24762 research outputs found
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Labour market inclusiveness as a key challenge facing society and management
Full text linkPURPOSE: This article is a part of an interdisciplinary project that pertains to topics related to
the labour market in Poland, which is extremely dynamic and diverse, depending on the
region, industry, and job group. However, the key challenge remains acquiring competent
employees. The inclusiveness of the labour market is an extremely important and current
topic that both companies and societies in many countries are addressing.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Taking into account the managerial approach, the main
research methods used in the study were literature review, diagnostic survey research, and
basic statistical analysis. The study was conducted based on a survey questionnaire, using
the CAWI method and a selected research sample of 2900 respondents—Metropolis GZM in
Poland (1274), the Gdansk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolis in Poland (824), and the Ruhr
Metropolis in Germany (802)—inhabitants, who declared themselves mostly employed in all
sectors, including the public, private, and nongovernmental sectors. The research results
were presented using a comparative approach, both for the entire representative population
of each metropolitan areas and in cross-sectional approaches, which include status in the
labour market defined by the four categories.FINDINGS: The results of this research provide new insights into the practical understanding
of inclusiveness and diversity in the context of a contemporary labour market among
metropolitan inhabitants, including among other employees in the main group. They also
show international and cross-sectoral differences in their understanding of labour market
inclusiveness.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: They can be used, among other methods, by local authorities as a
guide for shaping policies to help foreigners better adapt to the requirements of the Polish
labour market in line with the expectations of companies and organisations in metropolitan
areas.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This is one of the first and largest surveys regarding the entirety of the
Metropolis GZM, Gdansk-Gdynia-Sopot Metropolis, and Ruhr Metropolis in relation to the
implementation of prioritisation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN
SDGs) as well as labour market inclusiveness that takes a comparative approach and
provides practical recommendations for metropolitan authorities and other stakeholders as
well as for future in-depth research.peer-reviewe
The software testing community and IT stereotypes : a study with industry professionals
Full text linkTesting is essential for successful delivery of software development and maintenance cycles and is performed by specialist testers, developers, and other team members. Our earlier studies of testers found a wide diversity in the participants. The intention for this study was to understand more about the characteristics, backgrounds, and work experiences of testers, as well as the approaches they take to the activities of testing, with the research question ‘Who is testing?’ In a qualitative survey of over 70 industry participants, covering testers from multiple countries and domains, the study uncovered information about their wide range of backgrounds, hobbies, roles, and characteristics, with differing work styles and problem-solving preferences. The people contributing to testing during software projects have varied backgrounds, academic qualifications, hobbies, and interests. Examination of their job titles and aspirations showed the actual and potential scope of the role. Their responsibilities, approaches to testing activities, and the problems they described showed their work requires a high cognitive skill level. We contribute findings that testers do not meet the stereotypes for IT workers, and the role does not meet the stereotype of boring, repetitive work. This matters for tester recruitment, retention, and career paths. There are also implications for the representation within IT teams of people using software, and potentially for society. Breaking the stereotyping and supporting diversity in testers’ backgrounds and characteristics might be supported by using tester personas to support aspects of testers’ work life. We demonstrate that a simple set of personas would not reflect the rich heterogeneity of the software tester community and instead introduce our current work to build a framework of heuristics that aids test tool designers and those acquiring tools to address building personas for their context.peer-reviewe
Constructing AI literacy : a hands-on approach for school children
Full text linkThis narrative literature review examines constructionist approaches to AI literacy education for school-aged children, synthesizing research from 2009–2024 to develop a pedagogical framework grounded in hands-on learning principles. Through systematic analysis of studies
retrieved from Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library, five interconnected themes emerged: active hands-on learning, project-based inquiry, ethics integration, age-appropriate scaffolding, and teacher support with accessible tools. The findings demonstrate that
constructionist methodologies – emphasizing learning through creating AI-powered artifacts –
effectively foster conceptual understanding, ethical reasoning, and critical agency among young
learners. The review reveals that AI literacy develops most effectively when students actively
manipulate and experiment with AI systems rather than passively consuming theoretical content.
Age-differentiated strategies are essential, with primary students benefiting from embodied analogies and narrative contexts, while secondary students engage with collaborative design projects
addressing real-world challenges. Teacher preparation and accessible tools emerge as critical
implementation factors. This framework provides educators and policymakers with evidence-based guidance for integrating meaningful AI literacy experiences into K-12 curricula through
constructionist pedagogies.peer-reviewe
Global health at crossroads : uniting together to overcome challenges, restore trust and advance priorities for a sustainable future
Full text linkThe world is currently facing an unprecedented convergence of crises that threaten the core pillars of public health, scientific integrity, and social stability. These challenges are profoundly interconnected and have the potential to exacerbate global inequalities, jeopardize health security, and undermine the progress achieved through decades of international collaboration. Our viewpoint declaration, developed by 366 healthcare workers and scientists from 119 countries across six continents, highlights the urgent need for global solidarity and collective action to address these interconnected global health challenges. As healthcare workers and scientists, we must prioritize the protection of scientific integrity, combat political interference, and restore public trust in the scientific process. This will require a commitment to transparency, ethical responsibility, and evidence-based decision-making that can stand strong in the face of political and social adversity. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of resilient healthcare systems, emphasizing that preparedness, capacity building and coherent leadership and coordination are essential for future global health crises. In addition, our call for a One Health approach, acknowledging the intricate relationship between human, animal, and environmental health, has never been more pressing, especially as zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance spread across borders. As we confront ongoing wars, environmental destruction, and global persistent health inequalities, it is only through unity, solidarity, collaboration, and innovation that we hope to build a healthier, more equitable world. Together, we must ensure that science and medicine remain a force for good, capable of addressing both the immediate and long-term needs and challenges facing our shared future.peer-reviewe
Teachers’ beliefs and practices about the potential of ChatGPT in teaching mathematics in secondary schools
Full text linkThis study investigates the beliefs and practices of secondary school mathematics teachers in Malta regarding the potential of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), particularly through tools like ChatGPT, in teaching, using the TPACK framework. Through a case study methodology involving pre-and post-professional development (PD) session surveys and analysis of field notes, the research examines the alignment between teachers’ self-reported beliefs and pedagogical practices and their perceptions of ChatGPT’s utility. Findings show teachers, particularly those with discovery and connectionist educational philosophies, view ChatGPT positively, believing it fosters active learning, encourages exploration, and supports individualised engagement. Despite challenges like interpreting visual mathematical representations and inaccuracies, teachers see ChatGPT as a tool for creating practice problems, assessments, and personalised feedback, aligning with trends in existing literature. The study underscores the necessity of ongoing PD to equip teachers with the skills to integrate ChatGPT effectively into their pedagogy, suggesting a deeper understanding of both the opportunities and challenges presented by GenAI in education. The alignment of teachers’ beliefs and practices with their perceptions of ChatGPT’s potential suggests a readiness among educators to adopt innovative technologies that align with contemporary pedagogical values, enhancing the teaching and learning experience in mathematics. This research contributes to the body of knowledge on GenAI integration in education, highlighting the importance of aligning educational technology with teachers’ pedagogical beliefs and practices to maximise its benefits and recognising the potential of ChatGPT to change mathematics education by facilitating active engagement and personalised learning, while also acknowledging its limitations and ethical implications.peer-reviewe
Identification and minimization of risks in the logistics processes of a window blinds manufacturing company using PHA and TPM
Full text linkPURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate risks in the logistics processes
of a window blind manufacturing enterprise and to propose improvement measures to
minimise their impact. The research focuses on internal and external determinants affecting
logistics efficiency, with particular attention to warehouse management, inventory planning,
and distribution. The study also assesses the potential of integrating Preliminary Hazard
Analysis (PHA) with Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) to enhance operational stability.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research was conducted in a Polish manufacturing
company during 2024. Data were collected through employee questionnaires, interviews,
direct observation, and PHA-based risk assessment. Ten employees participated in the
survey, assessing both the probability of risk occurrence and the severity of consequences
across procurement, storage, inventory management, production, and distribution stages.
TPM principles were then conceptually applied to the identified risk areas. A comparative
analysis was carried out to evaluate risk levels before and after the introduction of proposed
improvements.FINDINGS: The results revealed critical risks in warehouse logistics, including insufficient
storage space (R=24.0), loss of stock (R=24.0), and delays in customer deliveries (R=24.4).
Inventory management issues such as inaccurate demand forecasting (R=18.8) and excessive
stock (R=15.2) were also identified as major threats. The application of TPM in combination
with PHA reduced the overall risk level by approximately 46%, with the most significant
improvement observed in the area of warehouse space management (−65%). After
implementing corrective actions, most risks shifted from “unacceptable” to “tolerable”
levels.PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATIONS: The study provides actionable recommendations for
manufacturing enterprises operating under resource and space constraints. Key proposals
include warehouse reorganisation and expansion, adoption of automated inventory management systems, real-time monitoring of supplies, and the integration of TPM practices
with systematic risk assessment tools such as PHA. These measures improve logistics
continuity, reduce operational costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This research contributes to the limited body of knowledge on risk
management in the window blind manufacturing sector. By demonstrating the combined use
of PHA and TPM, the study introduces a practical framework for systematically identifying
and mitigating logistics risks. The findings hold value for both scholars and practitioners
seeking to strengthen process reliability and competitiveness in small and medium-sized
enterprises.peer-reviewe
The Mediterranean sustainable kitchen : a recipe collection
No full textAs Pro-Rector for Strategic Planning and Sustainability at the University of
Malta, I am delighted to be writing this foreword for The Mediterranean
Sustainable Kitchen. This publication has been ably put together by staff and
students at the Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, within the
Faculty for Health Sciences, under the guidance of Dr. Petra Jones, currently
the Head of Department. This publication stemmed from a number of
initiatives for Sustainable Gastronomy Day which is celebrated on June 18th
and which acknowledges that everyone plays a role in making sustainable
choices for healthy diets and a food-secure future. Members of the University
community were invited to share their favourite recipes which support fresh,
local produce and which maximise the use made of products, reduce waste
and reflect a range of considerations which underlie the preparation of
healthy, nutritious meals. [Excerpt from the Foreword by Prof. Valerie Sollars]peer-reviewe
Work-life balance challenges of young startup entrepreneurs
Full text linkPURPOSE: The article aim was to analyze the challenges related to work-life balance (WLB)
among young entrepreneurs running startups in Poland. Particular emphasis is placed on
the psychosocial consequences of imbalance and on identifying factors that may support
better time and stress management. The article also presents two research hypotheses: H1:
Young startup entrepreneurs often experience a lack of balance between professional and
private life. H2: A high level of stress and professional burnout among young startup
founders is associated with a low level of time management skills and a lack of team support.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The theoretical part of the article was written following a
thorough review of the leading literature on the subject. The empirical part was based on a
survey conducted among 100 young entrepreneurs aged up to 35. The questionnaire
consisted of 20 questions—5 related to the characteristics of the entrepreneurs and 15
specifically focused on WLB, assessing the respondents' subjective perception of work-life
balance using a 5-point Likert scale.FINDINGS: The article presents the results of a study conducted in January 2025 among 100
respondents. The findings indicate that the vast majority of participants work more than 40
hours per week and experience high levels of stress. Respondents report difficulties in
separating professional and private life and express a need for greater psychological and
organizational support.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The article suggests the need to develop support programs for
entrepreneurs—such as mentoring, coaching, and education in time management—already
at the early stages of a startup’s development.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The issue of work-life balance is rarely analyzed in the context of young
startup leaders, despite the fact that their work style involves unique challenges. This article
contributes value by offering an empirical perspective on the issue, combining insights from
both management and psychological well-being.peer-reviewe
Olympic games as an instrument of state propaganda in diverse political systems and varied regional contexts
Full text linkPURPOSE: The aim of this study is to identify how international sporting events can serve as
instruments of propaganda and to explore how different states utilize these events to advance
specific political and national interests.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The primary research methods employed in this study
include a critical analysis of archival literary and visual sources, as well as contemporary
literature. A descriptive narrative analysis was utilized to investigate key cases where
sporting events, such as the Olympic Games, influenced bilateral and multilateral relations.
The core research techniques applied in the analysis encompass methods of induction,
deduction, synthesis, and observational approaches, which underpin the arguments
supporting the generalized conclusions.FINDINGS: The study provided significant insights into the use of sporting events as tools for
image-building and political narrative construction, as well as the societal responses to these
efforts. It demonstrated that international sporting events serve as an effective instrument for
achieving specific political objectives.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings pave the way for a new direction in research on this
topic, which, despite its significance and growing interest, remains insufficiently explored.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: Through the synthesis of historical and contemporary sources, this article
contributes to the understanding of the manipulative aspects of utilizing the lofty ideals of
sports by societies with diverse political systems organizing international events.Research funding: Co-financed by the Minister of Science under the
“Regional Excellence Initiative”.peer-reviewe
Impact of fermented foods consumption on gastrointestinal wellbeing in healthy adults : a systematic review and meta-analysis
Full text linkObjective: In recent years, the consumption of fermented foods (FFs) has been
linked with gastrointestinal health and wellbeing. Here, we systematically review
and meta-analyse the currently available evidence relating to this as part of
the COST Action PIMENTO and guided by the European Food Safety Authority
(EFSA) health claim dossiers.
Methods: MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane CENTRAL bibliographic libraries
were searched for relevant literature up to 31st January 2025. All eligible
studies were included for narrative review as per EFSA guidelines, but only
randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were considered for meta-analyses. Risk of
bias, mechanisms of action, bioactive compounds and safety were additionally discussed. Data was pooled using mean difference (MD)/standardized MD
for continuous data and relative risk (RR) for dichotomous data. Certainty of
evidence was evaluated through GRADE assessment.
Results: A total of 25 studies (19 RCTs included in meta-analysis) with 4,328
participants were included in the systematic review. Meta-analysis demonstrated
the beneficial impact of FF consumption on frequency of bowel movements
(MD 0.60, CI 0.04, 1.16, p = 0.04, I² = 74%), stool consistency (Bristol Stool Form
Scale) (MD 0.25, CI 0.03, 0.47, p = 0.03, I² = 72%), gastrointestinal symptoms
(SMD −0.60, CI −1.05, −0.15, p = 0.009, I² = 90%) and intestinal transit time
(−13.65 CI −21.88, −5.43, p = 0.001, I² = 95%), among others. Certainty of
evidence was highly variable and mostly low.
Conclusion: Our analysis suggests that FF consumption beneficially impacts the
frequency of bowel movements, stool consistency, incidence of hard stools,
intestinal transit time, abdominal symptoms, bloating, borborygmi, flatulence
and degree of constipation.
Systematic review registration: This study was registered at the Open Science
Framework (osf.io, registration number: q8yzd).peer-reviewe