bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leachate Pollution and Impact to Environment
Authors: Fagbenro Oluwakemi Kehinde
Published: November 2019

Pollution prevention is a step towards obtaining a green environment, and no amount of effort in that direction should be considered too great. To this effect, the pollution by leachate and the resultant impact on the environment is discussed in this chapter. Types and sources of pollution, their transfer and effect have been discussed, so as to give a background understanding on pollution and hence provide a platform for its control. The age old waste disposal practice of open dumps and landfilling is discussed, highlighting the dangers of indiscriminate waste dumping and uncontrolled landfilling practices. Although other sources of leachate generation are highlighted, the chapter focuses on leachates from municipal landfills and the effect of its migration. Engineered landfills also known as sanitary landfills have performed better in curtailing the movement of leachates, hence the use of artificial liners or low permeability soils such as the well compacted clayey soils, to eliminate or minimize leachate migration.
Revisiting the Conflicts between ‘Environmental Taxes vs Standard' in the Context of International Trade
Authors: Chatterjee Nilendu , Gupta Kausik , Chatterjee Tonmoy
Published: November 2019

The present paper throws light on the famous “tax versus standard” debate in the sphere of environmental economics by using general equilibrium framework and tries to examine which of the two, i.e., tax or standard is the better way to deal with pollution. It has done so in the presence of a waste recycling sector which is the unique feature of it and has shown the impact of tax and standard separately on different polluting and non-polluting sectors of the economy. The study has developed a unique as well as an interesting result that in the presence of a waste recycling sector in the economy, both pollution tax and environmental standard have the same impact.
Modeling of Polypropylene Modified Bitumen Mix Design Results Using Regression Analysis
Authors: Chhabra Kaval , Agrawal Divesh , Subbarao Saladi S. V.
Published: November 2019

This study investigates the effects of mixing Polypropylene waste plastics in the bituminous mix for the design of Flexible Pavement. Since, obtaining Marshall Test results from the bituminous mix is time-consuming, so if the practitioners measure the values of stability and flow by mechanical testing, other computations can be done by applying simple mathematical calculations. So, this study carried out stability and flow tests on different specimens made with varying bitumen and polypropylene plastic content. From the initial test results, the optimum bitumen and plastic contents are found. Further, the test results obtained from Marshall Test are modelled by identifying various input variables, which are various physical properties of the mix such as plastic content, bitumen content, air voids and unit weight. The regression modeling framework is adopted in this study to predict the Marshall stability and flow value. Since the developed models have yielded good results, these can be effectively used in parameter estimation, and thus aids the future researchers.
Toward the Future of Computer-Assisted Language Testing
Authors: Quaid Ethan Douglas , Barrett Alex
Published: November 2019

Semi-direct speaking tests have become an increasingly favored method of assessing spoken performance in recent years. Underpinning evidence for their continued development and use has been largely contingent on language testing and assessment researchers' claim of their interchangeability with more traditional, direct face-to-face oral proficiency interviews through theoretical and empirical investigations from multiple perspectives. This chapter initially provides background and research synopses of four significant test facets that have formed the bases for semi-direct and direct speaking test comparison studies. These are followed by the inclusion of a recent case study comparing test taker output from a computer-based Aptis speaking test and a purposively developed identical face-to-face oral proficiency interview that found a slight register shift which may be viewed as advantageous for semi-direct speaking tests. Finally, future research directions are proposed in light of the recent developments in the semi-direct speaking testing research presented throughout this chapter.
Be Attentive to Public Employees
Authors: Pečarič Mirko
Published: November 2019

The present complexity cannot be grasped by endless enumeration of objective factors. Each choice reveals what a person is believed to be; each choice shapes people through the effects that it produces/fails to produce. Individual and personal characteristics thus cannot be controlled only by the law, because the latter is enforced by persons. Research should be moved to a higher level where they could be controlled and implemented through values if their basic human properties could be known that operate also within public administration. No area can be taken as final; no single conviction will always give the right answer in a new or different set of circumstances that requires a different approach and a new conviction based on it. A culture of dialogue should be hence established through whistleblowing and other adjustments, using a central perspective on situations from the highest management combined with a horizontal one to provide information. In both perspectives, public employees are the sine qua non for good administration.
Effects of Patient Mobility on Healthcare Systems
Authors: Costanza Francesca
Published: November 2019

Due to the European Cross-Border Directive, the provision of quality healthcare in EU implies for patients the possibility to decide to receive medical treatments in their residential country or to move to non-residential ones. Such option is likely to disclose both positive effects and unintended consequences. This chapter investigates healthcare mobility issues by adopting a dynamic performance management view (i.e., combining building blocks of performance management and system dynamics). The outcome of the research is a causal model tailored to the Italian case and depicting key actors, processes, and relationships within a comprehensive feedback structure. The chapter frames the phenomenon of patients' mobility into the public management theory, describes the modelling steps, and proposes quantitative simulations of alternative policies. Such approach can prospectively support policymakers' decisions, contributing to the debate on how to deliver sustainable care at a state level and hypothesizing scenarios following a sustained application of the new EU regulations.
Rational Adaptation of Control Systems for the Autonomous Aircraft Motion
Authors: Dergachov Kostiyantin , Kulik Anatolii
Published: November 2019

The possibilities of using an adaptation principle in an application for organizing the close-loop life circuit of autonomous fly vehicles (FV) are discussed in the chapter. The uncertainties arising at each stage of the life cycle of an autonomous FV are considered. To solve a problem the approach with using intelligent, rational objects and using knowledge database tool is proposed. The main theses of rational adaptation control system (CS) are represented. The preliminary designing tools for constructing rational adaptation algorithms for the motion CS are considered. The practical applications of the proposed approach at the stage of preliminary design of control systems for autonomous fly vehicles are presented.
Intelligence-Based Operation of Aviation Radioelectronic Equipment
Authors: Solomentsev Oleksandr , Zaliskyi Maksym , Zuiev Oleksii
Published: November 2019

This chapter presents the questions of aviation radioelectronic equipment operation. Operation is the main stage in the life cycle of equipment. This stage is the longest in time and very significant in terms of the costs for equipment reliability providing. Control influences are realized in operation system to provide the efficient functioning of the equipment. The operation system is complex in structure intelligence system and is the object of design and modernization. The chapter deals with the structure of the operation system and its elements interconnection and discusses the models of diagnostic variables, reliability parameters for the case of changepoint presence. An important issue during design and improvement of operation systems is the selection, evaluation, and support of the efficiency indicator. This chapter concentrates on the efficiency indicator substantiation taking into account the effectiveness and operational resources costs. Three data processing strategies analysis allowed choosing the most rational option from maximum efficiency point of view.
The Method of Evaluation of the Resource of Complex Technical Objects, in Particular, Aviation
Authors: Kuzmych Lyudmyla , Kvasnikov Volodymyr
Published: November 2019

The method of estimating the resource of complex technical objects, in particular, aviation technique, is proposed, which includes the construction of a mathematical model of the object's functioning to determine its actual technical condition and residual resource for planning, design, production, operation, repairs, and modernization of aviation technique. To determine the actual state and estimate the residual life of structures, it is proposed to simultaneously evaluate several characteristics of the material of the object: the characteristic parameters of the structure of the material, integral parameters of the material, related to strength (for example, hardness), the presence and nature of macro defects, the degree of corrosion wear of the metal. Limit values of the selected diagnostic parameters are determined by available standards or technical conditions for objects. The dynamics of changes in diagnostic parameters can be monitored and modeled on the basis of the data of periodic inspections of the control object.
Improving Logical Thinking Skills Through Jigsaw-Based Cooperative Learning Approach
Authors: Tan Ee Xion
Published: November 2019

Many opportunities for success are given to computer science students in their modules with minimum guidance from their instructors. Mainly, students from this field have to complete tasks on an open-ended problem that requires higher-order thinking skills. Since the students need to derive their unique answer from a given task in a group setting, cooperative learning helps them to compare with and discuss the solutions together. Hence, the individual's foundational skills of problem-solving and logical thinking skills are critical in the process of software development. However, to install such skills is usually a challenging task for academics. This study believes jigsaw-based cooperative learning approach helps the computer science students to grasp and build their logical thinking skills. The familiarity with software analysis tools as part of the online cooperative learning helps accelerate and firm-up the process of sequential logical skills. The results of pre- and post-experiment showed significant improvement (61.6%) in logical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.
Learning Law Using Augmented Reality and Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Authors: Amirnuddin Puteri Sofia , Turner Jason J.
Published: November 2019

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4 IR), there are various legal tasks that are becoming increasingly automated, and hence, it is no longer sufficient for law students to only know the law. Today's law graduates have to be equipped with skills that can future-proof their careers from automation; hence, the onus is on education providers to embed those skills in the curriculum. In an attempt to address the identified skills gap and better enable graduate work readiness, augmented reality (AR) and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) have been introduced into a law module at Taylor's University to encourage first-year law students to learn law using AR and utilise NLP techniques to deliver a human element through digital learning. Through the interpretation of students' feedback from a module survey, this chapter aims to understand student learning experience on the role of AR and NLP in facilitating and enhancing their legal studies and preparing the graduate more effectively for the workplace.
The Use of Developmentally Mobile Applications for Preparing Pre-Service Teachers to Promote STEM Activities in Preschool Classrooms
Authors: Kalogiannakis Michail , Papadakis Stamatios
Published: November 2019

Studies suggest that the exposure to STEM learning opportunities early in life is important because the development of STEM skills can further students' interest and educational attainment in STEM, expanding their career choices later in life. Smart mobile devices have become ubiquitous in schools and have been transforming educational practices at all ages and levels and almost all over the world. At the same time, there is evidence that teacher education departments lack the knowledge and skill to teach pre-service teachers about using these devices in their daily teaching practice. The findings of this chapter underline the need to develop teaching and learning processes that go beyond a mere transmission of the technical knowledge required to use mobile technologies with educational purposes, focusing instead on raising students' awareness about the educational benefits that the integration of mobile technologies can bring to formal education.
Mobile Application to Exercise Oral Language From a Systems Approach
Authors: Soberanes-Martín Anabelem , Olmos Peña Samuel , Martínez Reyes Magally
Published: November 2019

The primary means of human communication is language; it requires support to develop the ability to speak and it is not the same for everyone. Intellectual Disability (ID) makes the child learn and develop more slowly, leading to the development of language software. The chapter develops an application for mobile devices called Gradual Interactive Language (GIL), created through five stages of Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and the classic model of software development. The results of the pilot test indicated that it is an alternative support to move from pre-language to language, not limited to children with ID, the only thing that would depend is the moment in which it will use; in addition to showing improvement through gradual exercises that allow the child to advance, considers the roles involved in the process of learning language (teachers, educators or therapists, parents, children, and technology), finally, a technical virtue of GIL is to run on any device regardless of the operating system it uses (iOS or Android).
Fusing Culturally Responsive Teaching, Place Conscious Education, and Problem-Based Learning With Mobile Technologies
Authors: Jackson Nykela H.
Published: November 2019

Students must be provided meaningful learning opportunities to employ content through active learning opportunities that capitalize their interests (mobile technologies), fuse real life issues (problems that they face in school or local community), and sustain their curiosity (creative learning experiences). Using mobile technologies for culturally responsive, problem based learning is a powerful and unique way to prepare students for the four C's: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. This chapter provides theoretical and practical support of the innovative impact of using mobile technologies in student selected, problem focused learning.
Promoting Virtual Collaborative Learning with the Use of Mobile Devices
Authors: Ktoridou Despo , Doukanari Elli
Published: November 2019

With the ubiquity and rapidly expanding functionality of mobile technologies, educational institutions have the potential to improve and facilitate learning. More and more educators are employing communication, collaboration and sharing tools and resources to make learning more accessible, equitable, personalized and flexible for students everywhere. This study investigates the implementation of Cloud-Based Student-Centered Learning (CBSCL) environment with the use of mobile devices in an MIS course. For the purpose of the study, the data were elicited through students' focus groups and the lecturer's notes on CBSCL as a virtual learning environment. The data were examined based on content analysis. The results indicate that CBSCL can be a challenging collaborative learning experience and a motivating approach to teaching and learning; consequently, the students become responsible for their own learning and problem solving process.
Applied Competences for Students by Using M-Learning Devices in Higher Education
Authors: Herrera-Bernal José-Alberto , Ramírez-Hernández Darinka del Carmen , Ramírez-Montoya María-Soledad
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this chapter is to present a case study for evaluating the competences (knowledge, skills, and attitudes) applied by students in Higher Education by using m-learning devices in a course taught in an online distance education. The research question was: Which skills do the students need to learn through m-learning devices? Two variables used in this study were: m-learning and learning technology skills. The results shows that m-learning becomes an extension, addition and/or evolution of online studying and that the student requires a set of basic knowledge and skills to handle cell phones and iPods as learning tools. Students also develop skills in computing, communication, productivity, relationships, leadership, self-study while being involved in a study mode such as mobile learning. Students also require competences such as self-management, evaluation and selection of information, creativity, communication and collaborative work.
Using Mobile Technologies in Education
Authors: Marques Célio Gonçalo Cardoso , Manso António , Ferreira Ana Paula , Morgado Felisbela
Published: November 2019

The acquisition of reading skills is decisive for the academic achievement of students. However, learning to read is a complex process. With this in mind, several attempts have been made to find new educational approaches to enhance students' reading motivation. Considering the enormous potential of ICT for education and training, we have developed a digital repository of teaching and learning materials and a multiplatform application that runs on mobile devices: Letrinhas. This information system was designed to promote the development of reading and to provide tools for monitoring and assessing reading skills against the curricular targets set by the Ministry of Education. Letrinhas was evaluated by specialists and users and a high level of satisfaction was observed among students and teachers as time and effort spent to consolidate reading is considerably reduced with this application. This evaluation also enabled to identify features that will be available in the future.
Educational Technology Goes Mobile
Authors: Pirhonen Antti , Rousi Rebekah
Published: November 2019

Recent decades have revealed that the digital educational technology that is expected to revolutionise schooling for generations to come, is fraught with challenges. One major challenge is that educational systems vastly vary between cultures and countries. The differences start from the conceptualisation of education and school. It is, therefore, quite inaccurate to handle education as a universal concept. In this article the authors evade generalisation by discussing the use of mobile technology in the schools of one single, relatively homogenous nation: Finland. The backbone of their analysis is the core national curriculum of basic education. The appropriateness of mobile technology in the school context is reflected upon through the objectives and ethos of basic education. The conclusions are discussed in terms of their contribution to the understanding of the use culture of mobile technology.
School in a Box in Low Resource Primary School in Mozambique
Authors: O'Sullivan Linda , Seabra N. Miguel
Published: November 2019

The new Sustainable Development Goals call for quality education for all. This study aims to examine the role of mobile educational technology, through the School in a Box intervention, particularly in supporting teachers skills in achieving quality education, in the context of a public primary school in Mozambique. Quality education is examined specifically in relation to participative pedagogical practices designed to contextualise learning in locally relevant meaning, and providing children with the skills of learning how to learn. Additionally it is examined in the context of teacher professional development and creating peer support structures within the teaching community enabling teachers to be at the forefront of initiatives introducing mobile educational technology in low resource learning environments in Sub Saharan Africa. This paper sets the context for the use of the School in a Box tool in the classroom and in teacher professional development against the theoretical framework of Vygotsky's zone of proximal development. The study aims to furthermore examine how teachers can be enabled to appropriate use of the technology to the local environment and curriculum needs.
The Adoption of Mobile Devices as Digital Tools for Seamless Learning
Authors: Yokuş Gürol , Yelken Tuğba Yanpar
Published: November 2019

This study examines the views of undergraduate students in Education Faculty related to mobile learning and reveals their mobile usage behaviors. Mobile usage behaviors include students' view about effectiveness of mobile learning, their mobile design preferences, use of mobile device for purpose of learning, the activity types conducted with mobile devices and their mobile usage frequency. It comes out that university students have very positive attitudes towards mobile learning and they think that m-learning is a really effective learning method. However, mobile devices are used mostly for two purposes: socialization and entertainment. University students agree that mobile learning removes constraints like time and space dependency. They view simplicity and fluency as the prerequisites for a mobile application. Their behaviors are infrequent when it comes to the use of mobile devices for accessing library, reading article, doing homework and note-taking. Their readiness for m-learning is considerably high and they have necessary skills for this learning form.
Proactive, Preventive or Indifference?
Authors: Forkosh-Baruch Alona , Meishar-Tal Hagit
Published: November 2019

Students enter classes with mobile devices and use them for learning; however, these are also distracting devices. Some teacher educators display positive attitudes; others display negative attitudes, depending on their perception of the advantages and disadvantages of mobile technology for learning. This paper represents findings of a study that examined teacher educators' attitudes towards the use of mobile technology in classes, and their reactions to its use. The study identified three types of reactions: proactive, preventive and indifference. Findings show that teacher educators perceive the benefits of using mobile technology in their classes as outweighing the disadvantages. However, the majority is indifferent, e.g. do not initiate new uses of mobile technologies in class, but do not prevent its usage. A correlation was identified between the lecturers' reactions to uses of mobile technology and the familiarity with its possibilities and potential in class.
An Empirical Analysis of Mobile Learning Acceptance in Puerto Rico's Higher Learning Institutions
Authors: Heard Irvin Renzell
Published: November 2019

This empirical research article employs a quantitative research methodology based on existing research on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to model how college students in Puerto Rico perceive, accept and reject mobile learning technologies before university implementation. This study identifies the factors, perceptions, and attitudes of mobile learning acceptance at the individual level. The TAM themes included in this study are: attitude (A), behavioral intentions (BI), ease of access (EoA), ease of use (EoU), external influence (EI), quality of service (QoS), student readiness (SR), university support (US) and usefulness (U). The article's objective is to examine the determinants and behavioral intentions to use M-learning in higher learning institutions in Puerto Rico. By understanding the determinants, universities, and organizations that deliver educational content can develop intervention programs aimed at increasing user acceptance of M-learning.
Designing Seamless Learning Using Role-Playing Experiences
Authors: Jones Sherry , Novak Kae , Luchs Christopher , Bennani Farah
Published: November 2019

This chapter examines seamless learning in the context of three case studies that incorporate role-play as a pedagogical approach to integrate contextually aware learning from the formal classroom to informal spaces both face-to face and online. The research question explored is whether role-playing design in seamless mobile learning can cultivate the learners' intrinsic motivation to engage with the course and collaborate with others. In all three case studies, a variety of technologies, such as web 2.0 and mobile devices, were employed to offer learners a seamless learning experience. The studies revealed that majority of the learners were more invested and engaged in the course experience by participating in technology-mediated role-playing activities. We conclude that role-playing should be part of the seamless learning approach, since role-playing can mediate learners' access to different knowledge areas through various perspectives, just as technology can serve as mediators in the seamless learning paradigm.
The Educational Affordances of Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM)
Authors: Klein Amarolinda Zanela , Junior José Carlos da Silva Freitas , Mattiello da Silva Juliana Vitória Vieira Mattiello , Barbosa Jorge Luis Victória , Baldasso Lucas
Published: November 2019

The popularity of Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) has prompted educators to integrate it in teaching and learning in higher education. WhatsApp® is a multi-platform instant messaging application widely used worldwide, however, there is still little applied research on its use as a platform for educational activities in management higher education. In this article, the authors present a quantitative and qualitative assessment of a concrete experience of WhatsApp® use that involved 140 undergraduate management students. Data were collected through questionnaires answered by the participants after the end of the experience of use, and also via content analysis of their conversations inside their WhatsApp® groups. The results indicate five main educational affordances of MIM that can be considered in management education: interactivity, knowledge sharing, sense of presence, collaboration and ubiquity. The article also explores the limitations of this tool and provides suggestions of good practices of MIM use for teaching and learning.
Virtual Reality Using Smart-Devices in Educational Frameworks
Authors: Navarro Isidro , de Reina Oriol , Fonseca David , Gómez Macarena , Ferrer Álvaro
Published: November 2019

The main aim of this study is to improve the understanding of historical buildings through the use of advanced visual technologies. The main innovative features of the project are focused on the use of mobile and wearable technologies, the indoor location, and their mixed assessment an educational project. We will use smartphones, virtual reality and indoor positioning systems. Both the devices and the users' experience will be assessed with a quantitative and a qualitative approach. The proposal seeks to complement, the real experience of visiting an emblematic space (our case study: the Casa Batlló Museum, 1904-1906, Antonio Gaudí, Barcelona, Spain), in order to improve the spatial skills of architecture students and general visitors of this type of architectural landmarks.
Teaching with a Tablet PC
Authors: Joordens Matthew
Published: November 2019

The modern Tablet PC, such as the Surface Pro® is a flexible teaching tool. It can be used to increase the lecturer's productivity in note taking and in assignment marking. It can be used in the lecture room with increased interaction. With a few minor accessories it can be used to record many aspects of a lecture or presentation. It can also be used to record short topic segments that can be used as references or summaries by students. Containing the abilities of both a tablet device with multi touch, a pen interface for accurate drawing and handwriting and with the power of a full PC, it is a complete teaching studio.
Exploring Faculty and Student iPad Integration in Higher Education
Authors: Cardullo Victoria M. , Clark LeNessa L.
Published: November 2019

Higher education institutions are exploring the impact of technology integration in educational settings since the release of marketed devices like the iPad and Chromebook. A university in the southern region of the United States launched a yearlong feasibility study to explore how mobile technologies support student learning, influence instruction, and identify how faculty and students perceive the usage of mobile devices for teaching and learning. The population consisted of freshman-level participants enrolled in a general education biology course. Student participants ranged from 17-21 years of age. All students were provided with an iPad to use during the year. Researchers used several data sources to collect bi-weekly observations on both faculty and students, a student survey, and post focus group interviews with students and faculty. Using the SAMR model paired with Bloom's taxonomies, findings described the various levels in which iPads were integrated into instruction by faculty and student participants. Research revealed student appreciation of iPad affordances and features of the device. The analysis also identified building infrastructure, technology support, and teacher training in technology integration as vital pieces to a successful schoolwide implementation.
Tablets in Primary Schools
Authors: Fokides Emmanuel
Published: November 2019

This article presents the results of a short project in which tablets were used for teaching the respiratory, circulatory, and digestive systems to 162 sixth-grade primary school students who were divided into three groups. The first group was taught conventionally using a textbook, while in the second a constructivist teaching method was applied and the teachers actively participated in the process. The third group was also taught using the same constructivist teaching method, but the instruction was technologically enhanced with tablets and an application with augmented reality features. Data was collected by means of evaluation sheets and a questionnaire. The results indicated that students in the third group outperformed students in the other two groups. As for students' misconceptions, the only notable difference was between the third and first group. These results can be attributed to students' strong positive attitude towards the use of tablets, motivation, and enjoyment, as well as to the teaching method. The study's implications are also discussed.
The Evolution of Teacher Education Through Emerging Technologies of Mixed Reality Simulation
Authors: Sargent Denise LaVoie
Published: November 2019

With increasing accountability in teacher education, mixed reality simulation has emerged as an evolving technological tool to enhance and refine teaching practice. Mixed reality simulation has gained traction in many preservice teacher preparation programs because it provides endless opportunities for repeated practice without consequences to students. The purpose of this chapter is to examine how mixed reality simulation is being used to prepare and train preservice and in-service teachers, strategies needed to successfully implement a simulation session, and lessons learned. Findings indicate that simulation is used to study and facilitate teacher development, classroom management, and behavioral interventions for students with disabilities, pedagogical and instructional strategies, and collaboration with adults and parents. Implications on teacher preparation are discussed.
Using Technology to Promote Student Ownership of Retrieval Practice
Authors: Courchesne Steven , Cohen Stacy M.
Published: November 2019

This chapter discusses ways to practice retrieval and how to support those activities with three education technologies. Retrieval practice, in which the learner attempts to recall information from memory, is a research-proven strategy for teachers and students to improve long-term retention of learning. However, research in the United States shows that many students mistakenly believe that rereading is a more effective study practice than retrieval and that self-testing is only useful for assessing their learning progress. Teachers can model retrieval practice strategies while gradually scaffolding students towards independent use of these strategies through guided practice and feedback. The ultimate goal is for students to independently employ retrieval practice when they encounter new learning environments. The authors recommend a strategy for facilitating retrieval practice with educational technologies such as Quizlet, Popplet, and Google Docs, each of which allows teachers and students to perform, share, and collaborate on retrieval tasks.
Library Media Specialists' Roles in the Implementation of Digital Tools, Applications, and Standards
Authors: Paynter Kelly
Published: November 2019

This chapter addresses the benefits and synergies that the classroom teacher and the school library media specialist (LMS) experience when collaborating in the planning, differentiation, and assessment of content-area standards such as the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), with an emphasis on the role of technology and information literacy via Digital Literacy and Computer Science Standards (DLCSS). General reasons for teacher/LMS collaboration, specific reasons for collaboration on the CCSS/DLCSS, technology integration, and physical space and instructional flexibility form the key concepts of discussion. Tables present specific CCSS, related to technology tools and digital literacy concepts, that the LMS is uniquely qualified to teach to students. The chapter concludes with practical recommendations for district personnel, school-based administrators, LMSs, classroom teachers, and preservice teachers.
Disability, Culture, and Technology
Authors: Komabu-Pomeyie Sefakor Grateful-Miranda Ama
Published: November 2019

Ghana has many interventions or systems to eradicate poverty among vulnerable people, especially those with disabilities. Ghana's Parliament launched the Social Protection Program in conformity with the United Nations Convention on the Right of People with Disabilities (UNCRPD) as well as the Disability Law of Ghana. One of these programs is the Social Protection Program, under which rehabilitation and RLG ICT training of People with Disabilities (PWDs) have been implemented in the classroom. The main goal of this program is to educate PWDs, granting them employable skills and thereby enabling them to become independent citizens. This chapter, which is related to one of the recommended topics, “Issues and Challenges of Digital Tools and Applications in the Classroom,” draws on and employs a phenomenological approach to confirm the lack of culturally responsiveness of technology to the Ghanaian disability community. Participants indicated they were disconnected from the program because the technological devices were foreign and not connected to their indigenous culture.
Is Islam Associated With Business Success?
Authors: Senda Bennani Khouloud
Published: November 2019

Does religion have an impact on the decision making of the business owner? Is religion a driver of successful business owners? Does a relationship exist between the practice of moral virtues and the sake of maximizing profits? These research questions constitute the author's motivation of embarking on this investigation. The aim of this study is to determine whether there exists a correlation between religious values and entrepreneurship, which is measured in term of business ownership. More particularly, this chapter develops a greater understanding of how religion leads to productive entrepreneurial activity and business success. The analysis is based on a qualitative study. A life story interview method was used to collect data from a successful business owner (M. L.) who believes in Islam and worships it. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data from 14 faithful Muslims subordinates who work for M. L. Data shows interesting information about the definition of key business success factors from Islamic beliefs, values, and practices.
The Islamic and Cultural Ethos of Hadhrami Businessmen
Authors: Sultan Nabil , Jamal Al-Lail Haifa Reda
Published: November 2019

This chapter is intended to shed some light on a group of businessmen (known as the Hadhramis) who achieved commercial success outside and inside Yemen (their country of origin) and to gain insights into the factors behind this success. Very little has been written about these people. Moreover, most of what has been said about them was written by Western academics, historians, or politicians. As such, very important Hadhrami characteristics were missing from those writings. This chapter focuses on some of those characteristics. Most interestingly, it draws, in the authors' view, important conclusions of their implications for the success that many Hadhramis were able to achieve in business in some of the countries to which they migrated. The chapter takes a historical perspective by relying on secondary literature to record stories of Hadhrami commercial achievements as well as a small case study involving three highly successful Saudi businessmen of Hadhrami origin.
Women Entrepreneurship in a Muslim Environment
Authors: Ghiat Boufeldja
Published: November 2019

Environmental barriers and socio-cultural constraints in Algeria as in all the MENA Region have hindered women entrepreneurs but—without doubt—motivated them to meet the challenges through the adoption of some innovative managerial practices. The culture of a male society is the source of several socio-cultural problems of women entrepreneurs in Algeria. The purpose of the chapter is to point out the impact of local culture influenced by Islam on women entrepreneurship in Algeria and in MENA Region in general. A field research was carried out using a questionnaire to investigate the impact of local culture on managerial practices of women entrepreneurs. Data from a sample of 65 women entrepreneurs were analyzed and results were discussed: the psychological characteristics, their managerial competences, and the socio-cultural constraints they meet in the Algerian environment. The women's abilities to face the different socio-cultural obstacles are outlined.
The Impact of Islamic Religion on Women's Entrepreneurship
Authors: Ouragini Imen Ben Ammar
Published: November 2019

The role of entrepreneurship in economic development is undeniable, and the countries' growth progress is owing to their human resources' capital. As population is constituted of men and women, gender is considered in the mainstream researches. Although the number of women entrepreneurs have been increasing, researches focusing on the relationship that links women to entrepreneurship are still studying the question of religion, specifically Islamic religion, and its impact on entrepreneurship. Indeed, along this chapter, the authors try to re-examine the relationship that links entrepreneurship to culture since religion is a major component of culture. Then, they attempt to present the essence of their research, which is entrepreneurship and religion. And finally, they explore factors that may influence women's entrepreneurship performance as family support, education, government, and personal determinants like motivation and eventual efforts.
Narratives of Emotional Truth
Authors: Bird Jennifer Lynne
Published: November 2019

This narrative uses a multigenre format to discuss the writing theory of emotional truth, where writers share truth as they remember it. Factual truth focuses on facts, while emotional truth focuses on the emotions associated with a memory. The example provided uses health coaching, an addition to the medical field that encourages patients to share their stories and set goals for themselves in addition to the goals set for them by their medical team. Fictional elements combine with research in creative nonfiction.
Narratives of Journal Writing
Authors: Bird Jennifer Lynne
Published: November 2019

How can writing help people heal? While writing cannot take the place of an evaluation by a trained medical expert, it can help the healing process. The process of writing serves as a valuable resource whether a patient writes about symptoms in a journal to share with a medical professional, a high school student writes about the day's events in a journal to deal with emotions, or an adult writes a prayer in a journal to cope with uncertainty. Regardless of the circumstances which motivated the writer to pick up a notebook and pen or type at a computer, writing releases thoughts and emotions from the mind to the page. When people transfer ideas to paper, stressful emotional events in the mind and physical tension in the body often improve. Therefore, writing can become a catalyst for healing.
Entertainment and Physical Activities
Authors: Finco Mateus David
Published: November 2019

It is possible to observe that gameplays are a big success in many different places. From arcade games to the most recent games, users have been trying different games to entertain and lately exergames are supporting users to enhance physical activities level in their daily basis. This chapter analyzes how players of Pokémon GO are producing new connections for social benefits and an active lifestyle meanwhile or after using the game. This study involved 176 players in the cities of Pelotas and João Pessoa (Brazil). As a result, it was evident that users had changed many habits, specially regarding physical activity gains, such as running, walking, or cycling more frequently, and many of players were getting into an active lifestyle, practicing exercises with friends and family. Authors conclude that Pokémon GO is a successful mobile-based gameplays that can be used to promote a healthier lifestyle with a new way of interaction, changing lifestyles with a big potential to be used to motivate people to be more active and healthy.
Impediments to Gauging ICT-Based Informal English Learning Outcomes
Authors: Hezam Taha Ahmed
Published: November 2019

This chapter is a product of the impediments to measuring ICT-based informal learning in the Saudi EFL context. It unravels difficulties of measuring the outcomes of informal English learning with a particular reference to informal technology-based activities. It succinctly discusses why it is difficult to design, develop, implement, and sustain a comprehensive approach to assessing ICT-based informal English learning outcomes. The major problems surfaced from this discussion included absence of theoretical background of this evolving mode of learning, unawareness of recognizing linguistic, and inability to control the informal ICT-based activities for they are arbitrary and difficult to expect and measure by ordinary tests. Thus, there is a need to adopt alternative assessment tools such as portfolio, progress tests, and self-reporting within a new paradigm shift towards learner-centeredness.
Learner-Initiated Language Learning Through Social Media Sites (SMSs)
Authors: Ahmed Rashad Ali
Published: November 2019

Social media sites have become an essential part of communication and interaction all over the globe. They have also offered numerous opportunities to language learners across geographic borders, paralleled by a new research interest in their potential. The present study joins this relatively new line of research as it adds data from a sample of Yemeni English language learners about their uses and perceived benefits of using social media sites in English beyond formal education. The study came up with a conclusion that Yemeni EFL learners were actively participating in social media sites and were aware of their language-related benefits. The participants reported that social media sites were helpful for building various aspects of their English proficiency but found them most useful for their writing and reading skills, expanding their vocabulary, having access to authentic materials, and communicating with English speaking friends, both native and non-native speakers. They ranked their usefulness in the following order: Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter.
Adult Language Learners' Informal Employment of ICT Applications and Websites to Assess Their English Skills
Authors: Kılıçkaya Ferit
Published: November 2019

This chapter attempts to investigate which ICT applications are employed by language learners to assess themselves. The study focuses mainly on 500 universities in the intensive English programs that aim to furnish students with essential language skills to pursue their studies in their subsequent departments or programs. The participants were directed to an online questionnaire in which they were asked to indicate the ICT applications that they did employ informally outside the classroom. Moreover, the participants were also asked to explain how they used these applications during the interviews. The findings of the study indicated that the participants employed websites and applications mainly for listening and grammar and that the participants had fewer options regarding speaking and writing assessment activities. Regarding the participants' choices of the applications that they could use to assess themselves, several reasons were provided that show the cost of the application and easy access and use.
An Investigation into EFL Pre-Service Teachers' Out-of-Class Self-Regulated Learning Experiences weith ICT
Authors: Korucu-Kis Saadet
Published: November 2019

Self-regulated learning is one of the essential skills learners need to possess in times of rapid technological advancements to comply with the requirements of the modern world. Indeed, today's youth are assumed to be able to set their own goals, seek opportunities to attain these goals, and manage their learning environments to control their own learning owing to the omnipresence of information and communication technology (ICT) tools in every area of their lives including and especially in their educational lives. In this respect, this study aims to find out whether first-year English as a Foreign Language (EFL) pre-service teachers really make use of ICT tools to regulate their formal learning experiences in out-of-class settings. Results reveal that pre-service teachers most often fail in bridging in-class and out-of-class learning, and they generally engage in low-level self-regulated learning experiences. Implications arising from these findings are highlighted, and some future research possibilities are discussed.
A Content Marketing Framework to Analyze Customer Engagement on Social Media
Authors: Balio Sofia , Casais Beatriz
Published: November 2019

Factors influencing customer engagement on Facebook have been extensively analyzed but there are barely evidences if those factors also effect customer engagement on Instagram. A digital analysis was conducted including a content analysis of the post appeals and of the message interactivity as well as multiple linear regressions to explore the influence of the factors mentioned above on customer engagement. It was possible to conclude which factors can be used to increase customer engagement on social media, namely message interactivity and certain post appeals. Different conclusions are withdrawn when comparing Facebook to Instagram, proving empirically that different social networking sites have distinct influence on customer engagement. This chapter is relevant for content and social media strategies and helps brands increase their customer engagement.