Abstract

Abstract. An abstract of about 250-300 words should be presented immediately preceding the text. The abstract should concisely inform the reader of the manuscript’s topic, its methods, and its findings.

Design and Development of a Virtual University Application Using Cloud Computing

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Design and Development of a Virtual University Application Using Cloud Computing
email: stdamietebriggs@yahoo.com

A B S T R A C T

This research project is themed on using cloud computing to design and develop a virtual university application that is expected to revolutionise distance learning and virtual education worldwide. A plethora of frameworks exist for the development of applications, nevertheless, the cloud model was chosen considering the fact that it is relatively new and so makes the news. Being a paradigm of evolutionary prototyping, the cloud computing framework which consists of the following layers: platform as a service layer, infrastructure as a service layer and software as a service layer, equips one with all the tools pre-requisite for the successful execution of the project. Starting from a well understood set of requirements, and carefully following an elaborate set of process activities, and from a well organized development environment, structured methods were used to design and develop the virtual university application which for the purpose of this research is named the Utopia University Application (UUA). After a series of unit and system tests, results proved that the UUA was efficiently functional, withstood operational constraints and conformed to specification. This result obtained, leads one to draw the inference that modern information technology systems like cloud computing have defied simplicity, buttressed and reverberated the capability, potential, and sophistication of information technology, and have a positive and strong impact on education and learning and other facets of contemporary society that is beyond the ambit of human expectation and exceeded the threshold of scientific knowledge.

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An Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Powered Voice-Based Intelligent Learning System for Visually Impaired Students

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

An Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Powered Voice-Based Intelligent Learning System for Visually Impaired Students
email: rizkyrinaldi.staira@gmail.com

A B S T R A C T

The rapid expansion of digital learning platforms has created unprecedented educational opportunities; however, the majority of these platforms remain inaccessible to the estimated 253 million visually impaired individuals worldwide, particularly students in inclusive K-12 settings. Existing assistive technologies such as screen readers and Braille displays function as access tools rather than pedagogically designed learning environments, leaving a critical gap in inclusive educational technology. This paper presents BlindLearn, an AI-powered, voice-based learning framework developed and evaluated using Design Science Research (DSR) methodology. Grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Cognitive Load Theory (CLT), BlindLearn introduces the Voice-First Pedagogical Model (VFPM) — a novel five stage learning cycle (Audio Activation, Narrative Input, Conversational Elaboration, Voice Practice, Adaptive Feedback) designed for auditory primary learners. The framework was developed through systematic literature review (47 papers, 2015–2024), structured needs analysis (n = 23), multi-expert validation using Content Validity Ratio (CVR, n = 8), and usability evaluation using the System Usability Scale (SUS, n = 15). Expert validation yielded a mean CVR of 0.89 (p < .05), and usability evaluation produced a mean SUS score of 84.3 (Grade: Excellent). Three original artifacts are contributed: the VFPM theoretical model, a validated four-layer AI system architecture, and twelve evidence-based inclusive design guidelines, advancing the fields of educational technology and inclusive AI system design.

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Hooked or Empowered? The Dilemma of Mobile Phone Use among Asantekwaa SDA Junior High School (JHS) Pupils: Its Implications on Their Academic Performance 

admin_irjstem Abstract

Hooked or Empowered? The Dilemma of Mobile Phone Use among Asantekwaa SDA Junior High School (JHS) Pupils: Its Implications on Their Academic Performance 
Corresponding email: sameyaw@vvu.edu.gh

A B S T R A C T

In today’s digital era, mobile phones have become indispensable tools, offering students quick access to information, communication, and educational resources. Nonetheless, the overuse of these devices for non academic tasks has raised concerns about their influence on students’ academic achievements. The study investigates the challenges associated with mobile phone usage among students at Asantekwaa SDA Junior High School (JHS) and its effects on their academic performance. The study adopted a survey design. The target population was 148 students. Therefore, no sampling technique was applied. However, 122 copies of the questionnaire were considered valid for the analysis. The study revealed that 44 (30.3%) respondents use mobile phones for 4-5 hours or more daily. According to the findings, most respondents have their mobile phones, whereas others depend on their peers and parents. Most respondents reported that mobile phone usage has negatively affected their academic performance. The study advocated for clear regulations and guidelines concerning mobile phone use in schools. The study encourages collaborative efforts among educators, parents, and policymakers to lessen the detrimental effects of excessive mobile phone use.

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Pre-Service Teachers’ Experiences of Teaching Sectional Drawing

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Pre-Service Teachers’ Experiences of Teaching Sectional Drawing
Corresponding email: roselojr@sunn.edu.ph

A B S T R A C T

The purpose of this study is to ascertain Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD) pre-service teachers’ experiences of teaching topics that involved sectional drawing during a teaching practice. Level three pre-service teachers at the studied South African university did not struggle to pass EGD, but they struggled with sectional drawing topics. The study was guided by pragmatism and used a mixed-methods approach, comprising a case study design. Of the 50 EGD pre-service teachers’ convenience sampled to participate, the study included 33 who responded to the open ended questionnaire administered after 5 weeks of their teaching practice. Three pre-service teachers were also observed during their five weeks of teaching practice, while semi-structured interviews were conducted with six pre-service teachers in the first researcher’s office after teaching practice to triangulate the findings. The findings revealed that during teaching practice, EGD pre-service teachers encountered difficulties explaining to learners where to cut and why, without seeing the object or model of the drawing. It also emerged that EGD pre-service teachers lacked strategies to assist learners when teaching sectional drawing. It was concluded that most pre-service teachers struggled to construct and explain tasks involving sectional drawing to learners. The study recommends that the Department of Education provide relevant models that are visible to learners to assist pre-service and in-service teachers when explaining, particularly the interior of the model and how it is cut and sectioned.

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Employability of College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences Graduates from 2020-2022 of NONESCOST

admin_irjstem Abstract , , ,

Employability of College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences Graduates from 2020-2022 of NONESCOST
Corresponding email: roselojr@sunn.edu.ph

A B S T R A C T

This study aimed to determine the employability and educational outcomes of graduates from the Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology – College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (NONESCOST–CONAHS), specifically Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Diploma in Midwifery (DM) graduates from batches 2020 and 2022. Using a quantitative descriptive design, total sampling was applied to 214 graduates, with 97 respondents participating through a Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-based online survey. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage distributions. Findings revealed that most graduates were female and single, reflecting global nursing demographics. BSN graduates were primarily motivated by economic opportunities, while DM graduates cited program availability and affordability. High licensure examination passing rates indicated strong academic preparation. Most graduates completed relevant professional training and secured employment within nine months, demonstrating high employability despite pandemic-related disruptions. Employment was largely aligned with their field, with many holding regular positions in the health sector. However, initial salaries were generally below standard government rates. While most graduates were employed locally, some pursued international opportunities, indicating global competitiveness. The study concludes that NONESCOST CONAHS effectively prepares graduates for the workforce but highlights the need to enhance career support, industry linkages, and professional development opportunities. Continuous curriculum improvement and tracer studies are recommended to sustain and further improve graduate outcomes.

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Mediating Roles of Affective Experience and Satisfaction with Life in the Relationship of Shame and Guilt to Post Traumatic Stress Symptoms among People Living with HIV

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , , ,

Mediating Roles of Affective Experience and Satisfaction with Life in the Relationship of Shame and Guilt to Post Traumatic Stress Symptoms among People Living with HIV
Corresponding email: aljoncarullo13@gmail.com

A B S T R A C T

People Living with HIV (PLHIV) often experience complex emotional burdens that contribute to psychological distress, yet limited studies have explored how emotional and cognitive factors influence trauma related outcomes. The study investigated whether the affective experience and satisfaction with life served as mediators in the relationship of shame and guilt to Post Traumatic Stress Symptoms (PTSS) among PLHIV. The data were analyzed using Spearman’s rho to identify significant relationships among the variables, and a parallel mediation analysis with 5,000 bootstrapping samples was conducted to evaluate mediating effects. Findings revealed that shame and guilt were significantly correlated with PTSS. It further revealed that affective experience acted as a mediator in the relationship of shame and guilt to PTSS. In contrast, satisfaction with life did not serve as a significant mediator. Overall, the findings emphasized the crucial role of emotional experiences in shaping trauma-related outcomes and underscored the importance of incorporating strategies that enhance emotional resilience into psychosocial and mental health interventions. The study provided important insights for enhancing HIV care frameworks and contributed to the advancement of culturally informed mental health policies and interventions to effectively support the well-being of PLHIV.

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Exploring Digital Test Bank Usability and Acceptability with Productivity Tools: Evidence from the Philippines

admin_irjstem Abstract , , , ,

Exploring Digital Test Bank Usability and Acceptability with Productivity Tools: Evidence from the Philippines
Corresponding email: jrsatparam@bicol-u.edu.ph

A B S T R A C T

The increasing integration of digital technologies in education has created new opportunities and challenges for teaching, learning, and assessment. In response, this exploratory study investigated the capability for digital assessment in a Philippine school through the development of digital test banks using commonly available productivity tools. The project aimed to a) design digital test banks aligned with existing curricular standards, b) evaluate their content validity, c) evaluate their usability among teachers and d) evaluate students’ acceptability of digital assessments. Results obtained from the validation and surveys revealed that a) digital test banks may be developed using commonly available productivity tools, b) the developed digital test banks are well-designed and capable of providing accurate and fair assessment of student learning as shown by the validation results; c) the usability of the developed digital test banks is very high as shown by the very high ratings across all usability indicators; and d) the acceptability of digital assessments among students is high as evidenced by the high ratings for acceptability among students. These findings suggest that productivity tools can serve as practical platforms for digital assessment and highlight a growing readiness among Filipino teachers and students for digitally enhanced instructional practices. Future efforts may build on the insights found in the study to further promote digital assessments and technology-enhanced education in Philippine schools.

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Land use land cover change detection using Remote sensing and GIS technique: A case study of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

admin_irjstem Abstract , , ,

Land use land cover change detection using Remote sensing and GIS technique: A case study of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Corresponding email: Retabirhanubr12@gmail.com

A B S T R A C T

Land use and land cover change is a modification of the earth surface by humans, due to an interaction between natural and anthropogenic processes. Land use land cover change provides important input for making decision regarding environmental management and planning the future. The objective of this research is assess the LULC changes in a fast growing city Addis Ababa by using satellite image of the years 2000, 2010, and 2023 in the study area using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Satellite images of the year 2000, 2010, and 2023 were downloaded from the USGS Earth Explorer online portal (path: 168, row: 54). To do this change detection supervised classification method has been employed. Supervised classification is important for grouping the different class of LULC sensed from the satellite imageries. The Land use land cover change in the respective years were obtained as the difference of the values of different years of the same category while percentage change is obtained by dividing it with the total area and multiplying by hundred. This calculation gives information on the trend of transformation of land use land cover over the time. The result indicates that during 2000 to 2010, the areal coverage of vegetation, bare land, and Agriculture land were decreased by 175.4 ha, 13,174.7 and 1,776.7 ha, respectively. In addition to that, Built-up area and water body land use land cover are increased in area coverage by 13,613.8 ha and 1,512.9 ha, respectively. Preceding period (2000–2023) Built-up showed an area increment of 12,919.4 hectare and vegetation, bare land, water body and agriculture land showed a decrease in area of 3,519.7, 5,839.3 ha, 175.7ha, and 3,387.5 respectively.

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Reflection on the integration of tutorship development programme in one South African University 

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Reflection on the integration of tutorship development programme in one South African University 
Corresponding email: speter@wsu.ac.za

A B S T R A C T

The integration of the Tutorship Development Programme into the Faculty of Education at one of the universities in South Africa in 2024 aimed to enhance student academic support, promote faculty ownership, and ensure programme sustainability across two campuses. Despite its potential benefits, the process encountered several challenges, including limited faculty engagement, inadequate resources, and technological constraints. This study responds to the need for a structured, faculty driven tutorship model that bridges both theoretical and practical gaps in academic support interventions. The primary objective was to develop a scalable and effective tutorship framework aligned with faculty goals and curriculum requirements. Specifically, the study aimed to improve the quality of tutorship, encourage deeper faculty involvement, secure adequate resource allocation, and incorporate technology-based learning tools to support students effectively. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, employing surveys, focus groups, and stakeholder consultations to gather both qualitative and quantitative data. Data analysis involved thematic coding for qualitative responses and descriptive statistics to examine quantitative trends. Key findings underscore the importance of collaborative faculty engagement, strategic institutional partnerships, and the provision of targeted training resources in ensuring successful programme implementation. Theoretical frameworks such as Systems Thinking and Transformational Leadership informed the design and integration process, emphasizing the value of adaptability, feedback loops, and sustainable leadership practices. This study contributes to the broader discourse on academic development and student success by proposing a robust, context-sensitive tutorship model. It offers practical guidance for faculties aiming to institutionalize sustainable, impactful academic support programmes responsive to both student needs and institutional priorities.

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The impact of toxic workplace on employee well-being and organizational outcomes in Lebanon

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The impact of toxic workplace on employee well-being and organizational outcomes in Lebanon
Corresponding email: paula_romanos84@hotmail.com 

A B S T R A C T

A hostile workplace is measured by the encountered toxic environment employee has to deal with. Not only the managers, but also the co-workers play a crucial role in creating a safe community for others by their own behaviors. Toxic environment can significantly impact the employee’s physical as well as mental well-being decreasing thus the employee engagement. This critical issue needs more worldwide awareness and even courage to be shared especially in the lack of organization support. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impct of toxicity at workplace on employee well-being and institutions outcomes among Lebanese public community. Over 204 adult Lebanese were recruited in a cross-sectional study that covers both genders residing in the five Lebanese governorates. The survey questionnaire was designed and carried out from May 2024 to April 2025 with 99.2% as responsive rate. The participants ‘characteristics were under study as well as their association with the institutions where they work in the purpose of shedding light on employees suffering that should lead to decisive acts against these companies. The study revealed that the hostile workplace had negatively affected 100% of all the participants. In addition, no matter was the socio-demographic status difference between the volunteers such as age, gender, profession experience…the toxicity at workplace is dominant. Moreover, the survey identified that not only one but multiple criteria of toxic environment such as bullying, narcissistic behavior, and discrimination…were well recorded with gossiping at highest rate of 15.5%. By consequence, increasing public awareness by awareness campaigns use in Lebanon emphasizes the importance of reporting toxic workplace thus leading to legal acts.

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