety, stress and burnout, this study provides a holistic perspective by capturing the complex interplay between organizational structures and individual identities.

QRCODE: Massively parallelized real-time time-dependent density functional theory for periodic systems

We present a new software module, QRCODE (Quantum Research for Calculating Optically Driven Excitations), for massively parallelized real-time time-dependent density functional theory (RT-TDDFT) calculations of periodic systems in the open-source Qbox software package. Our approach utilizes a custom implementation of a fast Fourier transformation scheme that significantly reduces inter-node message passing interface (MPI) communication of the major computational kernel and shows impressive scaling up to 16,344 CPU cores. In addition to improving computational performance, QRCODE contains a suite of various time propagators for accurate RT-TDDFT calculations. As benchmark applications of QRCODE, we calculate the current density and optical absorption spectra of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and photo-driven reaction dynamics of the ozone-oxygen reaction. We also calculate the second and higher harmonic generation of monolayer and multi-layer boron nitride structures as examples of large material systems. Our optimized implementation of RT-TDDFT in QRCODE enables large-scale calculations of real-time electron dynamics of chemical and material systems with enhanced computational performance and impressive scaling across several thousand CPU cores.

The Position of Moral in the Legal System in Indonesia and its Practice in the Justice System in Indonesia.

Legal interpretation plays a crucial role in legal studies and legal practice, many legal experts still do not agree on the presence of interpretation science in the position of legal discipline studies. Especially Indonesia which adheres to a positive legal system, so that the emergence of legal interpretation in society becomes a pro-contra discussion. This interpretation model is a serious challenge in judicial practice because it is related to serious problems related to analytical jurisprudence, how in judicial practice judges are played in making decisions not based on written legal provisions or positive law. Ronald Dworkin is a legal philosopher who is very involved in the issue of interpretation models, which makes Dworkin distance positivism by criticizing it as a standard rule. However, assessing the theory of the legal system presented by Dworkin actually in judicial practice has a value of benefit for those seeking justice and legal certainty, so that some judges in Indonesia also use interpretation in making decisions related to legal vacuum or legal uncertainty.

Religious people view both science and religion as less epistemically valuable than non-religious people view science

ABSTRACT Many religious people deny any conflict between religion and science, but nevertheless report less trust in science than non-religious people. We address this puzzle using insights from goal systems theory. Goal systems theory suggests that, when people have more means of achieving a goal, they perceive each individual means as less instrumental. We translate this “instrumentality hypothesis” to differences in how religious and non-religious people perceive science and religion. Religious people—who use both science and religion as means to gain knowledge—may perceive both as moderately instrumental, and as less instrumental than non-religious people view science. We support the instrumentality hypothesis in studies where participants evaluate the capacity of science and religion to explain extraordinary phenomena (Study 1), fill gaps in knowledge (Study 2), answer life's big questions (Study 3), and to help avoid COVID-19 infection (Study 4). We also find that non-religious people overperceive religious people's trust in religion and underperceive religious people's trust in science as sources of knowledge (Study 5). Non-religious people think that religion deters trust in science at the expense of high trust in religion, but instead, the typical religious person avoids extreme epistemic reliance on any single source of knowledge.

Real-time application of grey system theory in intelligent traffic signal optimization

Real-time application of grey system theory in intelligent traffic signal optimization