Research in Social Sciences and Technology (E-Journals)
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A Quantitative Study Examining the Relationship Between Parental Socioeconomic Status, Body Image, Peer Influence, and Self-esteem Among Adolescents
Full text linkPeople with high self-esteem are better able to take delight in life's little pleasures, handle difficult situations, overcome challenges, establish lasting relationships, and strengthen their weaknesses. This study examined socioeconomic status, body image, and peer influence on self-esteem among in-school adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria. The descriptive survey design of the correlational type was used during the investigation. This study employed a multi-stage sampling technique. Three hundred and forty-five in-school adolescents made the study sample. Data was collected using reliable instruments: (Peer Influence Scale α = .78; Body image scale α =0.83; Parental Socioeconomic Status Scale α =0.89; Self-Esteem Inventory α=.71). From the results, socioeconomic status (r = .533; p.<05), body image (r =. 577; p.<05), and peer influence (r = .331; p.<05) had a significant relationship with (self-esteem). Body Image made the most significant contribution (β = .371; t = 7.555; p<0.05) followed by Peer influence (β = .316; t = 8.112; p<0.05) and Socioeconomic status (β = .312; t = 6.374; p<0.05). The study underscores the need for counseling and orientation programs for adolescents in all ramifications; this will help ease the psychological strain that could hamper their self-esteem
The Content Analysis of the Lesson Plans Created by ChatGPT and Google Gemini
Full text linkFollowing the emergence of chatbots, especially ChatGPT, researchers have begun to examine their capabilities, credibility, and reliability in educational context. In this study, ChatGPT and Google Gemini are used as technological tools to create 7th-grade lesson plans for mathematics, science, literature, and social studies classes. Using prompts, these chatbots were asked to create lesson plans for the desired course, subject, and level. The data source of this study is the content produced by these chatbots. We analyzed 18 lesson plans to identify patterns and variations within the context of learning theories and models by using the Taguette qualitative analysis program. The results show that the lesson plans created by both chatbots are strongly resemblance to human-written educational content such as sentence structures, lesson activities, and assessments. Although the activities in all lesson plans defined teachers as facilitators and offered partially constructive lesson plans, it was found that the technology-integrated activities were very limited. The findings of this study provide a practical implication of chatbots for teachers and highlights educational considerations when integrating these tools into lessons.  
Utilising Tshivenḓa Scientific Language Register for Teaching Electric Circuits
Full text linkTeaching physical sciences in English as the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) has presented numerous challenges, particularly for learners who are not proficient in the language. The South African government is increasingly considering the use of indigenous languages as the medium of instruction for subjects such as physical sciences, sparking debates regarding the effectiveness of indigenous languages in teaching and learning. This study aimed to explore stakeholders' perceptions regarding the use of Tshivenḓa scientific language for the concept of electricity. Utilizing qualitative interpretative case study methodology, the researcher conducted interviews with two grade 10 teachers, three parents, and two groups of grade 10 learners from selected schools to investigate their views on using Tshivenḓa scientific language register to teach physical sciences. The findings indicate that stakeholders view the adoption of scientific language registers in Tshivenḓa as a positive initiative. They believe it will provide learners who struggle to understand physical sciences when taught in English with an opportunity to learn effectively in a language they are familiar with. Therefore, the study recommends expanding the development of scientific registers in Tshivenḓa to cover other topics in physical sciences
Assessment of the Implementation of Policy on Anti-Sexual Harassment in a Nigerian University
Full text linkSexual harassment in universities undermines gender equity, safety, and learning. This study assessed the level of implementation of the anti-sexual harassment policy and the influence of implementation of the policy on gender protection of students and staff of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Nigeria. The study was hinged on the feminist theory. The feminist theory considers the plight of any person or people not just women, with a view to destabilizing systems of power and oppression, especially in an academic environment as in this context. The study adopted cross sectional survey research design. The population comprised of 450 students and 200 members of staff (100 teaching and non-teaching staff each) making a total of 650 participants, using a stratified random sampling to ensure proportional representation from the 10 selected faculties. Data was collected using questionnaires and gathered data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results identified gaps in initial awareness and understanding of the anti-sexual harassment policy among students and staff which constituted a setback for the implementation. It was equally noted that the policy development process lacked inclusivity, and implementation activities were perceived as insufficient. Since the implementation process was faulty, the policy has not been able to significantly achieve gender protection on the Campus. The students had uncertain views on the policy's impact, while staff had mixed opinions. The study recommended the need to strengthen policy implementation by way of improving communication channels, transparency, stakeholders’ involvement, and monitoring while punitive measures must be enforced when necessary
Queer Affirmative Practice in Africa: A Social Work Practice Model for Working with LGBTQIA+ People
Full text linkDespite the legislation put in place by the United Nations, Africa continues to grapple with issues of monosexism and heterosexism. In fact, of the 54 African countries, 33 have criminalised queer relationships, a legacy primarily attributed to colonial rule. However, social work literature has recently introduced a culturally sensitive model for working with the LGBTQIA+ community, known as Queer affirmative action. By utilising available literature and adopting an intersectional approach, which was collected and analysed through PRISMA, this paper aims to discuss the Africanising of sexuality in Africa. It argues that it is crucial to undertake a critical analysis of the colonial legacy and its impact on queer identities. Furthermore, the article posits that social work education must incorporate knowledge of the intersection of gender, sexuality, and other identity markers to form an inclusive and comprehensive approach towards practice. An affirmative philosophy to social work practice can serve as a counterweight to all punitive and discriminatory practices. Thus, in Africa, the most effective way to improve the well-being of queer individuals is to eradicate structural forms of inequality and decriminalise same-sex consensual relationships
Contextualizing Human Rights in Multicultural Environments
Full text linkThis paper explores the intricate relationship between socio-cultural dynamics and human rights in multicultural societies. It examines how norms, belief systems, and power structures shape the perception and exercise of these universal principles. The study employs a qualitative research design, specifically using the Cultural Relativism Framework, to investigate how cultural norms and values influence the interpretation and application of human rights. Through the analysis of literature and case studies, the paper elucidates the interaction between cultural context and human rights interpretations. It acknowledges that human rights are not uniform but are influenced by diverse cultural contexts. Key findings underscore the significance of multiculturalism in human rights interpretation, the impact of social, cultural, and political contexts, the intersection of values, beliefs, and customs, and the roles of states, civil society, and international organizations in shaping human rights discourse. The paper advocates for educational initiatives, intercultural dialogue, inclusive policymaking, and legal reforms to promote and protect human rights in diverse societies. It recommends enhancing human rights education, facilitating intercultural exchange, empowering civil society, addressing discrimination and inequality, and integrating customary laws with formal legal systems. By fostering mutual respect and understanding, societies can uphold human rights and cultural diversity, enabling peaceful, equitable coexistence. This assertion is based on empirical observations and scientific principles that highlight the importance of mutual understanding in preserving human rights and promoting cultural diversity. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of human rights, advocating for a balance between universal principles and cultural specificities. 
Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Role of Gaming in Rural Higher Learning Institutions of South Africa - A Systematic Exploration
Full text linkThe aim of this study resonated with the pursuit of achieving enhanced engagement in teaching and learning that informs critical thinking, and knowledge retention among students. Despite the growing trend of technological integration in teaching and learning, however, there exists a lack of empirical evidence and comprehensive studies that investigate the effectiveness of gaming in promoting educational objectives within rural institution of higher learning in South Africa. To investigate this gap, a systematic review method was employed, which provides a comprehensive and logical analysis of existing literature on the significance of gaming in teaching and learning within rural institutions of higher education. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used in the study to enhance the rigor and transparency of the research process, by providing a solid foundation for synthesizing and interpreting existing literature relevant to the study. The systematic review findings revealed that the significance of gamification in teaching and learning in rural higher education lies in its ability to overcome accessibility challenges, provide personalized learning experiences, address motivation and retention issues, and enhance digital literacy. It was recommended that by incorporating gamified approaches, rural higher educational institutions can create a more inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environment for students within the rural institutions of higher learning in South Africa
Elevating STEM Learning: Unleashing the Power of AI in Open Distance eLearning
Full text linkThe integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) represents a significant evolution in STEM education, offering transformative benefits in teaching, learning and administrative processes. This conceptual paper explores how AI-driven platforms are revolutionising ODeL by providing personalised learning experiences, real-time feedback, adaptive assessments and immersive simulations through technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). These advancements not only enhance student engagement and understanding but also support the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The paper highlights successful case studies from institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and Stanford Online High School, showcasing practical implementations of AI in STEM education. However, the integration of AI also brings forth challenges, particularly concerning data privacy, security and the need for equitable access to technology. As AI continues to advance, it promises to play an important role in lifelong learning, offering modular and just-in-time educational opportunities. The paper concludes with a call for robust ethical frameworks to guide the responsible use of AI in education, ensuring that the benefits are maximized while potential risks are mitigated
Understanding the Difference Between Autism and the Autistic Spectrum: A Focus on the South African Context
Full text linkAutism is a group of severe developmental disorders with impairments beginning before 30 months of age and characterized by a qualitative disturbance of social development and of language for communication, a stereotyped behaviour, and a lack of a broad set of interests. The expression of autism varies from one individual to the next. It is a communicative disorder and is not due to poor reception. The researchers drew their literature from reputable journal articles, book chapters from established publishers, and informal community conversations amid the researchers’ experiential intuition. Currently, South African children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) lack government support structures and rely primarily on families for assistance with education and therapy. An additional challenge is that in some South African black communities, autism is not recognized as a disorder. A study exploring differences in the nature, application, experience, and examination of social awareness and understanding of selected educators about new terminology in their environment found that local black teachers had less exposure to autism knowledge, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in their communities, and little understanding, awareness, or acceptance of this condition. This article underscores the crucial role of social service professionals, such as psychologists, registered counsellors, social workers, etc, in these communities. Their presence and active involvement provide hope in these challenging times. It recommends that they conduct psychotherapeutic education, which could involve awareness campaigns and counselling about psychotherapeutic education. Their role would be to provide support, guidance, and education to the community members, helping them to build their resilience to fight the coronavirus.  
The 4Rs Framework: Creating A Synergy to Support the Implementation of English Education for Sustainable Development in Rwanda
Full text linkRwanda started teaching English to support sustainable development and deliver the five key pillars that will help Rwandans transition from their existing way of life to the society they all desire and are happy to be a part of. As a follow-up to the Sustainable Development Goals and the Berlin Declaration on Education for Sustainable Development, the government ensured the standardisation and teaching of English. In order to assist the implementation of English teaching nationally, the theoretical paper explains how the 4Rs Framework—relationship-building, recognition, responsibilities, and reciprocity—combine to generate synergy among many stakeholders and cross-sectoral collaboration. The study presents literature on Rwanda's Vision 2050, education for sustainable development, and teaching using English as a medium of communication. It is founded on a critical literature review. The article discusses options for national transformation while emphasising the importance of locally rooted collaboration. The 4Rs technique is intended to foster discussion among important players about the issues and problems facing the area of education in emergencies rather than serving as a rigid theoretical framework. The study shows the connections between and tensions among the various "Rs," as well as the efficiency of the 4R dimensions in encouraging the teaching of English. The study considered ways to get beyond the approach's drawbacks and difficulties to support sustainable schooling in Rwanda. This framework encourages the creation of a synergistic educational ecosystem that equips students with the information, skills, and attitudes required to actively participate in Rwanda's path to sustainable development