bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Asean Way and Haze Mitigation Efforts
Authors: Muhamad Varkkey Helena
Published: August 2020

Transboundary haze pollution is an almost annual occurrence in Southeast Asia. Haze originates from peat and forest fires mostly in Indonesia, with Malaysia and Singapore suffering the worst of its effects. Most of these fires are manmade, and linked to land clearing activities of local and foreign commercial oil palm plantations. The regional nature of haze has concentrated mitigation activities at the ASEAN level. However these initiatives continually fail to effectively mitigate haze. This article argues that haze mitigation has been problematic due to the ASEAN style of regional engagement, which prioritizes the maintenance of national sovereignty. States are compelled to act in their national interests, as opposed to the collective regional interests. The economic importance of the oil palm sector to the states involved, coupled with traditionally close relationships between key economic actors and political elites, meant that the maintenance of the status quo, where major plantation companies could continue to clear land using the cost-effective method of burning, was of crucial national interest. Therefore, the ASEAN style of regional engagement has enabled member states to shape ASEAN initiatives to preserve the interests of these political and economic elite, while the public continue to suffer the haze.
Terrorism in Central Asia: Security Implications for Russia
Authors: Mahalik Debendra
Published: August 2020

End of the cold war following the disintegration of the Soviet Union witnessed unprecedented increase in militancy and terrorism prompted by internal and external forces. This was also fuelled by factors like religious fundamentalism and ethno-nationalist chauvinism. The newly independent countries of the Central Asian region encountered myriad problems like terrorism, drug trafficking, arms trafficking, organized crime, separatism, and ethnic conflicts. Given the geographical proximity and historicity, Central Asia is regarded as Russia’s own backyard and a “soft underbelly”. The near-abroad security developments in the Central Asian republics have great influence on Russia and could create a complex environment detrimental to its security interests. The Russian approach to this challenge is of great importance for the stability of the whole area. Any negative developments in Central Asian Regions and Afghanistan would have serious security implications for Russia. A stable and friendly government in Afghanistan and Central Asian states would prove beneficial to Russian security, including the on ongoing separatist movements in Chechnya and Dagestan. Therefore it is imperative that Russia and Central Asian states act collectively to counter religious radicalism and foster regional stability. This article examines some factors responsible for breeding terrorism and religious extremism in Central Asian Republics and its security implications onRussia such as Central Asian threats, US presence in Central Asia and the Taliban in Afghanistan.
The Right to Development and its Corresponding Obligations on Developing Countries
Authors: Masum Ahmad
Published: August 2020

The right to development is a fundamental right, the precondition of liberty, progress, justice and creativity. This right has raised many expectations and controversies over the years. Developing countries claim that the international economic and political order constitutes an obstacle to the enjoyment of the right to development for their citizens. They therefore see a need for action in the international dimension of the right to development. In their view, they are able to provide the necessary basis for the enjoyment of the right to development only if the international order becomes more conducive to the economic development of developing countries. This paper aims to examine the concept of the right to development as a ‘human right’ focusing mainly on the position of developing countries as to whether they have an obligation to work towards the realization and implementation of this right. The paper concludes that the right to development is now recognized as a ‘human right’ like other internationally accepted human rights. Thus, being a right, it entails obligations of some agents in the society, who have the power to deliver the right or adopt policies that have a high likelihood of delivering the right.
Faraizi Movement and Zamindars of Nineteenth Century Bengal: The Story of a Peasant Movement
Authors: Hossein Choudhury Nurul
Published: August 2020

The British colonial rule in Bengal had a very ominous impact on the people of the region as a whole. The introduction of a new land tenure system, known as the Permanent Settlement, and the creation of an all-powerful zamindar class particularly affected the interests of the peasants of Bengal. Under the new system, the government demand on the zamindars was fixed in perpetuity, but there was no legal restriction on the zamindars to enhance their share from the peasants. The peasants, consequently, became vulnerable to irregular rent increases and oppressions by the zamindars. The Faraizi movement, organized initially in the nineteenth century to reform the Muslim society, soon assumed the character of agrarian movement. In order to protect the poor peasants, the Faraizis soon became radical and challenged the zamindars. As majority of the peasants of the region, where this movement was launched, were Muslims and their zamindars mostly Hindus, the Faraizis used Islamic symbols to mobilize the Muslim masses. Thus, religion and economy intertwined in shaping such a protest movement in pre-industrial Bengal.
When Compelled to FB Around Academic Texts: Postgraduate Students Reflected on their Online Experience
Authors: Shaik Abdullah Sarimah , Yaacob Aizan , Abdul Rahim Fauziah
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This paper is part of a larger study which explored postgraduate students talk around academic texts via Facebook (FB). Our exploration is largely guided by the idea of reading as a social practice. In this paper, we specifi cally focus on the students’ refl ections of their online experience of talking around academic texts.   Method – The qualitative data used in this paper were derived from students’ reflective diaries, students’ FB interactions, and informal conversations and were collected from a group of students (27) attending a master’s class in distance learning mode. Thematic analysis was conducted to examine the themes that emerged to represent their refl ections.   Findings – The students’ reflections were grouped into two major categories: convenience and facilitation of learning. Students’ reflection on the convenience afforded by the FB talk centered mainly on the idea of distance and time. Their reflections on the facilitation of learning were broken down into the following themes: safe environment to explore, social support, self-regulation and autonomy. A separate category, “FB entries need responding”, was assigned to students’ comments about the importance of lecturer’s and group members’ feedback.   Value – This study revealed the potential of FB as a convenient, safe and an informal avenue for students to share their understandings and reading-related problems. The informal nature of their FB experience supported free exploration of ideas without the worry of having to appear “clever”.
Understanding Language Learning: Review of the Application of the Interaction Model in Foreign Language Contexts
Authors: Dixon L. Quentin , Wu Shuang
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This paper examined the application of the inputinteraction-output model in English-as-Foreign-Language (EFL) learning environments with four specific questions: (1) How do the three components function in the model? (2) Does interaction in the foreign language classroom seem to be effective for foreign language acquisition? (3) What factors might facilitate/impede interaction, which, in turn, positively or negatively affect output? (4) What are effective teaching methods to enhance interaction and ensure quality of output?   Methodology – A systematic search for empirical studies was conducted in the selected databases, which yielded 26 studies from different parts of the world. These studies met the preset criteria concerning medium of instruction, setting, relevancy and quality.   Findings – The review demonstrated that when input, interaction and output worked together, positive English le
Reassessing the Accuracy and Use of Readability Formulae
Authors: Janan Dahlia , Wray David
Published: August 2020

Purpose – The purpose of the study is to review readability formulae and offer a critique, based on a comparison of the grading of a variety of texts given by six well-known formulae. Methodology – A total of 64 texts in English were selected either by or for native English speaking children aged between six and 11 years. Each text was assessed using six commonly used readability formulae via the Words Count website (http://www.wordscount. info/) which provides automated readability indices using FOG, Spache, SMOG, Flesh-Kincaid and Dale-Chall. For the ATOS formula, the Renaissance Learning website was used (http://www. renlearn.com/ar/overview/atos/). Statistical tests were then carried out to check the consistency among the six formulae in terms of their predictions of levels of text diffi culty.   Findings – The analysis demonstrated significantly different readability indices for the same text using different formulae. It appeared that some of the formulae (but not all) were consistent in their ranking of texts in order of difficulty but were not consistent in their grading of each text. This finding suggests that readability formulae need to be used carefully to support teachers’ judgements about text difficulty rather than as the sole mechanism for text assessment.   Significance – Making decisions about matching texts to learners is something regularly required from teachers at all levels. Making such decisions about text suitability is described as measuring the   ‘readability’ of texts, and for a long time, this measurement has been treated as unproblematic and achieved using formulae which use such features as vocabulary diffi culty and sentence length. This study suggests that the use of such readability formulae is more problematic than may at first appear. Although the study was carried out with native English speaking children using texts in English, it is argued that the lessons learnt apply equally to Malay speakers reading Malay language texts.
The Impact of Quantum Teaching Strategy on Student Academic Achievement and Self-Esteem in Inclusive Schools
Authors: Gunarhadi Gunarhadi , Kassim Mustapa , Shaari Abdull Sukor
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This research was aimed at showing the impact of a teaching strategy called the Quantum Teaching Strategy on students’ academic achievements in two school subjects, namely in Bahasa Indonesia and Science, in comparison to that experienced through classes using a conventional teaching strategy. This research also examined the role of self-esteem on the students’ academic achievements in both the subjects in inclusive schools in Indonesia.   Methodology – This research was a quasi-experimental study on two intact groups of sixth graders of two different inclusive schools. The sample was assigned through multi-staged cluster sampling from 78 elementary schools in 15 sub-district areas. The data on student academic achievements was collected by means of tests, while the data on self-esteem were obtained through a questionnaire. T-test was used to analyze the different impacts of the Quantum Teaching Strategy and conventional teaching strategy on the academic achievements of students, while ANCOVA was applied to determine whether the students’ self-esteem infl uenced their academic achievements in Bahasa Indonesia and Science.   Findings – The t-test showed that the Quantum Teaching Strategy had a better impact on both Bahasa Indonesia and Science achievements as compared to the conventional teaching strategy.   Significance – Findings of this study can be used as a guide for planning and using Quantum Teaching Strategy in teaching and learning Bahasa Indonesia and Science in inclusive schools.
Perbezaan Gender dalam Sokongan Pembelajaran dan Pencapaian Akademik : Peranan Perantara Keterlibatan Murid di Sekolah
Authors: M. Jelas Zalizan , Salleh Amla , Azman Norzaini , Jani Rohana , Hamzah Ramlah , Mahmud Izwan , Ab. Hamid Zaleha , Hamzah Hanizah , Hutkemari Hutkemari
Published: August 2020

Tujuan – Kajian ini bertujuan untuk meneliti perbezaan gender dalam sokongan pembelajaran, keterlibatan murid di sekolah dan pencapaian. Kajian ini juga meneliti sejauh mana keterlibatan tersebut berperanan sebagai perantara kepada gender, sokongan pembelajaran dengan pencapaian akademik.   Metodologi – Kajian ini menggunakan model keratan rentas yang melibatkan hubungan gender dengan keterlibatan murid di sekolah, sokongan pembelajaran dan pencapaian akademik. Sampel kajian adalah seramai 2,359 remaja lelaki dan perempuan berumur 12 hingga 16 tahun dari sekolah harian di kawasan bandar dan luar bandar. Instrumen Keterlibatan Murid di Sekolah dan Sokongan Pembelajaran digunakan untuk kutipan data. Kedua-dua instrumen telah diterjemah ke dalam bahasa Melayu untuk meninjau sejauhmana keterlibatan murid di sekolah dan persepsi mereka terhadap sokongan pembelajaran daripada ibu bapa, guru dan rakan sebaya. Kesahan dan kebolehpercayaan instrumen menunjukkan nilai tinggi. Analisis inferensi korelasi Pearson dijalankan untuk menentukan hubungan antara pemboleh ubah. Analisis model persamaan berstruktur (SEM) dilaksanakan untuk mengenal pasti peranan keterlibatan murid sebagai perantara gender dan sokongan pembelajaran terhadap pencapaian akademik.   Dapatan – Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa tidak terdapat perbezaan gender yang signifi kan dalam keterlibatan murid di sekolah, sokongan pembelajaran dan pencapaian akademik. Keterlibatan murid di sekolah merupakan perantara dalam hubungan gender dan pencapaian akademik. Keterlibatan murid di sekolah juga adalah perantara bagi sokongan guru, sokongan ibu bapa dan sokongan rakan sebaya terhadap pencapaian akademik.   Kepentingan – Dapatan kajian ini meneguhkan teori mengenai peranan dan sumbangan keterlibatan murid di sekolah, dan sokongan pembelajaran untuk meningkatkan pencapaian murid seperti mana kajian yang dilakukan di Barat terhadap konstruk yang dikaji. Dapatan kajian ini membantu menyediakan cadangan intervensi untuk meningkatkan sokongan pembelajaran dalam kalangan remaja.
Using Diacritics in the Arabic Script of Malay to Scaffold Arab Postgraduate Students in Reading Malay Words
Authors: Salehuddin Khazriyati , Winskel Heather
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the use of diacritics in the Arabic script of Malay to facilitate Arab postgraduate students of UKM to read the Malay words accurately. It is hypothesised that the Arabic script could facilitate the reading of Malay words among the Arab students because of their earlier exposure to the Arabic script in comparison to the Romanised script.   Method – Twelve Arabic fi rst language speakers participated in a reading experiment that used DMDX, a Win 32-based display system for psychological experiments, to investigate whether or not Arabic vowel diacritics can facilitate Arabic fi rst language speakers to read Malay words accurately. A total of 100 Malay bi-syllabic words were used as stimuli in three different forms: 1) Arabic script without diacritics; 2) Arabic script with diacritics; and 3) Romanised script. The participants’ responses and reaction times were recorded to analyse accuracy and speed.   Findings – Arabic first language speakers were more accurate when reading words in Arabic script of Malay with diacritics and when reading Romanised script than when reading Arabic words without diacritics. Arabic speakers read Malay words faster in Arabic script without diacritics and in Romanised scripts than when reading words in Arabic script with diacritics.   Significance – This study shows that the use of a more familiar script to a certain extent does facilitate language learners to produce the target language more accurately compared to using a less familiar script. Hence, educators should explore any possible means to scaffold learners in their learning process.
GEOGEBRA: TOWARDS REALIZING 21ST CENTURY LEARNING IN MATHEMATICS EDUCATION
Authors: Kim Khor Mui , Md-Ali Ruzlan
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This study examines the effect using GeoGebra dynamic geometry software on students’ ability to confront geometry problem solving, their achievement in spatial visualization skills, and their usage of cognitive skills in applying, analyzing, evaluating, creating and constructing ideas for geometry problem solving on the topic of Shape and Space towards supporting 21st century learning of Mathematics Education. Methodology – Quantitative and qualitative data were collected for this study. A total of 102 Form Two students participated in the study, which had employed the pre-test and post-test quasi-experimental research design. The research participants were divided into three groups, namely Experimental Group 1 (n=33), Experimental Group 2 (n=35) and Control Group (n=34). A guideline book on using GeoGebra dynamic geometry software in learning of Shape and Space, developed by the researchers and validated by a panel of experts, was used by the teachers and students in the experimental groups. The quantitative data, obtained via the Topical Test (TT) and Spatial Visualization Ability Test (SVAT), were analysed using MANOVA. The reliability coefficients of TT and SVAT were 0.972 and 0.953 respectively. The qualitative data, collected via interviews, teaching observations, video recordings and students’ works, was thematically analysed. Findings – The experimental groups’ TT and the SVAT post-test mean scores for both the experimental groups were significantly higher than the control group’s TT and the SVAT post-test mean scores. The learning of Shape and Space using GeoGebra dynamic geometry software had enabled students to produce works with evidence of critical, creative and innovative elements in their solutions. The experimental groups’ students agreed that using the dynamic software something new to them and was indeed as an attractive way to learn mathematics because they had the opportunity to experience hands-on learning of mathematics using ICT. They voiced their dessire to also use the GeoGebra dynamic geometry software when learning other mathematics topics. Significance – The use of GeoGebra dynamic geometry software to support the notion of integration of technology in the teaching and learning of mathematics in schools has the potential to promote active students involvement in mathematics learning. The active learning could provide students with meaningful learning experiences and opportunities to produce quality, creative and innovative works. The dynamic software has the capacity to support students’ logical and systematic approaches in solving geometry problems and also triggers multiple ways of interactions and collaborations in the mathematics classrooms. The stimulation of students’ creative and innovative thinking provide evidence for the potential support of the dynamic software towards realizing 21st century learning within Mathematics Education.
ENHANCING KNOWLEDGE OF BULLYING BEHAVIOR THROUGH CREATIVE PEDAGOGY AMONG STUDENTS
Authors: Saibon Jamalsafri , Leong Amelia Chiew Har , Abd. Razak Muhamad Zahir
Published: August 2020

Purpose – Bullying is one of the most worrying issues among teachers, parents, and students. Hence, prevention action should be taken to prevent bullying at school. Therefore, the Program 2BS: I’m a Buddy not a Bully, has been implemented with an aim to enhance knowledge on bullying among students. This paper examines the effectiveness of pedagogical creative approaches to increase bullying knowledge and awareness among students. Creative and fun pedagogy have been used as an approach to achieve the objectives of this program. Methodology – A total of 234 students from different school orientations and aged 14–16 years participated in this experimental research. This study employs a quantitative method with the support of qualitative approaches utilizing quasi experiments design. An interview was conducted with seven students to obtain a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of creative pedagogy. Findings – The results showed a significant increase in knowledge of bullying behavior among students who had participated in this program. The findings from the interviews show that by using this creative pedagogy approach, students were more excited and could understand the content better. Significance – The findings are significant to teachers and learners, because they can act accordingly towards bullying behavior. This program provides an alternative to implementing bullying prevention programs that are oriented towards enhancing knowledge on bullying among students.
THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF MobiEko: A MOBILE EDUCATIONAL APP FOR MICROECONOMICS MODULE
Authors: Muslimin Mohamad Siri , Mohd Nordin Norazah , Mansor Ahmad Zamri , Md Yunus Melor
Published: August 2020

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to presents the steps taken to produce a mobile learning application framework to learn Microeconomics for which is named “MobiEko Apps”. Mobile learning application is utilized because the framework enables seamless access between all the involved actors. The design and development of an application prototype in this study are based on the ADDIE instructional design model. Methodology – This study was conducted to develop an educational mobile application for Microeconomics by eliciting learning content and evaluating learners’ satisfaction after the use of app. The design and development of an application prototype in this study are based on the ADDIE instructional design model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). This approach provides educators with useful, clearly defined stages for the effective implementation of instruction. Five stages comprise the framework, each with its own distinct purpose and function in the progression of instructional design. In this study, Prototype applications that want to produce is an education material in the form of mobile application based on Android platform to support teaching and learning activities in the classroom. Findings – A systematic research framework using ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate) approach is proposed to produce mobile application (MobiEko app) by dividing the content of the application into four main activities namely as learning menu, learning activities, assessment activities and support activities. The findings also showed that students were satisfied of the presentation design, visual, navigation and accessibility of ‘MobiEko’ application. Additionally, Mobile educational application (MobiEko) successfully performed as a knowledge transfer channel to help students and learners understand better the concepts and course contents as well as facilitated educators and students with better or more convenient ways in their teaching and learning activities. Significance – The present study has great significance to explore the roles of self-directed learning through mobile application to enhance the student’s knowledge through the development of an educational mobile application. It is expected to encourage students to carry out self-study while improving the quality of teaching and learning activities in line with the 21st century learning. The education mobile application envisioned to be applied in blended learning scenario to support instructors and students in teaching and learning, leveraging on the affordance and ownership of mobile devices as well as to facilitate the learning of Microeconomics courses on mobile devices.
Keberkesanan Kaedah Model Skema Bagi Meningkatkan Kefahaman dan Minat Pelajar Terhadap Cerpen Bahasa Melayu
Authors: Nair Subadrah , Arumugam Rajeswari
Published: August 2020

Artikel ini membincangkan teori skema dan kesan penggunaan model skema dalam pengajaran cerpen (KOMSAS) Bahasa Melayu. Pengkaji-pengkaji teori skema menegaskan skema atau pengetahuan latar dapat membantu meningkatkan kefahaman bacaan pelajar. Suatu kajian kuasi eksperimen telah dijalankan untuk mengenal pasti kesan penggunaan model skema terhadap pencapaian kefahaman pelajar dan minat pelajar terhadap cerpen (KOMSAS). Dapatan kajian tersebut menunjukkan pengajaran dengan menggunakan model skema dapat meningkatkan pencapaian pelajar secara signifikan bagi soalan tentang persoalan, soalan tentang perwatakan, soalan tentang latar masyarakat dan soalan tentang gaya bahasa berbanding dengan pencapaian pelajar yang diajar dengan menggunakan pendekatan tradisional. Selain itu, didapati minat pelajar terhadap cerpen turut meningkat secara signifikan setelah diajar dengan menggunakan model skema.
The Relationship between Learning Style and Quantitative/Qualitative Information Recall Performance
Authors: Abdullah A.B.M , Ligon Jerry
Published: August 2020

This study examined the ability of individuals to recall qualitative or quantitative information contained in reading passages. The subjects’ scores on the Kolb Learning Style Inventory (KLSI) were analyzed to determine if an individual’s learning style preference affected his/her information recall performance. Demographic variables, including age, sex, grade level, employment status and length, and ethnicity were also included in the analysis. One-way ANOVA analysis was conducted to test two proposed hypotheses. Results indicated that there was significant relationship between individuals learning styles and their ability to recall qualitative information. However, for the quantitative information the results were inconclusive. Regression analysis also indicated that there was a significant relationship between the type of information recalled and recall performance. In addition to information type (qualitative/quantitative), the abstract-to-concrete AC-CE dimension score of the KLSI was also found to have significant impact on information recall performance.
Faktor Penentu Prestasi Pelajar Matrikulasi dalam Subjek Perakaunan
Authors: Ishak Zuaini , Abdul Manaf Nor Aziah , Mat Zin Rosliza
Published: August 2020

Kajian ini bertujuan mengenal pasti faktor-faktor yang menentukan prestasi pelajar dalam subjek perakaunan di peringkat matrikulasi. Berdasarkan 450 soal selidik yang dikeluarkan, analisis kajian ke atas 393 sampel yang boleh digunakan menunjukkan purata gred pelajar secara keseluruhannya berada dalam lingkungan C. Penemuan kajian dengan menggunakan kaedah “stepwise” regresi berkali, menunjukkan hubungan positif yang signifikan antara markah perakaunan pengurusan dengan purata mata gred keseluruhan dan pencapaian bagi subjek perakaunan kewangan yang diambil oleh pelajar dalam semester sebelumnya. Di samping itu, sikap, jangkaan tahap motivasi dan jangkaan markah menunjukkan hubungan yang signifikan dengan prestasi pelajar. Bagaimanapun, dapatan kajian telah menunjukkan bahawa pelajar yang tidak mempunyai pendedahan awal dalam subjek perakaunan menunjukkan prestasi yang lebih baik berbanding dengan mereka yang mempunyai pendedahan awal dalam subjek perakaunan.
Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) in Predicting the Intent to Use the Internet for Academic Purposes
Authors: Bidin Zainol , Md Hashim Mohd Farid Asraf , Sharif Zakiyah , Mohd Shamsudin Faridahwati
Published: August 2020

Purpose – This study sought to investigate the factors that influence students’ intention to use the Internet for academic purposes in Universiti Utara Malaysia. This study applies theory of planned behaviour (TPB) as the base model. The model employed the original variables from the theory i.e. attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and intention.   Method – A survey involving of questionnaires was conducted among 369 public university students. Multiple regression was employed to examine the factors influencing intention to use the Internet for academic purposes.   Findings – Results revealed that the variables attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control are statistically significant in influencing intention to use the Internet for learning purposes. It was also found that 38% of the variance in students’ intention to use the Internet is cumulatively explained by their attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control.   Significance – The paper provides useful scientific insight into the relationships between attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control variables towards intention to use the Internet for academic purposes. The findings can be used to promote the use of Internet among students in enhancing their learning experience.
Malaysian University Student Learning Involvement Scale (MUSLIS): Validation of a Student Engagement Model
Authors: Md. Jaafar Fauziah , Awang Hashim Rosna , Tengku Ariffin Tengku Faekah
Published: August 2020

Purpose – In western countries, a model to explain student engagement in college or university has long been established. However, there is a lack of research to develop and validate a model which may help to better understand student engagement in the local university context. There is currently no established instrument to measure student engagement specifically in the Malaysian (or Asian) university context. This study was conducted to fill the gap. A measurement model on student engagement in the Malaysian university context, based on Astin’s (1984) Student Involvement Theory, was developed and validated for use in the local context.   Methodology – This study uses a survey research method to test the Malaysian University Student Learning Involvement Scale (MUSLIS), a measurement model of student engagement in the local university context. The MUSLIS is a 24-item scale designed to obtain feedback on the extent of student engagement at the tertiary level in the Malaysian context. The questionnaire was distributed to 347 final year students from Universiti Utara Malaysia. The data was analysed using the SPSS software (version 16.0) to run the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and AMOS (version 16.0) to analyse the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).   Findings – Holistic evaluation of the model of student engagement found that the data collected acceptably fit the model. The instrument used was also found to be reliable.   Significance – This study pioneers research in the measurement of tertiary student engagement, the first of its kind, in the Malaysian context. However, a wider sample comprising data from different universities in the country should be conducted to further confirm the usability and validity of the proposed MUSLIS. The instrument can be used in studies which seek to examine the outcomes of student involvement. In practice, the measurement of student involvement provides useful information on the extent of student participation in activities on and out of campus, whether these are academic-oriented or societal activities.
Student-Teachers’ Approaches to Learning, Academic Performance and Teaching Efficacy
Authors: Swee-Choo Pauline Goh , Teck Wong Kung , Osman Rosma
Published: August 2020

Purpose – It is argued that the approaches to learning of students undergoing teacher training are likely to be related to their teaching and learning environment, especially as they move from a more regimented, structured learning environment in school to a tertiary learning environment that encourages more independent thinking and perhaps questions ideas. Therefore, this investigation has an overall goal to use the unique approaches to learning (surface and deep approaches) of students in a teacher preparation program to address the needs of this particular group of students during their teacher education. The study examines the associations between scores on student-teachers’ approaches to learning, their academic performance and teaching efficacy. Methodology – The approach to learning instrument used was the Bahasa Melayu R-SPQ-2F and the teaching efficacy was collected through the Bahasa Melayu Teachers’ Sense of  Efficacy Scale (TSES). The sample for this study was a total of 104 second-year student-teachers from two cohorts enrolled in a teacher education degree programme in a Malaysian university. The R-SPQ-2F was administered on the 10th week of a 14-week semester. A cover page accompanying the questionnaires provided general information about the study and specific instructions to answer the questionnaire. Student-teachers were requested to provide their cumulative grade point average (CGPA) score from the previous semester. Data was analyzed by using Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient (Pearson’s r). Findings - Findings showed that surface approach to learning has shown significant negative association with teaching efficacy, indicating that those student-teachers who used surface learning exhibited low teaching efficacy. Deep approach to learning has shown significant positive association with both academic achievement and teaching efficacy, indicating that those student-teachers who adopted deep learning had better academic achievement and also had a stronger sense of teaching efficacy. Implications of these findings were discussed as they related to teaching and learning, specifically in the attempt to facilitate deeper learning strategies. Significance - The study provides further evidence that the translated versions of the Bahasa Melayu R SPQ-2F and theBahasa Melayu TSES are reliable instruments to assess and monitor student-teachers’ approaches to learning and their teaching self-efficacy beliefs. This study also adds to the very limited number of investigations of approaches to learning, academic performance, and teaching self efficacy of student-teachers in Malaysia.
Budaya Sekolah, Kepemimpinan Transformasional dan Pencapaian Akademik Pelajar
Authors: Daud Yaakob , Don Yahya
Published: August 2020

Tujuan – Budaya sekolah dan kepemimpinan sekolah mampu menyumbang kepada pencapaian dan motivasi murid, kepuasan dan produktiviti guru. Kajian ini meneliti hubungan budaya sekolah dengan kepemimpinan transformasional dan pencapaian akademik pelajar sekolah rendah.   Metodologi – Kajian korelasi ini melibatkan 657 orang guru dan 141 guru besar sekolah daripada 141 buah sekolah di negeri Kedah. Instrumen Budaya Sekolah dan Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ5x) digunakan sebagai instrumen kajian. Di samping itu, temu bual berstruktur melibatkan empat orang guru besar dan 16 orang guru penolong bertujuan mengenal pasti nilai-nilai positif yang diamalkan di sekolah turut dibuat.   Dapatan – Kajian menunjukkan bahawa terdapat perbezaan yang signifikan antara persepsi guru-guru di sekolah berpretasi tinggi dan persepsi guru-guru di sekolah berprestasi rendah terhadap amalan budaya sekolah mereka, dan budaya sekolah mempunyai hubungan yang positif dan signifikan dengan kepemimpinan transformasional.   Kepentingan – Implikasi kajian ini adalah budaya sekolah dan kepemimpinan transformasional mempunyai kaitan rapat dengan pencapaian akademik pelajar. Justeru, budaya sekolah positif dan kepimpinan transformasional dijangka boleh menyumbang kepada kejayaan sesebuah sekolah.
Readability of Corporate Annual Reports of Top 100 Malaysian Companies
Authors: Mohamad Rosli , Abdul Rahman Azhar
Published: August 2020

The main purpose of this paper is to compare the readability of two narrative sections in Malaysian corporate annual reports. Further more the authors investigate whether readability of one section reflects the readability of another section. On top of that, consistency of the readability level across companies is also reviewed. The study assess the readability of the chairman’s statement and notes to the accounts of top 100 Malaysian corporations using Flesch readability formula. Overall results indicated consistent finding with prior studies with which the readability of both narratives is considered as very difficult to read. Specifically, the findings revealed that the management does not present the chairman’s statement in a more readable style despite greater flexibility offered in its presentation than notes to the accounts. Further test also confirmed that a readable chairman’s statement is not necessarily followed by readable notes to the accounts and vice versa. Finally, the study reported that readability of notes to the accounts is more consistent among companies than the chairman’s statement. It is therefore recommended that the management should consider presenting the chairman’s statement in a plain English to ensure that investors accurately receive the conveyed message.
Globalisation, Unemployment, and Poverty: The Need for a New Perspective on Social Protection in Malaysia
Authors: Roslan A.H. , Mustafa M.M.
Published: August 2020

The integration of an economy to the global market, even when it leads to a higher standard of living, usually results in economic uncertainties and insecurity, as well as eroding social values and traditions of the society. Some people may gain, while some others may lose out from it, which may cause distributive conflicts to emerge. The economic uncertainties and insecurity, as well as the distributive conflicts that arise from globalisation, could disrupt the economy from securing the benefits of globalisation, and consequently could pose an impediment to economic growth. Hence, some scholars has argued that globalisation also increases the demand for greater role of government to stabilise the economy in terms of providing adequate social protection, if the benefits from globalisation are to be realised. This paper attempts to examine the impact of globalisation on the welfare of the Malaysian society, particularly on unemployment and poverty, and discusses the issues and challenges with regards to the provision of social protection in Malaysia. The paper argues that Malaysia needs a new perspective on social protection, as the existing institutions are deemed inadequate in providing protection to the society in the globalised economy.
Does Causality Technique Matter to Savings-Growth Nexus in Malaysia?
Authors: Tang Chor Foon
Published: August 2020

The intention of this study was to investigate whether the causal inference between savings and economic growth in Malaysia is sensitive to the particular causality tests employed to ascertain the causal relationship. This study covered quarterly data from 1991:Q1 to 2006:Q3. The results suggested that the causal relationship between savings and economic growth in Malaysia is not sensitive to the particular causality test used. Thus, causality test plays no role in explaining the inconsistency causality result of savings and economic growth. Ultimately, causality test does not matter to savings-growth nexus for Malaysia.
Knowledge-Based Malaysian GLC: Are They More Innovative and Performing Much Better?
Authors: A. Rahman Badruddin , Mohd Shariff Mohd Noor
Published: August 2020

In the Knowledge-Age, knowledge and innovation is becoming the main driver of competitive advantage, especially for large organisations to create value and achieve prosperity. Subsequent to this, a quantitative study was conducted whereby data were collected using a mail survey sent to employees of listed Government-Linked Companies (GLCs). A total of 690 questionnaires were mailed out and 273 were returned and usable, representing a response rate of 39.5%. Using a disproportionately stratified sampling, the data collected was subject to structural equation modelling analysis. The objective was to develop and test a model of knowledge management initiatives, innovation, and performance for Malaysian GLCs. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to examine the validity of the measurement model and the structural model was also analysed to test the associations hypothesised in the research model. The actual findings showed that the proposed model fits the data well. Employees perceived knowledge management initiatives as important antecedents of innovation, and innovation in turn, result in better organisational performance.
Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Information System Implementation Among Small and Medium Manufacturing Enterprises in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Noor Azizi
Published: August 2020

This study examined information system (IS) effectiveness and its influence factors in the specific context of small and medium manufacturing enterprise (SME). The model evaluated the importance of manager participation in IS implementation, manager IS knowledge and accounting knowledge, and external experts (vendors, consultants, government agencies, and accounting firms) for IS effectiveness. The sample included 232 SMEs registered with the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers. The results showed that manager accounting knowledge, and the effectiveness of vendors and accounting firms, are essential for IS effectiveness. Overall, the results suggested that managers of SMEs need to acquire sufficient accounting knowledge to help them better understand business information requirements. Secondly, SMEs should engage qualified vendors who have experience and understand unique characteristics of SMEs to overcome their lack of IS knowledge. SMEs should also exploit their good relationship with accounting firms to help them implement effective IS. Finally, it is important for SMEs to learn from their IS implementation so that opportunities can be recognised and priority given to initiatives that help IS support their information needs.
Views on the Issue of Accountability in Non-Profit Organizations
Authors: Basri Hasan , Abdul Khalid Siti Nabiha
Published: August 2020

Over the past few decades, concerns have been raised about the accountability of non-profit organizations, especially on the adequacy of the current reporting and oversight mechanisms. Non-profit organizations are now increasingly demanded to become more accountable and demonstrate that they are making a difference and delivering results. However, the issues of non-profit accountability are problematic and more complex as compared to business organisations. As such, in this paper, pertinent issues of accountability in NPO are discussed. This is done by discussing the unique nature of non-profit organisations and their conflicting demands for accountability. The paper also elaborates the complex relationship of trust and its consequences and influences on the informal and also formal forms of accountability, specifically on the use of financial reporting.
The Trade-Off Between Child Quantity and Child Quality and the Public Provision of Education: A Case Study in Rural Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Abdul Razak Nor Azam , Abdul Hakim Roslan , Ismail Russayani
Published: August 2020

The objective of this paper is to examine whether the theory of the child quantity-quality (CQQ) trade-off developed by Becker and Lewis (1973) is borne out by the data from a developing country. In brief, the theory states that households behave differently with respect to their mixture of child quantity and child quality depending on their standards of living (i.e. low-income households tend to choose child quantity at the expense of child quality, and the converse is true for high-income households). If the government provides enough support for education, however, this trade-off might be undermined. Using a sample of 885 children from a survey of 2,500 households in rural areas in Terengganu in 2009, we conducted an empirical analysis on the relationship between child quantity and child quality. In the baseline estimation as well as in a series of robustness check, our key findings are that there is a positive yet insignificant impact of child quantity on child quality. Accordingly, we take these results as mild evidence against the CQQ trade-off which, in turn, can be attributed to the magnitude of the public provision of education in Malaysia.
The Relationship Between Quality of Work Life and Job Motivation Among Iranian High School Teachers
Authors: Yasini Ali , Hayat Aliasghar , Yasini Tahereh , Saadattalab Ayatallah
Published: August 2020

This study examines the relationship between EFL teachers’ quality of work life (QWL) and their job motivation. 126 Iranian EFL teachers currently working in high schools of Tehran were administered two questionnaires that assessed their motivation and quality of work life. Participants’ motivation to teach was assessed using a questionnaire developed by Noe & Bachhuber (1990) which includes three major subscales: career insight (8 items), career identity (5 items), and career resilience (13 items). In addition this study used Walton’s (1973) widely used quality of work life questionnaire. This 29-item questionnaire includes eight subscales: adequate and fair compensation (4 items), safe and healthy working (3 items), continued growth and security (3 items), constitutionalism in the work organization (5 items), the social relevance of work life (3 items), total life space (4 items), social integration in the work organization (4 items), and human progress capabilities (3 items). The results revealed that Iranian EFL teachers experience medium to low levels of motivation and QWL. In addition, a significant relationship was found between QWL categories and job motivation. Further, the best QWL predictors for teacher motivation were identified. The findings of this study are hoped to serve as a reference for principals and educational decision-makers in bringing about higher levels of motivation for language teachers.
The Formation of Separate Risk Management Committee and the Effect on Modified Audit Report
Authors: Ishak Suhaimi , Md Yusof Mohd ‘Atef
Published: August 2020

The aim of the paper is to examine the formation of a separate risk management committee (RMC) and its effect on the modified audit report among the non-banking and financial companies listed in Bursa Malaysia. Data was collected from the annual reports of a sample of 300 companies from 2004 until 2009. Both descriptive and multivariate analyses were employed to address the research objectives. The results indicate that a separate RMC is negatively related with the acceptance of the modified audit report. Further, the RMC’s members with independent non-executive status and members with accounting and financial background will also probably reduce the acceptance of the modified audit report. However, losses recorded for previous financial years are likely to increase the issuance of modified audit report by the auditor. The period of auditor engagement with the client and client size will also affect the modified audit report. The findings provide empirical evidence on the development and importance of a separate RMC for the modified audit report.
Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction: A Comparative Study of an Indian Public VS Private Bank
Authors: Singh Dharmendra
Published: August 2020

This study focuses on the service quality and customer satisfaction among the private and public sector banks in India. Today customers are supposed to have awareness about the financial services provided by the banking sector. An attempt has therefore, been made in this paper to quantify the ‘awareness level’ of the customers and analyze the ‘service quality experience’ of the customers from their banks. The study has been carried out to compare the service quality experienced by customers of the public and private sector banks and to study the link between service quality and customer satisfaction. For that reason a well structured questionnaire was used to collect the views of customers on various service dimensions and the satisfaction of the customers regarding the services offered by the public and private sector banks. Various statistical tools like ANOVA, Factor Analysis and Multiple Regressions were used for analyzing the data collected on five service dimensions of SERVQUAL and satisfaction of customers. The results indicate that the private sector bank was better in terms of providing services and creating awareness about their products and services. The study also proves that an increase in service quality will most likely lead to customer satisfaction.