bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
English-Language Media Discourse and its Psycholinguistic Functioning in the First Quarter of the 21st Century
Authors:   RUDN University named after Patrice Lumumba, Guslyakova A.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the degree of influence of the English-language media discourse on the consciousness of a secondary linguistic personality (i.e., a person who speaks English as a foreign language) interacting with English-language electronic media on the Internet at present. The research material included a variety of media resources from leading English-language information platforms in the USA, Great Britain, Canada, etc. The key research method applied in this study is a psycholinguistic associative experiment, which made it possible to empirically assess the impact level of the English-language media discourse on individuals who are not native speakers of English (young people aged 18 to 30 years, receiving basic and specialized higher education in leading Russian universities), but who are active users of English-language information resources, thereby directly or indirectly becoming the object of influence of the English-language media discourse space. As a result of the experimental work, it was possible to establish the presence of positive or neutral reactions to the words — stimuli characterizing English-language media discourse among the respondents of this study. This may indicate the desire of the respondents to remain in continuous interaction with the media reality of the English-language digital media, the information content of which is attractive by representing current social problems, challenges and new opportunities facing human civilization today and in the future.
Vientnamese-Russian Mutual and Self-Perceptions: Results of an Intercultural Research
Authors:   Sechenov First Moscow State University, Markovina I. , Van Hiep Nguyen ,   Hanoi University of Industry, Lenart Istvan ,   Sechenov First Moscow State University, Pham Hien ,   Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, Matyushin A. ,   Sechenov First Moscow State University
Published: February 2025

The article sums up the major outcome of a research aiming to draw the national / ethnic portraits and self-portraits of the Russian and the Vietnamese nations. Vietnamese-Russian mutual and self-perceptions were investigated in the frame of a questionnaire-based research conducted with Russian and Vietnamese university students (N=100 in each country) which was complemented by a corpus linguistic analysis. Data were collected in two categories: characteristic as well as personified (anthrophonymic) traits; whereas firstly lexical units descriptive of the Vietnamese and the Russian people were gathered, sec­ondly names of well-known personalities of the two nations were called for. Results shed light on differences as well as similarities between how members of both nations see themselves vis-à-vis how member of the other nation see them. Semantic asymmetries were pinpointed in the case of overlapping descriptions of national characteristics. Negative (critical) traits of mutual and self-perceptions were pinpointed. Results of the research may effectively contribute to the better understanding of Russian-Vietnamese intercultural communication and can hopefully be conductive to prevent intercultural misunderstandings and miscommunication in this relation.
Validating Cultural Identity: Comparative Approach to EFL Teaching
Authors:   Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Sokolova E. , Tararina L. ,   Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology
Published: February 2025

The importance of integrating comparative strategies of using L1 minimally and with a clear purpose into the EFL classroom are discussed in the article. In the current diverse and inclusive environment, connecting with learners on cultural levels that can enhance their learning often results in missing important opportunities. The authors analyze a usage-based approach to EFL teaching based on sociocultural theory where L1 is understood as a beneficial cognitive tool to be employed in the process of teaching as a cultural agent constructing knowledge within unique local environments. With cultural practices in L2 unknown in L1, sometimes explaining becomes too time-consuming. L1 application contributes to teaching and building rapport, eases apprehension and breaks down barriers. The conclusion is made that to avoid misunderstanding in intercultural communication and to interpret the idea expressed in L2 one should get an insight into the native speakers’ vision of the world, their mindset.
The Influence of English on the Russian and German Languages in the Era of Globalization
Authors:   NUST MISIS, Vitoshnova A.
Published: February 2025

The status of English as the world language is accepted by everyone and is no longer debated. The ensuring of understanding between countries in terms of globalization calls for communication unification. Languages differ in the susceptibility to this process; this factor defines the aim of the research — to find out if the Russian language is the only one so susceptible to the influence, that it raises concerns among its speakers. The research material is the contents of Russian and German sites and social nets, since they are the main platforms where modern linguocul­tural communities are interacting. When studying internet resources, we applied the methods of continuous sampling, analysis and comparing results. We have come to the conclusion, that the influence of English on German and Russian languages is approximately the same. Nevertheless, by comparing the de­velopment of relationships between these two pairs of languages, we have discovered that the paces and stages of these relationships are completely different. It is due to social, economic and political factors that the americanization of the German language has been arriving smoothly in series of steps during XX–XXI centuries, whereas the Russian language is now experi­encing the first and probably the most massive attack of americanization.
Variations in the Name of the German State after 1949 in the Political Discourse of West, East and United Germany
Authors:   Kazan Federal University, Yusupova A. , Kolpakova S. ,   Kazan Federal University
Published: February 2025

The work is devoted to the use of the German -language names of German states in political discourse from 1949 to the present day and the reflection of the relevant language policy in the educational literature in the German language as a foreign language. The relevance of the study is dictated by the need to systematize the described terminology in order to correctly use it in teaching the German language. Description, contextual analysis and statistical calculation were the main research methods. As a result, the names of the states are systematized and the chronological stages of their distribution are determined. The contextual boundaries of the use of the abbreviation BRD in modern speech are indicated.
Efecto de la volatilidad del precio internacional del arándano en el modelo de producción mexicano
Authors: Díaz-Castellanos Rafael
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: describir la dinámica de las variables del mercado mundial de arándano de poco más de dos décadas (2000-2022). Metodología: proceso secuencial mixto, contraste del análisis estadístico de las variables del mercado y su pronóstico con métodos predictivos de series de tiempo en el software Minitab. Resultados: se demuestra el creciente desequilibrio entre la oferta y la demanda mundial afectando negativamente al precio: del año 2000 al 2011 tuvo un incremento promedio anual de casi el 10.96%, en la siguiente década fue 1.92% y el pronóstico 2023-2032 se espera sea de casi -2% de continuar la tendencia de la producción observada en poco más de dos décadas (aumento anual promedio de 7.32% y 9.99% respectivamente). Limitaciones: el período de estudio parte del año 2000 y se cierra al 2022 al no existir información oficial posterior, tampoco se encontraron papers que atiendan esta temática desde la metodología y gestión informática propuesta. Conclusión: el escenario que resulta del pronóstico de la oferta mundial y del precio internacional de arádano antecede la crisis por venir para el sector productor mexicano que creció su producción en 22 años 23,516% muy superior al 481% del acumulado mundial.
Efektivitas Projek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila dalam Menanamkan Nilai Karakter Peserta Didik di TK PKK Kota Batu
Authors: Asmah Ayu , Supatmijati Supatmijati
Published: February 2025

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Projek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila (P5) in instilling character values at PKK Kindergarten Batu City, focusing on the theme “I Love Indonesia” and the corn sub-topic. The research method used was a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving 30 learners, two teachers, and the principal as research subjects. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, which were then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive analysis model. The results showed that this project succeeded in creating an interactive, meaningful and fun learning atmosphere, where children were actively involved in corn food processing activities. P5 results showed an increase in the ability of students in terms of academics and the development of character values of cultural respect, mutual cooperation, critical reasoning. Interviews with teachers and principals revealed that this project serves as an effective means to instill character values in learners, with improved collaboration and communication skills among learners. In addition, documentation shows that children are able to process and produce work that reflects understanding in accordance with the project theme. This study concludes that the Pancasila Learner Profile Strengthening Project at PKK Kindergarten Batu City can be used as a good model for early childhood character development in the context of education in Indonesia.
PERBANDINGAN METODE EARNED SCHEDULE DAN EARNED VALUE DALAM PENGONTROLAN PROYEK PADA ASPEK WAKTU
Authors: Iskandar Daniel Nathan , Oei Fuk Jin
Published: February 2025

Project management success entails effectively managing project performance, progress, and costs. One method that integrates cost, time, and performance aspects is Earned Value (EV). As an evolution of EV, a new method called Earned Schedule (ES) has emerged. Typically, projects experience planned delays, both in terms of time and progress. The purpose of performance analysis using these two methods is to evaluate performance achievement during project implementation and to understand the extent of deviations that may occur in the work. In completing this analysis, the first step is to obtain values ​​from various indicators needed in each project review. From the project 1 analysis results, because the project progresses as planned, which is 16 weeks, the EV method shows delays every week in terms of cost and time aspects. The ES method can demonstrate the duration of delay every week in terms of time aspect, unlike project 2, based on the project 2 data calculation, the ES method excels because in the ES method the SPI(t) value can indicate delays in the last week of the project, as evidenced by the SPI(t) value in week 18 of 0.8888, whereas in the EV method, the SPI value in the last week is 1. The Earned Schedule method excels in project monitoring, especially in projects experiencing delays.
Abstrak
Keberhasilan dalam manajemen proyek melibatkan pengelolaan kinerja, progres, dan biaya proyek secara efektif. Salah satu metode yang mengintegrasikan aspek biaya, waktu, dan kinerja adalah Earned Value (EV). Sebagai perkembangan dari EV, ada metode baru yang dikenal sebagai Earned Schedule (ES). Umumnya, proyek akan mengalami penundaan yang sudah diantisipasi, baik dalam hal waktu maupun kemajuan pekerjaan. Analisis kinerja menggunakan kedua metode ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi pencapaian kinerja selama pelaksanaan proyek dan memahami sejauh mana penyimpangan yang mungkin terjadi dalam pekerjaan tersebut. Dalam menyelesaikan analisis ini, langkah pertama adalah memperoleh nilai dari berbagai indikator yang diperlukan pada setiap tinjauan proyek, dari hasil analisis proyek 1, karena proyek berjalan sesuai dengan rencananya yaitu 16 minggu, metode EV menunjukkan keterlambatan setiap minggu dalam aspek biaya dan waktu. Metode ES dapat memperlihatkan durasi keterlambatan setiap minggunya dalam aspek waktu, berbeda dengan proyek 2, berdasarkan perhitungan data proyek 2, metode ES unggul karena pada metode ES nilai SPI(t) dapat menunjukkan keterlambatan di minggu akhir proyek yang dibuktikan dengan nilai SPI(t) di minggu ke-18 sebesar 0.8888, sedangkan pada metode EV, nilai SPI pada minggu akhir sebesar 1. Metode Earned Schedule unggul dalam pemantauan proyek khususnya pada proyek yang mengalami keterlambatan.
STUDI PERBANDINGAN NILAI UNDRAINED SHEAR STRENGTH TERHADAP NILAI LIQUID LIMIT TANAH LEMPUNG
Authors: Angelina Sherlin , Prihatiningsih Aniek
Published: February 2025

The correlation analysis between undrained shear strength (Su) and liquid limit (LL) was conducted on clay soils sampled from North Jakarta to evaluate the potential for predicting Su values based on LL parameters. Clay soils are known for their high plasticity, which is influenced by moisture content, making Su and LL critical parameters in geotechnical stability analysis. In this research, Su values were obtained using the Triaxial UU method, while LL values were determined using the Casagrande method and the fall cone test. Exponential regression analysis was used to measure the correlation between Su and LL. Results showed that the Casagrande method generated a coefficient of determination (R2) calculated at 0,9676, indicating a strong correlation for predicting Su. In comparison, the fall cone test method produced a lower coefficient of determination, which is 0,5827. These results imply that LL, especially from the Casagrande method, can be used as a preliminary estimate of Su values, allowing for time and cost efficiency by reducing the need for Triaxial UU testing. Further studies with varied samples and mineral analysis of clay soils are recommended to enhance the accuracy and reliability of these findings.
Abstrak
Analisis korelasi antara undrained shear strength (Su) dan liquid limit (LL) dilakukan pada sampel tanah lempung yang diambil dari Jakarta Utara untuk mengevaluasi potensi prediksi nilai Su berdasarkan parameter LL. Tanah lempung dikenal memiliki karakter plastisitas tinggi yang dipengaruhi oleh kadar air, sehingga parameter Su dan LL sangat penting dalam analisis stabilitas geoteknik. Pada penelitian ini, nilai Su diperoleh menggunakan metode Triaxial UU, sementara nilai LL diperoleh dengan metode Casagrande dan fall cone test. Analisis regresi eksponensial digunakan untuk mengukur korelasi antara Su dan LL. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa metode Casagrande menghasilkan koefisien determinasi (R2) sebesar 0,9676 yang mengindikasikan korelasi kuat untuk memprediksi Su. Sebaliknya, metode fall cone test menghasilkan koefisien determinasi yang lebih rendah, yaitu 0,5827. Hasil ini menyiratkan bahwa LL, terutama dari metode Casagrande, dapat digunakan sebagai estimasi awal nilai Su, sehingga memungkinkan efisiensi waktu dan biaya tanpa melakukan pengujian Triaxial UU. Studi lanjutan dengan variasi sampel dan analisis mineral tanah lempung disarankan untuk memperkuat keakuratan hasil ini.
ANALISIS CHANGE ORDER RATIO PADA PROYEK KONSTRUKSI RUMAH TINGGAL STUDI KASUS DI DAERAH TANGERANG
Authors: Bataric Rosani Surya , Sutandi Arianti
Published: February 2025

The construction industry plays an important role in economic growth, especially in infrastructure and housing. However, this industry is faced with various challenges, one of which is change orders that can hinder the smooth implementation of the project. Change order is a change in the provisions of the original contract document made in writing and documented between the project owner and the project implementer. These changes can have an impact on the price, project schedule, and schedule for contract payments. The purpose of this study is to analyze the magnitude of the change order ratio value and identify the causes of change orders based on job classification in a residential construction project. This research uses a case study of residential houses in the Tangerang area. Based on the results of research and calculation, the total value of change order ratio is 2.15%, for change order ratio in addition 1.60%, and change order ratio in subtraction 0.55%. Architectural and structural work which is the category of work with the largest change order impact on this residential construction project is one of the causes due to changes in the design of the building which causes changes in the volume of work.
Abstrak
Industri konstruksi memegang peranan penting dalam pertumbuhan ekonomi khususnya dalam bidang infrastruktur dan perumahan. Namun industri ini dihadapkan pada berbagai tantangan, salah satunya change order yang dapat menghambat kelancaran pelaksanaan proyek. Change order adalah perubahan ketentuan dokumen kontrak asli yang dibuat secara tertulis dan didokumentasikan antara pemilik proyek dan pelaksana proyek. Perubahan tersebut dapat berdampak pada harga, jadwal proyek, dan jadwal untuk pembayaran kontrak. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis besarnya nilai change order ratio dan mengidentifikasi penyebab terjadinya change order berdasarkan klasifikasi pekerjaan pada suatu proyek konstruksi rumah tinggal. Penelitian ini menggunakan studi kasus rumah tinggal di wilayah Tangerang. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dan perhitungan, diperoleh nilai total change order ratio 2,15%, untuk change order ratio in addition 1,60%, dan change order ratio in subtraction 0,55%. Pekerjaan Arsitektur dan Struktur yang menjadi kategori pekerjaan dengan dampak change order terbesar pada proyek konstruksi rumah tinggal ini salah satu penyebabnya adalah karena adanya perubahan pada design bagunan yang menyebabkan adanya perubahan pada volume pekerjaan.
METODE KONSTRUKSI TOP-DOWN PADA PROYEK JAKARTA GELORA MARRIOTT HOTEL
Authors: Hendarin Budi , Anondho Basuki
Published: February 2025

Industri konstruksi di Indonesia, khususnya Jakarta, telah mengalami perkembangan pesat, terutama pada tahun 2024. Diproyeksikan tumbuh sebesar 4,5% pada tahun 2024. Namun, karena keterbatasan lahan untuk konstruksi, terutama di daerah yang dikelilingi oleh bangunan yang sudah ada, metode konstruksi top-down merupakan salah satu pilihan yang tepat untuk metode konstruksi. Pendekatan ini memungkinkan pembangunan struktur atas dan bawah secara simultan, sehingga meningkatkan efisiensi konstruksi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dan pengumpulan data melalui wawancara dengan staf di proyek Marriott Gelora sebagai studi kasus dalam penelitian ini, serta beberapa jurnal dan literatur yang relevan, makalah ini membahas tahapan metode konstruksi top-down seperti yang diterapkan dalam proyek Hotel Jakarta Marriott Gelora ini. Hasil penelitian menyoroti pertimbangan teknis utama serta tantangan yang dihadapi selama implementasi. Kesimpulannya menunjukkan bahwa urutan tahapan konstruksi yang diadopsi dalam proyek ini telah dioptimalkan baik dari segi waktu maupun biaya. Pendekatan topdown telah terbukti menjadi strategi efektif untuk proyek-proyek di daerah perkotaan yang padat penduduk, mengurangi risiko yang terkait dengan penggalian dan penurunan tanah seperti pada Proyek Hotel Marriott Gelora.
ANALISIS KERUSAKAN PERKERASAN LENTUR JALAN PADA RUAS JALAN GERBANG SEBENAQ – SIMPANG TBA MENGGUNAKAN METODE PCI
Authors: Long Flora Emiliana , Sandjaya Arif
Published: February 2025

The pavement condition assessment of Gerbang Sebenaq – Simpang TBA Road was conducted using the pavement condition index (PCI) method to evaluate the extent of road damage. The analysis revealed that the road condition is predominantly in the excellent category (69%), followed by very good (8%), good (4%), fair (8%), and poor (11%). Most of the road segments are in optimal condition, but the segments categorized as poor require special attention. Recommendations include routine maintenance for segments in excellent to good condition, minor rehabilitation for fair segments, and comprehensive repairs for segments classified as poor. This approach aims to preserve road quality and optimize pavement service life.
Abstrak
Penilaian kondisi perkerasan pada Ruas Jalan Gerbang Sebenaq – Simpang TBA dilakukan menggunakan metode pavement condition index (PCI) untuk mengevaluasi tingkat kerusakan jalan. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa kondisi jalan didominasi oleh kategori sempurna (69%), diikuti oleh sangat baik (8%), baik (4%), sedang (8%), dan buruk (11%). Mayoritas jalan berada dalam kondisi optimal, namun segmen dengan kategori buruk memerlukan perhatian khusus. Rekomendasi yang diberikan meliputi pemeliharaan rutin pada segmen yang masih dalam kondisi baik hingga sempurna, rehabilitasi ringan untuk kategori sedang, serta perbaikan menyeluruh pada segmen yang masuk kategori buruk. Pendekatan ini bertujuan untuk menjaga kualitas jalan dan mengoptimalkan umur layan perkerasan.
ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN MUTU BETON DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN DAN TIDAK MENGGUNAKAN ZAT ADITIF
Authors: Mulyadi Kevin William Putra , Sandjaya Arif
Published: February 2025

The typical time required for concrete to reach its full strength is 28 days. However, this period can be reduced by incorporating a chemical admixture into the concrete mix. One such admixture is Besmittel. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of adding Besmittel to concrete and to compare the quality of concrete with and without admixture. A specific amount of Besmittel is mixed into the concrete and used to create test specimens. The effect of Besmittel on the concrete is evaluated by testing specimens at 7, 14, and 28 days. The test specimens are cube-shaped, with dimensions of 15 x 15 cm. A total of six test specimens were prepared, consisting of three samples with the admixture and three without. The amount of admixture added to the concrete is 0.2%. The specimens are tested at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing.
Abstrak
Waktu standar yang dibutuhkan beton untuk mencapai kekuatan maksimum 100% adalah 28 hari. Salah satu metode untuk mempercepat proses ini adalah dengan menambahkan bahan kimia ke dalam campuran beton. Salah satu bahan tambahan yang digunakan untuk tujuan ini adalah Besmittel. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi pengaruh penambahan Besmittel pada beton serta membandingkan kualitas beton yang menggunakan aditif dengan yang tidak menggunakannya. Besmittel ditambahkan dalam jumlah tertentu ke dalam beton dan dijadikan sebagai benda uji. Pengaruh Besmittel pada beton dianalisis dengan menguji benda uji pada usia 7, 14, dan 28 hari. Benda uji beton berbentuk kubus dengan ukuran 15 x 15 cm. Sebanyak enam sampel benda uji disiapkan, terdiri dari tiga sampel yang diberi aditif dan tiga sampel yang tanpa aditif. Kadar Besmittel yang ditambahkan pada beton adalah 0,2%. Uji dilakukan pada beton dengan usia 7, 14, dan 28 hari.
Análise de geração de demanda para defensivos agrícolas na cultura da cana-de-açúcar
Authors: De Souza Lopes Gabriel , Bonfim de Carvalho Jaqueline , Bortoloto da Silva Dayane , Fernandes Ferreira Aparecido Camila
Published: February 2025

A geração de demanda permite que empresas se norteiem em estratégias para estimular o interesse pelos produtos ou serviços oferecidos, visando estimular clientes atuais ou potenciais proporcionando aumento nas vendas e lucratividade das empresas. O objetivo desse trabalho foi analisar um estudo de caso sobre o Plano de Geração de Demanda (PGD) para uma empresa do ramo de defensivos agrícolas utilizados no cultivo da cana-de-açúcar na região de Ribeirão Preto - SP. Foram analisadas as ações desenvolvidas por 9 Representantes Técnicos de Vendas (RTVs), durante os anos de 2022 e 2023. Entre as ações realizadas a que mais se destacou entre os RTVs foi a visita técnica. A Taxa de Reversão em Vendas pelas ações desenvolvidas pelos RTVs foram de 53%. Conclui-se que o PGD é um plano robusto, no qual essa taxa pode ser melhorada, visando principalmente aumentar/melhor as ações específicas realizadas para cada cliente.
Factors Influencing the Formation of Social Capital and the Eradication of Illicit Brews in Embu County
Authors: Raymond Njagi Kinyua  , Dr. Christopher Kiboro  , Dr. Caroline Shikuku
Published: February 2025

This study explores the factors influencing the formation of social capital and the eradication of illicit brews in Embu County in Kenya. The production and consumption of illicit brew undermines social cohesion and public health. Using a mixed-method approach, the research involved both qualitative and quantitative data collection, employing a cross-sectional survey design. Data was gathered from 370 respondents selected through stratified random sampling, along with Key Informant Interviews (KII) and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). The study revealed that social capital is significantly influenced by frequent neighborly interactions, participation in community groups, and shared values. Trust, reciprocity, and community engagement were identified as key motivators for forming social capital. The study concludes that strong social networks, coupled with trust and collective community action, are essential in combating illicit brew production and consumption. Based on the findings, the study recommends:

Strengthening community participation through local organizations to enhance trust and mutual support, and
Fostering partnerships between local authorities and community groups to create sustainable interventions against illicit brew activities.
Affability of Supervisory Communication Skills on Research Process Completion for Postgraduate Students: A Case of Northern Zone Universities, Tanzania
Authors: Evastela Kaponga  , Eugene Lyamtane  , Evans Ogoti
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the contribution of communication skills employed by research supervisors in enhancing the research process completion for postgraduate students in universities of the Northern zone of Tanzania. Guided by Katz's theory, developed by Robert Katz in 1955, the study employed a convergent design using the mixed-methods approach. The target population was 6 Directors of postgraduate studies, 14 heads of departments, 175 supervisors, 390 PhD continuing students, 635 masters continuing students, 84 PhD alumni, and 150 masters alumni, equivalent to 1454. The study sampled 214 respondents using probability and non-probability techniques. Questionnaires and interview guides used to collect data were validated by three research experts from the Faculty of Education at MWECAU. The Cronbach Alpha method and peer debriefing were employed to determine the reliability of questionnaires and interview guides, respectively. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics presented in tables, while qualitative data were transcribed, coded, and organized into themes and presented in the narrations and quotations. The findings revealed that research supervisors, through various forms of communication skills, enhanced the completion of postgraduate students' research process by providing immediate research feedback and organizing and conducting supervisory meetings. The study also revealed that some supervisors use polite language to communicate with postgraduate students on research matters and clarify complex concepts regarding students' research. The study concluded that though some supervisors did not give feedback immediately and some students ignored supervisors' corrections and were destructed by job responsibilities, communication skills employed by research supervisors have a good contribution in enhancing the completion of postgraduate students' research process. The study recommended that university administration should continuously strive to enhance student support in achieving their academic goals.
Educational Genocide: Examining the Implications of Mother Tongue Use on the Education of Mathematically Gifted Learners in South African Classrooms
Authors: Michael Kainose Mhlolo
Published: February 2025

In 2001, South Africa launched the National Strategy for Mathematics, Science & Technology [NSMSTE], where stakeholders concurred that skills for the 21st century would be achieved by identifying mathematically gifted youth and teaching them in English. In 2024, the same department proposed a Mother Tongue-Based Bilingual Education [MTBBE] where learners of the 21st century should be taught mathematics in the mother tongue. Although the two policies share the same vision of an African fit for the 21st century, they are contradictory in terms of language of instruction. This theory paper used an ethnomathematics template to analyze the claims made in the mother tongue and their implications on gifted education. South African researchers rarely focus on gifted learners who have the potential to become future scientists. Through an Obscure Features Hypothesis [OFH] as a theoretical lens, the paper raised two questions focusing on what seems obscure and what seems violent in the mother tongue proposal. This is important because idealistic educational reform initiatives tend to move through cycles that consolidate rather than dismantle the inherited but violent patterns of inequities. Innovative solutions start by noticing obscure features and then building a solution based on them; hence, the analysis identified four obscure features as follows:

Teaching mathematics in the 11 official languages promotes ethnic rather than global mathematics
It is flawed to claim that learners learn better in the mother tongue if the language is deficient in mathematical concepts
Once ethnic languages have been intellectualized, they take a new form different from the mother tongue
Intellectualization has inherent transgression as experts borrow from the same English they demonize.

In terms of violent mathematics, proponents of the mother tongue are:

Using violent emancipatory language to justify their proposal
Acting like glory hounds because they propose a solution for a problem in another department
Dragging mathematics into ethnic languages where the concepts are not present.
Although these features work against all learners in general, they have negative implications on efforts to nurture the mathematically gifted who have the potential to become Africans for the 21st
Influence of Government Funding Initiatives on Provision of Physical Infrastructure in Public Secondary Schools in Murang’a County, Kenya
Authors: Joseph Ndung'u Karanja  , Ibrahim Khatete  , Dr. Reuben Mutegi
Published: February 2025

Government investment and leadership provide long-lasting solutions to the huge challenges facing our societies. The government has a crucial role to play in physical infrastructure development in its ability to provide innovations in financing and technical solutions for these projects in schools. Despite Government funding initiatives, schools are still experiencing inadequate physical infrastructure. With the 100 percent transition rate, Murang'a County recorded the highest transition rate at 107.66 percent, having expected 25,313 students but ended up enrolling 26,720 students (MOE, 2023). This study, therefore, assessed the influence of government funding initiatives on the provision of physical infrastructure in public secondary schools. The study used a descriptive survey research design that focused on summarizing and describing the main features of the data set. The target population consisted of 310 school principals, 3720 teachers and 8 sub-county directors of Education. Data collection was done using questionnaires, observation and interview schedules. Stratified sampling was employed to ensure representation of all categories of public secondary schools. From the selected schools, principals and teachers were respondents in this study, while data analysis was done using descriptive statistics in regard to the adequacy of physical infrastructure funding. The national government funding initiatives have provided adequate physical infrastructure compared to other funding models. Therefore, with regard to the findings, the majority (70.9%) of the respondents agreed that government funding had supported the provision of physical infrastructure, while a minority (29.1%) of the respondents disagreed that government funding had supported the provision of infrastructure in public secondary schools in Murang'a County. The study established that the main sources of funding from the national government include CDF, MIF, LATIF and ESP. The study established that funding initiatives from the government had a positive correlation with the provision of physical infrastructure in public secondary schools in Murang'a County.
Influence of Alumni Funding Initiatives on Provision of Physical Infrastructure in Public Secondary Schools in Murang’a County, Kenya
Authors: Joseph Ndung'u Karanja  , Dr. Reuben Mutegi  , Dr.  Ibrahim Khatete
Published: February 2025

Government investment and leadership provide long-term solutions to the significant challenges facing society. However, in the past two to three decades, it has become evident that private participation can leverage market mechanisms to improve access to education. Development partners play a crucial role in addressing physical infrastructure needs by offering innovative financing and technical solutions for school projects. Despite the efforts of both the government and development partners, schools still face a shortage of adequate infrastructure. In Kenya, it is evident that funding initiatives from both the government and development partners have not fully addressed these challenges. After introducing a 100 percent transition rate, Murang'a County (the year 2023) reported a 107.66 percent transition rate, which pressured the already existing infrastructure. This study assessed the influence of alumni funding initiatives on the provision of physical infrastructure in public secondary schools. Specifically, it examined the funding practices of the alumni associations. Using a descriptive survey research design, the study focused on summarizing and describing key features of the data set. The target population included 310 school principals, 3,720 teachers, and 8 sub-county directors of education. Data was collected through questionnaires, observations, and interviews, with stratified sampling ensuring representation across different types of public secondary schools. Principals and teachers were the main respondents. The analysis, based on descriptive statistics, revealed that alumni funding was less effective in providing infrastructure than other models. Alumni funding, however, was found to have a limited impact, with 84.8 percent of respondents disagreeing that alumni contributed significantly to infrastructure development and only 15.6 percent agreeing. Overall, the study found a positive correlation between funding from alumni and the provision of physical infrastructure in public secondary schools in Murang'a County. It is, therefore, strategic for secondary schools to establish and maintain good relations with alumni by inviting them to make decisions, build networks, and develop infrastructure as an overall advancement of any public school.
Improving Mathematics Tutors’ Practices: The NTECF Policy Perspectives
Authors: Dookurong Dilor Isaiah
Published: February 2025

The role of mathematics tutors is crucial for students' mathematical understanding. This study aimed to enhance the practices of mathematics tutors in Ghana's Colleges of Education using a sequential explanatory research design and mixed-method analysis. A sample of 50 tutors was selected from various Colleges using purposive and systematic random sampling. Data was gathered through open-ended and Likert scale questionnaires and analyzed using thematic coding in Excel and regression analysis in SPSS. Findings revealed that teaching experience, professional development, and pedagogical training significantly boosted tutor effectiveness. However, there is a need for improvement. The study recommended workshops and in-service training to elevate the quality of mathematics education.
Influence of Intelligence Data Utilization in Crime Prevention in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Authors: Jackline Lanoi Saruni
Published: February 2025

Many jurisdictions across the globe are increasingly implementing intelligence management as a strategy for crime prevention. The study thus sought to determine the degree to which intelligence data utilization facilitates crime prevention in Nairobi City County. The Routine Activities Theory served as a guide for the investigation. The study population consisted of 556 criminal investigations officers (CIOs) from all Nairobi County sub-counties as well as sub-county criminal investigations heads, and a descriptive survey research technique was used. The study used the Yamane formula to calculate a sample size of 247 criminal investigations officers and conducted a census of all CIO sub-county heads. In order to calculate the number of officers in each sub-county whereby, stratified random sampling was utilized. Officers chosen for the study were given semi-structured questionnaires, and data was gathered through personal interviews with CIO sub-county heads. The Kiambu sub-county police division served as the site of the pilot research. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The correlation analysis results revealed that there was a positive and a strong significant association between intelligence data utilization and crime prevention (r=0.669, p=0.000<0.05). The hypothesis test results show that intelligence data utilization influences crime prevention (β = 0.619, ρ = 0.000< 0.05). The study concludes that intelligence data utilization significantly and powerfully affects crime prevention in Nairobi City County. However, Nairobi City County's current use of intelligence data for crime prevention is severely hampered by a number of significant factors. Officers are unable to map offenders and crime scenes using predictive data or do effective crime diagnostics because they lack the necessary training in interpreting intelligence data. The study recommends that the National Government's Ministry of Interior & Coordination adopt and use state-of-the-art data analytics technologies, like predictive analytics, to increase the effectiveness of employing intelligence data for crime prevention.
Implementing Configuration Management Database in the Age of AI Copilot: A Quantitative Research
Authors: Fredrick Dande  , Dr. Xiaolong Li  , Dr. Musibau A. Shofoluwe  , Dr. Alister McLeod
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) features embedded in IT Service Management (ITSM) platforms are applications that use AI to enhance and add robust ITSM capabilities through features like Chatbots, workflows and intelligent reporting. AI-based ITSM systems are destined to change the ways in which the IT service delivery experience, processes, and outcomes are measured. The possibility of using AI Copilot to drive CMDB adoption within several ITIL processes has attracted interest amongst most of the top ITSM platform vendors.
Our investigation of the various platform offerings discovered that some major ITSM platform vendors have fully adopted and integrated AI Copilot into their configuration management module offerings while others are still doing things the old way.
We outline instances of how enterprises can utilize the CMDB as a driver for digital transformation projects. We also propose CMDB implementation steps and best practices that may be helpful in realizing a successful configuration management process implementation.
The paper aims to enhance the available information on CMDB implementation as a core ITIL process in the Age of AI Copilot. This is achieved by providing a comprehensive analysis of existing data and linking CMDB ITSM platform offerings with their AI Copilot integrations where applicable. Additionally, we propose CMDB implementation steps and best practices that can be utilized across many industries while implementing the CMDB.
Financial Inclusion and Poverty Reduction in Nigeria: The Role of Digital Financial Services (2010–2021)
Authors: Maryam Mohammed Ndume
Published: February 2025

The strategic contributions of digital financial services in alleviating poverty and scaling financial inclusion are a profound phenomenon involving numerous advantages ranging from a constantly evolving economy. This paper examines the role of digital financial services on financial inclusion and poverty reduction in Nigeria. The study employed descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and ordinary least square regression to draw inferences. Adopting the Automated teller machine, point of sale, Interest transfers and mobile money operator as dimensions of digital financial services, which is the independent variable, ordinary least squares were used to measure its role in poverty reduction as the dependent variable. Findings revealed that the usage of digital financial services does not suffice to influence poverty reduction in Nigeria, but adopting and adapting to digital financial services is pivotal to the digitalization of the financial system here in Nigeria. Conclusively, this research establishes the requirements for financial inclusion and the use and exploitation of the vast potential and significant role that digital financial services play in the alleviation of poverty for economic development.
Contribution of Parental Involvement Strategy Used by the Heads of Public Secondary Schools for Students’ Character Formation in Arusha Region, Tanzania
Authors: Rajarethinam Sebastian Williams  , Peter N. Siamoo  , Eugene Lyamtane
Published: February 2025

The study investigated the contribution of parental involvement as a strategy used by heads of public secondary schools for students' character formation (SCF) in Arusha, Tanzania. This study employed a parallel-convergent design of a mixed-methods approach using a single research question and hypothesis.  It involved probability and non-probability sampling techniques, including 177 teachers, 249 parents, 360 students, and 18 heads of schools from 18 selected secondary schools. Data was collected through questionnaires for teachers, parents, and students and interviews with the heads of schools. The instruments were validated, and the reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach's Alpha for Likert scale items. For qualitative data, reliability was ensured through peer review and triangulation. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as mean scores, frequencies, and percentages and presented in tables and figures. Qualitative data were analysed through transcription and contextual analysis. The study found that while academic communication with parents was strong, communication regarding character formation needed improvement. Moreover, no significant relationship was found when the hypothesis was examined using the Pearson product-moment correlation at a significance level of 0.05.  In conclusion, effective implementation of parental involvement strategy positively influenced students' character formation but required enhancements to achieve their full potential. The study recommended regular feedback mechanisms to improve the strategy and highlighted the essential role of parental involvement in shaping students' character and cultural values.
Why Principles of Community Development Should Be Paramount
Authors: Kuol John Mabior Amol
Published: February 2025

In any community, whether rural or urban, certain principles are essential for its advancement. According to the United Nations, a principle is an accepted rule of action, a fundamental primary or general law from which policies, decisions, and actions are derived (Rebecca Waweru, 2015). Community development, as defined by the United Nations, is "a process where community members come together to take collective action and generate solutions to common problems." This action, typically practised by civic leaders and activists, encourages people's participation to improve the community's standard of living. This paper aims to highlight the rights that should be observed in the community to abide by these principles and ensure inclusive participation. Successful community development leads to further success in economic development (Rhonda & Robert H., 2009).
In South Sudan, applying and observing these principles of community development requires attention to the protection (negative sense) and promotion (positive sense) of all human rights. This fosters democratization, involving all stakeholders in developmental projects.
Influence of Instructional Supervision Methods on Curriculum Implementation in Public Secondary Schools in Maara Sub-County, Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
Authors: Kithinji Emma Njoki  , Joshua Gichaba Manduku
Published: February 2025

Curriculum implementation lays the foundation for successful learning outcomes. School principals play a critical role in ensuring schools have sufficient resources and guiding teachers to implement curriculum. This study was designed to determine the influence of instructional supervision methods on curriculum implementation in public secondary schools in Maara Sub-county, Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the Symbolic Interactionism Theory. The study employed a correlational research design. The study was conducted in Maara Sub County, Tharaka Nithi County. The target population was 52 principals and 776 teachers in public secondary schools in Maara Sub County, Tharaka Nithi County. Purposive, stratified and systematic sampling was used to obtain 16 principals and 264 teachers to obtain a sample size of 280 respondents. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides. The researcher used SPSS version 28 and interpreted it through descriptive statistics, including frequencies, and presented using tables. The Pearson correlation coefficient was utilized to determine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The findings of the study revealed a positive correlation between instruction supervision methods and curriculum implementation (Pearson's r = 0.201, p = 0.011). The study recommended that principals should increase the frequency of instructional supervision activities, including monitoring the timely preparation of work schemes, checking lesson plans, and conducting classroom observations to promote curriculum implementation.
Teachers’ Perception of Social Factors Influencing Academic Performance in Public Primary Schools in Hamisi Sub County, Kenya
Authors: Dr. Samuel N. Maragia  , Ayodi Peter Isabwa
Published: February 2025

The study investigated teachers' perception of social factors influencing academic performance of pupils in public primary schools in Hamisi Sub-County, Kenya. A descriptive survey design was used, while simple random sampling was used to get a sample size of 275 pupils and 110 teachers from 36 schools. Data was collected using interview schedules and questionnaires. Pearson's Correlation test was conducted to determine the significance of linear correlations between pupils' academic performance and perceived social factors (r>0.5). The study findings revealed that there was a strong positive correlation between perceived social factors affecting learners and their academic performance. Therefore, teachers' perceived social factors influence pupils' academic performance. It is hoped that the findings of the study may help teachers, the Ministry of Education, and curriculum developers understand the effects of social factors on pupils' academic performance. The study recommends that guidance and counselling programs be intensified and more staff and resources be allocated to guiding and counselling programs in schools.