Use Of Tool Research Articles

An Investigation of the Correlation between Lecturers’ Instructional Practices and the Level of ICT Tools Use in Teacher Training Programmes

This study investigates how lecturers' instructional practices and ICT tools usage relate to the teaching and learning of mathematics at Kyambogo University in Uganda. A questionnaire was used to collect data (N=50), and Pearson's correlation analysis was used to analyze the results. Using SPSS 25, it had a Cronbach's alpha coefficient (α) of 0.728. The study employed a quantitative research methodology and a correlation research design. The null hypothesis for the study was rejected by the analysis, which showed that lecturers' instructional practices are significantly impacted by the usage of ICT tools (r=0.796, p<0.01). ICT integration into teacher preparation courses could greatly enhance mathematics instruction in Uganda. From the above r=0.796, p<0.01, there is a strong interdependence linking ICT tools and lecturers’ teaching practices which portrays the essence of integrating ICT tools into mathematics education curricula. The implication is that adopting ICT for teacher education improves lecturers’ teaching methodology and, eventually, their learners’ attitudes towards mathematics.

Comparison of evaluation methods for improving the usability of a Spanish mHealth tool

ObjectiveMobile health (mHealth) technology is now widely used across health conditions and populations. The rigorous development of these tools has yielded improved health outcomes, yet the ideal approach for developing mHealth tools continues to evolve, indicating the need for rigorous usability evaluation methods. This study compares two usability evaluation methods – cognitive interviews and usability assessments employing a think-aloud approach – for adapting an evidence-based mHealth tool from English into Spanish. MethodsWe conducted cognitive interviews and usability assessments using a think-aloud protocol to evaluate the usability of an HIV mHealth application among 40 Spanish-speaking adults with HIV in New York City, NY, and La Romana, Dominican Republic. The Health IT Usability Evaluation Model (Health-ITUEM) was used to guide the analysis of qualitative data collected from each method. ResultsParticipants (N = 40) averaged 43 years old (SD = 12.26; range 20–79), identified primarily Hispanic/Latino (92.5 %), and resided in La Romana (50 %) or New York City (50 %). Both usability evaluation methods yielded similar findings, highlighting learnability and information needs as crucial components of participant feedback for the mHealth application. Cognitive interviews captured participants' perspectives on the app's interface and design. On the other hand, results from usability assessments offered insights into participants' competency while interacting with the mHealth tool. ConclusionFindings from this study highlight the contributions and limitations of including cognitive interviews and task-based usability assessments using a think-aloud approach in mHealth usability testing. Future research should employ a multi-method approach, incorporating complementary usability evaluation methods and engaging participants in multiple assessments. Using complementary usability evaluation methods may provide a more comprehensive understanding of the usability and participant experience aspects of a mHealth tool compared to using a single usability evaluation method.

The Use of ICTs in Front Office Department

This research project investigates the effective implementation and impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) within the Front Office Department of hotels. The study aims to evaluate the contribution of ICTs to operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall performance in customer-facing organisational functions. Utilising a cluster sampling approach, incorporating surveys, and case studies, the research assesses the current usage of ICT tools, identifies challenges and opportunities, and proposes strategies for improved integration. The study explores the diverse ICT applications adopted by front office departments, including customer relationship management (CRM) systems, communication platforms, and data analytics tools. The research assesses the efficacy of these technologies in streamlining processes, enhancing communication, and cultivating a responsive and customer-centric environment. The findings offer valuable insights for both academic researchers and industry practitioners that are seeking a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which ICTs influence front office operations. The research not only highlights successful implementations but also addresses potential hurdles and considerations for hotels aiming to harness ICTs for optimal front office performance. Lastly, the study provides a solid foundation for future research and offers practical recommendations to guide hotels in elevating their front office capabilities through thoughtful ICT integration.

Information and Communication Technology as a Determinant of Organizational Performance: A Study of Banks in Delta/Edo States

This study investigated information and communication technology (ICT) as determinant of organizational performance of selected commercial banks in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria. Cross-sectional survey design was used and one hundred and eighteen (118) questionnaires were administered to employees of four (4) commercial banks in Delta and Edo States. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive, diagnostic and inferential statistical tools. The regression results indicated positive and significant relationship between information and communication technology usage and improvements in organizational performance in areas of enhanced quality of service delivery, productivity, and customers’ base. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended that commercial banks should expand the usage of information communication technology tools in their business processes in order to become more competitive and improve service delivery to customers, enhanced productivity and customers’ base. More importantly, commercial banks should strengthen their policies and procedures on information and communication technology targeted at retaining IT staff. Also, commercial banks should ensure an up-to-date training of IT staff to keep them abreast of current trends in the ICT environment.

Generative Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Architecture Education to Develop Digital Literacy and Holistic Competency

This research investigates the impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) on digital literacy development and holistic competencies in Architecture education. The research design focuses on applying GenAI tools such as ChatGPT, Midjourney, BricsCAD BIM, and VR/AR software and their influence on architectural students' overall competencies. This paper uses a mixed research approach combining a case study of Architecture students' progress in a residential revisitation project, using Midjourney, BricsCAD BIM, and VR/AR software, with an online questionnaire survey administered to 350 undergraduate students at two leading universities in Mainland China and Hong Kong in the 2023-2024 school year. This approach aims to deepen understanding of GenAI's influence on conceptual creativity, initiative, self-management, and stress tolerance within a holistic competency framework. The research results indicate that architecture students frequently use GenAI tools during the design concept stage, suggesting their relevance to specific pedagogy in-studio learning and conceptual creativity. Additionally, the findings reveal a potential correlation between frequent GenAI tool usage, improved time management, and reduced anxiety among Architecture students. The results enhance understanding of digital technology in Architecture education while providing valuable insights for future GenAI implementations. The study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating GenAI, emphasizing their role in fostering creativity, effective time management, and stress tolerance among Architecture students.

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY TOOLS AND STUDENTS’ HEALTHCARE IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN EDO STATE

The global outbreak of Covid-19 in late 2019 and early 2020 altered how information and communication technology platforms and devices were used. Virtual learning was incorporated into traditional classrooms by schools, digital marketing platforms were purchased by marketers, online transactions increased in financial services, online ticketing was purchased by transportation companies, and so forth. People adopted digital technology as a way of life as a result of this. Most locals became heavy users as a result. Has this had a negative impact on Edo State citizens' access to healthcare in the post-COVID-19 era? The goal of this study is to determine whether digital technologies have any detrimental effects on students' access to healthcare in Edo State's institutions of higher learning. Three research questions and hypotheses were presented and developed to direct this investigation, and the survey research methodology was chosen. For this study, 900 respondents were chosen using the basic random sample approach. The Digital Technology and Healthcare Questionnaire is the tool used to gather data (DTFHQ). At the 0.05 level of significance, the hypotheses were tested using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). It was shown that students' health in postsecondary institutions is significantly impacted by their usage of ICT technologies. It is advised that the usage of ICT tools in many spheres of life be moderated in light of these findings. Furthermore, it is advised that medical professionals and home managers conduct an awareness training regarding the potential health risks associated with the use of ICT technologies.

Assessing the customer adoption and perceptions for AI-driven sustainable initiatives in Indian banking sector

It is said, “Technology is a weapon and there is no escape from technology.” Many businesses are getting growth and expansion because of the usage of technology. Banking sector is one of them. It is must for banking sector to exploit the available opportunities by using technologies to penetrate the urban as well as rural areas. Usage of artificial intelligence (AI) based tools products and services is contemporary developments in banking. Banks are achieving accelerated growth and expansion. AI applications can fetch the financially left out individuals into formal and structured financial services segment utilizing their exclusive characteristics such as speed, security, cost-effectiveness and customization. Transition in banking sector is getting implemented by use of AI enabled robots, mobile banking, chatbots etc. Artificial intelligence is making banking and financial institutions powerful by utilizing the technology and redefining the way they used to operate to achieve more efficiency and growth. It is clearly observed from the available literature that banking sector is utilizing artificial intelligence to grow and follow sustainable approach. The main objective of the present research work is to understand and acknowledge the customer’s perception related to bank powered AI tools, products and services after analyzing the data collected through survey of customers through structured questionnaire. Research work aims to understand the customer review on usage of AI tools, technology and their adoption so that future strategies related to adoption of AI for banking can be erected. Research work mainly focuses on primary data by constructing the structured questionnaire. The outcome will assist bankers to apply, modify and upgrade the artificial intelligence tools to attract the population as well as to enhance customer satisfaction. The major findings of the research are the AI tools used by the banks should be user friendly and gender neutral.

TEACHERS’ VOICES IN WORDWALL MEDIA APPLICATION IN TEACHING YOUNG LEARNERS CONTEXT: A NARRATIVE INQUIRY

Teacher of English Young Learner must be aware the students need in their learning, especially on using online media learning. Many researchers were conducted research on utilizing online media, Wordwall. It is an online based game tool. This research was aimed to investigate teacher’s voice in Wordwall media application in teaching young learners. This research used narrative inquiry. This research analyzed the teacher’s perception on using Wordwall media. There is a lack of study on teacher of English Young Learner’s perception of Wordwall.net as the media in learning vocabulary, despite the fact that numerous research studies have examined the usage of web tools connected to vocabulary and perception of Wordwall. This research was only structured interviewed the teacher of English Young Learner in one of the Elemantary school of Malang. The collected data then described. The study found that teachers had positive perceptions of using Wordwall to learn vocabulary. Teachers found it to be a useful tool for assessing student learning. The study concluded that Wordwall is a valuable tool for vocabulary learning. It is engaging, fun, and effective in improving learning outcomes.

Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Engineering Pedagogy: A Qualitative Survey of Academic Experiences

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the landscape of Engineering Education, albeit with limited empirical qualitative assessment of its potential and perceived benefits or challenges. This paper investigates the integration and experiences of academic professionals with AI tools in their pedagogical practices. The study employs a comprehensive survey asking specific questions relating to the familiarity, motivation, usage, training, benefits, challenges, ethical considerations, and future implications of AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Microsoft Bing. The results illustrate a broad understanding and adoption of AI tools, and their instrumental role in enhancing educational methods and pedagogical approaches. However, the findings also highlight the need for adequate training and ethical guidelines for responsible AI use. Additionally, perceived challenges are revealed, underscoring the importance of addressing them to harness AI's full potential in education. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of AI's value in education from an academic standpoint, outlining its role, advantages, challenges, and future expectations. This study is essential in the ongoing discourse of AI in education, and it can inform the development of training, policies, and strategies for effective and responsible AI integration in the future of engineering education.

Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Engineering Pedagogy: A Qualitative Survey of Academic Experiences

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the landscape of Engineering Education, albeit with limited empirical qualitative assessment of its potential and perceived benefits or challenges. This paper investigates the integration and experiences of academic professionals with AI tools in their pedagogical practices. The study employs a comprehensive survey asking specific questions relating to the familiarity, motivation, usage, training, benefits, challenges, ethical considerations, and future implications of AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Microsoft Bing. The results illustrate a broad understanding and adoption of AI tools, and their instrumental role in enhancing educational methods and pedagogical approaches. However, the findings also highlight the need for adequate training and ethical guidelines for responsible AI use. Additionally, perceived challenges are revealed, underscoring the importance of addressing them to harness AI's full potential in education. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of AI's value in education from an academic standpoint, outlining its role, advantages, challenges, and future expectations. This study is essential in the ongoing discourse of AI in education, and it can inform the development of training, policies, and strategies for effective and responsible AI integration in the future of engineering education.

Effect of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Patients Valuation of Usability of Telemedicine.

The aim of this paper was to report patient valuation of usability with our telemedicine system and to explore the effect of pandemic in its behavior. We conducted a cross-sectional study based on the prospective recollection of the results of the Spanish abbreviated version of the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ), from October 2019 to July 2020. We observed an inflection point of growth of answers during the pandemic era and a trend of decrease in usability valuations coinciding with the massive and forced implementation of the system after lockdown. This effect was transitory, evidencing an improvement over time. These results might be explained with a sociotechnical approach that includes considering the learning curve and suggest the importance of a telemedicine usability tool to guide decision-making. In conclusion, tools to assess telemedicine services may identify facilitators and barriers to its use in a highly changing social and technological context.

Enhancing CAT education: the significance of teaching the right skills in the right time

This article explores the dynamic landscape of Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools, aiming to identify the key skills employed by language professionals and the essential competencies students should acquire. Employing a survey methodology, responses from a diverse pool of translators shed light on CAT tool preferences, termbase utilization, and automation practices. RWS Trados and memoQ emerge as frontrunners, underlining the versatility required in contemporary translation workflows. While over 80% adopt quality assurance features and ensure precise tag transfers, challenges persist in reusing termbases across projects.ile conversion skills, particularly.tmx conversions, prove significant for translation memory management. Automation practices such as term extraction and pretranslation reveal varied adoption, signaling opportunities for tailored education. Despite limited current usage, machine translation plug-ins and AI present strategic advantages for translators in training, with the emergence of technologies like ChatGPT anticipated to drive a surge in usage Encouragingly, the article concludes that the emergence of AI does not diminish CAT tool usage, positioning them as integral to the evolving language services landscape.

Prediction of cancer driver genes and mutations: the potential of integrative computational frameworks.

The vast amount of available sequencing data allows the scientific community to explore different genetic alterations that may drive cancer or favor cancer progression. Software developers have proposed a myriad of predictive tools, allowing researchers and clinicians to compare and prioritize driver genes and mutations and their relative pathogenicity. However, there is little consensus on the computational approach or a golden standard for comparison. Hence, benchmarking the different tools depends highly on the input data, indicating that overfitting is still a massive problem. One of the solutions is to limit the scope and usage of specific tools. However, such limitations force researchers to walk on a tightrope between creating and using high-quality tools for a specific purpose and describing the complex alterations driving cancer. While the knowledge of cancer development increases daily, many bioinformatic pipelines rely on single nucleotide variants or alterations in a vacuum without accounting for cellular compartments, mutational burden or disease progression. Even within bioinformatics and computational cancer biology, the research fields work in silos, risking overlooking potential synergies or breakthroughs. Here, we provide an overview of databases and datasets for building or testing predictive cancer driver tools. Furthermore, we introduce predictive tools for driver genes, driver mutations, and the impact of these based on structural analysis. Additionally, we suggest and recommend directions in the field to avoid silo-research, moving towards integrative frameworks.

Sustainable Culinary Skills: Fostering Vegetable-Centric Cooking Practices among Young Adults for Health and Environmental Benefits—A Qualitative Study

With young adults (18–30 years) having low vegetable intake, primarily due to inadequate cooking skills, this study aims to explore the usability and desirability of educational tools, such as written recipes and cooking videos, to foster sustainable eating habits. Employing a descriptive, qualitative, and user-centered design, three focus groups were held at a major urban university campus in New Zealand, engaging students and staff within the target age group. Discussions with 15 participants identified key facilitators of vegetable-based cooking, including access to ingredients, ease of recipe visualization, and cost-effectiveness. Consequently, 13 vegetable-centric recipes and instructional videos were created, incorporating nutritional value, affordability, and preparation efficiency. These resources, tailored to young adults’ preferences, were designed to mitigate the identified barriers to vegetable use, contributing to sustainable food practices. The application of a user-centered approach in developing educational content yielded a set of recipes and videos that not only address the gaps in cooking skills among young adults but also promote the broader goals of sustainability in food consumption patterns. This approach offers actionable insights for practitioners and food marketers to enhance vegetable utilization and sustainable eating behaviors in this demographic.

Embracing AI in English Composition: Insights and Innovations in Hybrid Pedagogical Practices

In the rapidly evolving landscape of English composition education, the integration of AI writing tools like ChatGPT and Claude 2.0 has marked a significant shift in pedagogical practices. A mixed-method study conducted in Fall 2023 across three sections, including one English Composition I and two English Composition II courses, provides insightful revelations. The study, comprising 28 student respondents, delved into the impact of AI tools through surveys, analysis of writing artifacts, and a best practices guide developed by an honors student. Initially, the study observed a notable anxiety and mistrust among students regarding the use of AI in writing. However, this apprehension gradually subsided as students increasingly integrated these tools into their writing processes, indicating a shift from skepticism to practical application. The analysis of writing artifacts, particularly early drafts, revealed distinct patterns of AI tool usage, differentiating between students utilizing the tools effectively and those attempting to shortcut the writing process. The final papers, while not overtly indicating AI usage, demonstrated nuanced integration of AI in iterative and recursive tasks like refining arguments and developing ideas at the paragraph level. This suggests a trend towards a hybrid model of writing instruction, where traditional methods are complemented by strategic use of emergent technologies. The study underscores the importance of revised instructional strategies that blend conventional writing techniques with guidance on effective and ethical AI tool usage. It highlights the potential of AI tools in supporting the writing process while also cautioning against over-reliance. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for educators and institutions aiming to develop a balanced and effective hybrid writing instruction model, catering to the needs of contemporary English composition classrooms while maintaining academic integrity.

The Transformative Impact of AI-Powered Tools on Academic Writing: Perspectives of EFL University Students

In today’s global context, EFL learners face the challenge of mastering a new language and academic writing, especially in higher education. The study investigates how AI transforms university-level EFL students’ academic writing skills, aiming to revolutionize their approach to written language for academic success despite language barriers. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study investigates the perspectives of fifty first-year female students at Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia, during the 2023–2024 academic year, employing both qualitative and quantitative data analysis. Using a 5-point Likert-type questionnaire and Zoom interviews, the study clarifies EFL students’ perceptions of AI writing tools. Results from the questionnaire highlight the active usage of tools such as Grammarly and GPT-3 among students. Students favor the integration AI tools into coursework, although the level of support from instructors varies. EFL students see the positive impact on writing quality but remain unsure about confidence improvement. Interviews reveal diverse tool usage, with Grammarly and ChatGPT notably favored for their adaptability and cost-free nature. The study supports integrating AI writing tools into EFL university education, emphasizing benefits such as enhanced writing quality, time efficiency, and bolstered academic integrity. The paper highlights AI’s significant impact on EFL university students’ writing skills in today’s digitally reliant world where English holds key communication importance. It underscores AI-powered tools as valuable complements to conventional writing skills, emphasizing equitable access, guidance, and collaboration between AI and educators. The study suggests strategies for creating dynamic, tech-driven learning settings that empower EFL students in their writing tasks and academic endeavors.

Evaluation of a virtual reality training tool for firefighters responding to transportation incidents with dangerous goods

Access to dangerous goods training for firefighters in remote areas is limited for financial and logistical reasons. Virtual reality (VR) is a promising solution for this challenge as it is cost-effective, safe, and allows to simulate realistic scenarios that would be dangerous or difficult to implement in the real world. However, rigorous evaluations of VR training tools for first responders are still scarce. In this exploratory user study, a simple VR training tool involving two dangerous goods scenarios was developed. In each scenario, trainees learned how to safely approach a jackknifed truck with a trailer and how to collect and communicate information about the transported materials. The tool was tested with a group of 24 professional firefighter trainees (n = 22) and instructors (n = 2), who each completed the two training scenarios. The main goal of the study was to assess the usability of the VR tool in the given scenarios. Participants provided feedback on cybersickness, perceived workload, and usability. They also filled out a knowledge test before and after the VR training and gave feedback at the end of the study. The VR tool recorded task completion duration and participants’ navigation and use of tools events. Overall, the tool provided good usability, acceptance, and satisfaction. However, a wide range in individuals’ responses was observed. In addition, no post-training improvement in participants' knowledge was found, likely due to the already high level of knowledge pre-training. Future directions for improving the VR tool, general implications for other VR training tools, and suggestions for future research are discussed.

A pedagogical design for self-regulated learning in academic writing using text-based generative artificial intelligence tools: 6-P pedagogy of plan, prompt, preview, produce, peer-review, portfolio-tracking

The emergence and popularity of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, particularly text-based ones known as large language models, pose both opportunities and challenges to education. The ability of these tools to generate human-like texts based on minimal instructions causes concerns among educators about students’ use of these tools for academic writing, which may constitute a breach of academic integrity. We propose a pedagogical design that models on self-regulated learning and the authoring cycle and develops students’ critical thinking and self-regulation when composing academic writing using text-based generative AI tools. It contains six iterative and interactive phases. Students first plan the content and structure of the writing, then generate prompts for text-based generative AI tools. Next, students preview and verify the tools’ output, followed by the fourth phase of producing the writing using the corrected output. Fifthly, peer review by fellow students may be required to polish and proofread the writing. Lastly, through portfolio-tracking, students reflect on the writing process, and formulate strategies for future usage of text-based generative AI tools for writing. This pedagogical design helps students and teachers embrace text-based generative AI while addressing the perils these tools present, and guides the development of education interventions and instruments.

Perceived comfort and tool usability during robot-assisted and traditional laparoscopic surgery: a survey study

It is known that over half of previously surveyed surgeons performing Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery (RALS) and three-quarters of those performing Traditional Laparoscopic Surgery (TLS) experience intraoperative pain. This survey study aimed to expand upon the ongoing impact of that pain as well as perceived tool usability associated with TLS and RALS, for which considerably less documentation exists. A survey regarding the presence and impact, either immediate or ongoing, of intraoperative pain and Likert scale questions regarding tool usability was administered to TLS and RALS surgeons on the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) mailing list. Prevalence statistics as well as trends based on biological sex and glove size were obtained from the 323 responses. Most respondents were right-handed European males (83−88%) with a medium glove size (55.8%). Moderate or severe shoulder symptoms were experienced by one-third of TLS surgeons. Twenty-one percent of RALS surgeons experienced neck symptoms that impacted their concentration. Small-handed surgeons experienced wrist symptoms significantly more frequently than large-handed surgeons, regardless of modality. RALS was associated with a significantly more optimal back and wrist posture compared to TLS. TLS surgeons reported increased ease with applying and moderating force while operating. These results suggest that intraoperative pain may be severe enough in many cases to interfere with surgeon concentration, negatively impacting patient care. Continuing to understand the relationship between tool usability and comfort is crucial in guaranteeing the health and well-being of both surgeons and patients.

Power Quality Improvement based on VSHDE Algorithm Incorporating Shunt Active Power Filter

The usage of the word Power quality in recent times acquired intensified interest due to the complex industrial processes. The usage of intelligent tools to improve power quality is increasing day by day, as assumption of present day power system as a linear model is unsatisfactory. This paper deals with analysis of Differential Evolution (DE), Hybrid Differential Evolution (HDE) and Variable Scaling Hybrid Differential Evolution for harmonic reduction in the source current with optimal tuning of PI controller gain values. Shunt Active power Filter is one of the better solution to suppress the source current harmonics which are induced into power system because of nonlinear loads. Current controller called HBCC is considered for gating operation of switches in Voltage Source Inverter. The Intelligent tuned PQ theory is used for reference current generation. The then obtained compensating currents are injected at point of common coupling for current disturbance mitigation. Simulations of MATLAB/SIMULINK environment of the present work shows the efficacy.