Human Systems Management - Volume 42, issue 2

Authors: Draghici, Anca | Repanovici, Angela | Ng, Poh Kiat

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-239001

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 113-119, 2023

Authors: Gharaibeh, Malik Khlaif

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, educational institutions have shifted to electronic education at the global level, after face-to-face education was common in most countries of the world. From this aspect, assessing students’ satisfaction with the platforms used in e-learning is very important. In this study, students’ satisfaction with Microsoft Teams was measured, as it is one of the most important programs used in the educational process in various educational institutions. OBJECTIVE: This study uses five variables from the UTAUT2 model namely; performance expectancy, effort expectancy, facilitating conditions, social influence, price value, as well as two …new variables which include student satisfaction, and flexibility to study the learning satisfaction with Microsoft Teams. METHODS: 520 questionnaires were distributed to Yarmouk and Ajloun National Universities students to collect the required data, and the data was analyzed using Smart PLS. RESULTS: The results showed that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, price value, facilitating conditions, student confidence, and flexibility are important indicators of satisfaction with Microsoft Teams. CONCLUSIONS: This study adds to the body of knowledge by building a conceptual model capable of effectively predicting student satisfaction with the Microsoft Teams platform. It concluded that the expected benefit from using Microsoft Teams will increase student satisfaction. Show more

Keywords: Microsoft teams, UTAUT2, ministry of higher education and scientific research, performance expectancy, effort expectancy

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220032

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 121-130, 2023

Authors: Khanchel, Hanen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several theories have developed instruments for assessing the acceptance of using technologies. This work is a continuation of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) research for the review of the factors affecting the acceptance of digital social networks (DSN) among Tunisian students. OBJECTIVE: We aim to bring a better understanding of technology use in the educational context. More specifically, we investigate the determinants of digital social network (DSN) acceptance by Tunisian students and the effects of this acceptance on students’outcomes in the presence of social isolation as a mediating variable and fear of …COVID-19 to ensure the continuity of university pedagogy. METHOD: We used the survey method, sampling stutents (N = 100) during the COVID-19 pandemic to test this model. For the data analysis, this study employed structural equation modeling through the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and condition process modeling. RESULTS: The research found that Social Influence (SI); Effort Expectancy (EE), Facilitating Conditions (FC), and Performance Expectancy (PE) have a significant and affirmative effect on the behavioral intention (BI) and influence of behavioral intention on digital social network (DSN) user behavior in learning (UBL). Furthermore, Social Isolation (SIS) as a mediating variable and fear of COVID-19 (FOC) has a significant effect between dimensions of adjusted unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model and behavioural intention of learning by digital social network (DSN) applications. CONCLUSION: The new adjusted conceptual model is a significant contribution to the current knowledge, which will enhance the dimensions of the actual unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. Moreover, the findings have significant implications for educators and decision-makers involved in designing learning through digital social network (DSN) applications for implementation in universities. Show more

Keywords: Digital social networks (DSN), unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), students, Tunisia, COVID-19

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220017

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 131-148, 2023

Authors: Shirish, Anuragini | Verstraete, Nina | Tantan, Olfa Chourabi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 crisis led to an unprecedented acceleration of digital learning. It pushed many institutions to abruptly switch to fully online learning modes from face-to-face learning. Prior studies show that higher IT demands can cause challenge or hindrance stressors, depending on how the digital technology characteristics are perceived by the end-user. However, there is a gap in our knowledge regarding how ICT characteristics can lead to positive stress appraisals in a remote learning environment. OBJECTIVE: This paper leverages the person-environment fit and technostress literature to examine how usefulness and reliability as demand-ability stressors of ICT tools can …positively impact learning outcomes among remote learning students. Techno eustress perceptions are evaluated as a crucial mechanism for theorizing the positive impact. METHODS: We used the survey method, sampling students (N = 82) during the lockdown period to test this model. RESULTS: Our findings highlight the ICT characteristic of usefulness as salient in contributing to student learning outcomes as it promotes techno eustress. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to demonstrate a positive impact of ICT characteristics on student learning outcomes via techno eustress perceptions. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, Online Learning, ICT characteristics, Techno Eustress, Innovation, Productivity, Usefulness, Stressors, Digital Learning Environment

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220059

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 149-162, 2023

Authors: Ng, Poh Kiat | Koo, Voon Chet | Ng, Yu Jin | Yeow, Jian Ai

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While studies have investigated relationships among learning motivation, social presence, and cognitive presence, there appear to be no studies on the inclusion of industry talks and the theory of inventive problem-solving (TRIZ) in strengthening engineering students’ learning motivation, social presence, and cognitive presence within a blended learning setting. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the influence of industry talks and TRIZ on learning motivation, social presence, and cognitive presence in a blended learning environment. METHODS: Data samples were obtained from 98 engineering students in a blended learning course and analysed using Spearman’s correlation test, regression, ANOVA, and …t -test. RESULTS: Findings suggested that TRIZ and industry talks strongly, positively, and significantly correlated with learning motivation, social presence, and cognitive presence. A well-rounded learning experience compounded of TRIZ and industry talks significantly affected learning motivation, social presence, and cognitive presence, thereby enhancing students’ programme outcome (PO) achievement. CONCLUSIONS: These findings can be attributed to the students’ independent learning capabilities with TRIZ and industry talks. Analogically, embracing TRIZ and industry talks helps turn blended learning into a “sweet instead of bitter pill to swallow” for engineering students in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Show more

Keywords: Distance education and online learning, improving classroom teaching, lifelong learning, teaching/learning strategies, 21st century abilities

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220080

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 163-178, 2023

Authors: James, Nisa | Loganathan, Swetha | Nathan, Robert Jeyakumar | Victor, Vijay | Ng, Poh Kiat

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The selection of students at academic institutions has been a challenging affair given multiple criteria that need to be considered by the institution. Additionally, multiple evaluators and decision makers are involved in the student selection process, rendering it inconsistent. The complexity and subjectiveness in such decisions making requires new and innovative approach in order to be more systematic and transparent. OBJECTIVE: This paper presents an innovative methodology for student selection for admission into an Institute of Higher Learning (IHL) using Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). Drawing …on the success of using these methods in other fields, this study applies the technique and principles on student selection process. METHOD: Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) is used in determining the weights of the criteria by the decision makers which avoids the vagueness and inconsistencies in decision making process and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method ranks finds out the best alternative solution for student selection by calculating the relative closeness from the positive ideal solution. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: This research finds using the hybrid method is effective in student selection for IHL and makes the process efficient and bias-free. This method can be applied to various fields and uses where multi-criteria decision making is involved. Show more

Keywords: Multi-criteria decision-making, student selection, bias-free, education technology

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220046

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 179-191, 2023

Authors: de Juana-Espinosa, Susana Amalia | Brotons, Matilde | Sabater, Vicente | Stankevičiūtė, Živilė

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the teaching ways in universities, rapidly moving from face-to-face delivery models to online and distance learning. Consequently, the multimedia and digital competencies of the teaching staff were suddenly put onto the stage, resulting in the realisation that many of them were not sufficiently skilled to face this challenge due to a lack of prior training. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this explanatory research is to present and make a comparison of key training programs, deemed best practices, that address different ways to assist higher education teaching staff to acquire the multimedia competencies required …to be technologically-proficient in their classes. METHODS: A desk research provides the data for a multiple case study of courses implemented in universities of five European countries, namely Spain, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Romania, and Slovenia. RESULTS: The results of the study show a total of 28 courses ranging from how to deliver online teaching to gamification, going through other topics such as photo and video editing, that enable higher education teachers to acquire digital skills. The main challenges detected for the success of these training programs are the teachers’ lack of time for training, non-positive attitudes towards technology, and lack of innovative capacity in their teaching processes. Among the positive outcomes, we can find that these universities opt for programs with courses varied in content, to cover a wider range of skills, as well as offering courses at several levels of development so that all staff may improve, from the very beginners to more advanced tools. CONCLUSION: By identifying the challenges and success factors behind the best practices hereby analysed, the lessons obtained from this research may serve as benchmarks for other universities to develop efficient multimedia training programs for university staff. Show more

Keywords: Higher education, multimedia competencies, ICT teaching tools, teaching staff development programs, ICT integration

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220060

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 193-207, 2023

Authors: Qorraj, Gazmend | Kaçaniku, Fjolla

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The whole educational system from pre-university to university level has been challenged with the immediate pressure to transform during the lockdown period of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The question of how to ensure digital transformation in universities become topical at policy, institutional, and classroom practice dimensions. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study is to examine and explore how digital transformation in higher education in Kosovo is conceptualised in a changing context. The study focuses on teacher education as a pathway that links pre-university education with higher education system to ensure future teacher preparation. …METHODS: The study used a qualitative research design. The data were collected through interviews with management staff (n  = 3) and teacher educators (n  = 7), and group interviews with student teachers (n  = 15), at the University in Kosovo and teacher education institution. Following the principles of the hermeneutical circle, conceptualisations of digital transformation in teacher education were clustered into the following dimensions: (i) policy, (ii) organisation culture and management, and (iii) teaching and learning. RESULTS: The paper analyses the Western Balkans, specifically Kosovo, as the country faced the transition challenges including institutional building, limited administrative capabilities, and other challenges regarding educational process and digitalization. The paper contributes to the discussions with the emerging conceptualisations of digital transformation in teacher education by drawing from thematic areas concerning policy response mechanisms, teacher education policy as isolated from higher education framework, change management process, missing organisational culture, rigidity and resistance in teaching. CONCLUSIONS: The paper concludes that teacher education context should be reconceptualised within the higher education framework to better manage a transition and change settings for a shared conceptualisation and sustainable digital transformation. Show more

Keywords: Digital transformation, higher education, teacher education, policy, organisation culture and management, teaching and learning

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220063

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 209-217, 2023

Authors: Sarfraz, Muddassar | Abdullah, Muhammad Ibrahim | Ivascu, Larisa | Ahmad, Umair

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The service sector is facing challenges due to its competitive environment. Thus it needs a transformation of the traditional sector into the learning sector. In this competitive atmosphere, organizations and institutions are putting several efforts into making itself learning organizations to upgrade their effectiveness and efficiency. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to examine the impact of learning organization from errors on organizational effectiveness under the mediating role of organizational commitment and job satisfaction. METHODS: The study has adopted a descriptive and quantitative approach. The data has been collected from the healthcare sector employees by applying …a convenience sampling technique. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and SmartPLS-SEM was used for data and regression analysis. RESULTS: Findings revealed that organizational learning from errors has a significant and positive effect on organizational effectiveness. Results also divulged that organizational commitment and job satisfaction significantly mediate the relationship between organizational learning from errors and organizational effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Organizations are changing by moving towards a more informative and knowledge-gaining organizational culture, and organizational learning from errors positively and significantly affects organizational effectiveness. Show more

Keywords: Organizational commitment, organizational effectiveness, job satisfaction, service sector, job performance

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220106

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 219-232, 2023

Authors: Rusu, Victoria | Calefariu, Gavrila

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Using the theory of complex systems, some human functions (thinking, memory, language) and human relationships have been analyzed and explained. In order to study the limits of human performance (in Air Traffic Controllers and pilots) a new concept was created, called the Human Performance Envelope (HPE). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to apply the principles of the complex system to the analysis of the human factors of the HPE concept. Moreover, this paper’s objective is to create a mathematical model that will give the opportunity to study all the physiological ergonomic factors, not only …the ones that are most commonly studied. The most studied factors are mental workload, stress and situation awareness (SA). By applying the mathematical model, it is possible to analyze all the physiological factors (stress, mental workload, fatigue, attention, vigilance and SA). METHODS: In the present paper the theory of complex systems (hybrid modelling) was applied to the Human Performance Envelope concept. A mathematical model was created, then it was validated and solved based on previous researches. RESULTS: Firstly, a literature analysis was performed on the complex systems application by the present researchers concerning pilots’ HPE. The proportional and inverse proportional relationships between the nine human factors were visually illustrated. Finally, a mathematical model was proposed, consisting of a set of equations, which were partially solved and validated by the experiments on pilots done by other researchers. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is required to validate the whole mathematical model, including physiological measurements (experiments) for the six ergonomic factors and the applied heuristic psychosocial methods for the others. Show more

Keywords: Complex system, human performance envelope, pilots

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-220064

Citation: Human Systems Management, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 233-246, 2023