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1 – 10 of 69Charbel Chedrawi, Nahil Kazoun and Angelika Kokkinaki
This paper aims to study the role of artificial intelligence (AI) agents in creating a climate of inclusion for people with special needs in the higher education sector (HES).
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to study the role of artificial intelligence (AI) agents in creating a climate of inclusion for people with special needs in the higher education sector (HES).
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative methodology is used in this research that is mainly based on semistructured interviews conducted with the top ten universities in Lebanon with deans, information technology managers, professors and administrative officers.
Findings
This paper highlights findings related to the current status of the higher education institutions (HEIs) in Lebanon vis-à-vis their accreditation and quality assurance processes in accommodating and creating a climate of inclusion for people with special needs. The results show the important role of AI agents in aiding HEI in creating such a climate of inclusion for people with special needs.
Originality/value
The study sheds light on existing gaps in the literature related to creating a climate of inclusion for people with special needs in HEI. Additionally, there is yet a lack of research that focuses on the role of AI technology in general and AI agents in particular in fostering a climate of inclusion for people with special needs within the HES.
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Kayla B. Follmer, Mackenzie J. Miller and Joy E. Beatty
Research related to workplace accommodation requests for employees with mental illness is scarce, though evidence suggests that these individuals often fail to request…
Abstract
Purpose
Research related to workplace accommodation requests for employees with mental illness is scarce, though evidence suggests that these individuals often fail to request accommodations even when needed. The authors' research study aimed to address these shortcomings by (1) assessing employees' knowledge of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) laws and how this knowledge influences employees' perceived need for and requests of accommodations; (2) examining the relationship between employees' perceived need for accommodations and employees' workplace outcomes and (3) examining the relationship between perceived need for accommodations and employees' actual accommodation requests, as well as how stigma influences this relationship.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors used two survey studies to investigate their research questions. Study 1 participants were recruited through Amazon's MTurk, and Study 2 participants were recruited through support groups for individuals diagnosed with mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar disorder).
Findings
The authors found significant gaps in both subjective and objective ADA-related knowledge among participants in their sample. The authors' Study 1 results also revealed an interaction between the perceived need for accommodations and accommodation requests in predicting job satisfaction and turnover intentions. When employees needed accommodations but did not request them, it resulted in worsened workplace outcomes. In Study 2, the authors aimed to identify barriers to requesting accommodations. The authors found that the relationship between perceived need for accommodations and actual accommodation requests was moderated by both public and self-stigma, thereby showing that stigma can impede individuals from requesting needed accommodations at work.
Originality/value
The authors' study sheds light on a population that has been relatively understudied in the workplace accommodations literature, namely those with mental illness. The authors first identify the perceived need for accommodations as an important factor in making accommodations requests at work, as prior work has failed to differentiate how the need for accommodations can vary across individuals. Next, the authors show how workplace outcomes (i.e. job satisfaction and turnover intentions) are negatively affected when employees need accommodations but do not request them. Finally, the authors demonstrate how both public stigma and self-stigma can reduce the likelihood that individuals request accommodations at work, even when needed.
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Stefano Marini, Lucia D'Agostino, Carla Ciamarra, Domenico De Berardis and Alessandro Gentile
The purpose of this case report is to report the clinical experience of the use of gabapentin in the management of problem behaviors in a person with autism spectrum disorder and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this case report is to report the clinical experience of the use of gabapentin in the management of problem behaviors in a person with autism spectrum disorder and comorbid intellectual disability. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a high prevalence of intellectual disability. Challenging behaviors in autism spectrum disorder are very common. In recent years, the hypothesis that the symptoms of autism derive from a deficiency of the inhibitory neurotransmission of gamma-aminobutyric acid is gaining considerable weight.
Design/methodology/approach
Exploring behavioral symptoms improvement in an adult man with ASD and severe intellectual disability taking gabapentin.
Findings
The rating scales used show improvement in challenging behaviors and aggressions. No side effects were observed.
Originality/value
Currently, there are no authorized drugs for the treatment of the symptomatic features of autism spectrum disorder, but drugs are used for comorbid psychopathological aspects. The authors want to speculate on a hypothetical function of gabapentin in remodeling the expression of alpha-2-delta subunits in people with autism and the processing of neural information.
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Yu Tong, Xianyun Liu, Wenqi Yang, Ningxiang Qin and Xi Peng
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common form of anemia in the world, affecting children, women and the elderly, while also being a common comorbidity in several medical…
Abstract
Purpose
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common form of anemia in the world, affecting children, women and the elderly, while also being a common comorbidity in several medical conditions. Several studies have suggested a possible association between IDA and neurological dysfunction. Epilepsy, one of the common neurological disorders, has an unknown association with IDA. This pa per aims to investigate whether there is a causal relationship between IDA and epilepsy using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) design.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper obtained summary data on IDA and epilepsy from the FinnGen consortium. Genetic variants significantly associated with IDA were used as instrumental variables (IVs). Epilepsy, focal epilepsy and generalized epilepsy were the outcomes. This paper used inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the primary estimate, and other MR methods were used as supplementary measures. Sensitivity analysis was also performed to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy.
Findings
IVW estimates genetically predicted a causal relationship between IDA and the risk of epilepsy [odds ratio (OR), 1.15; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.05–1.26; p = 0.002] and focal epilepsy (OR, 1.978, 95% CI, 1.58–2.48, p ≤ 0.0001), while no significant causal relationship was found with generalized epilepsy (OR, 1.1, 95% CI, 0.94–1.3, p = 0.24). There was no evidence of horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity in the sensitivity analysis.
Originality/value
This two-sample MR study found that IDA has a negative effect on the development of epilepsy. Clinical control of IDA may be helpful in the prevention of epilepsy. There is a need for further studies to explain the underlying mechanisms of this association.
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Jeffrey W. Alstete, John P. Meyer and Nicholas J. Beutell
This paper aims to explore the importance of tailored faculty development for neurodiverse business educators. It focuses on how specialized support can enhance research output…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the importance of tailored faculty development for neurodiverse business educators. It focuses on how specialized support can enhance research output, teaching effectiveness and service contributions within the academic community.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper’s conceptual approach uses elements of autoethnography to inform and support prior theoretical and empirical work. An explication of how neurodiversity can be integrated into faculty development efforts is presented with emphasis on individualized support systems, empathetic mentorship and customized teaching and research support strategies to leverage often unrecognized abilities.
Findings
The research identifies that neuroatypical faculty possess certain strengths such as heightened problem-solving skills and attention to detail, which, when supported, can significantly enrich the academic environment. However, there is a lack of targeted support mechanisms for, and general awareness of, these faculty. The paper proposes modifications to existing faculty development activities, emphasizing general and individualized approaches to better harness the talents of neurodiverse educators.
Practical implications
Implementing the proposed strategies will foster an inclusive educational atmosphere while enhancing academic creativity, innovation and productivity. This approach also aligns with important trends in diversity and inclusion, promoting a more equitable and dynamic academic environment.
Originality/value
This research contributes to the field by extending the discourse on neurodiversity in higher education beyond student-focused initiatives to include faculty development. It provides actionable strategies to create inclusive environments that leverage the cognitive strengths of neurodiverse faculty, a relatively unexplored area in business education.
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Paraskevi Giagazoglou, Theodoros Kannas, Athanasia Dampa, Stalakti Iliopoulou, Ioulia Alivizatou and Georgios Chalatzoglidis
The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a trampoline intervention program on motor and behavioral characteristics of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a trampoline intervention program on motor and behavioral characteristics of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Design/methodology/approach
Twenty-six male students aged 15–18 years with ASD participated in the study. They were equally divided into two groups of 13 students. The intervention group followed an individualized trampoline exercise program that was applied three times a week for 30 min for 12 weeks. Before the intervention program and after the end of this, the motor performance was evaluated through the recording of the total number of jumps. The behavioral characteristics were evaluated with the Behavior Problem Inventory questionnaire.
Findings
According to the findings, there were statistically significant differences between the intervention group and the control group across all variables. In conclusion, it seems that an intervention program with the use of a trampoline, adapted to the needs and capabilities of adolescents with ASD can improve their motor performance and behavioral characteristics.
Originality/value
The authors report on the impact of a trampoline exercise program on motor skills and behavioral traits in adolescents diagnosed with ASD. This is significant because our research focused on investigating the effects of a structured trampoline exercise program both on motor skills and behavioral characteristics. The findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting targeted exercise programs as effective interventions for addressing motor and behavioral challenges in adolescents with ASD. The authors believe the research aligns closely with the aims and scope of research in developmental disabilities, and the authors hope that it will make a meaningful impact on the field of autism research and intervention.
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This review identifies low self-concept clarity (SCC) as a source of consumer vulnerabilities and explains how the uncertainty associated with low SCC leads to processes that…
Abstract
This review identifies low self-concept clarity (SCC) as a source of consumer vulnerabilities and explains how the uncertainty associated with low SCC leads to processes that result in materialistic behaviors and overspending, product dissatisfaction, and potential self-harm. Processes include uncertainty reduction efforts through symbolic self-completion and social comparison, responses to everyday self-concept threats that result in feelings of deficiency and reduced consumption constraints, and susceptibility to interpersonal and marketer influences. In addition, the negative association between SCC and materialism is explained, risk factors for low SCC are described, and the need for research to help low SCC consumers deal with their vulnerabilities is explored.
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Robyn Lee, Annette McKeown, Jessica Graham, Yussra Hajaji and Patrick J. Kennedy
The current study aimed to examine the population of girls in two secure children’s homes (SCHs) in the North East of England to consider the impact of menstruation on girls’…
Abstract
Purpose
The current study aimed to examine the population of girls in two secure children’s homes (SCHs) in the North East of England to consider the impact of menstruation on girls’ physical, mental and emotional wellbeing within secure settings. Gender-responsive approaches and understanding gender differences are central to trauma-informed provision within the Children and Young People Secure Estate (CYPSE). Whilst trauma-informed approaches are central, it could be argued that basic gender differences, such as the menstrual cycle, are currently being overlooked within research and practice.
Design/methodology/approach
A case file audit examined documentation of 24 girls who were admitted across both sites between January 2022 and January 2023.
Findings
Of the sample (n = 24), 50% had information recorded regarding their menstrual cycle during admission assessments. Six girls (25%) disclosed experiencing irregular menstruation. Painful cramping was noted by two girls (8%). One girl (4%) disclosed heavy bleeding, and menorrhagia (abnormal heavy bleeding) was reported for one further girl (4%). One girl (4%) disclosed early onset menarche. Case formulations tended to focus less on girls’ menstrual cycles or the potential impact of this on wellbeing. However, 100% of case formulations considered the potential impact of trauma and/or disrupted attachment on girls’ presentations.
Originality/value
The results indicate the impact of menstrual cycles on girls’ physical, mental and emotional wellbeing may benefit from much further consideration. Implications are presented alongside directions for future research.
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This study aims to explore the intermediate role of self-differentiation in anger management and neurotic perfectionism for a sample of high achievers at some public universities…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the intermediate role of self-differentiation in anger management and neurotic perfectionism for a sample of high achievers at some public universities in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. This increases the chances of these students obtaining their rights.
Design/methodology/approach
The researcher used the microcopy of Drake, Murdock, Marszalek and [(the Differentiation of Self Inventory—Short Form (DSI-SF)] scale, differentiation of self child-adolescent perfectionism scale and Davidson and Munro (2000) scale of neurotic perfectionism in addition to the anger management scale of the current study. The researcher used the appropriate statistical methods and the descriptive design to find the results.
Findings
The results showed that there is no statistically significant difference among male and female students in the positive anger management while three was a statistically significant difference among them in the negative anger management favoring male students. Further, there were no statistically significant differences among the study sample according to the country (Egypt and Saudi Arabia) in anger management (positive and negative). Moreover, there was a correlation matrix between the study variables as shown in the study; The statistical analysis was conducted to identify the suggested constructive model and variables of the study, anger management (positive-negative) as an independent variable, self-differentiation as an intermediate variable and neurotic perfectionism as a dependent variable among high achievers, This explains the necessity of preparing the environment for these students to become more healthy, through which they can enjoy all their rights as a category of special education, where most of the focus is on the handicapped groups from special education more than the high achievers’ students.
Originality/value
The study recommended that higher education courses should focus on anger management skills and the development of self-differentiation and the positive part of perfectionism. Also, the current study provided the educators of higher education with some suggestions to promote it and develop high achievers, which may lead to positive mental and physical health for high achievers and raising awareness of society and obtaining their rights in education and life.
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This chapter addresses one of the most common and long-standing problems among college students, namely depression, as well as a potential consequence of depression, suicide. A…
Abstract
This chapter addresses one of the most common and long-standing problems among college students, namely depression, as well as a potential consequence of depression, suicide. A formal definition of depression is presented, and symptoms of depression are discussed. Notably, clinical depression is differentiated from “feeling down” or having “the blues.” Common measures of depression for college students are described, and the current prevalence of depression among college students is explored, along with data pertaining to trends and trajectories. Particular attention is devoted to differences in rates and severity of depression among students of various ethnicities, gender identities, disabilities and sexual orientations. Next, the chapter covers various theories about and studies on the causes and consequences of depression, as well as preventive and remedial efforts that students can engage in to minimize the adverse effects of depression. The chapter concludes with a focus on college student suicide, including its prevalence, predictors of suicidal thoughts and behaviors and prevention and treatment of college student suicide.
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