1993 research outputs found
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A Study of the Use of Video Conferencing Technology in Training as an Effective Mode of Training for Financial Advisors in Hong Kong
Over the years, the financial advisory industry has been a cornerstone of the economy of Hong Kong, operating under stringent government regulations. More recently, financial institutions have recognised the importance of upgrading their employees’ knowledge and skills to meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations. Staff training plays a crucial role in enhancing performance, making well-organised professional training vital for the industry’s success.
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 disrupted normal business operations in Hong Kong. Traditional face-to-face educational and corporate training programmes were suspended, highlighting the need to explore alternative modes of training delivery. Many companies and educational institutions turned to video conferencing software, such as Zoom and Teams, to continue training their staff remotely.
This study aims to assess the impact of integrating video conferencing technology into training programmes for financial advisors on the trainees, trainers, and senior management within the industry. The specific objectives include: 1. Investigating the perceptions and satisfaction levels of trainees, trainers, and senior management regarding the use of video conferencing technology in training programmes. 2. Exploring the strengths and weaknesses of various training modes and identifying critical success factors for utilising video conferencing technology in the training of financial advisors in Hong Kong.
The research follows a mixed-method sequential explanatory study approach. Quantitative data, derived from a questionnaire survey conducted across three training modes (face-to-face, hybrid, and video conferencing), were evaluated using the Kirkpatrick model’s four levels of training effectiveness. The survey sought to gauge the perceptions and satisfaction levels of trainees, trainers, and senior management regarding different training approaches.
Comparative data analysis was performed using statistic software, Jamovi, to evaluate the effectiveness of each training mode. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 participants, including financial trainees, trainers, and senior management. Thematic analysis was employed to explore stakeholders’ perspectives on the various training methods.
The findings reveal that participants acknowledge the benefits of using video conferencing technology in training, such as cost-effectiveness, scalability, and flexibility. However, challenges like inadequate technical skills among trainers, limited interactions, and security concerns were identified. Critical success factors for successful implementation of video conferencing training include trainers’ adaptability to non-traditional methods and proficiency in virtual environments.
Overall, the research demonstrates positive and significant impacts of video conferencing technology on training for financial advisors in Hong Kong. These impacts extend to training effectiveness, industry practices, resource accessibility, technological skill development, and broader implications for professional training across industries. The study suggests that video conferencing technology holds promise for driving positive changes in the professional training of financial advisors
Fundamentals of the neuroscience of learning to support Content-and-Language Integrated-Learning-(CLIL)-based lesson planning in primary education: potentialising learning through a basic understanding of the brain in childhood.
This dissertation is the result of a cross-sectional study conducted to investigate the potential synergies between the principles of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) and the neuroscience of learning. The study aimed to determine if the application of basic neuroscience principles in CLIL lesson plans within a bilingual primary education program could enhance the effectiveness of educational tools and strategies for improved learning outcomes.
Through the proposed exploration, the present researcher attempted to address the question: Can the neuroscience of learning corroborate or refute CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) principles applied in primary school lesson plans?
The research objectives were sought through a literature review encompassing historical perspectives of CLIL and the field of neuroscience of learning, lesson observations, and self-evaluation questionnaires with the experimental group. The study also examined the alignment of CLIL with fundamental neuroscience principles, with an emphasis on the work of Stanislas Dehaene (2022).
Field research was conducted within a CLIL-based bilingual program implemented in a Brazilian mainstream school, Colégio Santa Úrsula. Teachers from grades 1 to 5 participated in the study, which focused on the planning and delivery of CLIL lessons in this primary education setting.
Preliminary findings indicate a convergence between CLIL principles and the neuroscience of learning, as observed during the literature review phase. The theoretical frameworks underlying both fields appear complementary and aligned in many aspects.
Elements of the CLIL approach are likely to support the learning process from a neuroscience perspective, and there are significant correlations between reported findings in neuroscience and CLIL pedagogical practices. It has also been observed that the intentional changes proposed for lesson planning and delivery had positive outcomes when teachers were educated to consider bolstering their lessons by resorting to the theoretical scope provided in this study.
While the findings of this research fulfil the proposed objectives, they do not establish new parameters for CLIL lesson planning. It is suggested that a longitudinal study following the same methodology could build upon these initial indications and provide more robust data to support educators in similar settings.
In conclusion, this study provides initial evidence supporting the integration of basic neuroscience principles into CLIL lesson planning. However, further research is necessary to strengthen these findings and provide educators with more comprehensive guidance for optimising learning outcomes through CLIL instruction
Diversity And Inclusion In FIFA Leadership: The Perspective of Female Footballers
This dissertation delves into the intricate dynamics of diversity and inclusion within FIFA's leadership framework, with a specific focus on the perspectives of female footballers. The study emerges from recognising FIFA's historical engagement with women's football and its evolving stance towards promoting gender equality within the sport's governance. Despite commendable strides, disparities persist, particularly in the representation and participation of women within FIFA's leadership echelons.
The "Saunders Onion Research" framework facilitates a comprehensive exploration of this research. A mixed-methods approach is adopted, integrating quantitative analysis through a survey distributed among fifty participants and qualitative insights gleaned from semi-structured interviews with five female footballers. This methodological triangulation ensures a holistic understanding of the complexities surrounding diversity and inclusion in FIFA leadership, combining statistical data with nuanced personal narratives.
The study uncovers multifaceted insights into female footballers' experiences, challenges, and aspirations navigating FIFA's governance landscape. It reveals systemic barriers hindering their equitable representation and participation, including entrenched gender biases, limited opportunities for leadership development, and a lack of institutional support. Additionally, the research sheds light on the intersecting factors of race, ethnicity, and socio-economic background, which further compound the challenges female footballers face in accessing leadership roles within FIFA.
The research findings provide a deeper understanding of promoting diversity and inclusion in football governance. They serve as a call to action for FIFA and other stakeholders to redouble their efforts in advancing gender equality and amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups. Ultimately, the dissertation aims to catalyse meaningful change within FIFA's leadership structures, fostering an equitable and more inclusive future for females in football governance
Bilingual Education Models and Curricula in Bilingual Immersion Primary Schools in Brazil: A Comparative Study
The present study explores the degree of consistency in the practical execution of bilingual immersion models at three bilingual primary schools in Brazil. Despite the recent proliferation of bilingual institutions, a persistent lack of regulations has allowed Brazilian schools great freedom in their choice of bilingual academic policies. This has given rise to a landscape of ad hoc curriculum customizations and increasingly dissonant language policies.
Incorporating evidence from questionnaires, lesson observations and interviews, this study reveals discrepancies in curricular choices, bilingual teaching practices, and expectations of linguistic outcomes, both across schools and within the same institution. While the study provides valuable insights into bilingual education practices within a select group of schools, its implications for the wider educational landscape of Brazil are restricted by its narrow scope. Therefore, additional research in the field is encouraged. The findings argue for the necessity to establish comprehensive operative standards for bilingual schools in Brazil, with a specific focus on curriculum construction and pedagogical methodologies. The study suggests the introduction of a system of external quality control for bilingualism. This would enable schools to benefit from an external assessment while constructing their academic bilingual curriculum and aid in monitoring its alignment with instructional strategies
From Foreign Language Learning to Second Language Acquisition. The Use of Television in the Early Acquisition of a Second Language in Additive Contexts. Towards an Understanding of the Sociolinguistic, Political and Educational Factors Involved in the Development and Implementation of a Lifestyle Diglossia.
The aim of this doctoral thesis is to contribute to the understanding of the sociolinguistic, political and educational factors involved in the development and implementation of a Lifestyle Diglossia. Central to the thesis is the presentation, analysis and discussion of the results of a piece of research designed to throw some light on the nature of family language policy in relation to the use of television for children's acquisition of a foreign language in an additive context. The research was planned with three objectives in mind. First, to confirm the author’s personal perception, drawn from observation within his own social networks, that technological advancement has not brought about a significant increase in the consumption of foreign television content in the original version. Second, to understand how these habits are affected by families’ attitudes, beliefs and ideologies concerning the use of television as a tool for the acquisition of a foreign language in an additive context, and by families’ efforts to influence language choice. Third, to study the environmental factors that play a major role in shaping family language policy.
The method adopted for this piece of research took the form of an Internet-based questionnaire that combined both closed-ended and open-ended questions addressed to parents with children in nurseries, and pre-primary and primary level schools from a particular region of Spain. The parents were asked about their habits, attitudes and beliefs in relation to foreign language learning in general and the use of television for their children's acquisition of English in particular, and about other variables that affect family language policy.
The data obtained from the answers to the questionnaire show that 18% of the respondents' children view television in English on a regular basis (every day or quite often). Through the use of chi-square tests (χ2), the information gathered has allowed us to construct various ranks of dependence relationships between the different variables that conform and shape family language policy.
Finally, in the light of the research outcomes, we will conclude by recommending government top-down planning action aimed at promoting television-mediated foreign language acquisition at family level
Technological Advancements and Organizational Discrimination: The Dual Impact of Industry 5.0 on Migrant Workers
This study explores the impact of Industry 5.0 on discriminatory behaviors toward migrant employees within organizations. Through semi-structured qualitative interviews with 15 migrant workers in the UK, this research identifies key challenges faced by migrant employees amidst the integration of advanced technologies like AI and robotics in HRM systems. Thematic analysis reveals that while Industry 5.0 has the potential to mitigate human biases, it can also perpetuate existing prejudices if not managed effectively. This study highlights two main themes: the experiences of discrimination and challenges in the context of Industry 5.0, and the role of technology in HRM systems. The findings indicate that automated HR systems can both reduce and increase biases, highlighting the importance of inclusive practices and targeted support programs to help migrant workers adapt to a technologically advanced labor market. This research contributes to the literature by providing insights into the duality of technological advancements in reducing and reinforcing workplace discrimination
Three English (Re)translations of the Chinese Historical Novel Three Kingdoms (Sanguo yanyi): An Analysis of Social Context, Paratext and Text
(Re)translations are essential in maintaining the currency and vitality of the source text through its evolving interpretations. The Retranslation Hypothesis (RH), despite sparking extensive scholarly debate, provides a foundation for delving into the concept of “closeness” between the source and target texts. This study critically examines the validity of the RH through an in-depth analysis of three English (re)translations of the Chinese classic, Three Kingdoms (Sanguo yanyi), published in 1925, 1991, and 2014. The study employs textual and paratextual approaches to scrutinize manipulations exerted by translators and other agents, aiming to interpret these (re)translations within their distinct sociohistorical contexts.
The exploration is conducted by contextualizing the (re)translations within the societal ideologies and norms of their respective eras, considering the translators’ experiences, historical contexts, and reader feedback. A qualitative analysis of the paratexts unveils strategic adjustments o
Christian Persecution in the Book of Revelation
This dissertation will argue that the persecution of early Christ followers, as referenced in the Book of Revelation, was not a myth. The imagery in the Book of Revelation, as analyzed here, conveys a sense of Christian persecution and a culture of anxiety and animosity during the apostolic age. Early followers of Jesus endured genuine harassment across the Roman Empire, and these difficulties should not be minimized or dismissed as exaggerated. By adopting a predominant preterist a-millennial approach, this dissertation will demonstrate that the imagery in the Book of Revelation refers to Christian persecution before the fall of the temple in Jerusalem in 70 AD. This era, as the sources here examined will demonstrate, can be divided into two main periods, starting with the early missions of the Apostles until the Great Fire of Rome, when early Christians faced harassments predominantly from Jewish and pagan (Greco-Roman) communities, followed by primarily Roman oppression under Caesar Nero’s rule after 64 AD. This study will analyze several passages from the Book of Revelation that allude to Christian persecution during this era, by contextualizing these passages using New Testament, secular and non-canonical Christian sources. This approach will help us understand how references to persecution, conveyed through symbolic language in the Book of Revelation, influenced early church tradition and still influences current views about the hardships faced by first-century Christ followers, especially during Emperor Nero's reign. It will lead to a more nuanced understanding of the reality and importance of early Christian persecution as depicted in the Book of Revelation
An investigation into how Online business has been boosted by the changing of customer behaviour during the Pandemic
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns and social distancing have forced people to change their daily behaviours radically. Consumers began to buy differently, reconsidering what was essential and swapping checkout lines for online shopping (JP Morgan, 2020).
The research will focus on the end consumer's point of view towards adopting online business, which includes not only e-commerce but, in a broader sense, also other areas such as smart working, e-learning, food delivery and home streaming.
It will analyse how customer behaviour has changed since the pre-COVID period and how the pandemic has boosted online businesses and "In-home" services.
This work is a qualitative research study that aims to analyse data obtained from semi-structured interviews to better understand the long-term impacts of the pandemic.
Initially, consumers moved online out of necessity. However, this trend has been maintained and strengthened thanks to a greater awareness of digital platforms' potential, flexibility, and convenience. Because of their regular usage, consumers have acquired new skills and confidence in online shopping, which has normalised and integrated into daily life.
While some sectors have seen a decline in online commerce since the end of pandemic related restrictions, overall online activity continues to be significantly more robust than before the pandemic. Today, the trend traces a possible hybrid future, where new preferences merge with pre-pandemic habits