bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sturm Liouville Problems with a random variable in Boundary Conditions
Authors: Wu Hui
Published: February 2021

We discussed the Sturm-Liouville problems with random variableξn involving in bound-ary conditions which represent a support coefficient for elastic rope. We have aconclusion that if the random variable in the boundary condition have convergence property, then the eigenvalues will also have a similar convergence property. We also give an asymptotic formula to approximate the large eigenvalues. This formula give an asymptotic relationship between eigenvalues and the support coefficient ξn when the eigenvalues are very large.
The groundwork of casino gaming in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Jean Ling
Published: February 2021

Casino gaming is often considered as an important source for the development of a tourism industry; it can generate instant revenues, tourists, and job opportunities. The purpose of this study is to determine the accurate direction of developing the casino gaming market in Taiwan. The six factors for developing casino gaming business are geography environment, accessibility, human resource, tourism resource, tourist market resource, and the social aspect. In accordance with the findings of this study, Matsu might not be an appropriate place to develop the casino gaming as a result of too many limits on geography environment, accessibility, human resource, tourist market resource, and social aspect.
Peer Student Mentoring for Nursing Program Persistence and Leadership Development
Authors: Smith Tanya Lynnette , Hober Christine , Harding Janelle
Published: February 2021

Mentoring relationships are used in education, practice, and administration settings to foster professional growth.  Mentoring is a valuable process, requiring intentional, committed, and purposeful interactions between two or more professionals or students. At one rural university student retention and persistence was identified by administration as problematic. In response faculty devised and implemented a program providing students the opportunity to be a mentor or be mentored given that mentoring offers occasions for students to support one another while the more experienced student engages the less experienced student. This paper explains the findings of a three year cohort descriptive mentoring study utilizing a convenience sample of admitted senior students who served as mentors for first year student mentees interested in nursing. Mentors and mentees experienced rich engagement opportunities in formal and informal meetings as faculty evaluated student persistence and leadership skills.
Incidence of Domestic Violence Against Women and Children
Authors: Azumah Francess Dufie , Onzaberigu Nachinaab John , Manfred Mensah
Published: February 2021

The incidence of domestic violence is a source of great worry to society at large. Victims are suffering while perpetrators seem to be enjoying the act. While children and women are been abused at homes and domestic settings, authorities responsible to protect and safeguard themselves show gross reluctant in their operations and measures to help victims of domestic violence. This is an act serious violation of human right calls for empirical investigation on reported cases of domestic violence against women with the domestic violence and victims support unit at the Asokwa Police station in Kumasi-Ghana. The study sought to identify the major causes of domestic violence at victims home, the effects of domestic violence on women and children and ways to curb domestic violence against women and children. The study adopted a case study design where data was collected through questionnaire and victims records on reported domestic violence. The study revealed that domestic violence has negative effects on victims as respondents indicated that they suffered from injuries, guilt, anger, depression/anxiety, shyness, nightmares, disruptiveness, irritability, and problems getting along with others. The study found that children who experience domestic violence perform poor in schools and experience vicarious trauma, show signs of exaggerated startle response, hyper-vigilance, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts. The study recommended that law enforcement authority such as the police should victims by ensuring that perpetrators are given the right punishment to serve as deterrence for future offenders.
Reading Performance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Students
Authors: Alico Jerryk Comawas
Published: February 2021

This causal-comparative research investigated whether reading comprehension performance differs if students read two different texts one that is related to their chosen field of study while the other is not. It also took interest in determining the influence of demographic and academic profile information on reading comprehension. Thirty students enrolled in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Strand of the Mindanao State University-Marawi Senior High School took two sets of reading comprehension tests for four times. The first set used texts whose topics are related to STEM while the second set used texts whose topics are taken from other fields of study like social sciences and economics. Findings revealed that in all four sessions of reading comprehension tests, there was a consistent significant difference between the performances of students in STEM-related and STEM-unrelated texts. Specifically, students performed better in test sets that used STEM-related texts. Moreover, there was no difference in the students’ performance when they were classified according to their gender and age. Interestingly, the curriculum they undertook in junior high school mattered in their reading comprehension performance on STEM-unrelated texts, which showed that students who were trained in science high schools performed better than other students did. These findings forward significant pedagogical implications for the effective teaching of English as well as other subject areas to Senior High School students with respect to instructional and reading materials used.
Skills for Chess
Authors: PINHEIRO MARCIA
Published: February 2021

Following our paper on Bloom’s Taxonomy and translation assignments, and that was called Translation Techniques, and the lists of skills we presented in Interpretation and Translation, volume 1, and Your Mother Tongue Is Helping Me, we now present the skills that a chess player needs to succeed in their trade. This all connects to the research project called Teaching for Freedom, which includes the book Multilevel Method. Multilevel Method has just gotten a few good words added to its list of editorial reviews with Amazon.com. The techniques used to build these results are those that involve observation, comprehension, analysis, and synthesis, for instance. The tools used are empirical observation, informal assessment, and comparative tables, just to mention a few.
Equilibrium and Kinetic Studies of Cu(Ii) Removal from Aqueous Solutions Using a Kenyan Micaceous Mineral.
Authors: Wabomba John Namakwa , Shiundu Paul Mwanza , Onyari John Mmari , Yanful Ernest
Published: February 2021

Copper (II) sorption on a Kenyan micaceous mineral (Mica-K) was studied in the batch mode. The effects of different experimental parameters such as; initial concentration, contact time, sorbent dose, pH, particle size, agitation speed, competition and temperature on the kinetics of copper removal were studied. The sorption pattern of copper onto Mica-K followed Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. Thermodynamic parameters for copper sorption on Mica-K were also determined. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) analysis of metal ion-equilibrated Mica-K, demonstrated that copper, cadmium and Zinc containing nodules existed on the surface of Mica-K.
Analysis of The Impact of Fuzzy Logic Algorithm On Handover Decision in A Cellular Network
Authors: Nyambati Emily Teresa , Oduol Vitalice K.
Published: February 2021

Fuzzy logic is one of the intelligent systems that can be used to develop algorithms for handover. For success in handing over, the decision-making process is crucial and thus should be highly considered. The performance of fixed parameters is not okay in the changing cellular system environments. The work done on this paper aims to analyse the impact of utilising the fuzzy logic system for handover decision making considering the Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) network. The results from the different simulations show that the need to handover varies depending on the input(s) to the Fuzzy Inference System (FIS). By increasing the number of data, thus the criteria parameters used in the algorithm, an Optimised Handover Decision (OHOD) is realised.
Criminal law protection of economic crime Reality or fiction?
Authors: Ashtalkoska-Baloska Tatijana , Srbinovska-Doncevski Aleksandra
Published: February 2021

Starting from the definition of economic crime as a totality of  illegal acts committed by an individual or a group of individuals to obtain a financial or professional advantage, criminal law protection of this type of crime is becoming more popular both from a theoretical and practical point of view, primarily due to its constituent elements (system of incrimination, subject of economic offense and forms of responsibility, sanctions), and secondary by identifying opportunities for its conception and realization. Therefore, this paper, analyzes situation both in terms of determining the causes of economic crime and responsibility for economic crimes, and in terms of the legal and factual opportunity to realize the criminal law protection in a modern democratic society and market economy, establishment and implementation of appropriate repressive and preventive measures to combat this type of crime
Application of Interactive Autonomous Learning Mode to Teach College English Writing
Authors: Liu Jixin , Li Xiaoting
Published: February 2021

Writing is usually considered as an individual activity, emphasizing the result instead of the process in which students undergo to reach the final goal. However, writing process is of great importance to the students. In the writing process, they can develop writing competence and learner autonomy through interaction. Thus, this thesis intends to demonstrate the effectiveness of applying Interactive Autonomous Learning Mode to writing instruction in college classroom setting.
Combatting Food Insecurity on a Mid sized Public University Campus in the Midwest
Authors: Manry Jenny , Mills Shala , Ochs Dorothy
Published: February 2021

Students and faculty at a rural university in Western Kansas took steps to decrease food insecurity in the campus population through the establishment of a campus garden and food pantry. Over a two-year period, the campus garden was relocated and expanded to provide easy access to faculty, staff, and students. The campus food pantry was enhanced to include cold and frozen foods and well as staple items. Survey results showed an increase in participation of both the garden and food pantry over the two-year period.
K-12 Toolbox
Authors: Stiffler Daniel Lee , Frazier Mary
Published: February 2021

The importance of quality teaching in the nation’s public schools is receiving unprecedented attention. School districts are doing whatever they can to grow and retain effective teachers by providing the necessary resources and support to ensure teacher success. With this in mind, the Buhler School District set out to create a useful and research based tool to help teachers with the fundamentals of classroom instruction. The K 12 Toolbox provides a series of guiding questions developed from accepted best practices in classroom instruction. The rich conversations and reflection inspired by the Toolbox’s questions are designed to help teachers lead students to higher order thinking and improved learning.
Use of Literacy Routines as a Bridge to STEM Lessons
Authors: Hill-Cunningham P. Renee , Moore Jerilou J.
Published: February 2021

Elementary teachers are familiar with using literature and questioning techniques in teaching literacy. The good news is they can apply the same skills to teach STEM lessons. STEM instruction, particularly engineering, in elementary schools is virtually non existent. However, using design challenges based off of children’s literature can open up a new avenue to teach higher order thinking. The use of literature with STEM foci, and “queries,” questions that get at in depth answers, can bridge teachers’ comfort levels with STEM lessons, building students’ creativity, curiosity, and perseverance.
DEVELOPMENT OF COMPETENCES IN THE USE OF THE ICT IN BASIC EDUCATION TEACHERS
Authors: Quiñonez Pech Sergio Humberto , Moo Chuc Mirsa Yaneli , Méndez Ojeda José Israel
Published: February 2021

The study of the training of Basic Education teachers and the development of their technological competencies in this era called "The knowledge society" is a prevailing necessity, so this research aimed to identify the training needs of teachers An institution of basic education, belonging to the private sector of the State of Yucatan in the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The methodology used was based on the mixed approach (quantitative and qualitative), this allowed to perceive in an integral way the real situation of the teachers in the use and training in the ICT area. In the first phase of the study, a needs assessment was carried out, which was used to design and develop a Blended Learning (B-learning) course in the Modular Object Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (MOODLE). The second phase was worked out the structure and logistics for its implementation; And finally, the results were analyzed and the conclusions were established. And finally, the results were analyzed and the conclusions were established. Among the important findings it was found that theory and practice are elements that must be worked together, simultaneously, in a way that they assist one another in the training course in the use of ICT. This way, an atmosphere of security and confidence is generated between the teacher and the student during their learning process.
EXTENT OF USE OF BIOLOGY INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCES AND EFFECT ON STUDENTS ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN SIAYA COUNTY – KENYA
Authors: Omariba Alice , Ong’amo Bernard Lawrence , Ondigi Samson Rosana
Published: February 2021

This study sought to find out the extent of use of biology teaching and learning resources and how it affects students’ academic performance. The study was carried out in public secondary schools in Siaya County. The researcher used a sample of twenty-three schools drawn from ninety two public secondary schools selected through stratified random sampling. Teacher respondents were purposively or randomly sampled. Purposive sampling was used to choose the most experienced biology teacher from two or more teachers teaching form two classes. Where there existed more than one long serving and experienced teachers teaching form two classes, random sampling was employed to pick one of them for interview. Student respondents were chosen through random sampling in single sex schools and stratified random sampling in mixed schools. Head teachers from each of the sampled schools were selected for personal interview. The data were collected using questionnaires, checklists, observation schedules and interview guides. Observation schedules were used by the researcher to ascertain use of resources by teachers and learners and the resultant tests used to determine the score differences in achievement between classes frequently taught using resources and those rarely taught using resources. Interviews with head teachers were used to countercheck the information given by teachers and students on utilization of resources. The findings of the study established that audio-visual resources were least usedin schools. The resources were mainly bought by the headteachers. The researcher’s assessment during live lesson teaching using observation schedules showed that students frequently taught using resources performed better than those rarely taught using the resources. The research also established that frequent use of resources was not the only factor determining high student’s academic performance but other factors like teacher’s qualification, pedagogy, attitudes and students’ entry behaviour also played a role in realizing improved academic performance in students.
DIA: a Computerized Adaptive Testing Tool for assessing Student Learning
Authors: Silva Patrícia Nunes da , Abreu Renata Cardoso Pires de , Vasconcellos Carlos Frederico Fragoso de Barros e
Published: February 2021

We present a computerized adaptive testing tool, termed DIA, for the assessment and provision of feedback to students from a formative evaluation perspective. We use Brazilian governmental guidelines for teaching mathematics (Brazil, 1998; Brazil, 1997) to construct a scale with goals increasingly ordered by the vertical development of mathematical knowledge. We construct a simulated item bank that meaningfully relates to our scale through the item response theory. We also analyze a feedback given by DIA.
Examining the Dimensionality of Organizational Performance in Sri Lankan Hotel Industry
Authors: Bulankulama Geethani Kumarihami
Published: February 2021

Achieving a competitive advantage threatening manages is the creation and maintenance of organizational characteristics that reward and encourage collective efforts. Despite the importance of attaining organizational performance for competitive advantage in Sri Lankan hotel industry, there has been limited study on examine the dimensionality of organizational performance in Sri Lankan hotel industry.  The organizational performance stands out as one of the components that are important to competitive advantage, and a good reason for becoming a great company. This has created a gap in the body of knowledge and examine the dimensionality of organizational performance the theoretical and practical aspect of managing hotels. The reason for ethical failure in most of the hotels is the fact that while manages concede of culture as a powerful tool that can create competitive advantage, only few manages give it the attention it deserves. This paper will discuss the dimensions of organizational performance as a model for Sri Lankan hotel industry in creating competitive advantage that supports moral and ethical behavior. Examine the implications of this model in gaining competitive advantage, and will further critique the implications of hotel industry in terms of maintaining or expanding its dimensions.
Exploratory Study of the Qualities that Distinguish Potential from Realized Innovators
Authors: Greene Denis Leo , Hunt Maria Vidos
Published: February 2021

This study explored the similarities and differences between 36 accomplished and 36 hopeful innovators in a large midwestern city in the United States. Both groups reported a higher frequency of recognized ideas when creative thinking occurred in the morning and under conditions of a state of calm. Realized Innovators uniquely approached the ideation process by intentionally applying a set of processes they found reliably effective. Potential Innovators were less deliberate in their approach to idea generation and were more likely to pursue activities with weak associations to creative outputs.
Bibliometric Analysis of Scientific Production Related to Tick Control
Authors: Oliveira Luana Brito , Russo Suzana LeitÃ£o
Published: February 2021

Ticks are distributed all over the world and significantly affect human and animal health. Increasing public health concern with tick borne diseases requires the strategic control of ticks in animals that transmit diseases to humans. The aim of this article is to present a bibliometric analysis of the scientific production related to tick control, using bibliometrics as an instrument of analysis to measure scientific activity. To identify the studies , a search was made on four Scopus databases, Web of Science, Medline / Pubmed and Science Direct. Of 1764 publications, only 480 were analyzed after the exclusion of certain productions according to previously defined criteria. It was pointed out that the identified studies have great relevance for the control of ticks, considering that scientific publications are important markers of the activity of production and development of the field of knowledge.
crisis in private higher education in Brazil
Authors: Santos Vieira de Jesus Diego , Jacubowski Correia Dubeux Veranise
Published: February 2021

The aim of the article is to examine the main causes of the crisis in private higher education in Brazil since 2015, characterized by the mass dismissals of teachers, the reduction of salaries of those who remain in private higher education institutions, the overcrowding of classrooms and the greater adhesion of students to distance education in the light of the high costs of classroom-based courses. In addition, one of the objectives is also to offer recommendations for overcoming this situation. The research follows the methodological steps of Sécca & Souza (2009) for the analysis of private higher education in Brazil. The bibliographic research consisted of reading, selecting and organizing topics on the general causes of the crisis of the private higher education sector in Brazil since 2016. The next step was the research of information on specific private higher education institutions in Brazil, divided per region: Southeast, South, Midwest and North / Northeast. The central argument points out that the crisis is closely related to the financial crisis in the country, motivated by the adverse international economic situation and the political chaos caused by allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds by politicians and businessmen. This forced the Brazilian government to reduce and limit access to student financing contracts drastically from 2015 on, and most students from low-income classes were excluded from entering higher education or had to stop studying. Besides, in the light of a higher number of unemployed people and lower salaries, students were less able to afford the tuition fees of a higher education course at a private institution. To overcome difficulties and attract new students, private higher education institutions can rely on multiple strategies, such as scholarships, alternative financing, discounts for those who pay the current monthly fees and the creation of academic endowments.
Employer perceptions and attitudes towards agricultural university training in Kenya
Authors: Onyango Cecilia Moraa , Kunyanga Catherine Nkirote , Karanja Davis Njuguna , Wahome Raphael Githaiga
Published: February 2021

Agriculture is the backbone of most Sub-Saharan African economies accounting for 40 % of the GDP and 80% employment. Yet agricultural graduates have not been able to “hit the ground running” upon graduation. This study assessed the quality of agricultural graduates from Kenyan Universities in terms of relevance to job market demands. A mixed method approach was used to collect data through a personal interview survey and focus group discussions involving 54 public and private organizations. Descriptive statistics was used to generate means and frequencies to validate the study hypotheses. Results indicated that employers’ main concern on quality of graduates were poor interpersonal (> 90%), communication (53%), practical (>90%) and character (78%) skills.  Further future agriculture will be impacted by competencies in practical skills (56%) and training in contemporary issues like climate change (17%). Success of agricultural production to a large degree depends on the human resources available within the sector. If the quality of university graduates is poor, it negatively affects the entire knowledge chain. This research also has an implication for university administrators and policy makers in training holistic graduates that meet employers’ and socio-economic development needs. Integrating job market requirements into university curricula can improve the quality of graduates that directly impact agricultural productivity for economic development and poverty reduction.
Estimating, Budgeting for Quality Control in Higher Education
Authors: Almudara Safar Bakheet
Published: February 2021

The current study aims to determine the attitudes of estimate and budget of quality control for higher education for the universities and affiliated its institutions. Who is presently undergoing quality assessment according to the National Commission for Academic Accreditation and Assessment (NCAAA), it is the organization responsible for verifying quality documents which are prepared by the respective universities and its affiliated colleges and institutions to meet its goals. So in this article suggest the most suitable techniques to estimate and budget for the quality control. To determine most suitable estimate method, this paper analyzes various methods and selects a suitable method of the cost estimate. According to results, the attitudes of the cost estimate depends on the quality work break structure and its various levels of work done to achieve intended goals. The case research examined in this paper was carried out by the authors of the research project ‘Factors Affecting the Quality control in higher education: an Empirical Investigation around Saudi Arabian Universities.
EFFECT OF COMPUTER ASSISTED TEACHING STRATEGY ON STUDENTS ACHIEVEMENT BY GENDER IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION IN THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Muchiri Joyline Mugero
Published: February 2021

Gender has remained relevant in education because it has been linked to achievement and participation in certain professions. Gender differences in achievement has been shown to vary according to school subject. This has partly been attributed to the teaching strategy adopted by the teacher. Computer Assisted Teaching (CAT) strategy is a method that uses computers in a learning media and strengthens student’s motivation and educational processes. Little or no information is known about the impact of the strategy in teaching agriculture and consequently it’s effect on achievement by gender. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether there is gender difference in achievement in agriculture among students exposed to CAT strategy. The study employed Solomon Four-Quasi-experimental design. The study was conducted in eight county secondary schools in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting sample schools. A sample of 327 Form One students participated in the study. The research instrument was Agriculture Achievement Test (AAT) with a reliability coefficient of 0.91. Descriptive statistics (means and percentages) and inferential statistic (ANOVA) were used for data analysis. The study showed that CAT strategy improved achievement in agriculture but male students performed better than female students after exposure to CAT strategy. The study concluded that CAT is an effective strategy in improving achievement in agriculture and therefore agriculture teachers should incorporate CAT strategy in their teaching.
Teachers’ multidimensional role towards meaningful learning: the potential value of interdisciplinary environments
Authors: Levy Denise , Peralta Telma Martins , Pozzi Loreny , De Tovar Izi Pozzi
Published: February 2021

The definition of “interdisciplinary learning environment” gives rise to different interpretations. This article presents and discusses interdisciplinarity in pedagogical practice for the construction of meaningful learning, strengthening the construction of knowledge in personal, scientific and social spheres. Case studies respectively show: the contribution of interdisciplinary work to self-identity and subjective constitution in early childhood; interdisciplinary work in an informal learning environment as a facilitating element towards scientific knowledge consolidation; and the university’s interdisciplinary work in social projects for building a fairer society. In the light of neuroscience, the article discusses aspects of cognitive and social-emotional developments, as well as the approximations and estrangements between the object of study and the epistemic subject. In the so-called Society of Information, the multidimensional character of the teacher’s work becomes a necessity and a challenge, since it is the school’s role to form citizen-students, developing competences to increase students´ academic knowledge and extend it to their personal, professional and social lives.
Detection of Isolated Vibration Spectrum Patterns Generated in Hull and Shafting Lines which Result Shipboard Faults
Authors: Dasanayaka Prasad Milinda , Perera Ranjan
Published: February 2021

The origin of shipboard hull vibrations is dominantly determined by vessels propulsion system, main machinery, auxiliary systems, pumps, breaking of the waves at the ship hull, etc. When the ships are classified on various sizes and limitations, they demonstrate multiple characteristics of vibration signatures mainly based on the functionality of main machinery and ships’ hull. The vibration signatures generated from hull is a clear representation of the ships health and crew habitability.
 The paper is focused on to a case study that the hull of a naval vessel which had undergone a major repair was inspected for suitability for further use in terms of vibration and habitability. The transferred vibration signature of the vessel was analyzed using vibration spectra in machinery and hull aspects. The measuring was done simultaneously with multi-channel measurements of the vessels vibrations at few characteristic positions.
 Sea trials at following variable conditions had been carried out onboard the selected vessel.
Sea State : 2-3;
Loading Condition : Half Load;
Wind Condition : Moderate< 15 knots;
Sea Direction : Ahead, Astern
The Prevalence of Missing Data in Survey Research
Authors: Dodeen Hamzeh Mohd
Published: February 2021

The credibility of surveys relies significantly on the completeness of the data collected from representative samples. Missing data is a serious problem in survey research. The existence of variables with missing information negatively affects the research results and findings. This study examines the prevalence of missing data in surveys, and additionally compares its incidence between genders. A total of 119 relevant surveys from different countries represented the sample of this study. Results indicated that, on average, 38% of data was lost in the surveys analyzed. Males and females were very similar with respect to the extent of missing data, with an average of 37% and 38% respectively. Overall, results show that only 62% of the initial sample size was available at the end of the data collection stage.
HEAD TEACHER-PARENT COLLABORATION POLICIES’ USEFULNESS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MERU COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: MWIRICHIA SEVERINA MUKOKINYA
Published: February 2021

Through head teacher-parent collaboration, Inclusive education can be improved. The purpose of the study was to analyse the usefulness of head teacher-parent collaboration policies for the improvement of inclusive education in regular public primary schools in Meru County. The objective of the study was to examine the usefulness of policies that govern head teacher-parent collaboration for the improvement of inclusive education. The significance of the study was to inform education policy makers, who need the study results to evaluate the current policies on inclusion and formulate appropriate ones for promoting head teacher-parent collaboration to improve the status of inclusive education for all learners. The study was guided by Bronfenbrenner’s bio-ecological systems theory and Peters’ input-process-outcome-context framework of Inclusive Education. Qualitative research approach method was predominantly used. The target population was 101,612. Through purposive sampling, 24 participants were selected. The study instruments used included; questionnaires, interview schedules, focus group discussion guide, observations and documents’ analysis schedules. Qualitative data analysis was done with the help of computer package, ATLAS. ti. The study findings were presented using narratives within themes generated from the collected data. The findings indicated that head teacher-parent collaboration policy context enhanced the improvement of inclusive education. Most of the schools used informal policies. It was concluded that, head teacher-parent collaboration policy context is crucial to the improvement of inclusive education. It was recommended that the Ministry of Education should formulate appropriate inclusive education policies.
Electricity Consumption, Corruption and Economic Growth
Authors: Agbaje Busrat Abidemi , Idachaba Ekele
Published: February 2021

An important prerequisite for reducing poverty, sustainable development and achievement of the millennium development goal has to some extent been tied to access to electricity. However, the subject matter; 'electricity consumption causing economic growth' has seen conflicting results from the theoretical and empirical front, if indeed a relationship exist at all.

The study tests, within a panel context the long-run relationship between electricity consumption and economic growth for 13 African Countries from 2006 to 2017 by employing recently developed panel co-integration techniques. Implementing a three stage approach made up of panel unit root, panel co-integration and Granger causality test to examine the causal relationship between electricity consumption, electricity price, corruption, employment and growth.

The study provides empirical evidence that a bidirectional causal relationship between electricity consumption and economic growth exist in the short run, suggesting that lack of electricity could hamper economic growth as well as an investment in electricity infrastructure would in turn improve economic growth. Also reveals that corruption causes the level of electricity consumption and GDP in the short run. On the long-run front electricity consumption and electricity price granger causes GDP and GDP causes electricity consumption.
Influence of Microfinance Trainers’ Characteristics on Women’s Acquisition of Financial Skills
Authors: Mwaniki Tabitha Wawira , Wamue-Ngare Prof. Grace , Okemwa Dr. Pacificah
Published: February 2021

Microfinance institutions have had their fair share of challenges, especially the ability of the women entrepreneurs to manage loans secured from the institutions. Thus, the study intended to examine the effectiveness of microfinance trainers’ characteristics on women’s acquisition of financial skills in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study was guided by Pearson’s Theory of Gender Relations, The Endogenous Growth and Knowledge-Based Theories. It adopted mixed methods approach and thus applied exploratory research design. The target population comprised of 8 Credit Officers, 25 staff members, 1900 women in SHGs, 700 spouses and 100 Key Informants (Training Officers) all totaling to 2733. Using the Central Limit Theorem to obtain a sample of MFIs, that is, 25.0% of 8 MFIs and 295 respondents, that is, 10.9% of 2708, were selected. Purposive sampling was used to select two Credit Officers and 20 key informants (Training Officers). 190 women in SHGs and 83 spouses were selected using simple random sampling. Focus group discussions were used to collect data from women in SHGs and their spouses, interview schedules for women in SHGs, Credit Officers and spouses whereas questionnaires were used to gather information from Training Officers. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically along the study objectives and presented in narrative forms while the quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages with the help of Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS 23) and were presented using tables and charts. The study established that microfinance trainers’ characteristics influence women’s acquisition of financial skills. Thus, the study recommends that microfinance trainers’ need to update their skills to match the changing times such as adopting use of ICT and attitude change towards women empowerment. The trainers need to plan for quarterly and semi-annual evaluation of training programmes since they are effective in ascertaining of the efficacy of such programmes.
Securitization to reduce CO2 emission
Authors: Shin DongHoon , Choi Changhui , Kim Changki
Published: February 2021

We consider CO2 emission-backed securities designed as a securitization based on national CO2 emissions. We constructed the securities using data from “CO2 Emissions from Fuel Combustion” of the International Energy Agency. The securities consist of several tranches with specific coupon rates determined by each nation’s probability of threshold (or target emission) achievement. These securities can be traded in financial markets without the interference of other countries and would give countries an incentive to reduce their CO2 emissions. This study also suggests a financial environmental cleanliness measure for each country using the concept of “green spread” for single-tranche securities.
Preliminary Study to Find Occurrence and Dynamics of Toxic Cyanobacteria in Nuwara wewa and Nachchaduwa wewa, Two Man-made Reservoirs in Sri Lanka
Authors: Zakeel M.C.M. , Weerasinghe P.A. , Wijayawardhana H.C.D. , Kumari B.A.D.G.
Published: February 2021

Bloom of cyanobacteria in water bodies causes devastating problems to the ecosystem and humans when they depend on these waters for drinking purpose. Microcystin and nodularin, produced by some cyanobacteria, are toxic for human and many other aquatic organisms. Nuwara wewa and Nachchaduwa wewa are two important reservoirs supplying water for drinking purpose in addition to agricultural use. Therefore, preliminary study was conducted to evaluate these reservoirs for the presence of toxic cyanobacteria and their dynamics is of importance to take proper measures to control cyanobacterial growth and to ensure supply of quality water for human drinking purpose. Water samples were collected for 12 months from both reservoirs and physic-chemicals parameters of water were also recorded. Correlations between the physico-chemical parameters of water and the cyanobacterial density were established. Toxic cyanobacteria were isolated and identified using conventional and molecular methods. 16S rRNA gene and mcy-A gene were targeted for molecular identification using PCR. Cyanobacterial density had strong positive correlations with some physico-chemical parameters such as pH, temperature and dissolved oxygen in both reservoirs. These parameters can be used as good indicators to evaluate the condition these reservoirs with respect to cyanobacterial bloom. Some cyanobacterial isolates recovered from both reservoirs harboured mcy-A gene, showing the potential of microcystin production.
Group Obedience and Its Impact on Academic Counseling Among Students
Authors: Riungu Elosy Nyambura , Kinyua Susan Muthoni
Published: February 2021

This study sought to establish the impact of group obedience on academic counseling by comparing boys and girls in public secondary schools in Tharaka- Nithi County, Kenya. Causal- comparative research design was employed in this study. The accessible population was 9,419 form three students from public secondary schools in the county. A total of 12 schools were sampled using stratified sampling technique while random sampling was used to select 29 student respondents from each of the sampled schools. A sample of 348 respondents was involved in this study. Data was collected through a students’ questionnaire. Validity of the instrument was ensured through judgments of research experts and scholars in the related area of study. Reliability of the instrument was estimated through a pilot study and the minimum threshold for reliability of the instrument was set at alpha 0.7. A reliability coefficient of 0.81 was got from the students’ questionnaire. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages were used to analyze data, while inferential statistics of a t- test was used to test the hypothesis. Hypothesis was tested at a significant level of alpha 0.05. Data analysis was aided by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 for windows. A summary was used to organize qualitative data. It is recommended that teacher counselors intensify academic counseling programs by organizing sessions for various groups among students regardless of gender on how group obedience impacts on academic counseling.
IRAN’S POLITICS IN THE MIDDLE EAST: POLITICAL AND MILITARY DIMENSIONS
Authors:   Institute of oriental studies, Russian academy of science (MOSCOW), Akhmedov Vladimir M.
Published: February 2021

The article explores the core components of Iran’s politics in the Middle East and its latest developments achieved in the region since the 1990s. The author focuses on the Iranian activity in some Arab countries, mainly in Syria, showing why and how Iranian influence managed to ground so deeply in the social fabric of the Syrian society. The author briefly characterizes historic background of Arab-Iranian relations, showing the place and role of Iranian politics in Arab society and political institutions on the eve of ‘Arab Spring’. The article studies the influence of ‘Arab Spring’ on Arab-Iranian relations and shows the challenges, caused by this popular uprising on its early stages in some Arab countries, for Iran and its relations with Middle Eastern states. The stand of the Arab authorities with regards of the given situation and its ability to influence its development are demonstrated as well. The author explores the latest actions of IRI to create structures under Iranian control in some Arab countries, showing the latest developments of Iranian penetration into Arab countries, first of all into Syria. The author analyzes the actions of Iranian diplomacy in concerning the above mentioned goals to strengthen Iranian positions in the Middle East. The article shows the main spheres of Iranian, Israeli, Turkish and Russian contradictions in some Arab countries, first of all in Syria, paying special attention to the development of Russian-Iranian relations in the Middle East. The author estimates Iran’s chances to safeguard its present position in the Middle East in the contexts of latest developments in the region and with regards to Iran’s relations with Russia and Turkey. The author tries to predict transformations in Iran’s Middle Eastern politics in view of further political developments in the region, sharing his views about reconsidering Russian-Iranian relations aiming to improve it, considering the upcoming challenges in the region, where Moscow pursues today an active policy.
Theorizing Black Power Movement in African American Literature: An Analysis of Morrison's Fiction
Authors: Kumar Fayaz Ahmad , Morrow Colette
Published: February 2021

This paper analyzes the influence of the Black Power movement on the AfricanAmerican literary productions; especially in the fictional works of Toni Morrison. As an African-American author, Toni Morrison presents the idea of 'Africanness' in her novels. Morrison's fiction comments on the fluid bond amongst the African-American community, the Black Power and Black Aesthetics. The works of Morrison focus on various critical points in the history of African-Americans, her fiction recalls not only the memory of Africa but also contemplates the contemporary issues. Morrison situates the power politics within the framework of literature by presenting the history of the African-American cultures.
Private Channels' Dramas and Female Viewers Perceptions
Authors: Raza Tayaab , Amin Salman , Ali Sajjad
Published: February 2021

This study was designed to explore females' watching habits of private channels' television dramas and its impacts on their perceptions. The main purpose of this study was planning to explore the perceptions of viewers about private channels dramas. Private TV channels are attracting the public magnetically. It was also found out that whether uses and gratification model was assimilated according with nature of the study, the survey contemplated to be an apt procedure for analyzing effects and social changes introduced by the three private TV channels. Finally, proportionate sample has drawn from occupation and location, and the disproportionate sample has drawn from age and education category using cluster sampling. The findings also reveal that female viewers significantly more prefer to wear Shalwar Qameez instead of miniskirts, Jeans and Shirts respectively. Furthermore, viewers preferred outfit while going outside home is dupatta as compared to veil, scarf, and hijab respectively. On the other hand, viewers do not prefer to wear caps, having open hairs, burka and sunglasses respectively. The findings also reveal that viewers significantly pick ideas about home decoration from dramas like setting of kitchens, bedroom, TV lounge, Drawing room and washroom respectively.
How Mainstream Medias Agenda Influence the Local Newspapers Priorities?
Authors: Ghafur Riaz
Published: February 2021

Media in Pakistan varies from local to national level. This study investigates Pakistan’s two mainstream and two local newspapers contents—while taking China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a case study— for agenda setting patterns and influence on each other. A look at various newspapers in Pakistan suggests that every Newspaper is almost copy of its contemporaries. The main objective of the study is to highlight that mainstream media influence local media. The main significance of my study and research is to create the importance of local newspapers. The case study for this research is "China-Pakistan Economic Corridor" (CPEC), a controversial and political issue between federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Methodology for this study is qualitative content analysis guided by Agenda setting theory. The analysis found the following themes, which became part of the public as well as political discourse in the ongoing debate on CPEC. It was concluded that mainstream media partially influenced the Print media agenda.
Modality in Pakistani and British Media Discourse: A Corpus-Assisted Study of Editorials in Dawn and the Guardian
Authors: Ali Arshad , Rashid Athar , Abbas Shahid
Published: February 2021

Modal verbs are used to construe an important grammatical expression called modality, which has its various shades in almost every newspaper. Modality is considered of extreme importance in media discourse. This paper presents the comparative study of modal verbs in Dawn, an English Pakistani newspaper, and Guardian, a British English newspaper. For this investigation, a corpus was designed using an equal number of editorials from both the newspapers and the analysis was carried out using Antconc, a corpus tool. The analysis revealed that Guardian editorial writers use a greater number of predictive modal verbs like will and would. On the other hand, Dawn editorial writers use a greater number of obligatory modal verbs like must and should. Also, the editorial writers of Dawn use a higher number of modal verbs like may and might to express possibility and ability.