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Article
Publication date: 30 May 2024

Hunhui Na and K. Bret Staudt Willet

The purpose of this study is to explore beginning teachers’ diverse challenges and how these are related to self-directed professional learning through social media.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore beginning teachers’ diverse challenges and how these are related to self-directed professional learning through social media.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a content analysis of 2,445 “New Teacher” tagged posts shared in the r/Teachers subreddit. With 1,246 posts relevant to beginning teachers’ challenges, the authors used a socio-ecological model to analyze and categorize the challenges.

Findings

Results showed that posts reflected diverse and complex challenges. Such challenges were found to be interrelated and associated with employment status, highlighting teacher marginalization issues. Results also show that most posts sought resources or advice rather than merely complaining about their situations, meaning that beginning teachers leveraged the anonymity and shared affinity offered by r/Teachers to overcome their challenges as self-directed professional learners.

Originality/value

The current study not only highlights diverse and complex challenges faced by beginning teachers but also sheds light on how they navigate their challenges in social media spaces. This research provides unique insights into how social media, particularly an anonymous affinity space – r/Teachers, can benefit teachers’ professional growth in today’s digital era.

Details

Information and Learning Sciences, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-5348

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 November 2023

Davood Javanmardi and Mohammad Ali Rezvani

Bearings are critical components used to support loads and facilitate motion for rotating and sliding parts of the machinery. Bearing malfunctions can cause catastrophic failures…

Abstract

Purpose

Bearings are critical components used to support loads and facilitate motion for rotating and sliding parts of the machinery. Bearing malfunctions can cause catastrophic failures. Hence, failure analysis and endeavors to improve bearing performance are essential discussions for worldwide designers, manufacturers and end users of vital machinery. This study aims to investigate a type of roller bearing from the railway industry with premature failures. The task arises because locomotives’ maintenance and service life quality are vital to railway operations while providing transportation services for the nation. To assist in maintaining the designated locomotives, the present study scrutinizes the causes of failure of heavy-duty roller bearings from locomotive bogie axleboxes.

Design/methodology/approach

It is intended to inspect this bearing service life and statistically scrutinize its design parameters to reveal the failures’ shortcomings and origins. The significant measures include examinations of their failures’ primary and vital factors by comparing them with a real-life service history of 16 roller bearings of the same type. The bearings come from the axleboxes of a locomotive bogie with an axle load of 20 tons. The bearing loads are estimated using the EN13104 standard document and confirmed by the finite element method using ABAQUS engineering software. To validate the finite element modeling results, the bearings’ stress analysis is performed using the Hertzian contact theory that demonstrated perfect conformity. The said methods are also used to search for the areas susceptible to failures in these bearings. With the inclusion and exploitation of the bearing maintenance conditions and the logbook recordings of the locomotives for the past seven years, the critical cause for this type of bearing’s failures is surveyed and discussed.

Findings

With the inclusion and exploitation of the bearing maintenance conditions and the logbook recordings of the locomotives for the past seven years, the critical cause for this type of bearing’s failures is surveyed and discussed. As a crucial result, it is found that deprived maintenance and inadequate lubrication are the root causes of the loss of the selected bearings.

Originality/value

For the designated locomotives, the origins of the heavy-duty roller bearing failures and its design shortcomings are revealed by examining and comparing them with a real-life service history of many of the same types of bearings. The novelty of the research is in using the combination of the methods mentioned above and its decent outcome.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 April 2024

Chen Zhong, Hong Liu and Hwee-Joo Kam

Cybersecurity competitions can effectively develop skills, but engaging a wide learner spectrum is challenging. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of cybersecurity…

24

Abstract

Purpose

Cybersecurity competitions can effectively develop skills, but engaging a wide learner spectrum is challenging. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of cybersecurity competitions among Reddit users. These users constitute a substantial demographic of young individuals, often participating in communities oriented towards college students or cybersecurity enthusiasts. The authors specifically focus on novice learners who showed an interest in cybersecurity but have not participated in competitions. By understanding their views and concerns, the authors aim to devise strategies to encourage their continuous involvement in cybersecurity learning. The Reddit platform provides unique access to this significant demographic, contributing to enhancing and diversifying the cybersecurity workforce.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose to mine Reddit posts for information about learners’ attitudes, interests and experiences with cybersecurity competitions. To mine Reddit posts, the authors developed a text mining approach that integrates computational text mining and qualitative content analysis techniques, and the authors discussed the advantages of the integrated approach.

Findings

The authors' text mining approach was successful in extracting the major themes from the collected posts. The authors found that motivated learners would want to form a strategic way to facilitate their learning. In addition, hope and fear collide, which exposes the learners’ interests and challenges.

Originality/value

The authors discussed the findings to provide education and training experts with a thorough understanding of novice learners, allowing them to engage them in the cybersecurity industry.

Details

Information & Computer Security, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-4961

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 19 April 2024

Rimple Manchanda

The objective of this study is to explore the level of understanding and actions taken by the people of Gurugram (erstwhile Gurgaon) to mitigate the impact of climate change…

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this study is to explore the level of understanding and actions taken by the people of Gurugram (erstwhile Gurgaon) to mitigate the impact of climate change, given its critical importance as a global issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative approach, primary data were collected through in-depth interviews by means of semi-structured interview methods.

Findings

The findings indicate that while people are aware of climate change, the information is deficient for them to translate their knowledge into effective action. Some of the major challenges identified are lack of appropriate understanding, resources, education, motivation and government initiatives, as well as the old habits, peer influence, feeling of incapability and limited media exposure. To bridge the intention-action gap, it is recommended that people should be empowered to act desirably. There is a change need for awareness and education on ways to mitigate the effects of climate change. The study has implications for researchers, environmentalists, policymakers, non-government organizations and local residents of Gurugram.

Originality/value

This study provides unique insights into the understanding of climate change by the general public and challenges faced in taking pro-environment actions. It emphasizes the urgent need to create awareness and educate individuals about ways to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Details

Journal of Asian Business and Economic Studies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2515-964X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 December 2023

Bargavi Ravichandran and Kavitha Shanmugam

This conceptual study investigates the adoption of education technology (EdTech) products among college students, focusing on identifying the key factors influencing the adoption…

1095

Abstract

Purpose

This conceptual study investigates the adoption of education technology (EdTech) products among college students, focusing on identifying the key factors influencing the adoption process within educational institutions. Technology integration in education has rapidly gained prominence, with EdTech offering innovative solutions to enhance teaching and learning experiences. However, understanding the determinants that affect EdTech adoption remains critical for its successful implementation and impact. This paper aims (1) to identify the factors influencing the adoption of EdTech by college students (2) to create a conceptual model that shows the connections between the elements that lead to college students adopting EdTech.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative data analysis and conceptual modeling to achieve the objectives. The underlying knowledge required to create a qualitative data gathering tool was obtained through a thorough literature analysis on innovation dissemination, educational psychology and technology adoption. College students, teachers and administrators participated in semi-structured interviews, focus groups and surveys to provide detailed perspectives on their attitudes about and experiences with EdTech. The Scopus and Web of Science databases are searched for relevant information in an organized manner in order to determine the factors influencing the adoption of EdTech. Second, an extended version of the technology adoption model is adopted to develop a qualitative data-based conceptual framework to analyze EdTech adoption in the Indian context.

Findings

Overall, by highlighting the critical components that emotionally influence college students' adoption of EdTech products in educational institutions, this course adds to the body of information already in existence. The conceptual framework model serves as a roadmap for educational stakeholders seeking to leverage EdTech effectively to enrich the learning environment and improve educational outcomes. By recognizing the significance of the identified factors, academic institutions can make informed decisions to foster a climate conducive to successful EdTech integration.

Research limitations/implications

A comprehensive conceptual framework model was developed based on qualitative data analysis to illustrate the interrelationships between the identified factors influencing EdTech adoption. This model presents a valuable tool for educational institutions, policymakers and EdTech developers to comprehend the complex dynamics of implementing these technological solutions.

Originality/value

The findings of this study demonstrated a number of important variables that affect the uptake of EdTech products in educational settings. These factors encompassed technological infrastructure, ease of use, perceived usefulness, compatibility with existing academic practices, institutional support, financial constraints and individual attitudes towards technology. Additionally, the research explored the significance of institutional preparation for embracing technological advancements as well as the influence of socio-cultural elements.

Details

Management Matters, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2279-0187

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 March 2023

Omkar Dastane, Juan Carlos Fandos-Roig and Javier Sánchez-García

This study aims to explore customer perceived value (CPV) dimensions in the context of free mobile educational applications (EduApps) which are paramount in learning-based digital…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore customer perceived value (CPV) dimensions in the context of free mobile educational applications (EduApps) which are paramount in learning-based digital start-ups and are essential for the implementation of circular economy (CE). The purpose of the present study is to identify dimensions of CPV specifically for EduApps and propose a conceptual model that would assist the digital start-up decisions which in turn can be a catalyst in navigating to a CE.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the Netnography approach by analyzing online user-generated content. A total of 13,147 reviews posted on the Google play store after using top free education apps were coded using ATLAS.ti 9 software.

Findings

Major dimensions of context-specific CPV are identified as technical value, content value, pedagogical value, gamification value and learning value. Subdimensions and items are extracted for each of these dimensions.

Practical implications

The larger subscriber base drives sponsorships, advertisements and donations which underpin the business model of free EduApps. This can be obtained through an attractive value proposition. Identifying context-specific value dimensions would aid entrepreneurs in optimal value mix development decisions. The proposed framework can be utilized by both researchers (for scale creation, comparative studies and quantitative studies) and practitioners (for entrepreneurial decisions on better value propositions).

Originality/value

CPV successfully describes consumer decision-making, but less attention is paid to linking the theory to the setting of mobile learning apps, where the bulk of research is focused on techniques like TAM, UTAUT, etc. In addition, studies identifying CPV from mobile apps with a specific focus on EduApps are sparse. Extant literature in this context is either based on a foundation of in-store business value dimensions or dominated by technical aspects when focused on the context of mobile apps. The current study bridges this gap.

Details

Management Decision, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2024

Olga Blasco-Blasco, Márton Demeter and Manuel Goyanes

The purpose of this article is to theoretically outline and empirically test two contribution-based indicators: (1) the scholars' annual contribution-based measurement and (2…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to theoretically outline and empirically test two contribution-based indicators: (1) the scholars' annual contribution-based measurement and (2) the annual contribution modified h-index, computing six criteria: total number of papers, computed SCImago Journal Rank values, total number of authors, total number of citations of a scholar’s work, number of years since paper publication and number of annual paper citations.

Design/methodology/approach

Despite widespread scholarly agreement about the relevance of research production in evaluation and recruitment processes, the proposed mechanisms for gauging publication output are still rather elementary, consequently obscuring each individual scholar’s contributions. This study utilised the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method, and the authors built two indicators to value author's contribution.

Findings

To test both indicators, this study focussed on the most productive scholars in communication during a specific time period (2017–2020), ranking their annual research contribution and testing it against standard productivity measures (i.e. number of papers and h-index).

Originality/value

This article contributes to current scientometric studies by addressing some of the limitations of aggregate-level measurements of research production, providing a much-needed understanding of scholarly productivity based on scholars' actual contribution to research.

Details

Online Information Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1468-4527

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2024

Chai Ching Tan, Mohammad Shahidul Islam, Rupa Sinha, Ali Elsayed Shehata and Kareem M. Selem

This paper addresses a crucial research need by examining the influence of compatibility, a pivotal design element for hotel concierge apps, on the socio-psychological dynamics of…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper addresses a crucial research need by examining the influence of compatibility, a pivotal design element for hotel concierge apps, on the socio-psychological dynamics of digital hotel guests. While prior research has examined the constructs, their application to digital concierge apps introduces a unique context. We posit that compatibility significantly influences central variables rooted in theory of planned behaviors (TPBs) and technology acceptance model (TAM), fostering positive usage intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Analyzing data from 668 four-star hotel guests through PLS-SEM substantiates compatibility’s role, endorsing the theoretical amalgamation of affordance, TPB, and TAM frameworks.

Findings

Compatibility positively affected perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and attitude toward behavior. Besides, usage intention positively affected willingness to pay a price premium and revisit intention.

Originality/value

This paper adopts compatibility as a unifying force for integrating TPB and TAM; the predictive ability of digital concierges' usage intentions on revisit intentions to upscale hotels. Further, this paper is the first attempt to highlight employing compatibility as a pivotal design factor for digital concierge apps in the hospitality setting.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 May 2024

V.V. Srigouri and Ashutosh Muduli

The study investigates the role of performance coaching (PC) and employee agility (EA) in training transfer (TT). Research reveals that initially 40% of trainees struggle to apply…

Abstract

Purpose

The study investigates the role of performance coaching (PC) and employee agility (EA) in training transfer (TT). Research reveals that initially 40% of trainees struggle to apply what they've learned, increasing to 70% after a year, resulting in just a 50% overall training success rate. Following Holton et al.'s learning transfer system (LTS) framework, much research explores the factors affecting TT in various contexts, emphasizing organizational contexts, individual factors and training design, mainly in large corporations. This research, however, delves into the influence of PC (as an organizational context) and EA (as an individual characteristic) on TT in medium- and small-scale Indian enterprises. Building on the resource-based view (RBV) theory, the study also examines how EA mediates the relationship between PC and TT.

Design/methodology/approach

Following LTS framework and building on the RBV theory, the survey research has been designed. Using a validated instrument, data from 411 respondents of Indian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) by SPSS-AMOS.

Findings

The result proved that PC and EA exert a significant and positive influence on TT. Further, the result proved that EA mediates the relationship between PC and TT.

Originality/value

The research is unique and original, as little research are available on the exploration of the interplay between PC and EA within the framework of MSMEs.

Details

Journal of Management Development, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0262-1711

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 January 2024

Haibo Feng and Caixia Zong

This study aims to investigate the influence and impact mechanism of capital tax incentives on firm innovation.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence and impact mechanism of capital tax incentives on firm innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the difference-in-differences (DID) method, in conjunction with the exogenous impact of accelerated depreciation (AD) pilot policy. This study selects Chinese listed companies from 2010 to 2017 as the research sample.

Findings

Firstly, AD exerts a substantial positive effect on the quantity and quality of the innovation output of firms, and the positive impact results primarily from heightened investment in fixed assets, particularly, machinery and equipment. Secondly, the influence of the policy is pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises, mature enterprises, less capital-intensive enterprises and non-high-tech industries, which all exhibit strong innovation incentives. Lastly, the tax incentive policy significantly stimulates firm innovation in the short term, but its long-term impact on innovation incentives lacks statistical significance.

Originality/value

This study highlights the significance of capital tax incentives in facilitating the innovation process in firms.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

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