bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tesseract and Magick: High Quality OCR in R
Authors: Ooms Jeroen
Published: September 2023

Last week we released an update of the tesseract package to CRAN. This package provides R bindings to Google’s OCR library Tesseract.install.packages("tesseract") The new version ships with the latest libtesseract 3.05.01 on Windows and MacOS.
Update jsonlite 1.2
Authors: Ooms Jeroen
Published: September 2023

A new version of jsonlite package to CRAN. This is a maintenance release with enhancements and bug fixes.
Announcing the rOpenSci Fellowships Program
Authors: Ram Karthik
Published: September 2023

rOpenSci’s mission is to promote a culture of open, transparent, and reproducible research across various research domains. Everything we do, from developing high-quality open-source software for data science and, software review, to building community through events like our community calls and annual unconference are all geared toward lowering barriers to reproducible, open science.
Civil law and digitalization: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Nikolova-Marković Aleksandra , Stajić Luka
Published: September 2023

In this scientific paper, an analysis of the impact of digitalization on civil law was made, as well as an analysis of the challenges and opportunities that modern civil law faces in the digital age. During the research and development of the scientific paper, the methods of analysis and the inductive-deductive method were used. The development of digitalization and the emergence of new technologies have completely redefined law. Thanks to the rapid development of digital technologies on a global level, certain phenomena that were unthinkable in the past have become common today and represent a great challenge both for civil law and for all entities that practice civil law. The development of digital technology has enabled the application of contracts in electronic form, electronically signed ones, the development of e-justice and many other possibilities, which will be discussed below. Digitization, in addition to offering numerous opportunities for civil law, is also a challenge. It is important to monitor rapid technical developments in the ongoing exchange of information between legal practitioners, policy makers and academia. Only then the appropriate legislative instruments can be implemented in a timely manner. The authors came to the conclusion that digitalization and development of digital technologies have a strong influence on the transformation of civil law
Moral dimension of military uniform
Authors: Stanar Dragan
Published: September 2023

The aim of this paper is to define and explain the moral dimension and significance of military uniform. Since this particular dimension has not been explained enough, by the analysis of the existing perspectives of meaning and function of military uniform (technical, historical, psychological, sociological, legal, etc.), the author identifies its core moral significance, and formulates and elaborates its moral dimension. Moral dimension of military uniform is derived both from its practical and its symbolic function - its practical function is to precisely separate combats from non-combatants, while its symbolic function reflects collective identity, norms and values of military profession. The paper elaborates different significant moral implications of putting on and wearing military uniform, both during war and peace time, thus showing its twofold symbolic and value function - it simultaneously imposes duty, but also brings privilege to the person wearing it. It has been concluded that the sacrilization of military uniform is necessary in modern society, especially due to its prominent moral dimension and poses the need for legal regulation of wearing military uniform, its parts, or the uniforms which were purposefully designed so as to resemble military uniforms.
XX Congreso Internacional en Innovación Tecnológica Informática - XX CIITI 2022
Authors: De Vincenzi Marcelo , Darín Susana , Maccarini Marcela , Pons Claudia
Published: September 2023

El XX Congreso Internacional de Innovación Tecnológica Informática, CIITI, de la Facultad de Tecnología Informática y su Centro de Investigación, CAETI, de la Universidad Abierta Interamericana, UAI, es un espacio para la difusión, promoción y reflexión sobre la importancia de la innovación tecnológica informática como factor de competitividad. El mismo se desarrolló de forma virtual en la plataforma del congreso el jueves 29 de septiembre de 2022.

El CIITI, es un evento anual que se realiza desde el año 2003, un congreso con identidad y dinámica propia que se desarrolla en sus dos capítulos, en el mes de octubre, en Buenos Aires, con un promedio de 2000 asistentes y en el mes de noviembre en la ciudad de Rosario, con un promedio de 800 asistentes. El 2021 el Congreso se llevó a cabo de forma virtual y convocó a 3760 asistentes.
Simulador 3D de robótica distribuido en Unity para enseñanza de programación e inteligencia artificial
Authors: Balich Néstor , Ocampo Tupac , Balich Franco , Balich Berenice
Published: September 2023

El uso en los últimos años de nuevas e innovadoras herramientas tecnologías ha mejorado el modo en que se dictan las clases universitarias. El contexto de las restricciones en pandemia ocasiono que estos cambios se aceleran. Considerando que la materia paradigmas tecnológicos II (Robótica) integra y enseña en su cursada nuevas tecnologías y en sus talleres se realizan prácticas con robots reales, dispositivos IoT y de realidad aumentada, y sumado al dictado virtual de las clases. Este trabajo expone la investigación y creación de un simulador 3D de robótica con programación distribuida, con un modelo físico real, que permite el trabajo colaborativo, la programación en Python y la inclusión de inteligencia artificial con robot simulados y reales en un laboratorio remoto que cumpla con las necesidades de la materia y las cuales no podían ser resultas con una sola aplicación existente.
Detección Automática de Objetos como asistencia a Personas Invidentes
Authors: López De Luise Daniela , Park Jin Sung , Hoferek Silvia , Avila Lautaro Nicolás , Benitez Micaela Antonella , Bordon Sbardella Felix Raul , Fantín Rodrigo Iván , Machado Gastón Emmanuel , Mencia Aramis Oscar , Ríos Anahí Ailén , Luis Emiliano Luis , Riveros Nahuel Edgardo
Published: September 2023

El objetivo de este artículo es presentar un prototipo de asistencia a personas ciegas. Utiliza los dispositivos de un teléfono móvil estándar y su diseño minimiza el requerimiento computacional. El trabajo aquí presentado es el resultado de una serie de actividades que abarcan la recolección de videos, el pre-procesamiento para reducir el streaming, la segmentación de imágenes y el procesamiento con Minería de datos. Los modelos derivados se emplean en la detección de objetos, perfilado del comportamiento del individuo, detección y evaluación de movimientos en el entorno y la interpretación de eventos relevantes en tiempo real a fin de activar alarmas específicamente diseñadas para asistir al invidente. Asimismo se introduce el prototipo que implementa a través de estos modelos las técnicas de procesamiento de imágenes, detección de áreas y clasificación de objetos depurados a fin de inferir si existe en el entorno algún tipo de riesgo. Con este dispositivo se pretende asistir a las persona ciegas determinando la naturaleza de los objetos y circunstancias del entorno, con el fin de advertir con anticipación eventualidades relevantes que merezcan especial atención. El alcance del trabajo comprende antecedentes del sector, primeros hallazgos, variables y características del prototipo derivado, peculiaridades detectadas en la interacción con personas ciegas y la funcionalidad global del dispositivo, así como un pequeño análisis de los resultados.
Effects of data augmentation by replicating instances : Classification performance by Decision trees
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of Emerging Technologies, CVR College of Engineering, Hyderabad, India., C Raghavendra , G Gnana Priya ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering Ramco Institute of Technology, India.
Published: September 2023

Numerous medical data have classification problems for it has unbalanced instances. This means the medical data has less number of positive instances because it refers to disease diagnosis. Even the world's common disease diabetes data is unbalanced. We have the machine learning algorithms to combat the imbalanced classification. Among them, resampling is a useful technique that helps to balance the instance based on the classes’ majority and minority by under-sampling and oversampling methods. However, in spite of its circulation, the sampling has issues in the efficient evaluation of small-sized data. This study measured sampling methods and machine learning classifiers of different split percentages using a diabetes dataset which waver units of imbalance and produce better accuracy. The evaluation measure for each replication percentage is calculated and the same is interpreted in the Discussion.
Editorial
Authors:   Shirley Maria de Araújo Passos
Published: September 2023

A Edição Suplementar de número 1 de 2020 traz os resumos científicos da 18ºSemana Odontológica da UEA/IX Congresso de Odontologia da UEA.
Changes in Media Consumption Patterns and their Implications for People's Cultural Identity
Authors: Sutrisno Sutrisno
Published: September 2023

In the era of globalisation and the rapid development of information technology, mass media has become an integral part of people's lives. Media is not only a source of information, but also plays an important role in shaping a society's views, values and cultural identity. This research aims to analyse changes in media consumption patterns and their implications for people's cultural identity. This research is a literature review that uses a qualitative method approach, which means it will analyse and interpret data by relying on information and texts from various sources. The results show that changes in media consumption patterns in the era of globalisation have a significant impact on people's cultural identity. Easier access to different types of media content from around the world has opened up opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and information dissemination. However, this also brings challenges in maintaining a balance between the preservation of local cultural identity and the influence of global culture. People's cultural identity is formed through a complex dynamic between traditions, values and the influence of modern media.
The Impact of Social Media Use on Social Interaction in Contemporary Society
Authors: Azzaakiyyah Hizbul Khootimah
Published: September 2023

The use of social media has become a phenomenon that dominates human life in the contemporary era. This phenomenon raises important questions regarding the impact of social media use on social interactions in contemporary society. This research will explore how social media affects intergroup interactions, including in the context of social groups, communities, and social movements. This research is a literature review that uses a qualitative method approach, which means it will analyse and interpret data by relying on information and text from various sources. The study found that the use of social media has brought about profound changes in the patterns of social interaction in contemporary society. This phenomenon has complex impacts, including increased global connectivity, changes in the way individuals construct social identities, and providing a platform for social movements. However, it needs to be recognised that these impacts are not only positive, but also present challenges such as social isolation, unhealthy comparisons, and the spread of harmful information.
Control technologies of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots based on surface electromyography: A review
Authors: Zhong Yunsheng , Wang Shuyi , Gong Li , Xing Hua , Yan Rongguo
Published: September 2023

The aging population is accompanied by a decline in human body function, leading to an increasing number of people with lower limb dysfunction, which has become a global public health challenge today. The lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robot based on surface electromyography is a current research hotspot. It can help people with lower extremity dysfunction perform better rehabilitation training. This review presents the analysis and processing of surface electromyography, feature extraction and recognition, as well as the control methods for lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton robots.
On Launching a New Journal 'Progress in Medical Devices' for Innovation
Authors: Cui Haipo
Published: September 2023

Recent years have witnessed unprecedented advances in medical device industry. New technologies, such as 3D printing, organ-on-a-chip, and surgical robots, have emerged and iterated constantly. Innovation is the cornerstone in the development of medicine. Though we still need robust clinical data to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of these new technologies, we never stop our pursuit of more effective technologies and devices with a cautious attitude. With these intentions, we are pleased to introduce this new quarterly journal, Progress in Medical Devices.
The interaction of Candida albicans with C-type lectin receptors
Authors: Cheng Lindong , Li Ping , La Duy Khanh , Xing Zhen , Liao Chunhua
Published: September 2023

Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a ubiquitous commensal in the mammalian flora and the most prevalent fungal pathogen of humans. As an opportunistic fungus, C. albicans can cause mucosal and invasive infections. Invasive candidiasis infected by C. albicans is a leading cause of perioperative death in immunocompromised and immunodeficient patients. The morphological change from the yeast to the mycelium plays a key role in the pathogenesis of C. albicans. C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), including Dectin-1, Dectin-2, Dectin-3, Mincle, and dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing non-integrin, are among the pattern recognition receptors expressed by innate immune cells that can recognize C. albicans. The emergence of drug-resistant C. albicans put pressure on the healthcare system, whereby CLRs have also attracted extensive attention from physicians. Thus, in this article, we discuss the interaction between CLRs and C. albicans and the treatment prospects of CLRs on anti-C. albicans.
Transforming Cultural Tourism in Dali, Yunnan: Harnessing Digitalization for Smart Sustainable Heritage Experiences
Authors: Zhang Miwei , Jun Tang
Published: September 2023

This research article aims to identify and develop a strategy for the emergence of smart, sustainable tourism in Dali. Smart tourism refers to the use of ICT mechanisms to facilitate tourist access to tourism amenities as a major component of tourism. Arguably, the article uses literature such as published articles and books to show tourism as a global industry that accounts for about 9% of the global GDP and a major employment service industry. Furthermore, the study provides a descriptive analysis methodology to shed light on the different data collection methods employed in the study, as well as graphs and later analyses of the research data. Covid- 19 has recently affected the tourism sector more than any other industry. According to the findings of this study, smart tourism creates an environment that is conducive to the growth of visitors, enabling them to have positive experiences. A UN report states that 1.9 billion people will travel worldwide by 2030. This highlights the importance of facilitating peace and promoting major tourist destinations as potential destinations. Thus, tourism as an industry has, over the years, undergone various transformations concerning shifting its focus on advances in technology, such as ICT. This has helped to improve its capacity and thus ensure improved service.
The Analysis of Pakistani Teachers’ Performance in the Light of Their Job Description
Authors: Abdullah
Published: September 2023

Teaching is a stimulating and fascinating career and occupation. Teacher is a role model , flagship , cynosure and standard bearer for students and learners . The knowledge and understanding  of job description for teacher is very vital . This research article is based on the analysis of teacher job description in Pakistan at school/college level as teachers in Pakistan have not been doing justice with their job description and the country has been moving towards more and more horrible conditions since long . The researcher conducted a survey research and collected data from students and teachers with the help of questionnaires in the urban District of  Mardan of KP province in Pakistan. The questionnaires were one  for students ( close ended) and the other  for teachers (open ended). The data were organized and analyzed qualitatively as figures were not involved in the analysis of data and hence recommendations were put forward . This is a fact finding document and is beneficial for all the stakeholders i.e. teachers , students ,  parents , high ups of education , and the prospective researchers in the field of education.
Hematological Profiles of Nigerian Patients with Asthma on Inhaled Corticosteroids
Authors: Hayatu S  , Iyanda RO  , Garba N  , Danladi SB  , Aliyu IA  , Bala JA  , Saidu A
Published: September 2023

Background: Bronchial asthma is a disease characterized by aberrant leukocyte trafficking and allergic inflammation. This study investigated the distribution of the various leukocyte subsets and some erythropoietic indices in asthma patients on inhaled corticosteroids.Methodology: This is a comparative cross‒sectional study involving 108 adult asthmatic patients on inhaled corticosteroids and 108 healthy adults. Socio‒demographic and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Four milliliters of blood sample was collected from each study participant for hematological analysis. Full blood count and differential leukocyte count were done using an automated hematology analyzer. The mean and standard deviation of the measured parameters were calculated and inter-group comparison was made. The significance level was set at p‒value ≤ 0.05.Result: The absolute and relative counts of neutrophils, eosinophil and, basophil were significantly elevated in asthmatic patients compared to control group. On the other hand, relative and absolute counts of monocytes and lymphocytes were significantly lower in asthmatic patients compared to the normal healthy control. The packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC) and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) were significantly low in asthmatic patients compared to the control group.Conclusion: Asthma patients on corticosteroids have altered hematological parameters compared to apparently healthy controls
Assessment of Willingness to pay for Community-Based Health Insurance among Artisans in a selected Community of Ekiti State, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Elegbede OE  , Durowade KA  , Sanni TA  , Ipinnimo TM  , Alabi AK
Published: September 2023

Background: Community-based health insurance (CBHI) has emerged as a more efficient and equitable approach to healthcare financing. It was designed to ensure that sufficient resources are made available for members to access effective healthcare. This study assessed the willingness to pay (WTP) for CBHI among artisans in a town in Ekiti State, South West Nigeria.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 416 artisans in a town in Ekiti State. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was designed and used for data collection on sociodemographic data and WTP for CBHIS. Data entry and analysis was done using IBM SPSS software version 25.0.

Results: The mean age and standard deviation of the respondents was 29.7±10.9 years with male to female ratio of 1:1.4. Most of the respondents were willing to pay (86.3%) and willing to enroll other household members (73.6%) in the CBHI. A large percentage (44.3%) of those willing to pay were ready to pay between ₦1,000-₦5,000 (US$2.63–US$13.16) per year while 39.6% preferred frequency of payment to be annually. Positive predictors of WTP for CBHI were age groups ≥50 years and 40-49 years than <20 years (AOR:13.270, 95%CI: 1.597-110.267; AOR:142.996, 95%CI: 10.689-1913.009). Females than males (AOR:9.155, 95%CI: 3.680-22.775), tertiary level of education than no formal of education (AOR:23.420, 95%CI: 1.648-850.921), no children than ≥5 children (AOR:20.099, 95%CI: 2.705-149.364), earn ≥₦30,000 (US$78.95) than <₦30,000 (AOR:2.248, 95%CI: 1.278-6.499). often and somethings fall ill than seldom fall ill (AOR:6.505, 95%CI: 1.623-26.065; AOR:4.889, 95%CI: 1.674-14.279)

Conclusion: WTP for CBHI was high among the artisans, however, there is a variation across the amount and frequency of payment. Therefore, policy that is flexible enough to allow artisans enroll and pay a premium that is affordable, at an acceptable frequency, should be formulated by the Government.
retrospective autopsy-based survey of fatal traumatic brain injuries in Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Udoh MO  , Ugiagbe EE
Published: September 2023

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is major cause of death in young adults. It results from external force to the head causing injury to the contents of the skull with or without damage to the skull itself.

Aims and objectives: To describe the autopsy findings in patients with Traumatic brain injuries.Materials and Methods: A Retrospective Study of findings in patients who suffered Traumatic Brain Injuries as seen at autopsy. The historical and autopsy data of all Traumatic brain injury patients whose bodies were received between 2011 and 2021 were analyzed.

Results: TBIs account for 66.7% of traumatic deaths in our institution. Male to female ratio was 1:0.22, and mean age was 39.30±16.65 years. The most common cause of TBI was road traffic accidents (90.9%), with gunshots (5.6%) as a distant second. Intracranial hemorrhages were present in 99.6% of cases and almost all (98.8%) died as a result of Raised Intracranial pressure associated with intracranial hemorrhage. The most common pattern was Subdural hemorrhage (62.65%); followed by Subarachnoid hemorrhage (52.35%); Intraparenchymal hemorrhage (40.88%), Epidural hemorrhage (18.24%); and intraventricular hemorrhage (9.71%). Skull fractures were present in 41.6% of cases.

Conclusion: RTA is the most common cause of traumatic brain injury in our study and the leading cause of traumatic deaths. Multiple injuries appears to contribute less to mortality amongst our TBI patients but this may be due to under reporting of injuries found in polytraumatized patients. Morbidity and mortality due to TBI, and trauma in general, will be reduced by improving road safety, and functional protocols for emergency and prehospital care of trauma patients.
Willingness to join social health insurance and community-based health insurance among rural residents in Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria
Authors: Akwaowo CD  , Umoh I  , Udo AA  , Motilewa OO  , Dan E  , Akpan N  , Ekpin V  , Umoh E  , Asanga N
Published: September 2023

Background: Universal Health Coverage seeks to ensure that all individuals have equitable access to quality health care with limited exposure to financial risk. Pooling of community members into health insurance schemes is necessary for the achievement of UHC. Most rural dwellers do not have health insurance and are susceptible to catastrophic health expenditure.

Objective: This study aims to determine the willingness of rural dwellers in Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria, to join health insurance schemes.

Methods: The study was conducted in three local government areas in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It was a cross-sectional study with multi-stage data collection. Participants were 286 household heads. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 22 (New York), and statistical significance was set at 0.05.

Result: Majority of the household heads were 31-60years (71.0%), male (71.7%), had attained secondary education (43.0%), earned less than ₦20,000 (79.7%) and had spouses who earned less than ₦20,000 (72.0%). Only 30.1% had heard of health insurance, 2.5% belonged to a health insurance scheme. Majority of the respondents were willing to join a scheme, however, more participants were willing to join the proposed social insurance scheme (72.4%) than the community-based scheme (63.3%). Lack of funds and lack of trust were major barriers to joining a scheme. Frequency of illness was the only significant predictor of WTJ SHI (r= 0.141), while gender (r=0.186), educational level(r= -0.163), frequency of illness(r=0.142) and borrowing money for treatment(r=0.138) were significant predictors of WTJ CBHIS.

Conclusion: The study found low awareness of health insurance. There was high level of willingness to join the proposed health insurance schemes. Those not willing to join cited unaffordability as the major barrier to joining the schemes. We recommend increased awareness about health insurance schemes and policy makers should design schemes that will empower rural residents to uptake health insurance to achieve the goals of Universal Health coverage.
The Potential of Building High School Students’ Vocabulary Using an iPod Touch and Gaming App
Authors: Redd Jennifer , Schmidt-Crawford Denise
Published: September 2023

This study focused on the potential for building 25 high-school students’ word knowledge by using a mobile learning device and gaming app. Using a game as an instructional tool is a portable way for students to engage with content. The amount of vocabulary mastered after using the app on the mobile device was examined in relation to a pre-test and a post-test, completed 3 weeks apart. The aspects investigated were the transfer potential of learning on a mobile device, and the variation in performance levels. The results indicated a direct correlation between the pre-test score as a predictor for the post-test score. Also, the choice of techniques used to play the app indicated that participants called upon the ‘process of elimination’ and ‘roots/word parts’ as tools to help them master the vocabulary. These findings point to the potential for incorporating a game as an instructional tool for vocabulary development.
Categorising e-learning
Authors: Wilson Amy Dunn
Published: September 2023

Categorising-learning is almost as problematic as defining the term. In an attempt to quantify/qualify the level of e-learning use in the tertiary sector in New Zealand, the Ministry of Education (MoE) established a classification system for courses in the tertiary sector. The value of this tool has been disputed and a new system was proposed, but later withdrawn. The MoE has now asked for further discussion on the issue and has also considering abandoning the classification system.The purpose of this study is two-fold, first to consider the Ministry’s system to gain a better understanding of how e-learning is classified and second to recommend changes to this system that might be more practical in terms of institutional and sector analysis and planning. The study uses definitions from literature to compare and contrast the models. The study found that the e-learning managers did express concern over the ambiguity within the levels of the current classification system and additionally over who is responsible for the recording of e-learning use in their institutions.The study proposed additional classification systems that may provide greater clarity to those responsible for classifying courses. In addition it found that other institutional processes may need to be considered to solve the issues of who has responsibility over and access to the classification of e-learning use.
Student and Teacher Perceptions of Online Student Engagement in an Online Middle School
Authors: Louwrens Nathaniel , Hartnett Maggie
Published: September 2023

While our understanding of student engagement in the compulsory schooling sector is well developed in face-to-face contexts, the same cannot be said for online and distance learning environments. Indeed, most of what is currently known about online engagement has come from research with older students in tertiary education contexts. This study directly addresses this gap in the research by exploring student engagement in an online, middle school in a New Zealand distance education context. By considering three key dimensions of student engagement—namely, behavioural engagement, cognitive engagement, and emotional engagement—this in-depth investigation explores what engages middle school students when they learn online. Data collection techniques comprised student and teacher interviews, online asynchronous discussion transcripts, and statistical data from the learning management system (LMS). Results found that students in this study tended to engage behaviourally (i.e., do what was expected of them) with all required activities. Cognitive engagement (i.e., students’ personal investment in their own learning) was evident in the giving and receiving of feedback as well as the interest and relevance certain activities generated for learners. Emotional engagement was elicited through the design and facilitation of the activities, and through the ongoing development of a learning community in which students felt safe to contribute.
The Changing Roles of Online Deans and Department Heads in Small Private Universities
Authors: Halupa Colleen M.
Published: September 2023

This paper provides an overview of best practices and challenges for deans and department heads of online programmes in the ever-changing world of higher education. It concentrates on the challenges for small private universities and tertiary education institutions in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Department heads must consider new roles and innovate constantly to offset the impact of global competition in online and distance learning. These changing roles include innovation in managing programme enrolment, retention, marketing, and the creation of innovative offerings to meet student needs to prevent obsolescence. Other topics discussed include potential alternate sources of revenue, partnerships, and how service and research can lead to new opportunities for small tertiary providers.
Editorial: Charting flexible pathways in open, mobile and distance education
Authors: Khoo Elaine , Wright Noeline
Published: September 2023

This editorial offers an overview of extended papers presented at the biennial DEANZ2016 conference held at the University of Waikato, New Zealand, from 17–20th April, 2016. In tandem with the conference theme, There and back: Charting flexible pathways in open, mobile and distance education, this special issue highlights think pieces from the three keynote speakers and five papers that offer insights into developments and practices in open, flexible, and distance learning contexts. As such, the collection is a rich repository of ideas and research that contribute to our interrogation of how digital technologies influence teaching and learning and work in a range of New Zealand and international educational contexts.
Employment-driven Online Student Attrition and the Assessment Policy Divide
Authors: Moore Catherine , Greenland Steven
Published: September 2023

Two hundred and twenty-six qualitative interviews with students studying at Australia’s largest online tertiary education organisation, Open Universities Australia (OUA), found that failure to complete assessments due to unexpected and unavoidable employment commitments was the standout reason for dropping out of its open-access courses. Theassessment policies of 10 Australian universities that teach the OUA tertiary programmes were then reviewed to evaluate the extent to which employment-related circumstances were considered to be grounds for granting concessions and extensions. Half of these institutions’ policies did not mention employment as an extenuating circumstance, others made only passing reference, and one specifically stated that work was not a valid reason for an assignment extension. In this regard, online students may not be receiving the flexible and accessible learning that online education is purported to provide. This situation highlights a broader issue, in that many online educators are using policies and protocols that are designed for traditional on-campus students without adequate adaptation for the online learner. Considerable scope therefore exists for improving online learner satisfaction and retention by more effectively accommodating online student characteristics and needs.
The Two Towers: The Quest for Appraisal and Leadership Development of ‘Middle’ Leaders online
Authors: Bassett Martin , Robson Joanne L
Published: September 2023

This paper sets out to examine the role of middle leaders and their quest for effective appraisal and leadership development online—the two towers. Research that focuses on the role of middle leaders, in terms of their appraisal and leadership development, suggests there is a crisis in the ‘middle’. Currently, middle leaders do not have access to a specific national programme that focuses on leading from the middle. Moreover, they are not supported by those who are able to assess the gap in their leadership needs and provide the appropriate development. A lack of effective appraisal of middle leaders, and significantly deficient leadership development, suggest the need for an immediate call to action. Consequently, this paper explores the need for an online middle leadership programme that provides accessibility for these leaders in the unique contexts of their organisations, schools, and kura.
What are the key attributes of effective online teachers?
Authors: Rose O.P. (Angela Lavin) Sister Mary
Published: September 2023

This article explores the key attributes of effective online tertiary educators. Using qualitative research methods, data were collected via semi-structured interviews which were conducted with a small group of university academics in New Zealand and Australia and analysed using an inductive approach and open and closed coding techniques. Results from the analysis identified the following five key attributes: effective online teachers avoid a didactic approach, vary their pedagogy, use productive failure, facilitate the learning process and provide a seamless structure. Given the limitations of the study, the findings cannot be generalised without further work, but do provide a roadmap which may support innovative adaptions to the teaching and learning process in an online space.
Designing for distance learning in developing countries: a case study
Authors: Heredia Jimena De Mello , Carvalho Lucila , Vieira Eleonora Milano Falcão
Published: September 2023

Teaching and learning in higher education are being transformed through complex configurations of people, tasks, material and digital resources. Successful designs for innovative learning require understanding how these complex configurations relate to learner’s activity. This paper illustrates the application of a networked learning approach to frame the design of distance learning in higher education in developing countries. A case study based in a Bachelor subject offered at a Brazilian university is discussed. Its analysis unveils how design fits into a broader social context that influences structural elements related to learning materials, the learning management systems adopted, and the social arrangements for students in this case study. The paper shows how the networked learning approach allows us to explore the complexities of distance learning in developing countries, offering an analytical ground to identify, explore, learn and adapt key re-usable design ideas, with the aim of improving distance teaching and learning in higher education.
Aware, But Don't Really Care: Students' Perspective on Privacy and Data Collection in Online Courses
Authors: Vu Phu , Adkins Megan , Henderson Shelby
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine student viewpoints about privacy and personal data collection in online courses. Results of data analysis revealed that students were aware that their learning behaviors such as login frequency, pages viewed or clicked, and learning profiles could be monitored and recorded by their instructors. Additionally, they were not concerned about their learning behaviors being monitored, recorded, or collected for academic research, and used for instructional/teaching improvement purposes. No significant difference between gender (female and male) of students in terms of their awareness and concern about their privacy in online learning settings was evident.
Digital Inclusion in New Zealand
Authors: Hartnett Maggie , Fields Alison
Published: September 2023

Digital inclusion—having what we need to participate in, contribute to, and succeed in the digital world—is becoming a priority for individuals, groups, and governments around the world. Not having the necessary motivation, access, skills, and trust to engage with all things digital can result in both individuals and groups being digitally excluded. In this Editorial we look at what is encompassed by digital inclusion, who is most likely to be excluded, and the New Zealand government’s recent publication of the Digital Inclusion Blueprint. Following this discussion, the papers included in this issue are introduced.
Crowdfunding as an Internet Tool Used for Establishing Relationships With the Customer – A Concept Paper
Authors:   University of Szczecin, Poland, Faculty of Economics, Finance and Management, Wiścicka-Fernando Małgorzata
Published: September 2023

Purpose: As a conceptual paper, this article presents the idea of crowdfunding activities, crowdfunding being not only a modern tool of fundraising but also an interesting form of establishing relationships with stakeholders. The primary aim of the article is to show the role of crowdfunding in the process of creating relationships with customers. Design/methodology/approach: The article has been divided into two parts. The first part focuses on the definition of crowdfunding as a form of raising funds and provides examples of selected campaigns. The second part presents the process of establishing relationships during crowdfunding campaigns. The author applied a qualitative approach to meet the research objectives. Moreover, the concept formulation was done through a systematic literature review. Findings: The emotional involvement of consumers in a crowdfunding campaign constitutes a significant element in relation building and may be developed at any stage of the conducted campaign. Specific characteristics support building relations with consumers (openness, involvement, curiosity, willingness to share information, emotional connection, spontaneity, familiarity with other consumers). A major argument is the fact that during such campaigns relations are built on trust, openness and involvement. Research limitations/implications: The model was completely built based on the literature. Thus, as a further step of this research the author strongly suggests conducting research with a quantitative approach. Furthermore, the author stresses that the presented concept requires empirical verification and such research is planned in the future. Originality/value: This article analyzes crowdfunding activity in view of building relationships with customers. Thus, the author of the article shares the new knowledge and suggests the process of building relationships with customers by critically illustrating the created conceptual model.
Artificial Intelligence and Human Talent in Decision Making in the Sphere of Marketing in an Enterprise
Authors:   roclaw University of Economics and Business, Poland, Faculty of Management, Sobocińska Magdalena
Published: September 2023

Design/methodology/approach: Critical literature review; the research procedure that is based on the review of the literature is focused on formulating the answers to the following questions: – What factors determine the effective implementation of artificial intelligence as a technology supporting decision-making processes in the sphere of marketing in enterprises? – What are the identified models of application of artificial intelligence and human talent in making decisions in enterprises? Findings: The use of the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence in supporting marketing decisions brings many benefits, but it also requires overcoming mental and cultural barriers. It should be emphasized that relying on artificial intelligence in decision-making processes does not mean eliminating people, especially the talented ones, because it is the employee who can revise the decision-making criteria or state that the algorithm on the basis of which decisions are made in the company is outdated. Research limitations/implications: Empirical verification of the proposed model would allow for identifying the role performed by talented employees and algorithms in decision-making processes in the era of development of innovative IT solutions along with determination of the hierarchy of factors stimulating these processes. Originality/value: Proposing a model of determinants and types of solutions that allow for effectively combining human resources described as talent and artificial intelligence in making decisions in the field of marketing in enterprises is the result of the considerations provided in the paper.
The Significance and Evaluation of Selected Online Communication Tools – A Comparative Analysis of Young Consumers from Poland, Croatia and China
Authors:   University of Szczecin, Poland, Faculty of Management, Kowalska Magdalena , Kostrzewska Martyna ,   University of Szczecin, Poland, Petljak Kristina ,   University of Zagreb, Croatia, Faculty of Economics and Business Zagreb
Published: September 2023

Purpose: The main goal of the article is to verify the significance of and evaluate selected online communication tools among young people in three culturally and technologically different countries – Poland, Croatia and China. Design/methodology/approach: The research was conducted using a paper survey questionnaire and CATI methods, on the research sample N=2199, in three countries: Poland (N=502), Croatia (N=955) and China (N=742). The study analyzed selected online tools classified into five groups regarding: 1.the value and convenience for the customer, 2. security and trust, 3. consumer service, 4. belonging and engagement, 5. added value. The tools qualified for each of the groups have been tested in terms of weight and assessment of their importance for a group of young people. Findings: The obtained results indicate which of the online communication methods are, in the opinion of young people, the most important and thus the most expected by this segment of customers. Research limitations/implications: The limitation of the research is that it was conducted among representatives of the narrowed territory of the studied countries, hence the results obtained may be characteristic of these parts of Poland, Croatia and China. The findings are a valuable source of knowledge for practical implications for companies operating in the segment of young consumers allowing to select the best online communication tools with these clients in Poland, Croatia and China. Originality/value: Digital marketing brings many new possibilities of communication with clients for enterprises; however, for success, it is important to correctly match the online tools to the target group. The conducted research allowed prioritizing the importance of individual online communication tools in the process of creating relationships with young consumers in each of the analyzed countries. The classification of tools for building relationships at the behavioral and affective levels was original in the study. Moreover, the comparison of research results obtained from culturally and technologically diverse countries is of great value for the studied area.
New Concepts of Marketing Communication as the Answer to Challenges Resulting from Changes in the Area of Consumer Information Behaviors
Authors:   Poznań University of Economics and Business, Poland, Institute of Marketing, Rogala Anna
Published: September 2023

Purpose: The main purpose of this paper was to analyze the information behaviors of modern consumers from the perspective of companies’ activities in the sphere of marketing communication, taking into account new concepts which had emerged in this field. Design/methodology/approach: The analysis was based on a critical literature review in the areas of information behaviors and marketing communication. Findings: The author described the challenges of marketing communication and discussed its new concepts. The analysis led to the conclusion that because of the changes in ICT and consumer information behaviors, modern communication activities of companies must be based on the concept of customer-driven communication, which combines insights from marketing communication and customer logic-driven communication. Research limitations/implications: As the paper is based only on a literature review, the findings should be confronted with research results conducted in the field of customer-driven communication. Particular attention should be given to the area of targeting the marketing messages to specific groups of consumers with account being taken of their information behaviors patterns and their determinants. Marketing communication managers should implement the concept of customer-driven communication and take into consideration dynamic changes in information behavior as the key success factors in executing marketing communication strategies. Originality/value: The challenges of marketing communication in modern society were analyzed from both perspectives – receivers and senders in the process. Moreover, recommendations are given on which new concepts that emerged in this field should be implemented in communication strategies.
Bank Lending Channel Effectiveness – Potential Lessons For Monetary Policy
Authors:   University of Warsaw, Faculty of Management, Świtała Filip , Kowalska Iwona ,   University of Warsaw, Faculty of Management, Malajkat Karolina ,   Warsaw School of Economics, Collegium of Socio-Economics
Published: September 2023

The article supplements the research on the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission – especially through the bank lending channel. The current study focuses on assessing the transmission of monetary impulses through commercial and cooperative banks as well as through individual loan portfolios, while distinguishing between the fact that they were granted by commercial and cooperative banks. How a change in the central bank’s interest rates may determine a change in the volume of loans in the economy remains the core question of the research.
Creating City Based Zoning Plans with Game Theory Approach, Example of 1000 Plans
Authors: TAŞKAYA Selim
Published: September 2023

Zoning plans are the formation of rules that will regulate all kinds of needs of a group of people living on a certain piece of land. While the plans are being formed, they are in a flow from the development plans to the latest implementation plans in the hierarchy from the top to the bottom scale. Subsequently, a zoning application is made in the area determined depending on the population density. In this application, various zoning parameters are formed in accordance with a certain rule. It meets the needs of people by creating a subject, trade, official institution or many social reinforcement areas. It is created for this purpose in plans of 1000 called applications. It is created by making use of approaches such as game theory. Game theory is the task of determining the best strategy within the framework of the rules in an application that is considered a certain game. In planning, it will be possible to determine the formation of the best housing, commercial or social facilities and the determination of development areas with area-based correlation within the planning rules, with game theory. As a game theory element, it was tried to explain how to create the best open application development plan with the integral function of population, population growth amount, area-based surface area amounts according to plan definitions. The study area was about how to examine the parts of an application or revised zoning plan with game theory based on the city-based Elazığ.