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1 – 10 of over 2000
Article
Publication date: 12 August 2024

Raphael Kanyire Seidu, George Kwame Fobiri, Edwina Tekper, Emmanuel Abankwah Ofori, Benjamin Eghan, Alex Osei Afriyie, Richard Acquaye, Benjamin Kwablah Asinyo and Ebenezer Kofi Howard

Safety-related issues are prominent in dyeing workplaces and studios that result in accidents. The purpose of this study is to investigate the compliance towards health safety…

Abstract

Purpose

Safety-related issues are prominent in dyeing workplaces and studios that result in accidents. The purpose of this study is to investigate the compliance towards health safety practices by students at the dyeing studios in selected universities in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured online questionnaire was developed and used to collect 285 responses from students studying at the textile and fashion department of ten universities in Ghana. The study used the partial least square (PLS) algorithm of the structural equational modelling (SEM) by bootstrapping with 5,000 samples in the SmartPLS-SEM version 4.0.

Findings

Students exhibited good attitudes with significant knowledge regarding health safety hazards at the dyeing studio. Results revealed that students’ attitudes significantly and positively affect their knowledge of health safety hazards; hence, as attitude increases, their knowledge of health safety hazards also increases. However, institutional support significantly and negatively affects the knowledge of health safety hazards by students at the dyeing studio. Subsequently, institutional support significantly and positively affects students’ attitudes towards health safety hazards at the dyeing studio; hence, as institutional support increases, their attitude towards health safety hazards also increases. In the moderation analysis, results showed that students’ attitude dampens the negative relationship between institutional support and student’s knowledge.

Practical implications

Work-related safety at the dyeing studios is very important to help drive for an injurious free hands-on practice with dyeing activities. Hence, the findings of this study call on institutions to provide appropriate personal protective equipments and first aid kits, effective training and supervision for workspace safety at the dyeing studios for students. This would go a long way to maintain good health safety practices during students’ dyeing activities at the studio, hence eliminating possible hazards.

Originality/value

The present study provides an in-depth understanding of how key variables such as institutional support influence the knowledge and attitude of students towards studio dyeing practices. Key findings from the study reiterated the importance of training workshops, state-of-the-art studios and adherence to safety by students to prevent injuries.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 August 2024

Nosheen Fatima Warraich, Zoonash Riaz and Irfan Ali

Knowledge is considered an asset for any organization. To distribute knowledge and expertise among stakeholders of an organization, there is a need to develop knowledge sharing…

Abstract

Purpose

Knowledge is considered an asset for any organization. To distribute knowledge and expertise among stakeholders of an organization, there is a need to develop knowledge sharing (KS) culture. However, different factors affect KS. This study aims to identify the influence of trustworthiness (trust, ability, benevolence and integrity) and motivation and reward on KS attitudes and intentions of law students.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives of the study were achieved by using a quantitative research design. Law students of the colleges affiliated with Punjab University were the population for the present research. The sampling frame of the study was all law colleges, and data was collected through a convenient sampling technique. Data was collected through personal visits to sampled colleges. Questionnaires were circulated among 330 respondents and two hundred valid responses were collected with a 61% response rate. Descriptive analysis was completed using SPSS and path analysis was measured through SmartPLS. The quality of the measurement model was assessed and then hypotheses were tested.

Findings

Findings revealed that there was no impact of trustworthiness (trust, ability, benevolence and integrity) on the KS attitude of students. However, motivation and rewards significantly impacted (ß = 0.590; p > 0.01) the KS attitudes. KS attitude also has a significant impact on KS intentions (ß = 0.560; p > 0.01).

Originality/value

The current study is a valuable addition to the literature by providing the impact of trustworthiness, motivation and reward on law students’ KS intentions and attitudes in developing countries. The present study also provides insights for authorities and decision-makers in making decisions regarding the development of KS among students.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 August 2024

Khawlah M. AL-Tkhayneh and Sanaa Ashour

In this study, we evaluated university students’ attitudes towards environmental issues, with a particular focus on the cohort’s understanding of climate change and knowledge of…

Abstract

Purpose

In this study, we evaluated university students’ attitudes towards environmental issues, with a particular focus on the cohort’s understanding of climate change and knowledge of environmental issues. We also explored whether students’ gender or university major (natural sciences vs humanities and social sciences) impact attitudes to environmental issues.

Design/methodology/approach

We surveyed undergraduate students (n = 1,310) using an online questionnaire comprising 17 statements that reflect attitudes towards environmental concerns. This questionnaire was constructed using a 5-point Likert Scale and was tested for reliability and validity to ensure its precision and consistency in assessing the targeted constructs.

Findings

The results revealed that the surveyed students had a medium level of positive attitudes towards the environment. While no significant differences based on gender were observed, students from different university majors significantly differed in the degree to which they endorsed positive attitudes towards the environment, with those majoring in natural sciences reporting stronger attitudes to environmental issues. These findings warrant the implementation of mandatory courses on the environment at UAE universities so as to enhance students’ awareness and foster positive attitudes towards the environment.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies that may have focused narrowly on specific environmental attitudes or behaviors, this research offers a broad yet detailed assessment by incorporating factors such as students' academic majors and gender. By comparing attitudes across different fields of study—natural sciences versus humanities and social sciences, the study provides new insights into how educational background and demographic variables shape environmental perceptions. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the factors that influence environmental attitudes among young adults, potentially guiding more targeted educational interventions.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 July 2024

Shimelis Kebede Kekeba, Abera Gure and Teklu Tafesse Olkaba

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of using a jigsaw learning strategy integrated with computer simulation (JLSICS) on the academic achievement and attitudes…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of using a jigsaw learning strategy integrated with computer simulation (JLSICS) on the academic achievement and attitudes of students, along with exploring the relationships between them in the process of learning about acids and bases.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design used in the study was quasi-experimental, using non-equivalent comparison groups for both pre- and post-tests. A quantitative approach was used to address the research problem, with three groups involved: two experimental and one comparative group. The treatment group, which received the JLSICS intervention, consisted of two intact classes, while the comparison group included one intact class. Data collection involved achievement tests and attitude scale tests on acid and base. Various statistical analyses such as one-way analysis of variance, one-way multivariate analysis of variance, Pearson product-moment correlation, mean and standard deviation were used for data analysis.

Findings

The study’s results revealed that the incorporation of the JLSICS had a beneficial influence on the academic achievement and attitudes of grade 10 chemistry students towards acid and base topics. The JLSICS approach proved to be more successful than both conventional methods and the standalone use of the jigsaw learning strategy (JLS) in terms of both achievement and attitudes. The research demonstrated a correlation between positive attitudes towards chemistry among high school students and enhanced achievement in the subject.

Research limitations/implications

The study only focused on one specific aspect of chemistry (acid and base chemistry), which restricts the applicability of the findings to other chemistry topics or subjects. In addition, the study used a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest comparison group, which may introduce variables that could confound the results and restrict causal inferences.

Practical implications

This study addresses the gap in instructional interventions and provides theoretical and practical insights. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating contemporary instructional methods for policymakers, benefiting the government, society and students. By enhancing student achievement, attitudes and critical thinking skills, this approach empowers students to take charge of their learning, fostering deep understanding and analysis. Furthermore, JLSICS aids in grasping abstract chemistry concepts and has the potential to reduce costs associated with purchasing chemicals for schools. This research opens doors for similar studies in different educational settings, offering valuable insights for educators and policymakers.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this study are in its exploration of integrating the jigsaw learning strategy with computer simulations as an instructional approach in chemistry education. This research contributes to the existing literature by showing the effectiveness of JLSICS in improving students’ achievements and attitudes towards acid and base topics. It also emphasizes the importance of fostering positive attitudes towards chemistry to enhance students’ overall achievement in the subject.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 2 May 2024

Manuel Salas-Velasco

This paper aims to examine prospective graduate students' attitudes toward educational loan borrowing in an experimental setting.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine prospective graduate students' attitudes toward educational loan borrowing in an experimental setting.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were randomly assigned to two treatment groups and one control group. Subjects in experimental group 1 received financial education: a short online course on the economic viability of getting a master's degree and how to finance it with a graduate student loan, while subjects in experimental group 2 received financial education along with information on the availability bias.

Findings

Relying on a control group in the assessment of financial literacy education intervention impacts, this research finds positive causal treatment effects on individuals’ attitudes toward debt-financed graduate education. In comparison to the control group, experimental subjects perceived the possibility of going into debt with a graduate loan to complete a master’s degree as less stressful and worrying.

Practical implications

This study has important educational policy implications to prevent students from stopping investing in human capital by perceiving educational loan debt as something stressful or worrying. The results can help potential (and current) grad students develop a feasible financial plan for graduate school by encouraging higher education institutions to implement educational loan information and financial education into university seminar courses for better graduate student loan decision-making.

Originality/value

Student attitudes toward debt have been analyzed in the context of higher education, but only a few researchers internationally have used an experimental design to study personal financial decision-making.

Details

Journal of Financial Economic Policy, vol. 16 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-6385

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 27 May 2024

Cong Doanh Duong

Although previous research has acknowledged the significance of comprehending the initial acceptance and adoption of ChatGPT in educational contexts, there has been relatively…

1003

Abstract

Purpose

Although previous research has acknowledged the significance of comprehending the initial acceptance and adoption of ChatGPT in educational contexts, there has been relatively little focus on the user’s intention to continue using ChatGPT or its continued usage. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate the students’ continuance intentions to use ChatGPT for learning by adopting the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) model.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has employed the SOR model to investigate how UTAUT factors (such as performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, effort expectancy and social influence) influence the cognitive responses of students (e.g. trust in ChatGPT and attitude towards ChatGPT), subsequently shaping their behavioral outcomes (e.g. the intention to continue using ChatGPT for study). A sample of 392 higher students in Vietnam and the PLS-SEM method was employed to investigate students’ continuance intention to use ChatGPT for learning.

Findings

This study reveals that students’ continuance intention to use ChatGPT for learning was directly affected by their attitude toward ChatGPT and trust in ChatGPT. Meanwhile, their attitude toward ChatGPT was built on effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions and trust in ChatGPT was developed from effort expectancy and social influence.

Originality/value

By extending the analysis beyond initial acceptance, this research provides valuable insights into the factors that influence the sustained utilization of ChatGPT in an educational environment.

Details

Journal of Research in Innovative Teaching & Learning, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2397-7604

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2024

Kamran Akhtar Siddiqui, Muhammad Mujtaba Asad and Amjad Ali Rind

English is the language of global communication, worldwide mobility, job progress, and access to new information and research. Given the numerous roles that English plays in…

Abstract

Purpose

English is the language of global communication, worldwide mobility, job progress, and access to new information and research. Given the numerous roles that English plays in today's society, higher education institutes (HEIs) all over the world are pursuing English-medium education. For Pakistan, however, English-medium education is a colonial legacy rather than a deliberate choice. Research suggests that English-medium education is not devoid of controversy in higher education in Pakistan; nonetheless, students have to seek English-medium education in universities to compete with the world. In fact, being committed to SDG 4.7 Education for sustainable development and global citizenship, Pakistan is supposed to educate its citizens to become global citizens, for which English-medium education is essential. Given the fact that each of the five provinces of Pakistan has a distinct culture and sub-cultures, it is important to see how Pakistani students’ attitudes to English-medium education to become global citizens are different based on their cultural identities. Therefore, the present study aims to analyze undergraduates’ attitudes toward English-medium education based on their cultural identities to become global citizens.

Design/methodology/approach

Under the quantitative research paradigm, the present research adopted a comparative design. One hundred and fifty undergraduates participated in the study. The data were collected using a 15-item questionnaire on a 5-point Likert scale, and it was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 27.0.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that participants regardless of their cultural identities have positive attitudes towards English-medium education as they believe it to be a source of career development, and improvement of their language, communication, and interpersonal skills. The participants also did not see English-medium education posing any threat to traditional culture and local languages. The findings of the present study also revealed that there is no statistical difference across the different categories of cultural identity.

Practical implications

The findings of the present study regarding students’ attitudes toward English-medium education will have implications for policymakers and university administration. Since cultural identity does not hinder acceptance of English-medium education, students’ positive attitudes can help policymakers promote multilingualism and English-medium education for career development. However, high-quality English language programs are crucial for maximizing the benefits. Likewise, positive attitudes of students towards English-medium education in Pakistan suggest students’ openness to intercultural dialogue. Therefore, university administration can further enhance student exchange programs for transnational research and development. Likewise, the study implies that cultural identity may not hinder English-medium education implementation in developing countries provided that practical benefits like career advancement and communication skill are emphasized.

Originality/value

The study is unique in the sense that it analyses undergraduates’ attitudes towards English-medium education concerning students’ cultural identities and global citizenship which have not been studied previously.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 September 2024

Sonali Singh and Sridhar Manohar

Education is one among the major service sectors which is continuously growing and contributing significantly to a country’s economy. Students’ positive feedback through…

Abstract

Purpose

Education is one among the major service sectors which is continuously growing and contributing significantly to a country’s economy. Students’ positive feedback through word-of-mouth (WOM) is one of the key influences attracting new admissions thereby providing competitive advantage for a university to sustain. There are numerous antecedents identified and implemented to enhance positive WOM and increase intakes in higher education however the students’ choice is still being unpredicted. This study attempts to develop a framework that exemplifies the links between service quality (SQ), relational trust (RT) and students' attitudes toward institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A correlational research design was adopted with a non-probability convenience sampling technique, the data were collected from students in public and private higher education institutions (HEIs) across India. Multivariate regression was the statistical tool used to estimate the path model. SmartPLS 3.0 software performing structural equation modelling (SEM) helped in determining the coefficient values.

Findings

The result of the study indicated the magnitude and directional relationship between SQ and trust and justified that they are the key determinants of building a positive attitude towards the institution, enhancing the intention to recommend it among peer groups.

Research limitations/implications

Academic institutions and their public relations departments must prioritize reducing SQ gaps and create strategies to build strong RT among all institution stakeholders to gain a competitive advantage. Socially, this study aims in assisting universities in establishing high-quality education.

Originality/value

The empirical estimation of the relationships between trust, attitude, quality and intention provides the reasons for incorporating and building positive WOM among students’ benefit institutions over the long run.

Details

International Journal of Educational Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-354X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 August 2024

Kota Suzuki, Yuhei Oi, Shota Mitsuhashi, Shogo Hirata and Takaaki Goto

This study aims to examine the relationship between teacher ideals and attitudes toward peers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among teacher college students, and the effect of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between teacher ideals and attitudes toward peers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among teacher college students, and the effect of knowledge of ASD identification on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach and included 341 teacher college students. A vignette was used to assess social and professional attitudes toward peers with ASD. The participants were divided into identification and nonidentification groups based on how accurately they identified the peer depicted in the vignette as having ASD. A teacher ideals questionnaire consisting of two subscales indicating different ideal teachers − a dedicated/engaging teacher (e.g. a teacher who can work with enthusiasm) and a skillful teacher (e.g. a teacher who is knowledgeable) − was developed and administered to evaluate the participants’ teacher ideals and self-perceptions of a teacher.

Findings

In the nonidentification group, ideals of a skillful teacher were significantly correlated with social attitudes toward peers with ASD. The identification group exhibited no significant correlations between ideals and social attitudes. Furthermore, the self-perceptions of being a dedicated/engaging teacher was significantly correlated with professional attitudes toward peers with ASD in the identification group.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the relationship between teacher ideals and attitudes toward peers with ASD. Teacher ideals were related to negative social attitudes toward peers with ASD. While knowledge of ASD identification weakens this relationship, it may drive the relationship between self-perceptions of a teacher and professional attitudes toward peers with ASD. Therefore, ASD education is important for reducing the stigma toward ASD in teacher education.

Details

Advances in Autism, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-3868

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 July 2024

Hamzeh Dodeen and Siham Alharballeh

This study aimed at identifying the prevalence of statistic anxiety among students in social sciences programs and analyzing the relationship between statistics anxiety and four…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed at identifying the prevalence of statistic anxiety among students in social sciences programs and analyzing the relationship between statistics anxiety and four key variables: attitude toward statistics, statistics self-efficacy, achievement in statistics and academic procrastination.

Design/methodology/approach

Method a total of 440 students from all statistics sections offered in the social sciences programs in a four-year public medium-sized university in UAE participated in this study. Students participated by responding to a package that has four instruments: Statistics Anxiety Scale, Attitudes Toward Statistics, Current Statistics Self-Efficacy and Procrastination Assessment Scale.

Findings

More than 27% of students have above average statistics anxiety. Significant correlations were observed between statistics anxiety and each of attitude toward statistics course (−0.34), academic procrastination (0.33) and achievement (−0.35). On the other hand, Attitudes Toward Statistics and statistics self-efficacy have non-significant correlations. The four variables together predict more than 32% of the total variance of statistics anxiety, and the best predictor was procrastination followed by course attitude.

Research limitations/implications

Students from only one university participated in this study. Adding more universities and countries could increase the generalizability of the study.

Practical implications

Statistics anxiety is prevalent among students in social sciences programs. Statistics instructors must be ready to deal with reducing it. Several procedures have been suggested to reduce statistics anxiety but improving attitudes towards statistics courses is the key factor in this regard.

Social implications

Many students from social sciences and humanities programs and colleges experience anxiety or tension related to statistics courses which are required in most higher education institution. This paper tried to understand which variables affecting this phenomenon and in which directions. At the end, statistics is an important subject for all students during their academic life as well as practical life after graduation.

Originality/value

Statistic anxiety is the feeling of worrying and tension that students experience when taking statistics courses, especially in social sciences programs. Studying statistic anxiety and the related variables is crucial because this anxiety negatively and significantly affects students’ achievement and learning.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

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