{"title":"Empowering communities for peace: Multitrack strategies for sustainable peacebuilding in Africa","authors":"Joshua Okyere","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v11i2.5575","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v11i2.5575","url":null,"abstract":"The paper discusses approaches and analyzes strategies that has the potential to effectively address the root causes of conflicts and promote long-lasting peace in Africa. The study utilizes the concept of multitrack diplomacy theory to explore various interventions and strategies that might contribute to the transformation and prevention of conflicts. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive approaches that involve citizen diplomats, political elites, religious leaders, NGOs, the media, conflict resolution educators, and traditional rulers. The paper underscores the need to involve and empower local communities to give them a sense of ownership and authority over peacebuilding initiatives. Storytelling, interfaith activities, legal accountability, and education are recognized as useful methods for promoting reconciliation, preventing trauma, and developing the ability to resolve conflicts. The literature indicates that adopting a relationship-focused strategy, bolstered by multitrack diplomacy and local empowerment, can play a role in achieving lasting peace in Africa and other regions. The paper offers pragmatic insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders engaged in peacebuilding endeavors. It emphasizes the significance of promoting conversation, harmony, and shared comprehension while taking into account the specific requirements, objectives, and resolutions of the local community. By employing these tactics, individuals or groups with a vested interest in a particular issue can actively strive to bring an end to harmful disputes and facilitate inclusive processes of change that foster positive and enduring peace.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":" 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140682875","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Exploring the potential of ai techniques in teaching English as a foreign language: A systematic literature review","authors":"W. Almehmadi","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v11i2.5576","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v11i2.5576","url":null,"abstract":"The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and its integration into different fields, including language teaching, have inspired a growing body of literature. Scholars have particularly examined the integration of AI techniques into the teaching of English as a foreign language (EFL). However, it is becoming more challenging to identify the most suitable and efficient tools for implementation in EFL education because of the massive amount of innovation. Accordingly, in this systematic review, we examine the latest literature on the integration of AI into EFL teaching. The objective of this study is to explore how AI is being incorporated into this field, its impact on enhancing core English skills, and the potential pedagogical implications. A total of 284 articles published between 2019 and 2023 were initially identified from the most popular databases, including ERIC, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, ProQuest, and Scopus. Following pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria, 13 papers were selected for the final review. The findings of this review highlight the benefits of using different AI techniques such as chatbots, automated writing evaluation, and writing assistance technologies in the instruction of fundamental EFL skills, namely speaking, listening, and writing. This review also provides useful insights and indicates some promising directions regarding the appropriate and effective application of AI in EFL classrooms.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":" 453","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140682352","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phuong Hoang Yen, Pham Trut Thuy, Le Thanh Thao, Nguyen Anh Thi, Nguyen Huong Tra, Huynh Thi Anh Thu
{"title":"Multi-faceted identities of teacher assessors: A qualitative study in the Vietnamese educational context","authors":"Phuong Hoang Yen, Pham Trut Thuy, Le Thanh Thao, Nguyen Anh Thi, Nguyen Huong Tra, Huynh Thi Anh Thu","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i4.5099","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i4.5099","url":null,"abstract":"Within the educational landscape of Vietnam, the professional identity of teachers when acting as assessors remains a comparatively uncharted domain and requires further explorations. Consequently, this qualitative investigation was initiated to delve deeper into the intricate identities Vietnamese teachers adopt in their capacities as assessors. Relying upon frameworks such as Constructivist Grounded Theory and Identity Theory, the study meticulously analyzed self-reported narratives from 15 tertiary lecturers based in Vietnam. Through this rigorous analysis, a spectrum of fifteen distinct identities was uncovered. These identities included “Gatekeepers of Knowledge and Competency”, “Nurturers”, “Diplomatists”, “Auditors”, “Confusian Sages”, “Innovators”, “Social Justice Advocators”, “Cultural Mediators”, “Emotional Anchors”, “Scalfolders”, “Technological Navigators”, “Lifelong Learners”, “Community Builders”, “Ethical Guardians”, and “Democratic Facilitators.” Intriguingly, these identities were not merely seen as additional layers to their professional duties; instead, they emerged as foundational components of teachers’ professional self-image. The forces molding these roles are diverse, encompassing deep-seated cultural values, prevailing educational paradigms, and personal lived experiences of educators. Unraveling these identities offers consequential implications for the broader educational sector. It underscores the imperative to holistically re-envision teacher training programs and assessment design, ensuring they resonate with the multifaceted roles educators play in steering both academic achievements and wider societal outcomes.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"245 10","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135371337","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Shubair Abdullah, Abdelrahman El-Haj, Sameh Said Ismail, Husain El Kharousi, Wajeha El-Aani, Amal Al-Badi
{"title":"Faculty members’ perceptions about the effectiveness of the procedures for applying the appraisal of academic staff at Sultan Qaboos University","authors":"Shubair Abdullah, Abdelrahman El-Haj, Sameh Said Ismail, Husain El Kharousi, Wajeha El-Aani, Amal Al-Badi","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i4.5076","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i4.5076","url":null,"abstract":"The appraisal of academic staff at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has been in place for many years as a quality assurance measure. Its primary objective is to enhance staff performance by identifying commendable areas and those requiring improvement in daily activities. Over the years, this appraisal has contributed in faculty development and quality assurance as well as in the continuous improvement. This study explores the perceptions of faculty members at the College of Education concerning the procedures for applying the academic appraisal form at SQU. Utilizing a mixed-method approach (quantitative and qualitative), including questionnaire and semi-structured interview, the research examines the faculty members' views on the effectiveness of the appraisal procedures. The sample participating in this study was 54 faculty members. Out of the 54 participants, 48 completed the questionnaire, while 6 were chosen for in-depth semi-structured interviews. The sample included a wide range of participants to reflect the diversity within the academic staff. The findings may offer valuable insights into the current status of these perceptions and potentially assist policy makers at SQU in enhancing the existing procedures and system for applying the academic appraisal. Furthermore, the results may lead to a set of recommendations and directions for future research, helping to improve the robustness and applicability of the appraisal system within the university context.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"313 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135618644","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jayron Concepcion Bartolome, Ma Rita Alindada Reario, Jose P Gallena
{"title":"Operation of unified financial assistance system for tertiary education in selected private institutions in Santiago city, Isabela","authors":"Jayron Concepcion Bartolome, Ma Rita Alindada Reario, Jose P Gallena","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i4.5041","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i4.5041","url":null,"abstract":"This study examines the implementation of the tertiary education subsidy as mandated by Republic Act No. 10931. A descriptive-comparative research design was used for the investigation. It polled 347 student-grantees chosen purposefully from Northeastern College and the University of La Salette, Inc., sampled using the proportional stratification technique. The respondents believed that the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) should be implemented in order to encourage student perseverance, academic achievement, and administrative capacity. Regarding financial ability, the respondents overwhelmingly concurred that the subsidy reduced their financial stress while attending school, helped them pay their tuition on time, and helped them purchase supplies for their studies. The respondents also concurred that TES provided advantages such developing responsibility and money management skills, aiding in the understanding of the worth of money, and providing motivation to spend prudently. Regardless of their profiles, all of the respondents generally agreed on how well the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) had been implemented. When categorized according to their profiles, certain specific indications were found to be considerably different. Finally, the respondents felt that the late delivery of essential money and severe deadlines for the criteria were the most frequently encountered issues in the implementation of TES.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"162 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-10-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"136015848","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Job turnover rates and the Nigerian banking industry: Benefits, causes, challenges, and policy recommendations","authors":"Francis Ndudi Ejimofor, Justice Taiwo Ogundare","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.5017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.5017","url":null,"abstract":"The study focuses on the essential causes of high job turnover rates in order to improve employee retention, reduce costs, and improve organizational performance. The study focused on two selected Banks in Asaba, Delta State: First Bank of Nigeria Plc and Access Bank branches at Nnebisi Road, Asaba, Delta State. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted in the study. The total population is 100, which consists of the employees of First Bank Nigeria Plc and Access Bank. The probability sampling methodology employed was a stratified random procedure. The findings of the study revealed that poor management practices, low pay, and the working environment have a significant effect on the performance of the banking sector. The findings emphasized the significance of initiatives like opportunities for growth and development, competitive pay and benefits, fostering a happy work environment, and lowering employee turnover rates. The study concludes that the relationship between job turnover rates and performance is complex and may be prejudiced by a diversity of factors, including individual differences, organizational culture, and external factors such as economic conditions and industry trends. The study recommends that banks create a positive work environment that fosters a sense of community, respect, and open communication. This can include initiatives such as employee recognition programs, open-door policies, and regular team-building activities.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"1 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-09-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135720983","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Territorial human capital and the economic development of territories: Study socially innovative aspects of cooperatives in the prefecture of Agadir Ida Outanane","authors":"Abdeljalil Mazzaourou, Jamal Agouram, Mustapha Amzil","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.4984","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.4984","url":null,"abstract":"This paper is situated within territorial economics, with the noble aim of elucidating the intricate interplay between territorial human capital and the economic advancement of the esteemed Agadir Ida Outanane prefecture, particularly within the social innovation concept. It endeavors to navigate the nuances of theoretical intricacies and empirical analysis tools, all in a concerted effort to address the paramount inquiry: \"To what extent can territorial human capital serve as a propelling force for the development of the Agadir Ida Outanane area, and how might social innovation contribute thereto?\" In pursuit, we have adopted a methodological approach rooted in deductive reasoning and underpinned by a post-positivist paradigm. Through a judicious synthesis of theoretical constructs and observed realities, we have deftly formulated a hypothetical model that interweaves the concepts of territorial human capital, social innovation, and economic valorization of the territory. This model has been tested on a dataset comprising 180 operational cooperatives in the revered Agadir Ida Outanane area. The discerning findings of this inquiry concur with the existence of substantial and noteworthy contributions among the multifarious concepts under scrutiny.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"21 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-09-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"136025439","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Rural women's access to land: An appraisal of land rights campaigns in Missenyi district Tanzania","authors":"Theopister Joseph Kabiito","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.4969","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.4969","url":null,"abstract":"This paper aimed at appraising the land rights campaigns towards women's land access in Missenyi District in Tanzania. The study was guided by Liberal Feminism Theory. The qualitative approach was used to help the participants explore their attitudes, behaviours, and understanding of the women's land rights campaigns. This approach enables a comprehensive assessment of the campaigns' effectiveness, their response within rural communities, and the factors influencing their implementation. The data for this study were gathered through semi-structured interview schedules, focus group discussions and observation schedules. The researcher analysed data through the thematic analysis procedure. The study involved fifty-three participants. These included; rural men, rural women, and religious and local government leaders. The findings indicate that campaigns have raised awareness of women's land rights. This is due to seminars, workshops, village and ward meetings, social cognition, and the enforcement of laws. Ultimately, the findings aim to inform more effective strategies for promoting rural women's land rights campaign and achieving gender equitable access to land resources in Missenyi District, Tanzania and similar contexts. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of sustained efforts in capacity-building, legal reform, and community engagement to ensure lasting improvements in rural women's access to land. The study recommends that more efforts through various campaigns are needed to raise awareness about land rights. Also, community members, especially women, still need more education and training to reduce their ignorance of women's land rights and dispel misconceptions about women's land access.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"38 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-09-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135363079","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Intimate partner violence among minority groups: A view from northern Bangladesh","authors":"Bokul Hossain, Zamil Hosain, Shirazul Islam, Siddiqur Rahman","doi":"10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.4955","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.20448/ajssms.v10i3.4955","url":null,"abstract":"This study investigates the prevalence, characteristics, and associated factors of intimate partner violence (IPV) among minority groups of Bangladesh. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining a survey of 128 participants from minority groups with 10 in-depth case studies. The survey collected quantitative data, while case studies provided qualitative insights. The study reveals a pervasive prevalence of IPV within marginalized communities, with 40.6% of females reporting experiences of IPV. Husbands were identified as the primary abusers (91.4%) of IPV. Various determinants were identified as contributing factors to IPV. These include poor mental health, substance abuse, exposure to childhood violence, patriarchal attitudes, financial pressures, conventional drug use, adherence to cultural and societal norms, and limited education regarding healthy relationships, communication, and conflict resolution skills. Surprisingly, the study highlights that IPV is bidirectional, with 33.6% of respondents admitting to physically harming their spouse during violent incidents. Gender inequality or rigidity was not the predominant determinant of IPV among minority communities in northern Bangladesh. The study underscores the necessity of culturally sensitive strategies to address IPV within marginalized communities. The findings underscore the need to address both sides of the IPV dynamic and advocate for holistic interventions that acknowledge and respect cultural norms and values.","PeriodicalId":472031,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of social sciences and management studies","volume":"6 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-08-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135988870","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}