bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Investigation of the Relationship of ICT Access of Principals and ICT integration in Management Public Secondary Schools in Kenya
Authors: Chepkonga Susan
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to find out whether there exists a relationship between ICT access of principals and ICT integration in management of public secondary schools in Kenya. Descriptive survey design was used in Nairobi County where quantitative and qualitative research strategies were applied for the collection of data using questionnaires. The target population comprised of 75 secondary schools in Nairobi County at the time of data collection. Simple Random sampling was used to select the public secondary schools with 7(10%) principals participating in the pilot study. Data collected by questionnaires from 68 principals out of 75 principals were analyzed using Pearson’s chi square with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme. The findings of the analysis of data revealed that there was a significant relationship between the principals’ educational level and ICT integration in management of public secondary schools in Kenya. Out of this study recommendations were made to the county government and secondary schools in Nairobi County and Kenya in general.
Holiday Arrangements of Domestic Tourists in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Serinkan Celaleddin , Kızı Mırzagül Baktıbek
Published: February 2021

In our days, just as tourism industry has the same importance in world economy as oil and automobile industry, tourism sector also has a good potential for Kyrgyzstan. However, all tourism activities are for foreign tourists coming to our country, so domestic tourism and domestic tourists are ignored. For the development of the tourism sector in every respect, both international and domestic tourists holiday arrangements must be taken into account. In order to identify holiday arrangements of the country's domestic tourists and the types of holiday they prefer and to determine the famous destinations of domestic tourists, 100 domestic tourists were chosen by random selection method for a questionnaire.
Bank And Non-Bank Financial Institutions And The Development Of The Nigerian Economy
Authors: Okere Peter A , Michael Ndugbu , Ojiegbe J.N , Uzowuru Barr. Lawrence
Published: February 2021

The focus of this study was on the impact of bank and non-bank financial institutions on the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. In an attempt to achieve the objectives of the research, data for the period 1992 to 2012 were collected from the CBN publications. Hypotheses were also formulated. The data collected were analysed using the E-views econometric software under the ordinary least square (OLS) regression analysis. The study as confirmed by the result of the joint test revealed that the financial institutions play prominent role on the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. However, it was further revealed that individual contributions of the explanatory variables varied. For example, the Deposit Money Banks were revealed to have impacted very insignificantly to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. This may not be unconnected with the unwholesome practices in the banking sector such as granting of loans/advances to “ghost” applicants, diversion of loans and advances granted, high incidence of moral hazards. In view of the above, it is recommended among others that government should come up with lending policies that will not only reduce diversions of bank loans/advances but will deter persons involved in such sharp practices. Such loans and advances which must be on long-term basis should be extended to needy investors in the real sector. Consumer loans and also loans and advances for commerce do not play prominent role in the growth and development of the economy and thus should be discouraged. The current and on-going reforms in the financial sector should be encouraged and maintained.
English Language Teaching and Intercultural Communication Competence
Authors: Zhang Xiaochi , ZHANG Jinjing
Published: February 2021

This article discusses about the relationship between linguistic competence and intercultural communication competence, and then about the functions of English language teaching in improving students’ intercultural communication competence. Finally, it explores how to develop English language learners’ intercultural communication competence in English language teaching and gives some useful suggestions, so as to really realize the final objective of English language teaching.
Teaching Big Data by Three Levels of Projects
Authors: Yang Jianjun , Shen Ju
Published: February 2021

“Big Data” is a new topic and it is very hot nowadays. However, it is difficult to teach Big Data effectively by regular lecture. In this paper, we present a unique way to teach students Big Data by developing three levels of projects from easy to difficult. The three levels projects are initializing project, designing project, and comprehensive projects. They are developed to involve students in Big Data, train students’ skills to analyze concrete problems of Big Data, and develop students’ creative abilities and their abilities to solve real setting problems.
Deconstrution Of Dichotomies In Toni Morrisonâ€™s Paradise
Authors: Na Zeng
Published: February 2021

In her 1998 novel Paradise, Morrison plays with her reader’s desire in terms of gender, race and religion where binary oppositions can be easily constructed in the process of reading. However, as this paper seeks to prove, all these dichotomies are ostensible and false. It is not Morrison’s intention to construct a disparate paradise as opposed to all-black patriarchy Ruby with its rigid Christian religion. It is Morrison’s intention to invite the readers into the program of deconstructing the dangers of this utopian desire. As the present paper finds out what Morrison really endeavors to critique is dichotomy itself. In the progress of the novel, we can see that simple dichotomies of race, of gender, and of religion are undermined, and set interpretations are shattered.
Development and Validation of a Hybrid Active Learning Strategy for Teaching Direct Current Electricity Concepts for Secondary Schools in Nigeria
Authors: Ofodile Uche Connie , Mankilik Mangut
Published: February 2021

The study was carried out to develop and validate a Hybrid Active Learning Strategy (HALS) for teaching direct current electricity concepts (DCEC) in physics for secondary schools in Nigeria. The relevant literature reviewed revealed that the inappropriate use of relevant teaching strategies and the non-use of modern innovative technology in the teaching of physics result in lack of better understanding of concepts and hence, the poor performance of students in physics. In view of this, the HALS package which is a combination of active learning strategies including computer simulation was developed to help teachers to be more effective and students to understand DCEC concepts better. The developmental platform for the package is Microsoft visual basic 6. Other applications used during the design process include Adobe (macromedia) Director, Flash 8, Fireworks and Flash Player for animation, construction and display. The validation of HALS Package was done applying: subject content validation, computer expert validation, educational technology expert validation, personalized validation and group validation. The HALS package is generally perceived as very educative, comprehensive, adequate, relevant, user friendly and loaded with a lot of ingenuity.
Success is to invest in professional development
Authors: Valgas Tarcísio Borba , Paula Magda de
Published: February 2021

Currently the labor market is lacking in companies that have well-defined career paths to attract and retain its professionals. This article aims to present the benefits generated by the investment in professional development, both for company and for its employees. The successful example here presented as good practice is the program adopted by the company Sotreq S / A, called TDR - Training, Development and Recognition.
Structure Theorems of Specker Groups (I)
Authors: Lin Shinemin
Published: February 2021

Specker groups are subgroups of group of all finite values sequences of integers. Fuchs ([5]) developed many theorems about Specker groups. Here I want to use lattice-ordered group approach to develop the lateral completion of Specker groups and Specker spaces. The main goals of this research paper are to prove theorem 2.9 and corollary 2.10.
In-Game Minecraft Quests for Elementary Education
Authors: Mail Tony Morelli
Published: February 2021

As elementary school students become more tech-savvy, they may expect more out of an education presentation. This paper presents methods to modify a popular game, Minecraft, to include educational elements. Two specific modifications demonstrating math concepts were completed and shown to adults. Surveys indicate that Minecraft playing adults feel the additional elements included in these modifications could be beneficial to students.
Push Pull Pedagogy: 15 Strategies for Saudi Student Success at the University Level
Authors: Garfield Alan , Garfield Phyllis
Published: February 2021

One challenge that instructors face is how to design and teach a course so the material engages students' prior knowledge and their skills, whether the intent is to examine that knowledge, build on it or use it for self-reflection. Basically, when students bring diverse backgrounds, course design and teaching is particularly challenging. By invoking various strategies to address student differences can provide valuable clarity for both students and instructors while creating vibrant educational classroom conversations.This paper provides an overview of strategies for Saudi student success at the university/3rd level based upon discussions, observations and practices instituted at the University of Dubuque in Dubuque, Iowa. Key to these 15 strategies are Hofstede’s cross-cultural theories from 2001, often cited and recently amended, and the application of author Phyllis Garfield’s thesis on short-term study and cultural competence.
NITROGEN FORMS IN THREE KENYAN SOILS ANDOSOLS, LUVISOLS AND FERRALSOLS
Authors: Karuku George Njomo , Mochoge Benson O
Published: February 2021

The nitrogen cycle in soil is an integral part of the overall cycle of N in nature. The primary source of N is the atmosphere where the strongly bonded gas molecule N is predominately gas (78.08%). Total N content in soils ranges from 0.02% in the subsoil and more than 2.5% in peats; ploughed layers of most cultivated soils contain between 0.06 and 0.5%. The amount present in each case is, however determined by climate, type of vegetation, topography, parent material and activities of man. Over 95% of TN in surface soils is organically bound while the portion of non-exchangeable N is high in subsurface soil. Knowledge concerning the nature of organic N in soils is based on studies involving identification and estimation of N forms released by treatment with hot acids. Organic N forms were determined in three soils by acid hydrolysis. The total hydrolysable organic N for the 0-15 and 15-30 cm layers were 57.2 and 59.3% for Gituamba andosols; 56.9 and 61.9 for Kitale ferralsols; 39.0 and 42.1% for Katumani luvisols, respectively. Amide N ranged from 11.6 to 21.4% of total N; Hexosamine from 5.2 to 10.1% and Amino acid N from 26.2 to 37.1 %. Amino acid N therefore formed the highest portion followed by Amide N of the hydrolysable organic N.
Classroom Pedagogy and the Accomodation of Students’ Cultural Diversity
Authors: HEERALAL PREM JOTHAM HEERALAL , Muchenje Francis
Published: February 2021

The study explored teachers’ views on classroom pedagogy and the accommodation of cultural diversity in primary schools in Zimbabwe. The study was carried out in five selected primary schools in Chegutu district. Qualitative research was selected as the research method with phenomenology as the research design. The sample comprised twenty teachers (10 male and 10 female) selected through purposive sampling technique. Data gathering instruments consisted of unstructured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study found out that teachers accommodate cultural diversity in a number of ways. Teaching methods employed in the classroom accommodate all learners in terms of varying ability levels. In the teaching of the languages particularly Shona cultural diversity is catered for through providing pupils with equivalent terms in different dialects as well as examples. The teaching of religious and moral education was seen as an area where cultural diversity is addressed through the adoption of a multifaith approach. Teachers were also found to be sensitive to pupils’ diverse cultural backgrounds through utilisation of conducive teacher pupil classroom interaction. The study recommends that accommodation of cultural diversity should transcend all subjects in the primary school curriculum. Teachers need to be sensitised on the ideals of multicultural education through the hosting of seminars and workshops. Book publishers should make an effort to accommodate cultural diversity through provision of examples from a variety of cultures. There is need for teachers to carry out adequate research on pupils backgrounds so as to accommodate all pupils.
Integrating Assessment with Instruction: Science Teachers Practice at East Gojjam Preparatory Schools, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Dessie Askalemariam Adamu , HEERALAL PREM JOTHAM HEERALAL
Published: February 2021

This study was aimed at investigating science teachers’ practice of integrating assessment within their daily instruction to improve students’ learning at East Gojjam Preparatory schools, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed to gather the data. The subjects of the study were all of science teachers in the randomly selected schools. From 186 science teachers, 153 of them filled the questionnaire. Moreover, 8 purposively selected teachers were included in the interview and observation sessions. To analyze the data collected through questionnaire, frequency, percentage and mean were used. For the qualitative data content analysis was used. The results of the quantitative and qualitative data showed that the practice of integrating various assessment tools for the sake of learning in the selected schools was very low. Most science teachers administered tests, home works, assignments, and class works at the end of the lesson to consolidate what they taught and to collect marks. Most teachers less likely use different assessment for learning strategies as a part of their instruction to assess higher order thinking and to collect evidence to identify learning gap for future learning. Such activities have negative implication on the quality of science education. Thus, school administrators, teachers, and researchers should do more on the area to effectively implement formative assessment to improve students’ learning.
Gender Differences in the Perception of the Levels and Potential Effects of Violence in Popular Music
Authors: Ochola Elizabeth Auma
Published: February 2021

The effect of popular music on the behavior and emotions of youth is of significant concern to policy makers in government and the general public. Lyrics have become more explicit in their references to drugs, sex, and violence over the years. Notably, rap music is characterized by sexually explicit language in its lyrics as well as messages of violence, racism, drugs, homophobia, and hatred toward women. These depictions of violence and deviance are likely to have negative influence on the behavior and moral values of the youth who listen to such music with far reaching impact of risky behavior in future. Therefore, this study was interested in uncovering the type of the popular music that Kenyan youth listen to; the type of violent and deviant information contained in such popular music and the subsequent effect of these violent and deviant messages on their attitude and behavior. The study targeted male and female undergraduate students from the University of Nairobi. A sample of 200 undergraduate students (100 male and 100 female) was drawn using multistage sampling procedures and systematic random sampling. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire with both structured and open-ended questions.Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics where frequency, percentages and measures of central tendency were used. Inferential statistics (chi-test) were used to test the effect of popular music on attitude and behavior of youth in Kenya.The study confirmed gender difference in the attitude towards popular music among the youth with female students having negative attitude while their male counterparts had a more favorable attitude towards popular music. It was also established that increasing exposure to popular music had detrimental effects including; increased vulnerability to drug and substance abuse, violence, crime, illicit sexual behavior, disease burden and loss of moral values. The study concludes that popular music was likely to have profound immediate and long term negative effects to the attitude and behavior of youth in Kenya. Their lyrical content was found to be offensive to both male and female but with bias against women and therefore likely to promote aggressive and violent behaviors towards women.
Mathematics Play, Problem Solving, and Perseverence
Authors: Poehl Terrie T.
Published: February 2021

The research presented in this article focuses on the effect of student use of problem solving apps on a tablet PC either prior to (motivation) or immediately after (reward) a classroom assessment. The classroom teacher developed the assessment. Continued practice throughout the school year is measured by collecting d ata on benchmark testing completed by fifth grade students in the fall, winter, and spring administrations.
The team of the researcher and classroom teacher wanted to study the effect of using tablet computers in the fourth and fifth grade classrooms. Spec ifically, they wanted the answer to “Does using problem solving apps either as a motivator or reward help students perform differently on classroom assessments and high stakes tests?” This is an important question to answer for student development and the yearly evaluation of the classroom teacher.The two variable groups for the analysis includes the Pretest scaled score and the Posttest scaled score. The purpose of this analysis was to determine if using the problem solving apps helped the students throug hout the year with the three administrations of the benchmark testing. Scores for the fall administration represent the Pretest score (PreScale) and the Posttest score (PostScale) were gathered using the spring administration.Descriptive statistics on the two variables show that the posttest score has a much larger standard deviation. However, the difference does not show it as statistically significantly different. The pairedt test showed a calculated test statistic value of 0.000. The use of p=0.05 indi cates a rejection of the null hypothesis.The paired sample correlation values concurred with a statistically significantly difference. The correlation value of 0.691 indicates a significance of probability at 0.000. Since the variable change is a positive correlation value, then it is a direct correlation. The correlation value indicates a strong relationship between the variables.
Removal of wastes and Re-use of Treated water from Maturation Waste Stabilization Ponds (MWSPs)
Authors: TARIMO IRENE AURELIA
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the results from a study conducted in Tanzania to develop a dynamic mathematical model, tool for the environmental pollution control. This led to Modelling Nitrogen Transformation, Removal and Re-use of Treated water from Maturation Ponds for agriculture and agriculture. The study was conducted at the wastewater treatment system located in Mabogini Moshi in Kilimanjaro Region, North Eastern Tanzania.
management of scientific research projects in local universities
Authors: Fangzheng Li , Zhang Xiaoyun
Published: February 2021

With the increasing development of science and technology, and state and local governments paying more attention to the power of science and technology, many local universities are faced with a series of innovative management environment, such as, the growing amount of scientific research projects substantially, the improving level, the wide areas involved, which put forward some new requests in projects management for local universities. According to this question ,the scientific research projects management in local universities are ought to make the thinking correct, the essential captured , the supervision strengthen, the distinguishing feature stand out .And local universities should, in the links of research project application, project initation, project inspection, projiect accepting and the use of funds strengthen the management, improving the quality projects management, enhancing the comprehensive strength of scientific research.
SCHOOL LEADERSHIP FROM THE OPINION OF HIGHER EDUCATION TEACHERS
Authors: Peniche Rubi Surema , Ramón Cristóbal Crescencio , Heredia Norma Graciella
Published: February 2021

Educational leadership has been studied over a long period of time; It has determined characteristics, models, strategies to develop and implement an appropriate leadership; The profits of an organization have been guaranteed if a leadership is properly developed, however, the educational leadership is not deepened as broad with a more naturalistic view and seen from the opinion of teachers. A study was conducted under the qualitative approach, specifically a case study at a university in southeast Mexico. Semi-structured interviews, focus groups, observations and content analysis were used. In this study aims to establish the opinions that teachers have about what should be a school leader, as well as their feelings in the daily work. It seems that teachers feel that humility and good treatment, as well as awareness towards others makes a leader successful and accepted in a school organization.
Online Learning – Learning Styles in a Virtual World Addressing student learning styles in a virtual class focusing on the ability to enhance the learning experience for students in the online learning environment
Authors: Kilcoyne Margaret , Habig William Phil
Published: February 2021

Distance learning is growing at an increasing rate, and instructors of online courses need to be aware of the significance of online courses in the overall learning environment and how the growth of online programs provides increasing educational access to all learners. Online course providers face major challenges in determining the most effective method for constructing and delivering their online course materials. These challenges can be difficult to overcome and can lead to course variation and inconsistency that may have a negative effect on the overall learning experience for the distance learner. Exploring and understanding different methodologies for effectively constructing an online course can help lead to creating a successful learning experience for learners.This paper provides a model for structuring the course materials so that students’ learning styles are met. Examples of materials, assignments, projects, and course delivery modes are provided.
When the Ageing Society “E ncounter s the Information Society
Authors: Huang Chih-Kun , Lee Pai-Lin
Published: February 2021

Objective: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) suggested that older people having the capacity to use Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a vital indicator of active aging. This study aimed to explore the scope and the worries of Internet risks for elderly people. Method: The Delphi method and survey questionnaires were used in this study. Using the Delphi method, 15 experts were invited to write in three rounds of correspondence and reach an agreement on the scope of Internet risks for the elderly. A total of 1,021 respondents aged over 55 completed questionnaires. Results: The results revealed: (1) Internet risks for the elderly included four dimensions: financial, performance, psychosocial, and physical. (2) The elderly tend to worry about Internet risks, and are most worried about financial risks, followed by physical risks. (3) The seniors with older age, low levels of education, less than one year of Internet experience, and no online shopping experience are the most fearful of Internet risks. Conclusion: We suggest that Internet risk coping strategies is helpful for reducing internet fear, and should be incorporated into the computer curriculum for the old internet beginner, so that they can enjoy the Internet and aging actively.
Cultural diversity of Chut Ethnic minority in Vietnam in front of the threats of the fades
Authors: Trinh Ngoc Thi Kim
Published: February 2021

Chut is official name of special ethnic community in Viet Nam, who consists of 5 local groups: May,Sach, Ruc, A Rem and Ma Lieng in the end of 1973 year. They are li ving in the western border of central provinces Quang Binh and Ha Tinh of Viet Nam. These minorities groups left their wild life in the high mountains very late in comparison with the other ethnic groups in Viet Nam. In the years 60 of Century XX, the Chut was considered as the secluded group and in that time they have brought to return to concentrated village. Previously, due to war, disease and extremly difficult economical life, the population of ethnic minority Chut have declined much. So the internatio nal and Vietnamese scholars had worry about their danger of extinction. Nowadays, ethnic Chut is belonging to 16 smallest ethnic groups in Viet Nam and standing in 42 orders in the List of 54 Vietnamese ethnic minorities. The most important of Chut minorit y is that, in their language still preserved lots of elements of proto Viet Muong as the ancient Vietnamese language. So Vietnamese scholars call “Chut minority as National live museum in Viet Nam” and these ethnic groups have a huge significance for inter national and Vietnamese scholars to study the history of Vietnamese Nation and language, also. Vietnamese Government and the whole community are trying to support Chut ethnic minority in development and preservation their original culture. But nowadays, in the process of integration with other ethnic groups living in central provinces of Vietnam, while the Chut population is developing sustainable, but the ancient features of Chut's traditional culture are standing in front of the risk of fades. Our researc h paper will indicate the current situation of cultural diversity of Chut ethnic minority and the challenges in their cultural preservation.
Removal of Cr (III) Ions from Wastewater using Sawdust and Rice Husk Biochar Pyrolyzed at Low Temperature
Authors: Gunatilake Sunethra Kanthi
Published: February 2021

Sorption capacity of two different biochar (saw dust and rice straw) was evaluated in the recovery of chromium from wastewater. The optimum pH was 5-7 for recovery of Cr(III). Optimum yield was received after 1 hour contacting time with an adsorbent dose of 1 g/L and initial concentration was ∼20 mg/L. Cr(III) ions were transported to biochar surface through adsorption and intra-particle diffusion process. Langmuir and Freundlich kinetic parameters indicated that the affinity of the sorbent towards the uptake of Cr(III) ions and adsorptions were favorable. According to FTIR analysis of Cr(III) ions bound to active sites either electrostatic attraction or complexation mechanism. These results indicated that carbonyl, hydroxyl, amine and halides are the main adsorption sites in saw dust and rice straw biochar and these functional groups complexes with Cr(III) ions in the aqueous solution and changed the chemical environment of the functional groups in the biochar.
ANALYSIS OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF SHADOW BANKING SYSTEM TO THE ECONOMIC GROWTH OF WAEMU COUNTRIES
Authors: Mbaye Mamadou
Published: February 2021

The goal of this article is to analyze the contribution of shadow banking system to the economic growth of WAEMU countries. The study focuses on the specific case of Senegal. Shadow banking is a market of multiform capital exchanges and a socialization of investment risks. Its emergence is an indicator of economic maturity which proves the actors care about efficient allotment of financial resources and reflects a widespread change in the perception of the asymmetry linked to funding.

Our theoretical as well as empirical research work enabled us to assess the impact of a virtually distant phenomenon on the growth for our still fragile developing countries. The results of the model show us that shadow banking influences positively economic growth because the elasticity of non-banking public funding obtained by using a coefficient of  is positive (  >0). The elasticity reflects the behavior of the growth following a variation of up to 1% of non-banking public funding. That corroborates the existence of a strong complementary relationship between these two variables. Therefore, shadow banking is a potentiality for financing and even a key instrument for fundraising and therefore promotes economic growth.
Research on Evaluation of the Under-achievers in College English Learning
Authors: Jing Zhang
Published: February 2021

Evaluation plays a significant part in the instruction and learning. In the course of education’sdevelopment, a great number of evaluation methods have already been proposed by scholars. However, most of them always focus on the whole evaluation system or those researches are only suitable for the majority of students. And studies relevant to the evaluation method of the under achievers in the foreign language learning are very little. This paper is to overview evaluation of language learning and study the evaluation which is academically and psychologically beneficial to under achievers’ College E nglish learning.
Handover Parameter Optimisation of a Cellular Network The Kenyan Case
Authors: NYAMBATI EMILY TERESA , Oduol Vitalice K.
Published: February 2021

Handover, also known as Handoff is a key procedure that ensures that the cellular users move freely through the network while still being connected and being offered quality services. It is an event taking place whenever a mobile node moves from one wireless cell to another, abandoning the connection with the first base station and getting attached to the second one.  Since its success rate is a key indicator of user satisfaction, it is vital that this procedure happens as fast and as seamlessly as possible.

This paper aims to optimize the handover decision process of a cellular radio network for an in-vehicle mobile station.

This is first by determining the optimal handover parameters then developing an algorithm that determines the best time to handover using the fuzzy logic system.
IMPLEMENTING MATHEMATICS TEACHING REFORM
Authors: Lu Lianfang
Published: February 2021

This study describes the implementation of teaching reform in secondary mathematics classrooms in a rural poverty school in southwest China where a school-wide teaching experiment took place. Classroom teaching and learning practices are primarily concerned with classroom organizations, interactions and social norms. The results indicate that a collective learning approach was taken in the classroom reform, in which mathematical communications, understanding and engagement of students in learning were promoted. However, there was a lack of diversity of thinking and arguments on solving problems among different level students, which implies the mathematical teaching still focuses on acquiring knowledge over generating knowledge.
Use Of Traditional Knowledge By Paddy Farming Communities Of Mahaulpatha In Polonnaruwa District In Sri Lanka
Authors: KWG Rekha Nianthi , LPHK Madhushani
Published: February 2021

Traditional Knowledge (TK) also referred to as indigenous knowledge (IK) or local knowledge. During the ancient times, farmers practiced environment-friendly cultivation methods using their TK. In the past when the technology was not developed, TK was used effectively for agricultural activities in Sri Lanka. They acquired the TK by observing the natural phenomena, through their experiences and inheritance. The main objective of this study was to examine the use of traditional knowledge by paddy farming communities. How they used their traditional knowledge for land preparation, cultivation and harvesting? How they observed the weather and climate phenomena for their paddy cultivation, preparation, and harvesting?  The primary and secondary data were used for this study. A questionnaire survey, interviews, observations and photographing are used to obtain data and information. Mahaulpatha GN division is selected from Dimbulagala Division as the study area and 40 elderly paddy families have been selected for the survey. Data analysis has been done through various techniques. Sample survey revealed that 57% of the paddy farmers have been using the straw manures before planting but after sowing paddy seed, 100% of the farmers are used chemical fertilizers to get high productivity. 87% of the farmers use machinery system to prepare the paddy land because machinery is most efficient, and minimize the time allocation and labor cost. 26% farmers do their land preparation and harvesting activities trusting the prevailing rainfall patterns. Observing wind direction and behavior of plants and animals also added to their experiences. The IK which has been brought down from generation to generation has gradually been vanishing in the study area. Even though the chemical approach to pest control is only a short term solution, farmers know that the modern chemicals are not eco-friendly or favorable to them and their abiotic environment. Application of chemical pesticides gives immediate results for increasing their farm production. Based on the field experiences the small leaflet (Local language) was prepared and distributed among the paddy farmers to make aware the importance of the TK with the combination of modern technology. Even though the modern technology is more advanced when both the traditional knowledge and modern technology are combined the more benefits can be acquired to the paddy farming community.
Improving Secondary School Students’ Achievement In English Essay Writing Using Two Modes Of Essay Structure-Based Instructional Strategies
Authors: Ezeokoli Francis Ogbonaya , Igubor Patience
Published: February 2021

Writing is a tool for communication and learning.However, students’ performance in essay writing in Nigeria has been poor. This under-achievement has been traced to ineffective methods and strategies. Literature reveals that most studies focused on innovative ways to improve students’ achievement in essay writing without attention to essay structure-based instructional strategies. This study, therefore, determined the effects of two modes of Essay Structure-Based Instructional Strategies (ESBIS) on students’ achievement in argumentative and expository (cause/effect) essays. The moderating effects of vocabulary knowledge and attitude to essay writing were also examined. The study adopted a pretest-posttest, control group, quasi-experimental design using a 3×2×3 factorial matrix. Two Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Benin City were randomly selected. Three public secondary schools from each LGA were purposively selected while two intact SS II classes were randomly assigned to each of the treatment and control groups. The instruments used include: Achievement Testsin Argumentative (r=.79) and Expository Essays (r=.80), Vocabulary Knowledge Test (r=.83), Questionnaire on Students’ Attitude to Essay Writing (r=.73). Data were analysed using ANCOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc test at 0.05 alpha level.There was significant main effect of treatment on students’ achievement in each of argumentative (F (2, 284) = 9.78;.064) and expository (F (2, 284) = 55.26;.28) essays and in both combined (F (2, 284) = 4.80;.033). The two-way interaction effect of treatment and the moderator variables on students’ achievement in each of argumentative and expository essays as well as in both combined was not significant.
Privatization of State-Owned Enterprises and its Effects on the Performance of the Kenyan Economy
Authors: Gori Justus Mochama , Manyaga Caleb Bw’Auma , Sewe Thabitha
Published: February 2021

This study examined privatization in Kenyan with reference to whether there existed relationships between privatisation of SOEs, criteria used to select SOEs for privatisation; management of SOEs and their performance in the Kenyan economy. The target population comprised of 275 employees of Kenya pipe line. Survey research design and simple random sampling were used in this study. The researchers used 30% of the target population to arrive at an accessible population of 75 employees as respondents for this study. Questionnaires were used for data collection. Data was analyzed using paired samples t-test with the help of SPSS and results were presented using Tables. Interpretation of results were based on Î± (.05), df, p value, t-values and t-critical. The findings of the study revealed that there were relationships between privatisation of SOEs, criteria used to select SOEs for privatisation, and management of SOEs and their performance on the Kenyan economy. The results were significant and out of this study, recommendations were made to the Kenyan government and state owned enterprises in Kenya.
Harmonizing Education Outcomes with the Needs of the Saudi Labor Market Demand
Authors: Yusuf Nadia , Albanawi Dr. Nisreen Ismail
Published: February 2021

This paper focuses on the exploration of particular education outcomes in the context of Saudi Arabia and how those aspects can be harmonized with the needs of the Saudi labor market demand. Different arguments related to the emergence of education and training opportunities for the workforce of Saudi Arabia are presented and critically analyzed against major findings derived from the literature. A relevant conclusion presented in the paper refers to the statement that Saudi Arabia is on the right path of expanding its talented employee base in an attempt to improve its education system by making it adequately competitive as compared to major education systems around the world. The research methodology utilized in the study is quantitative by nature implying the researcher's focus on obtaining as objective and unbiased findings from participants as possible. The data collection method used by the researcher is questionnaires as they are identified as a reliable tool to derive adequate information from participants. The research methodology paradigm implemented in the current study refers to positivism. The main conclusion presented in the paper is associated with the belief of participants that the Saudi education system is efficient and reliable enough to accommodate the education and labor market needs of the local population.
Impact of Children with Intellectual Impairment on Families
Authors: Simson Aina , Möwes Andrew
Published: February 2021

This qualitative study was designed to investigate the experiences, feelings and views of families with intellectually impaired children at the Dagbreek and Môreson Centres in the Khomas Education region of Namibia. For the purpose of this study, a qualitative approach was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were carried out to collect data with a sample of ten families whose children attended school at the aforementioned Centre’s. The data collected was analyzed using thematic content analysis. Four sub- themes were identified and from them it was discovered that the ‘overall experience of their children’s impairment’ by parents and guardians was unique since they had mixed feelings (both positive and negative) and had different reactions to the diagnosis of their children’s impairment. The study noted that the existence of an intellectually impaired child in the family has a major impact on family members, the relationships of parents, separation of parents, extended families as well as on the public or community members.
Brain Tumor Boundary Segmentation of MR Imaging using Spatial Domain Image Processing
Authors: Malkanthi Chandrika , Dissanayake Maheshi B
Published: February 2021

Extracting information for medical purposes from magnetic resonance imaging is critically important for diagnostic and treatment plans. In this paper, a simple algorithm for tumor segmentation of Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is introduced. The novelty incorporates, preserving fine details of the input image while detecting the boundary accurately. Tumor segmentation is carried out by set of pre processing steps followed by morphological operations. Rough contour of the tumor is localized to reduce the search space for the boundary. Line drawing algorithm in cooperated with pixel selection criteria is used to detect the accurate boundary. The algorithm is evaluated in terms of the performance and accuracy with radiologist labelled ground truth MRI scans. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm provides better identification with above 95% of accuracy, for clearly distinguishable tumors in relation to conventional contour detection methods.
Conciliation between work, family and personal life. A pending issue for female faculty?
Authors: Baeza Aldana Silvia Alejandra , Sanjuán Victoria Robles , Pech Campos Silvia Joaquina
Published: February 2021

The mass participation of women in the work force around the world has been a major historical event with the greatest impact in the economy and society worldwide. With such participation there have been several changes in the family dynamics, as well as the roles that women play in the family. Women not only work as housekeepers but they also have become income providers for the maintenance and care of the household. In spite of the changes aforementioned, the advancement of equality in the development of policies to promote balance between work, family and personal life is very slow, although this problem is not only a women's problem, they are the ones who suffer the most disadvantage. This mixed-method research, analyses the experience of female teachers at a public university. With the purpose of harmonizing the different roles that each of them play at the workplace, family and personal aspects.
Online Education and Teaching Reform on Higher Education Development in China
Authors: Wang Xin-Hong
Published: February 2021

Lifelong Education has changed the old view of the end of education, and promoted sustainable development of education, which is a strategic goal of social development. Lifelong education exhibit new features to further achieve educational equity with the technical support of MOOC/SPOC. In recent years, teaching reform of applied chemistry profession promoted by Department of higher education has gradually gone deeper, but there are still some problems and difficulties, such as contradictions among basic of specialized subject, teaching hours and teaching content, difficulties of lifting of the teaching content and improvement of teaching quality, which restrict teaching reform process. Teaching practice experience of SPOC in applied chemistry profession is simply introduced, proposing countermeasure for SPOC in college teaching applications designed to enhance the quality of teaching for reference.
Learning Model Based in Piaget, Vygotsky and Freire
Authors: Lino Ferreira da Silva Maicon Herverton , Da Silva Rodrigues Augusto José , Libâneo de Meo Davi , Melo dos Santos Givanildo , Da Silva Alves José Fernando , Dantas Bezerra Maria Aparecida , Mendonça Teixeia Marcelo
Published: February 2021

It is a worrying factor the results presented in the process of reading the 5th-grade students of the Brazilian schools. Many students indicate weaknesses in reading skills. Thus, it becomes important to resort to the theories of learning presented by the authors: Jean Piaget (1896-1980), Lev Vygotsky (1896-1934) and Paulo Freire (1921-1997), in an attempt to understand mechanisms of teacher practice that make possible the construction of the student's cognitive process and reading abilities. Finally, we propose the creation of a learning model based on the three theories presented.
Cyber Business Law and Project-Based Learning
Authors: Powell Jason , Parker Carmella , Kilcoyne Margaret
Published: February 2021

This article describes a project-based learning pedagogical approach to learning legal concepts that transforms these concepts into managerial propositions for students, especially for computer information systems and business administration majors.  This pedagogy provides opportunities and experiences for students to become sensitive enough to real-world topics that they can posit a question to a legal professional regarding cyber business laws.  The hands-on project-based learning method is an engaging and interactive way to learn the information in a group environment, and then it requires the student to demonstrate knowledge at the individual level.  The data collected for this study suggests that the project-based learning style is effective for learning legal concepts.
Active and Latent Failures in Customer Services and Opportunities for Quality Innovation for Convenience Stores
Authors: Chen An-Che
Published: February 2021

Due to the characteristics of customer participation and heterogeneity in service operations, the demands and contents of service tasks are usually with great diversity. Therefore it is usually preferred to conduct failure analysis, instead of the rigidly structured questionnaire, for the purpose of assessment and innovation in service quality. Furthermore, rather than conducting the survey to customers directly that seems to comply with the concept of customer orientation, it possesses great advantages in expertise and insights in failure analysis through service personnel surveys. In this study, service failure cases were collected using the Critical Incident Technique through the interviews to the service personnel from various chain convenience stores in Taiwan. These service failure incidents were then analyzed using the active-latent framework proposed in this study. Both active failures and latent failures from these collected incidents are categorized in hierarchical structures. These two failure categorizations were further mapped for providing empirical bases to the opportunities of quality innovation in system design and personnel training/education for this particular service domain. The interpretations and implications of the resulted failure patterns are also discussed.
Eucharistic Fellowship and its Relevance in Human Relationship
Authors: Amolo Hope , Nneji Dr. Anukam
Published: February 2021

Man is naturally a social animal. For no single human being is an island, and simply put, no one is completely sufficient. Man thus naturally relates, and in this human relationship, personal interest, sentiment, bias, desire e.t.c, comes in and thus problems ensue. Man has also devices various academic means to resolve the problem, these means or ways include sociology, psychology, anthropology, history and international diplomacy and religious studies. Among the world known religions which of course speak peace and good human relationship, Christianity seems to stand out. Christianity, a religion traced to Judaism and the life and activities of Jesus Christ, gave man veritable tools of sustaining good human relationship. The importance of human relationship or the need for harmony, oneness and unity is showcased in the African Traditional Religion(ATR) among the Umunna in the Igbo community is demonstrated by the practice of â€œ Orikoâ€ which exemplifies unity and also is synonymous with the Christian Eucharist fellowship. Having considered qualitative and hermeneutical methods, this paper is of the view that the Eucharist in the New Testament depicts strong lessons of love, peace, hospitality, acceptance, unity, harmony, forgiveness and sacrifice, faith/trust in God and in fellow man among others. If these are learned and practiced as explained in Eucharistic fellowship teachings by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, the challenges encountered in human relationship will be a thing of the past.