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Volume 2 - Issue 2, February (2024)

All Articles
Original Article203 downloads
YOUTH DIPLOMACY STRATEGY THROUGH TIKTOK INFLUENCER AS A NATIONAL DEFENSE EFFORT IN THE DIGITALIZATION ERA
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Digital globalization has had a huge impact on the world's communications and information systems. What becomes problematic then is the misuse of the target, where the result of the wrong target can be good but can bring controversy and disadvantages. The discussion this time will talk about the national defense strategy through the younger generation by leveraging the phenomenon of digitalization through the TikTok app. The findings studied by the author then lead to the conclusion that it is a fairly efficient effort to influence political awareness in a country's society through youth diplomacy and influencers and the use of digitalization in the process. Since the problems discussed have not long occurred, the author uses descriptive methods to explain the phenomena occurring by comparing the possibilities occurring as a result of these phenomena. This paper is intended to serve as a comparative material and study of possible future phenomena related to digitization and the role of youth in the political sphere. Keywords: TikTok Influencer, National Defense Strategy, Youth Diplomacy.
Original Article57 downloads
Gender Diversity and Public Policy
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This article endeavors to respond to the objectives articulated in the call for papers, surpassing mere representation concerning gender, diversity, and public policy: specifically, the incorporation of women's perspectives in policy development. Through a comprehensive examination of existing policies and programs, several indispensable elements are proposed to foster the inclusion of women's voices in the formulation of public policy. These elements encompass, among others, the promotion of inclusion, adoption of a data- and evidence-based approach, recognition of intersectionality, advocacy for gender-responsive budgeting, capacity building, and the implementation of robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Recognizing the profound impact that public policies can wield on the pursuit of gender equality and equitable access to opportunities, resources, and rights for women, men, and individuals with diverse gender identities, this paper contributes to the existing body of research by offering crucial insights, recommendations, best practices, and methodologies. Building upon prior scholarship on the gender implications of public policies, the study not only furnishes key findings but also expounds upon recommendations, exemplary approaches, and methodological frameworks. It provides a succinct overview of vital gender-sensitive policy frameworks, mainstreaming initiatives, and tools such as gender-responsive budgeting, policy evaluation methodologies, and gender impact assessments. Emphasizing the imperative to transcend mere representation in gender, diversity, and public policy discourse, the article concludes by underscoring the importance of a holistic approach. This approach, advocating for policies that genuinely reflect the experiences and perspectives of women and marginalized groups, stands poised to advance greater gender equality and diversity within the realm of public policy. This essay critically examines both successes and areas requiring enhancement in the integration of women's voices in public policy formulation. The study relies primarily on document reviews and the reflective insights of the authors as its methodological foundations. In concluding, the paper proffers significant recommendations for rectifying issues and deficiencies within the selected policies and strategies. Keywords: Public policies, gender diversity, equality, and intersectionality.
Original Article163 downloads
Analysis Of The Effect Of Product Quality And Electronic Word Of Mouth On Purchase Decisions Of Apple Products Through Brand Image: Case Study on iPhone 13 Series Users
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One of Apple's products is the iPhone 13 Series, which was released in 2021 and is famous for its outstanding product quality and many enthusiasts. However, Apple experienced errors in design, which caused some LCD products to malfunction. The purpose of this study is to determine how product quality and electronic word of mouth impact consumer decisions to buy products through brand image. This study uses a descriptive and quantitative approach by distributing questionnaires to 200 respondents. This research uses SmartPLS Version 3.0 software in data processing. The findings demonstrated that both product quality and brand image are significantly positively impacted by product quality, which in turn influences purchasing decisions. EWOM has a major positive impact on brand image and a major positive impact on purchasing decisions. Through brand image, product quality significantly influences decisions about what to buy. Additionally, EWOM significantly improves brand image, which influences consumer decisions to buy.
Original Article151 downloads
Nyerere’s Ujamaa as Basis for an African Philosophy of Development
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This article examines the question of development in Africa drawing inspiration. In his analysis, Nyerere articulates three components for development. These include; the population, natural resources and good governance. It is rather unfortunate that most leaders have the itch and excitement for financial loans and gifts, where these are seen as therapeutic to under-development in Africa. This situation provokes some critical questions. Does the availability of money necessarily lead to development? Have the very donors won the battle of poverty in their own economies? Who experiences development and who pays for it? What steps should be taken towards development in Africa? Here, we contend that the excitement towards money by most leaders arises from greed and narrow-minded conceptions of the right processes of development. With Nyerere, we argue that Africa has the population and the natural resources. But then, poor governance and misguided understanding of development leave more to be desired in Africa. There is a need for Africans to wake up from slumber, engage in hard work and assume responsibility for their destiny. Critics have been too concerned with the failure of Nyerere. However, the questions that fuelled his curiosity paved the way for critical thinking on the plight of African development.
Original Article56 downloads
EFL university instructors’ perceptions of Online Assessment through Blackboard
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This qualitative study investigated the perceptions of Eight EFL university instructors regarding assessing their EFL students using Blackboard. By conducting structured interviews, the study aimed to explore the benefits, challenges, frequently used techniques, and recommendations to overcome some obstacles encountered when using Blackboard for online assessment in the EFL context. The findings indicated that while the participants emphasized the Blackboard’s assessment tools convenience, flexibility, and availability, they also highlighted increased cheating opportunities, difficulties in verifying student identities, and limitations in evaluating subjective aspects. Moreover, the lack of face-to-face communication was identified as a significant drawback, particularly in subjective courses where direct interaction is crucial in accurate assessment. Based on the obtained results, the study proposed several recommendations to enhance online assessment practices, particularly when using Blackboard, such as addressing technical issues, implementing robust security measures, providing support and training to EFL instructors and students, and considering the specific needs of EFL learners. Additionally, suggestions were made to improve the user interface, avoid generic questions, and conduct test trials to identify and resolve technical problems.
Original Article203 downloads
Analysis of Credit Loss Provisions According to Micro and Macro Variables: Turkish Deposit Banks
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Banks bring together those with surplus funds and those in need of funds within the financial system, thereby fulfilling their core functions with the right place, timing, and terms. Banks reintroduce the collected deposits to the system through granted loans while also allocating specific proportions of loan loss provisions to protect themselves from the undertaken risks. Therefore, they take precautions against possible credit losses by reflecting the value losses that may be faced in their financial statements in advance. Given the significance of financial institutions within the economic framework, this 'caution' holds paramount importance in ensuring the stability of both the sector and the broader economy.This study aims to reveal the relationship of the determined micro and macro variables on the loan loss provisions (LLPMB) levels through factor analysis. For the analysis, data for the period 2018-2022 of the top 10 largest deposit banks operating in Turkey in terms of their asset sizes were used. The factor structure of the factor analysis was first determined. The independent variables were observed to combine into 4 factors in a very strong structure. The impact of these factors on loan loss provisions (LLPMB) levels was then associated with an established model. The values and assumptions of all analyses were found to be quite strong and sufficient. It can be concluded from the results of this study that the variables generally had individual effects on LLPMB levels. In addition, these parameters were observed to have a combined effect by creating a high level of consistency, except for the macro data. The impact at the individual level is important. However, in the real market, where there are many measurable or unmeasurable parameters, revealing the combined effect of such variables may enhance the effectiveness of the predictions.
Original Article180 downloads
Research on the communication channels and strategies of Chinese minority music under the background of the "Belt and Road Initiative"
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Chinese ethnic minority music is an important part of traditional Chinese culture, holding a unique position and role. The 56 ethnic groups in China have their own music styles and performance forms, forming a diverse and rich ethnic music tradition. With the advancement of the "Belt and Road Initiative", Chinese minority music has gradually gained recognition and increased international dissemination. This paper explores the approaches and impacts of Chinese ethnic minority music dissemination under the "Belt and Road Initiative" context. Through strengthening communication and cooperation with countries and regions along the routes, ethnic minority music can be showcased on a broader stage and engage in dialogue and integration with the music of other countries and regions. The paper also proposes strategies for the dissemination of ethnic minority music, providing references and insights for scholars to further research ethnic minority music and explore the effectiveness of music dissemination strategies and the protection of music. It is hoped that through the dissemination of Chinese ethnic minority music, ethnic cultures can be spread worldwide, providing a strong bridge for cultural exchanges and mutual understanding among people.
Original Article275 downloads
WHY GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION MATTERS?: ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION ON DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL COMMUNITIES IN BINGA, ZIMBABWE
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The geographical location of Binga poses significant challenges to the area's development. While education, agriculture, and small businesses play an important role in the local economy, Binga's distance from major cities makes it difficult to access the markets, infrastructure, and resources needed for these sectors to thrive. These challenges create obstacles to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the country's Vision 2030. This study sought to understand the true impact of Binga's geographical location on the community by conducting in-depth interviews with twelve individuals who had lived in the area. The interviews provided a firsthand account of the challenges posed by the community's remote location, including high living costs, limited access to technology and education, and low property values. The data from the interviews was analyzed and compared, revealing clear patterns in the ways that the geographic location has affected the community. To address these challenges, the study recommends implementing policies such as devolution, sustainable livelihoods approach, and rural appraisal to spur and stimulate development in this community. The study further appeals to businesses to set up shops in the district, in order to reduce the high costs of goods and services, as well as to cut down on the long and expensive journey to access goods and services. This would make a significant difference to the local economy, and improve the standard of living for the people of Binga. By bringing businesses closer to the community, the study suggests that it would be possible to alleviate some of the challenges that have been created by the geographical location of the district.
Original Article84 downloads
Analyzing the Influence of Short Videos on the Behavior and Thinking of Adolescents
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In recent years, with the rapid development and application of Internet technology, short videos have emerged in our lives. According to the 49th China Internet Development Status Report, there are 934 million short video users, and the adolescent group accounts for over 16%, reaching 150 million users. Adolescents are now surrounded by short videos, and therefore, the impact of short videos on adolescents is undoubtedly multifaceted (Zhang, 2022). While short videos have gradually become an important way for adolescents to access information and socialize, they have also brought hidden concerns regarding their usage. Factors such as the simplicity of accessing and operating short videos, the commercialization of short video content production, and the generally low media literacy among adolescents have exacerbated the lack of meaningful engagement with short videos. Excessive consumption of short videos by adolescents can lead to internet addiction, weakened critical thinking abilities, imitation of undesirable behaviors influenced by videos, increased sense of disparity with real life, and falling into the trap of consumerism. Therefore, in the era of short videos, it is necessary for all parties involved to formulate measures to provide appropriate value guidance and rational supervision of adolescents' viewing behavior of short videos.
Original Article1975 downloads
Literature Review: The Impact of AI-Personalized Tutors on Academic Ability, Self-Esteem, Self-Efficacy, Socialization, and Academic Integrity
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10776030
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This review explores the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI-powered personalized tutoring systems in education. Studies indicate these tutors can adapt to students' individual learning needs and improve academic performance and subject mastery (Zhao, 2023). However, effects on confidence, motivation, social skills, and integrity require further research. Overall, AI tutors represent a promising advancement, but one requiring ongoing examination.
Original Article125 downloads
EMPOWERMENT OF TRANSGENDER STUDENTS AT SECONDARY SCHOOL THROUGH EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10777607
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The empowerment of transgender students at the secondary school level is a crucial endeavor in fostering inclusivity and equality within educational settings. Through the implementation of targeted educational initiatives and active engagement of the community, significant strides can be made towards creating a supportive environment that enables transgender students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This paper explores the multifaceted approach to empowerment, highlighting the pivotal role of education and community participation in addressing the unique challenges faced by transgender students. By promoting awareness, understanding, and acceptance, educational institutions can create safe spaces that validate the identities of transgender students and provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed. Moreover, community involvement plays a vital role in challenging societal norms, advocating for policy reforms, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect. Through collaborative efforts between educational institutions, community organizations, and policymakers, meaningful progress can be achieved in advancing the rights and well-being of transgender students in secondary schools.
Original Article115 downloads
Human Rights Violation in Israeli- Palestinian Conflict
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We are living in the End Times of this world in which we all are rounded by various conflicts throughout globe. Out of these conflicts Israeli-Palestine war is one, the conflict zone is located in eastern Mediterranean region. The conflict between Israel (Jews) and Palestinian (Muslims) were rooted in historical animosity and territorial disputes. The present research paper is endeavouring to attempt the information about the main reason behind the Conflict of Israel and Palestine and Human Rights Violation in Palestine. The present scenario of conflict is on its peak, the human rights violation, poverty, deaths, injury, malnutrition and many other negative effects are on its acme. To overcome from these violations and tension between Israeli-Palestine, the peace building measures are important and need of hour.
Original Article99 downloads
The Role of Male Allies in Advancing Gender Equality in Nigerian Workplaces for Sustainable Development
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Nigeria, a country with a diverse and dynamic workforce, has made significant strides towards gender equality in recent years, but persistent disparities persevere. The research investigates the motivations, actions, and impact of male allies who actively support the empowerment of women in their workplaces. The objectives include to assess the tangible impact of male allyship in promoting gender equality and sustainable development. The study employs the survey questionnaire which were purposively shared to 100 staff of Bingham University, Karu, Nigeria, to shed light on the evolving landscape of gender dynamics in Nigerian workplaces. The Intersectionality and Bystander Intervention theories were adopted to help understand the role of male allies in advancing gender equality in Nigerian workplaces for sustainable development. The study concluded that Gender equality is not singularly a woman's issue instead it is a societal issue that requires collective effort and the support of both men and women, therefore, male allies play a critical role in dismantling the barriers that hinder women's progress in the workplace, which in turn contributes to sustainable development. Findings suggest that male allies play a pivotal role in breaking down traditional gender barriers, fostering workplace diversity, and advancing women's careers. Amongst the recommendations was that there is need for organizations to offer leadership and allyship training to male employees in managerial positions to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to actively promote gender equality within their organizations.
Original Article1731 downloads
Rise and Fall of Political Parties in India (1989-2019): Examining the BJP and the Indian National Congress
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This paper examines the historical evolution and political dynamics of the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India, highlighting the factors that contributed to the decline of the INC and the rise of the BJP from 1989 to 2019. The INC, formed in 1885, played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence and dominated Indian politics in the decades following independence, leading to an era known as the "Congress System." However, the party's influence began to wane after the death of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1964 due to several factors including leadership challenges, corruption scandals, policy failures, and the rise of regional parties. Internal factionalism and outdated communication strategies further weakened the INC's appeal. In contrast, the BJP, established in 1980, gained prominence by focusing on Hindu nationalist rhetoric, economic liberalization, and effective use of modern communication tools. Under leaders like L.K. Advani, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Narendra Modi, the BJP successfully mobilized support across the country. The party's emphasis on national security and welfare programs such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Jan Dhan Yojana further boosted its popularity. The BJP's decisive victories in the 2014 and 2019 general elections solidified its position as the dominant political force in India. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors driving these political shifts and offers insights into the evolving nature of Indian politics, emphasizing the importance of leadership, ideological clarity, and adaptability in achieving electoral success.