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An Exploration of Teaching Critical Thinking Skills through a Novel in an English First Additional Language Classroom
Scholars point to the value of the literary text as an effective stimulus for learners to think critically and express their feelings and ideas in a language in integrating literature in the language classroom. The benefits of literature for developing learners’ critical thinking skills and creativity have been highlighted by a number of researches (Alvarez, Calvete, & Sarasa, 2012; Bobkina & Dominguez, 2014; Bobkina & Stefanova, 2016; Fernandez de Caleya, Bobkina & Sarto, 2012; Ghosn, 2002). Against this background, this study investigated investigate challenges faced by grade 10 learners at a rural public secondary school in Mankweng circuit in Capricorn North District, Limpopo province, South Africa in analysing novel. This study was guided by Rosenblatt’s (1982) Literary Transaction Theory which transformed the landscape of literary instruction. Semi-structured in-depth interviews and classroom observation were used to collect data. The findings of this study show that literature helps the learners to understand the meaning of the literary text by drawing from multiple interpretations and perspectives from classmates as way of developing their critical thinking skills. This study recommends the use of high order of thinking as a strategy when teaching literature and a further investigation to explore the efficiency of critical thinking approaches in teaching different subject areas.
Rosenblatt’s (1982) Literary Transaction Theory
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Understanding Juvenile Delinquency: The Developmental Trajectories and Their Implications for Human Development
Peer pressure, poverty and drug abuse have been documented by studies as one of the most common reasons for promoting juvenile delinquency globally. This article examined the causes and the implications of juvenile delinquency in South West Nigeria, with its focus on the relationship with the mediating roles of poverty, peer pressure, and drug abuse. The factors highlighted are notable and interact with all aspects of adolescents’ development. Poverty is a promoter of delinquent activities, and these include pressure from peers and exposure to dangerous substances. Adolescents who use drugs are more vulnerable because judgment is mostly impaired, thus making them susceptible to delinquent behaviours. The study examines how these factors are interconnected and how they collectively influence juvenile delinquency among young people in Nigeria. The study used a qualitative design on a group of juveniles living in a correctional home to establish the positions of previous authors. The participants are 10 adolescents. The developmental implications of these behaviours for Nigerian youth are also explored, and they include the inability to complete basic education, poor family relationships, and psychological consequences. The study suggested necessary interventions, such as compulsory education, reduced poverty, and building a communal society that promotes inclusivity irrespective of socio-economic status young people to reduce delinquency. The study provides detailed activities for understanding and reducing the rate of juvenile delinquency in Nigeria. The findings recommend the need to focus on comprehensive solutions that focus on socio-economic reforms and community involvement to protect the future of Nigerian adolescents.
Exploring the Intercorrelation Between Perceived Stress, Motivation, and Work-Life Balance
The post-COVID-19 era has changed the mode of work for several organisations as some are now working remotely. This present study investigated the correlation between perceived stress, motivation, and work-life balance among digital experts in Lagos Metropolis. The study examined how their perception of stress, work-life balance, and motivation are related. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The sample size of the study comprised 101 digital experts within the Lagos metropolis using an online survey. Standardised instruments were administered online via Google Form, and data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of percentages to analyse participants’ biodata and the research questions, while the Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) statistical tool was used to test the stated hypotheses. The result of the findings showed there is a significant relationship between perceived stress and work-life balance; motivation significantly predicts work-life balance among digital experts; and demographic factors, specifically age, gender, and job role, significantly influence the work-life balance of digital experts. The researcher recommended that organisations should introduce stress management initiatives, such as mindfulness training, and workshops on coping strategies, to help employees manage stress effectively; and that organizations should create opportunities for employees to engage in meaningful and challenging work that supports their growth.
Impact of Teachers’ Teaching Skills on Addicted Psychoactive Substance Students’ Learning Outcomes among Junior Secondary Schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria
This study investigated the impact of teachers’ teaching skills on psychoactive substances addicted Basic Science students’ learning outcomes in junior secondary schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The research procedure involves descriptive research of survey type. Participants were 120 Basic Science students and 40 teachers who were randomly selected across four Local Government areas in Ekiti State. Two instruments were used for data collection. The first was a 25-item questionnaire titled” Impact of Basic Science teachers’ teaching skills (BSTSQ) and the second instrument was also a 25 structured questionnaire titled Students’ Attitudinal Questionnaire (SAQ). The reliability of the instruments was determined through test and re-test method, which yielded a correlation co-efficient of 0.88 and 0.87, respectively, at 0.05 level of significance. Mean and Ranking Order and Multiple Regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency count, percentages, means, graphs and standard deviation were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that the impact of psychoactive substances on Basic Science students among junior secondary school students was negative.
Risky Learning Spaces: The Impact of Environmental Hazards on Teaching and Learning in Rural Eastern Cape Secondary Schools, South Africa
The South African Constitution enshrines the right of every individual to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being. This right ensures learners and educators operate within safe, secure, and health-promoting school environments. Despite this legal guarantee, many rural secondary schools in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, continue to face significant environmental hazards and safety-related challenges. Hence, this paper explores how these risks impact the quality of teaching and learning in such settings. Adopting a qualitative research design grounded in an interpretivist paradigm, data were gathered from four principals, four teachers, and eight learners selected through purposive sampling across four rural schools. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were thematically analysed using NVivo version 10. The findings highlight widespread issues such as violence, deteriorating infrastructure, and the absence of adequate safety measures, factors that vary in severity but collectively undermine educational effectiveness. These hazards not only disrupt pedagogical processes but also violate the fundamental rights of learners and educators. The study advocates for the adoption of a zero-tolerance policy toward school-based risks and calls for strengthened collaboration between schools and local communities to cultivate safer, more supportive learning environments.
Logico-semantic Relations of Clause Combinations in Selected Inaugural Lectures in Southwestern Nigeria Universities
This study investigates the use of Logico-semantic relations of clause combinations in selected inaugural lectures from three universities in Southwestern Nigeria. The data comprises six purposively selected inaugural lectures from different disciplines; Obafemi Awolowo University-(Faculties of Science and Technology), University of Ibadan-(Medical Science and Social Science), and University of Lagos-(Arts and Education). The non-simple sentences were extracted from the lectures and analysed based on Halliday's theory of Systemic Functional Grammar. The results show that the logical patterns suitable for academic discourse in the field of Technology and Education are extension and enhancement while in the Sciences, Medical Sciences, Arts and Education are extension and elaboration. The elaboration patterns in the fields of Sciences, Medical Sciences, Arts and Education are more of hypotactic elaboration than paratactic elaboration while the extension in the field of Technology and Education are more of paratactic extension than hypotactic extension. Also, the analysis of the identified semantic patterns shows that clarification, addition and conditional clauses are the dominant patterns of meaning found across the different fields of academic discourse. Clarification is used mostly in elaboration; additive is used mostly in extension, while causal conditional clause is used mostly in enhancement. In addition, the study shows that the dominant use of addition, clarification and clausal conditional has implications on the delivery of the lectures as they were deployed to organise and sequence information as well as provide the readers with the necessary circumstances for enhancing their understanding of the lectures. Discourse like inaugural Lectures generally adopt the use of explicit conjunction signals (e.g., or, but, and, if, because, etc.) as implicit signals (eg.: ; ') are seldom used to complement the explicit signals. Findings further indicate that the variability of the logico-semantic patterns found in each of the lectures had a great implication on the message of the lectures as the varied patterns are indicative of ideological variation and characteristic of each discipline. The study concludes that language, especially in the aspect of its logico-semantic relations of clause combination is sensitive to different contexts of academic disciplines and inaugural lectures are a site for identifying this sensitivity.
Developing Sustainable Waste Management Strategies in Municipalities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
The study focuses on the sustainable waste management challenges faced by the Amathole District Municipality. The increasing waste generation and inefficient waste management practices in rural areas highlight the need for a systematic approach to address these issues. The primary objective of this research was to assess the challenges in waste management and provide actionable recommendations to improve sustainability in waste management practices. A qualitative research methodology was adopted to explore the perspectives of various stakeholders involved in waste management, including municipal officials, community leaders, and local citizens. Data was collected from 12 participants through semi-structured interviews to gain in-depth insight into the issues and potential solutions. The Waste Management Theory guided the analysis, emphasizing the waste hierarchy and integrated waste management principles. Key challenges identified included inadequate waste management infrastructure, insufficient budget allocations, and low public awareness and illegal dumping sites. The study concludes that enhancing waste management strategies requires collaborative efforts between local authorities, the private sector, and the community. Recommendations include strengthening waste infrastructure, increasing public awareness campaigns, and implementing a "polluter pays" principle. These interventions are essential for promoting sustainability and improving waste management practices within the municipality.
Disrupting Patriarchal Discourses: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Gendered Resistance in Lara Owoeye’s Another Wives’ Revolt and Kowode
This study examines how gendered resistance is linguistically and discursively constructed within patriarchal Nigerian contexts, using Lara Owoeye’s plays, Another Wives’ Revolt and Kowode. Drawing on Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis (FCDA) and Halliday’s Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL), the study interrogates how characters challenge hegemonic masculinity, negotiate power, and assert agency through strategic language use. The analysis focuses on key discursive features such as transitivity, mood and modality, revealing how patriarchy is discursively reinforced through traditional, religious, and cultural norms, and how it is simultaneously subverted through language use, collective protest, and discursive activism. Findings show that Owoeye’s female characters resist their marginalisation not only through overt defiance but also through calculated linguistic strategies and collective feminist mobilisation. The study challenges the portrayals of women in African drama as passive or domesticated, offering instead a nuanced representation of women as discursive agents of sociopolitical change. This study contributes to feminist literary scholarship and highlights the emancipatory potential of language in confronting gender-based oppression.
Calcifying Epithelial Odontogenic Tumor Exhibiting Clear Cell Variant
Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT) rarely exhibits clear cell histopathologic patterns. This unusual lesion still needs continual documentation in order to have more information regarding clinical, radiological, microscopic features and treatment with follow-up. Therefore, we present an uncommon case of the clear-cell variant of CEOT in the mandible.
Knowledge Management in High-Risk Hospital Environments
In intensive care units, knowledge management (KM) is both a technical necessity and an emotional challenge. This case study, conducted in an intensive care unit at a Moroccan hospital, aims to understand how caregivers mobilize, share, and apply their knowledge in an environment marked by urgency, serious illness, and high emotional stress. The main objective is to assess the extent to which KM can contribute to improving hospital performance, while taking into account the daily experiences of professionals confronted with death, the distress of families, and the pressure of critical care. The research is based on a qualitative method combining semi-structured interviews, field observations, and documentary analysis. The data, processed using NVivo 12 software, were analyzed using an inductive and abductive approach. The theoretical framework is based in particular on Bose's (2003) model for KM in healthcare and Donabedian's (1966, 1988) model for hospital performance. The results reveal tensions between the need to structure knowledge and the emotional complexity of end-of-life situations, which hinder the fluidity of exchanges. The KM process is highly dependent on the organizational context, leadership, professional relationships, and technological resources. The study highlights that knowledge management in intensive care is not only a matter of formal systems, but also relies on human, emotional, and collaborative practices that are essential to resilience and performance in healthcare.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies on Agricultural Productivity in Developing Economies
This study critically analysed how climate change adaptation techniques affect agricultural productivity in developing economies, yield results, livelihood resilience, and the enabling environment. The study examined the efficacy and drawbacks of farm and policy-level adaptation approaches using a comprehensive content analysis of recent empirical and review literature. The study highlighted secondary data on yield stabilisation, food security, socio-economic empowerment, institutional obstacles, and social and cultural elements' importance. Adopting climate-resilient crop varieties, improving water management, and using climate-informed extension services increased crop yields and reduced crop failures, especially during adverse weather events. Communities that integrated social capital development, gender inclusion, and market access into adaptation programming had better household income stability, food security, and community networks. However, institutional impediments including inadequate extension mechanisms and insufficient policy backing hindered the scale and sustainability of these interventions. Cultural barriers, such as gender inequality and budgetary constraints, limited equitable adaption prospects. The research showed that climate change adaptation techniques can boost agricultural output and rural resilience in poor countries, but they must also build institutional, socio-economic, and cultural systems. The study emphasises integrative, community-driven techniques and policy frameworks that overcome technical and systemic constraints. These findings matter for agriculture policymakers, practitioners, and academics seeking sustainable and inclusive climate adaptation.
The Influence of School Leaders on the Implementation of Teaching, Learning and Assessment Policy in English First Additional Language, Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Effective teaching and learning as per recommended language policies in schools starts with the attitude of the school leaders. The purpose of the study was to explore the influence of school leaders on the implementation of the English First Additional Language (EFAL) teaching, learning and assessment policy. The researcher adopted an explorative qualitative approach in conducting the study. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from UL TREC and the Department of Basic Education (DBE). Participants were given consent forms for their voluntary participation in the study. Four EFAL departmental heads (DH) were purposefully selected to participate in the study. They were selected because of their expertise in supervising EFAL. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis into emerging themes following the six stages of thematic approach. The findings show that excessive administration duties, lack of resources, overcrowded classrooms, insufficient planning and preparation, lack of interest and time management are some of the challenges educators experiences during the implementation of the EFAL policy. The recommendations are to increase contact time, develop a resource pack for informal assessment activities, improve infrastructure, strengthen support, intensive monitoring and moderation of teaching, learning and assessment activities.
Role of Lalon Festivals in the Development of Baul Culture in Bangladesh
The aim of this study is to assess the role of Lalon festivals in the development of Baul culture in Bangladesh. Adopting a qualitative research method, the study was conducted at the Lalon Academy in Cheuria, Kushtia, Bangladesh. Books, journals, articles, research papers, and other publications served as the sources of secondary data, while observation, case studies, and interviews with Bauls were used as primary data sources. First, the study collected information about the Lalon festivals observed by Bauls on different occasions. Then, it examined the role of these festivals in the development of Baul culture in Bangladesh. All the data have been presented descriptively. The findings of this study reveal that Lalon festivals significantly enrich the Baul culture of Bangladesh.
Enhancing Skills Development for Women: A Developmental Approach to Promoting Inclusivity in Municipalities
Purpose: The aim of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of skills development programs aimed at improving gender inclusion in municipal leadership positions in South Africa. The study particularly focused on identifying best practices and challenges associated with these programs to promote women's representation and empowerment in local government sectors. Design/Method/Approach: A qualitative research methodology was used, adopting an interpretive paradigm. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with managers and key stakeholders in a selected community in the Eastern Cape. Thematic analysis, as described by Braun & Clarke, was used to analyse the data and derive insights. Findings: The findings revealed no tailored programs explicitly designed to capacitate and empower women for management roles in the municipality. This gap in specialised programs hinders the progress of women aspiring to take on leadership positions. Moreover, the study identified several challenges, including a lack of dedicated resources and insufficient support structures for women in municipal management. Theoretical Implications: The study challenges existing theories on gender integration in public sector management by highlighting the need for more specific and targeted programs to address gender disparities. It also contributes to the broader theory of gender empowerment by suggesting that without institutional support for women in leadership positions, the broader goals of gender equity may remain unachieved. Practical Implications: Management and policy development practitioners can learn from the study results to design more effective skills development programs that focus on gender inclusion. The results suggest that municipalities should implement gender-sensitive strategies that specifically address women's professional development needs in leadership positions. Originality/Value: This paper is original as it focuses on gender integration in local government in South Africa, a topic that has not been thoroughly examined in the context of local government. The study's findings are important because they provide valuable insights into how municipalities can better support the advancement of women in management, a crucial aspect of achieving broader gender equality goals in South Africa. Research Limitations/Future Research: The results of the study may differ in municipalities with more established gender-inclusive practices or in regions with different sociopolitical dynamics. Future research could examine the impact of specific gender-specific programs on women's career advancement in local government and extend the study to include quantitative data or comparisons with other regions in South Africa.
Implementation of Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program and Academic Resilience of Teachers
This study explores the relationship between the implementation of the IPEd program and the academic resilience of teachers, identifying key areas for interventions. It utilized quantitative research, specifically a non-experimental descriptive correlational research design with data analyzed using Mean, Pearson correlation and regression. It was conducted in Magsaysay South District, Division of Davao del Sur, among 150 elementary teachers, selected through universal sampling technique. The findings indicate a high level of implementation of the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program and a very high level in academic resilience of teachers. The finding further indicates that there is a positive significant relationship between teachers’ academic resilience and IPEd program implementation. Overall, the null hypothesis is rejected. The study underscores the critical role of targeted interventions in sustaining the implementation of the IPEd program and enhancing teacher resilience. By focusing on teacher training, language proficiency, and culturally responsive assessment methods, educational institutions can better support teachers in indigenous communities, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes. The study highlights that empowering teachers through academic resilience and culturally rooted training is vital for the long-term success and sustainability of indigenous people education programs.
Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program
Exploration of Challenges Faced by English First Additional Language Teachers in Teaching Short Stories in Bochum Circuit, South Africa
Teaching of literature is a daunting task to teachers, more especially the teaching of short stories. Thus, the study seeks to explore challenges faced by English First Additional Language (EFAL) teachers in teaching short stories. The study employed phenomenological case study research design that allowed for the focus of the nature of a particular phenomenon. Six EFAL teachers from Mathew Phosa Secondary School, in Bochum Circuit, Capricorn North District were purposely selected. The study adopted focus group interview and teachers shared their experiences on how these challenges can be mitigated. Data was analysed thematically using thematic data analysis. The findings reveal that teachers are struggling with the interpretation of figurative and literal language used in the short stories. Therefore, this study recommends that teachers should be supported in a form of workshops and seminars that focuses specifically on teaching of short stories. They should be supplied with teaching resources such as videos of the prescribed short stories and the techniques on how to interpret literary language. Lastly, the Department of Basic Education should change the old short stories and consider prescribing new ones that this new generation can relate on; which will grasp their attention and make the teaching and learning of short stories enjoyable.
Ideologies and Functional Education for Sustainable Development in Initial Teacher Education at South African Universities
Every state needs a functional education system for sustainable development based on its ideology, from pre-primary to higher education, for its citizens. Education for sustainable development aims to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to protect the planet. In contrast, an ideology is a set of ideas, beliefs and attitudes, consciously or unconsciously, reflecting or shaping understandings or misconceptions of the social and political world. Due to changes and disruptions in education and other sectors of society globally, and because of technology and climate, functional education has the potential to contribute significantly towards sustainable development. The paper explores whether universities’ initial teacher programmes have modules with elements of education for sustainable development at two Limpopo universities. The paper was underpinned by the theoretical frameworks of ideology by Joseph S. Roucek in 1944 and the theory of change (TOC), the theory of education for sustainable human development (TESHD), and a theory of transformative learning (TTL) by Jack Mezirow. This is a qualitative design paper where documents from both universities were analysed. Document analysis involves reviewing and evaluating electronic and physical (computer-based and Internet-transmitted) documents to interpret them, understand their meaning and develop upon the information they provide. Like many other qualitative research methods, document analysis involves examining and interpreting data to uncover meaning, gain understanding, and come to a conclusion. Like other analytical methods in qualitative research, document analysis requires that data be examined and interpreted to elicit meaning, gain understanding, and develop empirical knowledge. Interviews were also conducted with two participants, each from both universities. The education for sustainable development does not form part of the curriculum. The paper calls for reformulating South Africa’s ideology in initial teacher training to align with Education for Sustainable Development, SDGs 1 (no poverty), 2 (zero hunger), 4 (quality education) and 13 (Climate change), and Agenda 2063, Africa we want, fostering a better future for all.
A State of Art of Adoption of ICT Innovations in Crop Farming in Developing Countries
Till the end of the 19th century, farming practices have been conventional where farmers greatly relied on indigenous farming tools like hoes, sickles and pitchfork to cultivate their farms. In Sub-Saharan Africa poverty is still existing and undernourishment has been increasing. This weak economic performance is connected to low technology adoption that reduces productivity growth in the agriculture sector. This study investigates the factors that have influenced adoption of ICT in crop farming in developing countries. And this was achieved by reviewing literature from three databases published between 2013-2022 to carryout analysis. This search yielded 119 papers and 35 papers were selected for analysis. The analysis showed that a number of models have been developed like TAM, DOI and UTAUT to help guide adoption of ICTs in Crop farming. In Sub Saharan Africa some ICTs like Radio, Television, Mobile phones have been adopted however, the level of adoption is not satisfying due to a number of Factors that influence this adoption like infrastructure, literacy, cost, ICT access, ICT policies and language of use.
The Effects of Stress, Age and Gender on Immunity and Health among Secondary School Teachers in Ekiti- State
This study investigated the effect of stress, age and gender on immunity and health. The objectives were the views of the target population about their health, how identified factors affected immunity and health, how immunity functions and recommend the best ways of improving good health. The results from the research finding showed that 59% of the teachers claimed that stress affected their health and immunity, 62% admitted that their age have effects on their health and immunity, 57% revealed that gender affects their health and 70% admitted that hormonal effects has an impact on their immunity and health. I found out strong relationship that stress, age and hormones affects teacher’s health and immunity, a larger percentage of the population admitted that those factors actually affected them. On the basis of the findings, it is recommended that infrastructures that alleviate stress should be provided in the schools. Teachers should be recruited on constant basis, so as to reduce the work load and reduce teacher’s stress Finally school health program should be provided and funded for the benefits of both teachers and students.
Socio Economic Background of Parents as Correlate of Academic Performance of Biology Students in a Selected School in Ekiti-State, Nigeria
This study investigated the effect of socio-economic background of parents on students’ academic performance in Biology in Mary Immaculate Grammar School, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. This study identified the good and poor academic performance of students could be explained the role of socio-economic background of parents as to students from high socio-economic background performance determinants in their academics than students from a low socio-economic background was established to be true. The research findings showed that socio- economic backgrounds have much effect on academic performance of students. Therefore, the good and poor academic performance could be greatly explained by certain variables of socio- economic background. A sample of 80 students were selected randomly among Mary Immaculate Grammar School, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. A questionnaire that has items of family income, family educational background and family type was the only instrument used. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis and data presentation. The result of the findings (80%) revealed that students from the high socio- economic background performed better than their counterparts from average and poor homes. Thus, socio-economic factor has great influence on students’ performance at school. It is hoped that further researches on the extent to which socio-economic background affects the academic performance of students were carried out to know if this factor affects most of the students in the country, so as to consider the factor when planning the curriculum and also proffering solution to this important factor.
Culture and Contraceptive Choices among Mothers Attending Primary Health Care Centre in Akure, Ondo-State, Nigeria
Contraceptive use is essential in achieving reproductive health goals, yet cultural beliefs and practices remain significant barriers, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to examine the cultural influences on contraceptive choices among mothers attending Primary Health Care Centre in Akure, Nigeria. Using a descriptive research design with a cross-sectional survey, data were collected from mothers who had attended the clinic for the past six months through convenience sampling and the Taro Yamane formula. Statistical analysis, including frequency tables, percentages, mean scores, and Chi-square tests, were generated using SPSS software version 26. The results revealed that cultural beliefs moderately influence contraceptive choices. A slight majority of respondents did not believe cultural beliefs influenced contraceptive use (54.1%), but most disagreed with the notion that contraception is against cultural or religious beliefs (66.1%). Traditional family planning methods, such as withdrawal and herbal remedies, were moderately used by respondents, with growing acceptance of modern contraception (71.6%). Statistical analysis confirmed significant associations between cultural beliefs and contraceptive use (P-values of 0.000 and 0.019). Cultural beliefs were found to impact perceptions of contraceptive safety and effectiveness, with some respondents expressing concerns about long-term health effects (40%) and cultural myths (39%). The findings suggest the need for community-based education campaigns to dispel myths and increase awareness about the safety and effectiveness of modern contraceptives. These interventions could foster greater acceptance and utilization of contraceptive methods among mothers in the community.
Navigating Toxic Supervision and Psychological Stress in Single-Supervisor Postgraduate Research
Postgraduate (PG) students frequently experience significant psychological stress, especially when supervisor relationships in PG research are unsupportive or toxic. Cases where PG students have only one supervisor, known as single supervision arrangements (SSA), are critiqued in this study. This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of six research students (A, B, C, D, E, F) under SSA. The study generated themes of inadequate guidance, restricted academic exploration, supervisor favouritism, reputational boasting, dishonesty and misleading, and inequitable treatment. Through direct narratives, this manuscript identifies core stressors and discusses their impact on student well-being and academic progress, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic reforms in PG supervision.
Students’ Involvement in Assessment and the Role and Practice of Moderation as a Quality Assurance Measure in Assessment
In all education systems, assessment is an integral part of quality assurance. Different approaches are used in students’ assessment, with lecturer-based assessment viewed as traditional and the most commonly used. Lately, there has been a stronger opinion on the involvement of students in their assessment. In this paper, we reflect on self-and peer assessment, including giving feedback, grading, and moderating, which influence overall student learning and contribute to improved cognitive skills. In our view, self-and peer assessment is centred around recognition theory. This theory emphasises and removes guilt and shame associated with traditional lecturer-student assessment. Our reflection argues that students are encouraged to nurture their skills and knowledge through peer assessment when applying recognition theory. This notion is supported by many authors, who state that students become more involved in their learning when they are part of the assessment process. It is, however, worth noting that any student success, whether through self or peer assessment, will only be achieved when students also participate in formulating learning outcomes and assessment criteria instruments.
Exclusionary Fiscal Federalism and the Challenges of the Nigerian State
This paper critically explores the concept of exclusionary fiscal federalism and its impact on governance and national unity in Nigeria. The country's federal structure, originally intended to foster balanced economic development and equitable resource allocation, has been undermined by exclusionary fiscal policies that disproportionately favor certain regions or groups. These imbalances have fueled regional disparities, feelings of marginalization, and conflicts over resource control, posing significant challenges to Nigeria's stability and development. By analyzing Nigeria's historical and current fiscal arrangements, this study highlights the centralization of revenue control and its adverse effects on federal-state relations. A mixed-methods approach is employed to examine these issues. This includes qualitative secondary data analysis, such as government fiscal reports, policy documents, and historical records, alongside interviews with key stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, and civil society leaders. Quantitative data focusing on regional revenue distribution and socioeconomic indicators are also analyzed to underscore the extent of fiscal inequality. The study's findings underscore how exclusionary practices in budgetary management hinder national development and political cohesion. It concludes with recommendations for reforming Nigeria's fiscal federalism to promote inclusivity, equitable revenue distribution, and enhanced fiscal autonomy for subnational governments as essential steps toward addressing Nigeria's governance challenges and achieving sustainable development.
ESP-Based Learning Resource Material for Refinement of Reading and Writing Skills among Senior High School Students
The study utilized the experimental quantitative approach focusing on the reading and writing competence of the grade 11 students of Accountancy and Business Management students of Southern Luzon State University-Laboratory Schools. Total population sampling was employed since the TLE Department has a total population of 41 for SY 2022-2023. The study is limited only to the following aspects: reading skills, writing skills as well as the ESP-based material for business and management. The study was conducted from September 2023 to January 2024. Based on the findings of the study, it was revealed that the results of the pre-test and post-test scores of the respondents fall under the different levels. On the pre-test, many still got scores that fall on the Needs Improvement level, but on the post-test results, there is an abrupt increase in the scores since most of the respondents fall under Outstanding level. The results of the pre-test and post-test show a significant difference after using the material for a whole semester. Respondents agreed that the bridging intervention using the ESP-based material; Mastering the Language of Business: Your Key to Professional Success was original, appropriate, has business content and useful.
Application of Reading Corner Media and Literacy Tree in Improving Literacy Skills of Elementary School Students in Makassar
This study aims to determine the level of literacy skills of elementary school students in Makassar through the application of reading corner media and literacy trees. The type of research used is classroom action research. The population of the study included elementary school students with a total of 63 students. The research sample was drawn from the total number of students by applying a random sampling technique of 10 students in each of three different classes. Research data were collected using observation, interview, and documentation techniques. The data analysis technique used the Miles and Huberman model which includes the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. The results of the study showed an increase in literacy skills, especially reading in elementary school students with a good level of completion (83%). This is supported by a significance value of p> 0.05 in the calculation of the difference test (t) which illustrates that the application of reading corner media is considered capable of improving the literacy skills of elementary school students in Makassar.
Evaluation of the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project on the Voice of Democracy Theme at the Junior High School Level in Majene Regency
This study aims to evaluate on, i) Learners' reactions to the learning design in P5, ii) The improvement of learning activities shown by learners during P5 activities. The research design used was mixed method research of the convergent parallel design type using Kirkpatrick's Model evaluation. The researcher collected qualitative data and quantitative data simultaneously from ninth grade students of public junior high schools in Majene Regency through interviews, tests, questionnaires, and documentation. Furthermore, researchers analyzed the qualitative data themselves, while quantitative data were processed using categorization at each stage of the evaluation. The research results obtained information that P5 positively influenced learners ' reaction to the facilitator's ability, interactive learning media such as videos and simulations received high appreciation, the material was considered quite relevant to the theme, and the learning strategy was considered effective in increasing learning motivation. Evaluation of learners' learning on the results of knowledge tests shows that learners' understanding of the concept of democracy and Pancasila values is quite good, learners' attitudes show good acceptance of diversity and democracy although cooperation and mutual cooperation still need to be improved and from the skills aspect, learners have developed good communication skills, but need improvement in communication politeness and adjusting speaking styles to certain situations.
Bridging the Digital Divide: Integrating Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Technologies in TVET for Enhanced Youth Skilling and Employability in South Africa
The rapid advancement of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies is reshaping global labour markets, necessitating a paradigm shift in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to equip youth with future-ready skills. This position paper critically examines the integration of 4IR technologies in South African TVET colleges, arguing that a systemic and policy-driven approach is required to bridge the digital divide and enhance youth employability. This paper synthesises existing research on 4IR adoption in TVET using a systemic literature review, exploring the challenges, opportunities, and policy imperatives for effective implementation. The findings highlight persistent infrastructural disparities, limited digital literacy among lecturers and students, and misalignment between industry demands and curriculum offerings. The paper advocates for strategic investments in digital infrastructure, capacity-building for TVET lectures, and stronger industry-TVET collaborations to ensure inclusive and sustainable skilling pathways. By positioning 4IR technologies as a catalyst for skills development and economic mobility, this paper contributes to the discourse on advancing TVET for the digitalised world, particularly in the Global South.
6G Transformation Systems: AI-Powered Slicing for IoT and Terahertz Waves Applications
The arrival of 6G networks potentials to revolutionize telecommunications, driving innovation in key extents like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Terahertz (THz) wave applications. One of the most transformative features of 6G is the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in network management, particularly through AI-powered network slicing. This approach enables dynamic resource allocation, ensuring that IoT devices and THz wave applications receive the optimal bandwidth and latency for their specific requirements. Moreover, the study evaluates the efficacy of different machine learning models across various categories within a 6G dataset. Bayesian Methods, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Decision Trees (DT) are examined for their performance in distinct sectors. Bayesian Methods exhibit effectiveness in IoT-related applications but show limitations in categories such as Industry 4.0. KNN demonstrates high compatibility in IoT and non-GBR sectors, while SVM displays strong performance in non-GBR applications but struggles in others. Decision Trees perform well in IoT, non-GBR, and Industry 4.0 categories. Ultimately, the research concludes that each machine learning model exhibits strengths and weaknesses, emphasizing the importance of selecting the appropriate model based on the specific requirements of each category within the 6G dataset. This nuanced understanding is critical for leveraging machine learning effectively in optimizing connectivity within 6G networks.
Shelf Life and Acceptability of Banana Loaf Bread
The study explored the shelf life and sensory acceptability of banana loaf bread made from composite flours of wheat and banana. Using experimental and descriptive-survey design, banana flour was produced from steamed, sliced, sun-dried, and milled Kardaba bananas. Two flour blend proportions (1:3 and 1:4 banana-to-wheat) were evaluated. The bread was assessed for taste, appearance, flavor, texture, and general acceptability. The 1:3 blend showed higher consumer acceptability, while the 1:4 blend exhibited similar, albeit slightly lower ratings. Shelf life was assessed under room temperature, refrigeration, and packaging. Results indicated longer shelf stability under refrigeration and proper packaging. Significant differences were observed both between proportions and among three public elementary schools. The findings suggest potential for community-based banana flour enterprises and health-focused bread products.