ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Triggers of internet addiction and control mechanisms perspectives of selected undergraduate students of University of Education, Winneba

The Internet’s penetration into daily life is of great concern to an increasing number of people, rising to the level of pathological Internet use with problems similar to those of other behavioural addictions. University students are especially susceptible to developing a dependence on the Internet. This study through the lens of uses and gratification theory, general strain theory, and a qualitative case study design critically examined Internet addiction among undergraduate students of University of Education, Winneba. The study also examined the perspectives of undergraduate students’ specific online activities. It also examined triggers of Internet addiction and control mechanisms. The study found themes such as academic research and entertainment as online activities that students engage in; anxiety, depression and academic research as triggers of Internet addiction; self-restraint, awareness creation and administrative restrictions as control mechanisms to evade Internet addiction. It was discovered that in spite of the fact that the Internet helps students positively in many ways, it also impacts them negatively. The study revealed that, it is important to investigate the intensity of Internet addiction among university students. The study concluded that Internet addiction is a vital issue to be attended to immediately. The study recommended to health care professionals and educational counsellors to interact with students on the positive use of the Internet. Also, university counselling centres should create platform where students will be educated on the control mechanisms of Internet addiction such as exercising self-restraint and being purposeful while online.

Source: UEW
Truancy and academic performance of Junior High School pupils in Asikuma-Odoben-Brakwa district

The resarch was conducted in the Asikuma-Odoben-Brakwa District of the Central Region of Ghana. It investigated how truancy relates to academic performance of truant junior high school pupils. A descriptive survey design using mixed-methods sequential explanatory approach was employed for this study. Simple random and purposive sampling methods were used to select 114 study participants comprising 108 truant pupils and 6 teachers for the study. Questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.73) and semistructured interview guide were the main research instruments used to collect data. The quantitative data were analysed and presented in tables as frequency counts, percentages, mean, and standard deviation, while the qualitative data were analysed thematically. Inferential statistics was computed using chi-square (χ2) and independent samples t-test via Statistical Product for Services Solution (SPSS) software at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05 using a confidence interval (C.I) of 95%. The study revealed that truancy is prevalent among public junior high school pupils in the district Truancy has significantly contributed to poor academic performance, poor retention, repetition and dropout among the pupils. There is significant age and gender difference in the prevalence of truancy among the pupils. It was recommended that parents should satisfactorily provide for the basic needs of their wards. Parents/guardians and teachers should use corrective rather than punitive measures to curb truancy. Also, school counsellors should frequently counsel truant pupils.

Source: UEW
Tthe roles of early childhood teachers in integrating play in the peaching and learning process at the Ga West Municipality

This study was conducted to assess the role of early childhood teachers in the inculcation of play in instruction in the Ga West Metropolis. The pragmatic research paradigm was used for this study whereas the mixed methods research approach of both quantitative and qualitative methods was employed for the study. Thus, questionnaires and interview guides were used as data collection instruments. A sample size of 25 teachers were selected for the study. The findings revealed that teachers in the Ga West Metropolis are supported to inculcate play in teaching pre-school pupils by providing play materials, supervision of teachers, training and education of teachers as well as motivation of teachers. Again, it was found that play activities employed by teachers in the inculcation of play in instruction included integration of games and songs in the classroom learning activities and engaging children in outdoor play activities. However, it was found that some challenges that limit teachers in the use of play in their teaching processes are; inadequate in-service training, limited play materials, unavailability of play space and centres. It was recommended that early childhood centres should be allocated sufficient time in the timetable for children to engage in play activities. Time allocated for play activities should not be used for teaching other subjects. Also, teachers in the pre-school should improvise in making available some play or instructional materials needed in play activities during instruction and head teachers should strengthen their supervision and monitoring roles to motivate teachers to use play activities effectively in teaching.

Source: UEW
Tutors’ implementation of the new 4-year B.Ed. Curriculum for colleges of education in the northern zone of Ghana

The study assessed College of Education (CoE) tutors’ curriculum knowledge, classroom practices and impediments affecting the implementation of the new 4-year B.Ed. curriculum. The study was situated within four curriculum implementation models; fidelity model, overcoming resistance to change model (ORC), leadershipobstacle course model (LOC) and rand change agent model (RCA). The study followed explanatory sequential mixed-method design. 60 tutors (51 males and nine females) in public CoE participated in the quantitative phase of the study. Eight tutors (six males and two females) were purposefully selected for the qualitative phase of the study. Questionnaire, semi-structured interview and an observation checklist were used to collect data. The questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data and used to assess tutors’ curriculum knowledge, classroom practices and also determine curriculum implementation impediments while a classroom observation checklist and interview guide were used to collect qualitative data and used assess classroom practices and impediments respectively. Quantitative were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the help of SPSS version 20 whereas the qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study revealed that tutors have significant knowledge on the new 4-year B.Ed curriculum. Tutors’ classroom practices largely concurred with the tenets of the new 4- year B.Ed. curriculum. Also, impediments affecting tutors in the implementation of the new 4-year B.Ed. curriculum include; inadequate teaching and learning resources and facilities such as teaching and learning materials, projectors, and internet access. Additionally, overloaded content to be covered within a short time frame and poor conditions of service were other impediments. Implications in relation to the success or failure of the new B.Ed. programm were made. The study made the following recommendations: (i) The government through Ministry of Education should ensure that basic necessities such as school facilities, and teaching and learning materials are provided to all colleges for effective learning and implementation of the curriculum. (ii) Colleges can have institutional initiatives to supplement government efforts in supplying shortage of teaching and learning materials, hiring part time teachers and financial initiatives to sustain themselves. (iii) College should engage corporate organizations and alumni association to help in supplying the shortage of college necessities. (iv) College tutors should adequately remunerated and incentivized so that they are motivated to give off their best

Source: UEW
Twi adesua w{ akyer}kyer}fo nteteweebea, nhwehw}mu w{ presbyterian college of education, Akropong-Akuapem ne Presbyterian Womens college of education, Aburi-Akwapim

{kyer]wfo no botae ne s] [b]hw] s]nea w[de Twi adi dwuma w[ tikyafo ntetewee fi bere a ]b]kaa ntetewee no nhomasua nhyehy]e ho de besi nn], na afei s]nea ]b]y] daakye bi. {kyer]wfo no de asuafo a w[resua s]nea w[kyer] ade a w[suaa Twi s] w[n daakye abrab[ mu asuade a w[w[ Presbyterian College of Education, Akropong ne Presbyterian Women’s College of Education, Aburi a ne nyinaa w[ Akuapem mmew no so na edii dwuma no. W[y] nnipa aduow[twe awotwe a aduonum anan fi PCE, aduasa fi PWCE ne w[n atikyafo baanu baanu. {kyer]wfo no de botaee a w[de si ani so paw nnipa na edii dwuma no. Bio, [de nhwehw]mu akade a egyina dwumadi bi ab[su so na enyaa ns]m gyinaa so dii dwuma no. Afei [de anim ne anim ns]mmisa ne ns]m a w[atintim dedaw na ]boaboaa ne ns]m ano. {maa asuafo tikyafo akuwakuw yi kasa guu afiri mu na [tiee no mmiako mmiako de y]] mp]ns]mp]ns]mu no. Ekowiee ase no, nea efii mu bae ne s] mmere dodow a w[de ama s] w[mfa nsua Twi no sua. Afei atifi as]m ahorow a wosua no ntetewee mprempren no bi w[ h[ a ]s] s] w[sesa fi beae a ]hy] no k[ beae foforo. }s] s] University of Education, Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh xii w[de amammer] ne adekyer] akwankyer] no fi afe a ]t[ so abien no ba afe a edi kan na w[ma kr]dete no so fi biako k[ abien.

Source: UEW
Two-step optimization of solid-state fermentation conditions of heilong48 soybean variety for maximum chlorogenic acid extraction yield with improved antioxidant activity

This study sought to establish an optimized solid-state fermentation (SSF) conditions for extraction of chlorogenic acid (CA) from heilong48 soybean (HS) variety using two-step process: Plackett�Burman Design (PBD) and Box-Behnken Design (BBD) systematically. Both designs revealed the significant screened and optimum SSF conditions as pH (5.02), incubation time (11.52 h), inoculation size (5.00 %) and liquid-solid ratio (0.67). CA yield (8.80 � 0.08 mg/g), fermentation efficiency (31.29 � 0.28 %), and antioxidant activity (DPPH) (77.45 � 0.60 ?mol AA eq/g dry sample) obtained were acceptable (desirability, 1.00). Both the relative errors and the residual standard errors obtained for the predicted and experimental values were less than 5%. Higher (p < 0.05) CA yield and DPPH were obtained for the Lactobacillus casei fermented HS variety (LCFHS) than that of the unfermented HS variety (RHSF). The effectiveness of the optimized SSF conditions on the degradation of the cell wall of HS variety was affirmed by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results. The optimized extraction process was feasible, and HS variety could be used for CA extraction. � 2021

Source: UEW
Ultrasonic-assisted extraction of bioactive chlorogenic acid from heilong48 soybean variety: Parametric optimization and evaluation of physicochemical and bioactive properties

Chlorogenic acid (CA), especially that found in soybeans, is a rich bioactive compound but has received very little attention in research settings in past decades. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) could be an efficient method to increase CA release from soybeans. Hence, this study aimed to optimize UAE parameters for CA extraction from heilong48 soybean (HS) variety and evaluate the physicochemical and bioactive properties of the soybean. Optimization of ultrasound parameters with a Box�Behnken design found a frequency of 20.0�kHz, a power density of 30.0�W/L), a temperature of 37.9�C, and a time of 28.0�min to be the best conditions, which gave a CA yield of 5.007���0.033�mg/g and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity of 93.197���0.213�?mol of AA eq/g dry sample; these were higher than those of a non�ultrasound-treated (raw) HS sample (CA yield of 1.627���0.528�mg/g and DPPH radical scavenging activity of 10.760���0.207�?mol of AA eq/g dry sample). A satisfactory model was obtained. Scanning electron microscopy results confirmed the structural changes of the HS variety caused by the optimized UAE parameters. High total polyphenol contents (TPCs; 4.726���0.002�mg GAE/g) and total phenolic acids (1.883���0.005�mg GAE/g) and low total flavonoid contents (0.040���0.008�mg RE/g) were obtained. A positive linear correlation between antioxidant activity and TPC was established. A protein�phenolic interaction in the HS variety was observed. The results established that polyphenols should be considered a significant component of the HS variety. Likewise, the HS variety could be used for CA extraction. � 2022 The Authors. Food Science & Nutrition published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Source: UEW
Undergraduate students satisfaction with library services in a faculty library in university of education, Winneba. Ghana.

This study was conducted to find out user satisfaction with services and resources at the Institute for Educational Development and Extension (IEDE) Library in University of Education, Winneba, Ghana. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The questions were both openclosed ended. The target population was 4,539 undergraduate students who patronise the library in all the nine Departments located at the North campus of the University of Education, Winneba. Ten percent population from each of the nine (9) departments was selected. In the entire total sample for the study was 454. Thus availability sampling technique was adopted for the study which means that users who were available at the time the research was carried out were asked to respond to the questionnaire after explaining to them the purpose for the study. There was a high response rate because they were retrieved right on the spot.. Data was analysed into frequency tables and percentages. Results of the study revealed that though students were satisfied with the present services, there is more room for improvement as far as the services and resources of the library are concerned. The study also provides evidence for IEDE management to allocate sufficient and regular budget as funds for items for library are more often ignored or glossed over. In addition, the findings of this study would enable management of the Institute in collaboration with library management to re-focus their attention on the library. Recommendations made included extending opening hours of the library; photocopier and printer among others are provided to enhance scholarly endeavours of users. � 2020, University of Idaho Library.

Source: UEW
Understanding a shift in voters preference in political party strongholds. A study of Hohoe constituency during the 2020 parliamentary election.

Undoubtedly, the Hohoe constituency has traditionally been a stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana, consistently securing victories in parliamentary elections since the inception of the fourth republic. However, a notable shift occurred in the 2020 parliamentary elections when the NDC lost the seat to the main opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the first time. This unexpected outcome not only surprised the NDC party but also caught the attention of astute political observers. This research aims to delve into the factors that contributed to the change in voter behavior among the constituents of Hohoe during the 2020 parliamentary elections. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study gathered data from 385 respondents and conducted interviews with 10 individuals. Upon analyzing the survey results, the findings suggest that the shift in voter behavior can be attributed to the developmental projects initiated by the NPP parliamentary candidate, who also serves as the Minister of Energy and the creation of SALL. His track record and personality, dating back to his tenure as the District Chief Executive in 2008 and as a minister in 2016, stood in stark contrast to the perceived complacency and inability of the NDC candidate to deliver development to the constituency. This perception, coupled with the belief that the NPP candidate was more development-oriented, contributed to the decision to unseat the NDC MP.

Source: UEW
Understanding older adults' functioning and health-seeking behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana: A descriptive qualitative study

Little research has been conducted to explore the functional status of community-dwelling older adults in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigated the functional status and the health-seeking behaviour of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana. Utilising a descriptive qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from 12 eligible older adults from southern Ghana. With the use of NVivo (v12), descriptive and focused coding techniques were employed to analyse the data. The following five themes were identified after the data analysis: (a) older adults' health status during COVID-19 pandemic, (b) feeling limited, (c) feeling of unhappiness for being inactive, (d) striving to be active and (e) seeking healthcare during COVID-19 pandemic. This study revealed the unique health and social-related needs of Ghanaian older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study's findings draw attention to the urgent need for the state to devise practical health and social-related initiatives to support older adults during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. � 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Source: UEW
Understanding sports betting among young male student-teachers in Ghana

Drawing on sports betting, leisure studies and the rationality concept provide information to understand how those training to be teachers are gradually gravitating towards gambling to the detriment of their studies at the university. A thorough analysis of 42 young male adults interviewed at betting shops in the university community revealed how they have become involved in sports betting activities for additional financial rewards. Results show that peer pressure is a strong persuader drawing new student-teachers to sports betting activities, which makes it difficult for them to effectively focus on their studies. This has resulted in certain of the students getting poor grades, loss of concentration in class, strained relationships, increased exclusion or rejection from study groups, as well as significant negative effects on academic work, health and well-being, family, and society at large. This study recommends that stakeholders in education address this increasing social issue among young male adults through effective preventive strategy and educational promotion as an intervention to avoid thwarting the progress of the new educational reforms in Ghana. � 2022, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. All rights reserved.

Source: UEW
Understanding the barriers and opportunities for effective management of shared sanitation in low-income settlements�the case of kumasi, ghana

Improved sanitation for all is a daunting task for low-income countries, and shared toilets often provide an alternative to private household sanitation for most urban residents. This study sought to provide better understanding of the existing barriers and opportunities for improved management of shared sanitation. The study used focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with 70 users (landlords and tenants) of shared sanitation in Kumasi, Ghana to assess barriers and opportunities of �high-quality� shared sanitation. The commonly used toilet facilities were dry toilets�Kumasi Ventilated Improved Pit latrine and Ventilated Improved Pit latrines; and flush systems�water closet and pour flush connected to septic tanks. Between 2 and 21 households, or 4 and 84 people, shared one facility. Participants� description of �high-quality� (Ideal) shared sanitation was centred on cleanliness, user behaviour, smell, and user crowding. They also identified challenges of shared sanitation as overcrowded users, poor user behaviours, conflicts among users, and high cost associated with frequent desludging. However, opportunities for improvement included users� preference for shared toilets due to enjoyed benefits, existing facility management practices, and mutual understanding among users (tenants and landlords). Interventions and policy guidelines to influence behaviour change of shared sanitation users are proposed and are intended to be delivered by local government and users. � 2020 by the authors.

Source: UEW
Understanding the effects of techno-stress on the performance of banking staff

The technological revolution has undoubtedly brought about many changes in the modern workplace. Although it has allowed work to be carried out faster and more efficiently, many employees are not comfortable with its implementation since it involves change and uncertainty. As a result, users experience technological stress (techno-stress), which may have negative consequences on work places like commercial banks. This paper aims at investigating the effects of techno-stress on employees in the banking sector. A survey methodology that involves self-administered questionnaires to solicit data from 400 banking staff of commercial banks was employed. The employees revealed that ICTs create mental pressure, sense of anxiety and pessimism, as they have to keep up with the fast advancing pace of the new ICTs. Our study reveals that techno-stress has a negative impact on employee performance. It is recommended that the management of commercial banks, and IT professionals provide a better environment, alternative power supply and adequate training programs. Copyright � 2016 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

Source: UEW
Une perspective pragmatique des ecarts de la norme

Dans ce voyage périlleux et vertigineux dans le monde des idées, j‟ai bénéficié des soutiens indéfectibles et des encouragements de certaines personnes qui méritent ma gratitude. Ma profonde gratitude va d‟abord à mon directeur de recherche, Monsieur E. K Pomevor, à la fois pour ses remarques scientifiques, sa promptitude, son incomparable disponibilité et son affabilité. Je dois aussi une indescriptible reconnaissance à Prof. D.S.Y Amuzu qui, depuis mon service national au département de français de University of Education, Winneba, m‟a toujours encouragé à poursuivre mes études jusqu‟au doctorat. Mes remerciements les plus sincères s‟adressent également à l‟ex et à l‟actuel chef du département de français de University of Education,Winneba, Dr. D.K Ayi-Adzimah et Miss E.C Akakpo respectivement pour l‟opportunité qu‟ils m‟ont offerte pour servir au département. À Monsieur F. Odonkor, je dis aussi merci pour m‟avoir permis de dispenser certains de ses cours de littérature française, une occasion qui m‟a assez muri sur le plan intellectuel. En outre, je dois mes remerciements, à mes frères et sœurs pour leur encouragement. À Ebenezer Baidoo, je dis merci pour ses encouragements et son rôle dans l‟impression de cette recherche. Je n‟oublie pas aussi mon cousin Agbeko pour sa rigueur dans la lecture de cette recherche. Enfin, je m‟estime redevable à tous mes amis et à tous ceux qui, de près ou de loin ont contribué utilement à la réalisation de cette recherche.

Source: UEW