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Article
Social Sciences
Education

Leyli Nouraei Yeganeh,

Majid Nemati

Abstract: Flipped Learning (FL) has gained widespread adoption in higher education due to its potential to foster active engagement and academic performance. However, challenges such as the lack of immediate feedback and the need for self-discipline remain significant barriers. To address these limitations, this study examined the impact of integrating Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) strategies within FL environments on medical students’ Argumentative Writing (AW) proficiency. Using a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design, 240 senior medical students were divided into an experimental group, which received FL instruction with SRL support, and a control group, which followed a conventional FL approach without explicit SRL strategies. The study employed the Toulmin model of Argumentation to analyze the development of claims and qualifiers in students’ writing. At the same time, a Self-Regulated Learning Questionnaire (SRQ) measured students’ self-reported SRL skills. Results indicated that the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in AW proficiency and self-regulation behaviors than the control group, with large effect sizes confirming the practical significance of SRL-enhanced FL instruction. These findings suggest that explicit SRL training fosters meta-cognitive awareness and enhances writing development in FL environments. The study highlights the need for structured SRL integration in FL classrooms and calls for further research into its long-term effects and applicability across disciplines.
Article
Social Sciences
Cognitive Science

Manuel Vazquez-Marrufo,

Rocio Caballero-Diaz,

Esteban Sarrias-Arrabal,

Ruben Martin-Clemente

Abstract: In prior studies, desynchronization of the induced alpha band (non-phase-locked but time-locked) has been observed across various cognitive tasks. Proposed hypotheses for the cognitive role of this alpha decrement include neural activation, an inhibition/timing mechanism, or a reduction of "neural noise." This study aimed to examine the effect of cognitive load on induced alpha activity using two versions of a go/no-go visual task: a single-target (ST) version with one target and one distractor, and a double-target (DT) version with two targets and two distractors. EEG was recorded from 58 electrodes, and Temporal Spectral Evolution (TSE) was used for time-frequency analysis. Behavioral results revealed faster reaction times in the ST task compared to the DT task. The P3 component displayed delayed latency and reduced amplitude under increased cognitive load, consistent with prior findings. However, the latencies and amplitudes of evoked and induced alpha responses were unaffected by cognitive load. This suggests that increased alpha desynchronization in subjects with cognitive impairment should not be interpreted as enhanced neural resource recruitment due to task difficulty. Instead, it may reflect other mechanisms unrelated to cognitive load differences in task performance.
Article
Social Sciences
Government

Sitthisak Chaiyasuk,

Krish Rugchatjaroen,

Somboon Sirisunhirun,

Nopraenue Sajjarax Dhirathiti,

Somsak Amornsiriphong,

Phut Ploywan

Abstract: Ensuring effective data governance is essential for delivering transparent, accessible, and equitable public services, particularly for people with disabilities. However, chal-lenges such as gaps in data oversight and accountability hinder service efficiency and transparency. This study examines the relationship between data-driven culture, audit data governance, and public service performance, employing Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Path Analysis. The findings indicate that a strong data-driven culture enhances audit data governance, improving service transparency, accessibility, and user satisfaction for people with disabilities. Public service delivery significantly influences audit data governance through data accessibility, ethical management, and efficient administrative processes. To promote inclusive governance, this study highlights the need for open data policies, in-ter-agency collaboration, and emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain. Policy recommendations focus on data-driven decision-making frameworks that align with OECD principles, ensuring equitable and accountable public services for people with disabilities.
Article
Social Sciences
Other

Raha Aghaei,

Ali Akbar Kiaei,

Mahnaz Bush,

javad Vahidi,

Zeinab Barzegar,

Mohammad Zavvar,

Mahan Rofoosheh

Abstract: The integration of ChatGPT and human resources management (HRMs) is changing the way organizations manage their workforces. This white paper examines the key benefits and challenges of implementing the ChatGPT in human resource management, providing a comprehensive overview of its effectiveness, integrity, and impact on decision-making. ChatGPT streamline HR processes by automating mundane tasks, reducing biases in hiring and performance appraisal, and supporting individual employee development programs. It also facilitates data-driven decision-making through predictive analytics and provides valuable insights into employee performance and engagement. However, successful adoption of an ChatGPT requires seamless integration with existing systems and ongoing learning and adaptation to address privacy and security concerns. Ethical issues, such as transparency and fairness, are crucial to building trust and ensuring the responsible use of AI. Based on real-world applications and first-time user experiences, this paper provides strategic recommendations for HR professionals and organizations to leverage ChatGPT effectively and create a more efficient, inclusive, and data-driven HR environment.
Article
Social Sciences
Other

Vyacheslav Romanenko,

Wojciech J. Cynarski,

Yrui Tropin,

Yuliya Kovalenko,

Georgiy Korobeynikov,

Svitlana Рiatysotska,

Volodymyr Mikhalsky,

Valerii Holokha,

Shukurjon Gaziyev

Abstract: The study of mechanisms underlying the perception of visual information, the speed and adequacy of its processing, is of practical interest to martial artists. The study aims to develop and validate a methodology for assessing spatial perception in martial arts. It involved 57 participants practising Taekwon-Do, representing various age groups and skill levels (age: 18.6 years, SD=3.52; qualifications: 8th Gup to 1st Dan). At the first stage of the research, the newly developed “Spatial Perception” application was preliminarily tested to determine its reliability and validity. In the second stage, the specific features of spatial perception among martial artists of different ages and qualifications were examined. The findings indicate the rotation of objects provides additional information for object recognition, which reduces reaction time and the number of errors in response selection. The speed of processing dynamic visual cues reflects athlete’s psychophysiological capabilities, which are crucial during competitive bouts. Experienced martial artists possess a larger repertoire of visual samples and images, enabling them to formulate effective responses to unexpected situations during combat. Athletes at this level can maintain focus on objects and are less affected by dis-tracting visual stimuli. The results obtained may assist martial arts coaches in improving the monitoring of athletes’ functional states and optimizing training processes.
Article
Social Sciences
Government

Igor Calzada,

Géza Németh,

Mohammed Salah Al-Radhi

Abstract:

As generative AI (GenAI) technologies proliferate, ensuring trust and transparency in digital ecosystems becomes increasingly critical, particularly within democratic frameworks. This article examines decentralized Web3 mechanisms—blockchain, decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), and data cooperatives—as foundational tools for enhancing trust in GenAI. These mechanisms are analyzed within the framework of the EU’s AI Act and the Draghi Report, focusing on their potential to support content authenticity, community-driven verification, and data sovereignty. Based on a systematic policy analysis, this article proposes a multi-layered framework to mitigate the risks of AI-generated misinformation. Specifically, as a result of this analysis, it identifies and evaluates seven detection techniques of trust stemming from the action research conducted in the Horizon Europe lighthouse project called Enfield: (i) federated learning for decentralized AI detection, (ii) blockchain-based provenance tracking, (iii) Zero-Knowledge Proofs for content authentication, (iv) DAOs for crowdsourced verification, (v) AI-powered digital watermarking, (vi) explainable AI (XAI) for content detection, and (vii) Privacy-Preserving Machine Learning (PPML). By leveraging these approaches, the framework strengthens AI governance through peer-to-peer (P2P) structures while addressing the socio-political challenges of AI-driven misinformation. Ultimately, this research contributes to the development of resilient democratic systems in an era of increasing technopolitical polarization.

Review
Social Sciences
Education

Eirini Golegou,

Manolis Wallace,

Kostas Peppas

Abstract: 21st century skills are becoming increasingly important both in education systems around the world and in the labor market. In this article, it is assumed that any individual can master all the individual skills with appropriate training. Acquiring these skills while at school will enable individuals to develop them throughout their adult working lives. Skills for the 21st century do not have a strict definition, resulting in the existence of interdependent areas. This article examines the following skills: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, lifelong learning and problem solving. After analyzing each of them, their commonalities are identified. The ultimate goal of all of them is to find an innovative solution to a problem. Finally, each of these skills is placed on a pyramid. Moving from the bottom of the pyramid to the top, we find the skills that are prerequisites for mastering the higher level. In this way, it is clear which skills the person needs to master first in order to progress to the next level. In an educational system where skills are cultivated from childhood, it is not necessary to master all the skills at once, but to master them gradually. The pyramid can be used as a guide as to which skills should be cultivated at the initial level.
Article
Social Sciences
Education

David Amiel,

Cynthia Blitz

Abstract: The increasing demand for computer science (CS) skills underscores the importance of integrating CS education into K–12 curricula to best prepare students for a digitally-driven society. Despite significant progress in expanding access to CS courses, disparities in participation persist, especially among historically underrepresented groups. This study examines the transition from 8th to 9th grade as a pivotal juncture in CS education, analyzing factors linked to 9th-grade CS course-taking among 5,505 students across eight diverse school districts using logistic regression. Findings show that high academic achievers, male students, Asian students, and those with exposure to CS and Algebra 1 in middle school were more likely to enroll in 9th-grade CS courses. Conversely, participation is lower for females, English Language Learners, and students receiving special education services. These results point to persistent barriers to CS participation extending beyond access alone. We discuss practical implications for middle and high schools, emphasizing the need for targeted outreach and early exposure to CS to foster a sense of belonging and applicability of CS. By identify-ing actionable strategies to address participation gaps, this study provides data-driven recommendations for advancing equity in CS education during the critical middle-to-high school transition.
Article
Social Sciences
Other

KUZIWA BHIRI,

DAVID MAPFUNDE

Abstract: The study is about the impact of social media on the mental health of adolescents. The study explores the relationship between social media use and mental health among adolescents in Hwange Urban Area, with the aim of understanding the risks and benefits of social media use for this population. The study is hinged on the three objectives that is (a) To examine the relationship between social media use and mental health problems in adolescents, (b)To identify the specific ways in which social media use is impacting on the mental health of adolescents in Hwange Urban area and (c) To develop interventions to help adolescents reduce their social media use so as to improve their mental health. The literature review examines existing research on social media use and mental health among adolescents, including studies on cyberbullying, misinformation, self-esteem issues, and the use of social media for social support. A qualitative research approach was used in the study. The data collection instruments used are semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with a sample of adolescents in Hwange Central Ward 8. Data analysis involved thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes related to social media use and mental health. C The findings suggest a negative relationship between excessive social media use and mental health among adolescents in Hwange Central Ward 8, with potential impacts including increased anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The findings also highlight the potential benefits of social media use for social support and connection, particularly during times of stress or isolation. The study recommends interventions that promote healthy social media habits, empowering adolescents to make informed decisions about their social media use, and educate parents and communities about the risks and benefits of social media use for adolescents.
Article
Social Sciences
Education

Mihai Covaci,

Brindusa Covaci

Abstract: This study explores the evolution of scientific, professional, and technical activities in European mountain regions from 2021 to 2022, with a focus on entrepreneurship, of scientific, professional and technical activities, specific in research productivity, and economic trends. The European Mountain area accounts for over 60% of global research in mountain science, positioning it as the leading region in this field. Using Eurostat data, analyzed through Excel and SPSS, this study examines fluctuations in mountain-related enterprises and employment levels in the analyzed sectors. A descriptive frequency analysis of 28 Eurostat Mountain indicators reveals distinct trends, including the prevalence of right-skewed distributions, bimodal patterns, and Gaussian tendencies. Key indicators suggest sectoral contractions, with several industries exhibiting early-stage growth followed by stagnation or decline. The findings highlight the importance of international cooperation in sustaining mountain research and economic development. As employment levels decline and the establishment of new enterprises remains challenging, targeted policies are needed to enhance the long-term viability of scientific and technical activities in European mountain regions.
Article
Social Sciences
Psychology

Nikolay Ozherelev

Abstract:

Today we all take into account the fact that the human personality does not always act rationally at first glance and how the previous intentions and needs of the ancestors correspond to the person's own actual motives and needs. This also created the need for a new motivational model. Having new data that indicate the incompleteness of currently accepted motivational models, the basis of this study was the creation of a new and more complete one. Based on Maslow's hierarchy of 8 needs, it has been expanded to include the irrational, neutral, and ambivalent areas of human needs, as well as how their value and impact change throughout each individual's life. This also made it possible to update the generally accepted model in relation to modern data.

Review
Social Sciences
Education

Eirini Golegou,

Kostas Peppas

Abstract: The STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) have attracted the interest of the scientific community and organisations such as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), mainly because of the demand for professionals in these fields, which is expected to increase. The cultivation of scientific skills and interest in these specific fields is cultivated from the early school years, so the role of the school is important. Students' performance in the Panhellenic examinations was chosen for analysis for two reasons. Firstly, because students take these exams at the end of secondary education, which reflects the knowledge they have acquired throughout their schooling. Secondly, because their participation in the Physics and Mathematics exams is based on their own choice, we can assume that they have a special interest in these subjects. The research, through its method of analysis, contributes to understanding the level of students' knowledge and provides guidelines for its improvement.
Article
Social Sciences
Other

Prasad Adhav,

Maria Bélen Farías

Abstract: Cesarean sections (CS) are essential in certain medical contexts but, when overused, can carry risks for both mother and child. In the unique multilingual landscape of Luxembourg, this study explores whether non-medical factors—such as the language spoken—affect CS rates. Through a survey conducted with women in Luxembourg, we first applied statistical methods to investigate the influence of various social and linguistic parameters on CS. Additionally, we explored how these factors relate to the feelings of happiness and respect women experience during childbirth. Subsequently, we employed four machine learning models to predict CS based on the survey data. Our findings reveal that women who speak Spanish have a statistically higher likelihood of undergoing a CS than women that do not report speaking that language. Furthermore, those who had CS report feeling less happy and respected compared to those with vaginal births. With both limited and augmented data, our models achieve an average accuracy of approximately 81\% in predicting CS. While this study serves as an initial exploration into the social aspects of childbirth, it underscores the need for larger-scale studies to deepen our understanding and to inform policy makers and health practitioners that support women during their pregnancies and births. This preliminary research advocates for further investigation to address this complex social issue comprehensively.
Article
Social Sciences
Political Science

Fredrik von Malmborg

Abstract: Growing power of far-right parties in Sweden and other European countries has led to a more divisive politics on climate change. A far-right populist nativist party is currently holding tangible powers, dictating the ambitions, content and process of Swedish climate politics. In less than two years, Swedish climate politics have turned into an antidemocratic politics with increasing greenhouse gas emissions. This paper analyses the increasingly divisive nature of Swedish climate politics, with focus on the use of hateful and threatening rhetoric – nasty rhetoric. Based on empirical data from 114 newspapers, magazines, radio, television and social media, as well as insights from research in neurobiology, psychology, sociology and political science, this paper explores and explains the use and nature of nasty rhetoric, using contemporary Swedish climate politics as a case study. It is found that leading (far) right-wing politicians portray climate science as “a point of view”, green politicians as “strawmen” that should be “killed”, female climate journalists as “left pack” and “moron hags” that “will be raped”, and the climate justice movement as “totalitarian terrorists” and “a threat to Swedish democracy” that should be “sent to prison” and “executed”. Nasty rhetoric is used not only by anonymous trolls in social media, but openly by the prime minister, cabinet ministers and leading parliamentarians educated in libertarianism or affiliated with the far-right populist party. Their use of nasty rhetoric can be described as a double-edged sword, aiming to silence the opponents to the current paradigm shift in Swedish climate policy, but also for mobilising followers through conspiracy theories of symbolic threats and expand the weird sport of nasty rhetoric. People persuaded to follow and continue using nasty rhetoric are influenced by social processes but also determined by dark personality traits. The opposition is also using hateful rhetoric, but of a less aggressive nature, to reveal far-right populist climate policy and politicians as a naked emperor.
Article
Social Sciences
Political Science

Melina Moreira Campos Lima

Abstract: Climate change represents the major challenge facing humanity in the modern era. While countries and intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) have made some progress in addressing the climate crisis, there remains a flagrant blind spot in the global response: the significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with livestock and animal-based food consumption. This Article critically explores how selected IGOs working directly or indirectly on climate change address the livestock industry and its GHG emissions. It employs a qualitative documentary and bibliographical methodology. More specifically, we analyze the following institutions: the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Secretariat, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the European Union. One of the conclusions is that three of the four IGOs have neglected the real impact of livestock on climate change. Even though the cultural, psychological, political, and economic obstacles to including the livestock sector in climate mitigation efforts are significant, IGOs could help overcome them if they fulfill their potential role in promoting the necessary global dietary shift.
Article
Social Sciences
Psychology

Andrés Ramírez,

Luis Burgos-Benavides,

Jessica Vanessa Quito-Calle,

Hugo Sinchi,

Javier Herrero Díez,

Francisco Javier Rodríguez-Díaz

Abstract: Adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse, are a risk factor for mental health and socio-emotional development in adulthood. Assessing these experiences in specific populations allows for the identification of patterns and the implementation of preventive interventions. Objective: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the abbreviated version of the Adverse Childhood Experiences Abuse Form (ACE-ASF) in Ecuadorian youth, aiming to ensure the validity, reliability, and consistency of the instrument in accurately measuring abuse dimensions in this Ecuadorian population. Methodology: An instrumental study was conducted on the psychometric properties of the 8-item ACE-ASF, applying it to a sample of 840 university students (52.1% women and 47.9% men). The evaluation focused on analyzing the factorial structure and internal consistency of the instrument in this sample. Results: The two-factor model showed satisfactory fit across all levels of invariance (configural, metric, scalar, and strict), with acceptable fit indices (CFI, TLI, GFI, RMSEA and SRMR). Internal consistency was adequate, as assessed by the Omega and Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients. Convergent and discriminant validity were confirmed using the AVE and HTMT indices, ensuring proper differentiation between the dimensions assessed. Conclusion: The ACE-ASF proved to be a valid and reliable instrument for assessing abuse experiences in Ecuadorian youth. Its two-factor structure reflects distinct yet related dimensions, providing a useful tool for identifying adverse childhood experiences in this population.
Article
Social Sciences
Urban Studies and Planning

Yingying Jiang,

Sacha Menz

Abstract: In light of the challenges faced by urban areas due to increasing populations and spatial limitations, urban green infrastructure is essential for fostering environmental equilibrium, enhancing community well-being, and promoting sustainable urban development. This situation emphasises the imperative for strategies that harmonise the growing need for constructed environments with the improvement of the natural ecosystem in urban locales. This study centres on diverse perspectives of urban green infrastructure and seeks to develop an integrated methodology to optimise the allocation of green space, utilising Altstetten-Albisrieden in Zurich as a case study. It investigates the distribution and accessibility of urban green space within the district from multiple perspectives and visualises the findings using a 10-meter rectangular grid. By employing clustering algorithms, the study categorises the grid cells according to their resemblances. Radar charts depict the attributes of each cluster and suggest opportunities for fortifying urban green infrastructure. Ultimately, the study provides a thorough analysis of urban green space provision in Altstetten-Albisrieden, presenting extensive recommendations for optimising green space planning with respect to social equity and natural recolonisation at the district level.
Review
Social Sciences
Education

Eirini Golegou,

Manolis Wallace,

Kostas Peppas

Abstract:

The period of time spent in secondary education is of great consequence, as the interests and skills acquired during this period can have a significant impact on the development of the individual as an active citizen and as a professional. In this study, methods centred on the learner and designed 3 to facilitate the acquisition of 21st-century skills were identified. Subsequently, a critical analysis of 4 these methods was conducted. This critical analysis was based on the findings of a survey of teachers’ views on the difficulties they face in implementing STEM education. In particular, the criteria under consideration are the time required for lesson preparation, the time needed for classroom activities, and the availability of digital resources. The results of the survey indicate that each teacher is at liberty to select the methodology that aligns with their pedagogical approach and the characteristics of their classroom.

Article
Social Sciences
Education

Eirini Golegou,

Manolis Wallace,

Kostas Peppas

Abstract:

STEM education is a means of linking the knowledge acquired at school with the skills that individuals will develop in their working lives. It is precisely because this type of education is gaining ground worldwide that it is considered appropriate to explore the attitudes and opinions of Greek teachers towards STEM education, since they are the ones who will be called upon to implement it. In order to make a change towards this type of education, it seems appropriate to be aware of the obstacles that teachers encounter in their everyday life and to what extent they think that it can contribute. The survey was carried out in the form of a questionnaire with closed questions. The survey showed that teachers consider learning 21st century skills to be important and that they consider themselves ready to use them. They also believe that any knowledge they have acquired has come from their own initiative.

Review
Social Sciences
Education

Eirini Golegou,

Manolis Wallace,

Kostas Peppas

Abstract:

STEM education is a growing global trend, but what are the essential characteristics that should be cultivated in the curricula of the higher education institutions that teachers attend, as well as through the training programmes they follow throughout their careers? This literature review aims to identify the characteristics that a STEM educator should possess in order to achieve the goals of such education. Beyond basic pedagogical knowledge, educators themselves need to acquire 21st century skills. As mentors, they are responsible for setting a positive example for their students. A STEM classroom is characterised by democratic principles and the desire to find innovative solutions. The teacher is the intermediary between the goals of the educational system and their achievement. It is therefore essential to study the aspects of their training that can contribute to this direction.

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