The Eurasia Proceedings of Educational and Social Sciences
The Eurasia Proceedings of Educational and Social Sciences (EPESS) is a peer-reviewed and online free journal. As an open access journal, the Eurasia Proceedings of Educational and Social Sciences (EPESS) does not charge article submission or processing fees.The manuscripts which are accepted for publication in the EPESS are invited from the conferences. EPESS will be published in the last six months of the year (July, August, September, October, November and December) starting from 2024. The journal will continue its academic life by publishing 6 issues per year. The Eurasia Proceedings of Educational and Social Sciences (EPESS) welcomes any research papers on education and social sciences using techniques from and applications in any technical knowledge domain: original theoretical works, literature reviews, research reports, social issues, psychological issues, curricula, learning environments, and review articles. The articles should be original, unpublished, and not in consideration for publication elsewhere at the time of submission to the EPESS. The full paper versions of the conference papers are published in the EPESS. EPESS only publishes full texts of conferences organized by International Society for Research in Education and Science (ISRES) Period Months July August September October November December
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New Paradigms in Artificial Intelligence and Language Education: An Examination of Little Language Lessons
This study examines the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in language education through a descriptive analysis of the Little Language Lessons application developed by Google Labs. The research employs qualitative methods, specifically document analysis and descriptive analysis, with the application serving as the primary document for examination. The analysis reveals that the application uses artificial intelligence to overcome rote learning, instead creating contextually rich and personalized micro-lessons that establish semantic relationships between words. The findings show that AI-powered tools offer a more effective learning experience than traditional methods by personalizing the language acquisition process and potentially increasing student motivation. Various empirical studies in the field were examined to establish a connection with the topic. In this context, it is argued that artificial intelligence should be positioned not as a replacement for traditional teaching, but as a complementary resource that enriches language education.
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Analyzing the Emotions of Individuals with Special Education Needs During the Educational Process Using Facial Recognition Software
Facial expressions play a significant role in interpersonal interaction. The primary way individuals convey their intentions is by incorporating facial expressions into the communication process. The ability to read facial expressions is a cornerstone of social relationships, and this skill becomes vital in situations where words are insufficient or deceptive. Today, the ability for computers to rapidly scan and analyze facial expressions is facilitating human life in numerous fields. Studies in the literature indicate that this analysis is used in many fields: for security purposes, such as taking precautions against malicious individuals or detecting fatigue for safe driving; for identifying health problems, such as pain diagnosis in newborns; and for creating personalized experiences in psychological and social domains, like generating music playlists based on mood. For individuals with special education needs, interpreting emotions from facial expressions is a more challenging skill; however, understanding their emotions is of greater importance due to their specific conditions. In this study, a recognition software was developed using the Python programming language, capable of detecting the human face and identifying emotional states from facial expressions. Using this software, 10 students with special education needs were observed over a period of 8 weeks. The research methodology relies on comparing the instantaneous emotion detection records from the software (developed using Python, OpenCV, and DeepFace libraries) with the dominant emotion records identified per session by an expert human observer. The analysis results demonstrated a high degree of overlap between the emotions detected by the software and those identified by the observer. According to data from both the software (totaling 791 emotion detections) and the observer, the most frequently observed dominant emotional states among the students during the 8-week educational period were found to be "neutral" (natural state) and "happiness". These findings suggest that the developed software can be utilized as a highly efficient and valid tool for understanding the emotional states of students in special education environments.
Transforming Customer Experience into Super-Apps: An Analysis of Agentic AI Potential through the Passo Case Study
This study set out to explore the transformative potential of Agentic AI within the complex ecosystem of a super-app, using an exploratory case study of Passo and a novel Agentic Maturity Model. Our analysis of key user journeys demonstrates that a shift from low-maturity reactive systems (Levels 1-2) to high-maturity proactive and orchestrating agents (Levels 3-4) can fundamentally reshape the customer experience, turning points of friction into opportunities for value creation and trust-building. The primary contribution of this paper is the Agentic Maturity Model, which provides a clear framework for this transformation and offers a strategic roadmap for organizations to move beyond simple automation towards providing truly autonomous services. Ultimately, this research suggests that the future of digital competition in the super-app era will not be defined simply by the number of services offered, but by the intelligence and autonomy of the agents that help users navigate them.
Mapping Corruption in Higher Education: A Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends
Researchers conducted a bibliometric analysis of 279 papers published between 1977 and 2024, focusing on corruption in higher education, as documented in the Scopus database. This study tracks the inception and evolution of corruption-related research within academic institutions, revealing a gradual increase in scholarly attention to this issue over time. Utilising Bibliomagika© and visualised through VOSviewer, the analysis highlights growth patterns, main topics, prolific authors and research networks in the field. The findings indicate a significant shift in the focus on governance, financial impropriety, and ethical dilemmas in higher education, reflecting a global trend towards greater transparency and accountability. The analysis outlines key research themes, methodologies, and geographic regions, documenting their evolution and providing an overview of the field's development. This study also identifies critical knowledge gaps and suggests future research directions to enhance understanding of fraud in higher education, informing policy and reform initiatives. These insights are important for researchers, policymakers, and educators addressing corruption and promoting academic integrity.
Methodology of Using Information Technology Software Tools in Teaching Mathematics
The use of modern information technology tools in the process of teaching mathematics and solving mathematical problems leads to an increase in the effectiveness, visuality and level of mastery of the educational process. The use of the created methodological and software tools in the lesson at the right place and time increases the effectiveness and visuality of the lesson, as well as the level of students' perception of information on the subject and their skills of independent work. The importance of computers in the field of education is incomparable. The use of computer tools in lessons: multimedia, virtual laboratories and virtual exhibitions serves as another factor in increasing the effectiveness of the lesson. In the educational process, analyzing the software tools created for teaching mathematics based on information technologies to date, creating and demonstrating methodological and software tools that are convenient for organizing the teaching process of mathematics, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and demonstrating them in the lesson
Adolescence as a Critical Period: Gender Differences in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior
The study, conducted with a sample of 177 male students and 89 female students from the final grades of high schools in Zagreb, examined physical activity, sedentary behavior, and dietary habits among adolescents. The results show that the majority of male students (67%) regularly engage in sports, with most having been involved in sports for over five years (44.65%), while the majority of female students (52.27%) are inactive. Among those who participate in sports, a larger percentage of both genders engage in individual sports (39.55% of male athletes and 42.05% of female athletes).Regarding sedentary behavior, both genders spend a similar amount of time using mobile devices and applications (2-3 hours daily), with a higher percentage of male students (37.29%) spending more time playing video games compared to female students (79.55%).In terms of dietary habits, the majority of students from both genders report having prior knowledge of nutrition, with male students being slightly more informed about weight loss and weight gain advice. While they are aware of the importance of proper nutrition, there are noticeable deficiencies in their dietary habits, especially in the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fish. Females generally consume more fruits and dairy products, while males consume more meat and meat products. The study highlights the need for further educational and health interventions to promote a more balanced diet and greater engagement in physical activity among adolescents.
Assessing Scientific Thinking in Early Childhood: Development and Validation of the Scientific Thinking Skills Assessment Tool (STS-AT)
This study reports the development and validation of the Scientific Thinking Skills Assessment Tool (STS-AT), designed to measure scientific thinking in children aged 5–8 years. The STS-AT assesses four domains: critical inquiry, hypothesis testing, analytical interpretation, and metacognitive awareness. Item development was guided by theoretical frameworks and expert review, followed by pilot testing with 72 children, which demonstrated clarity and inter-rater reliability (Cohen’s κ = 0.88). The final instrument comprised 12 open-ended tasks supported with visual aids and scored on a four-point rubric. The main study involved 282 children from Turkish kindergartens and primary schools. Reliability analyses indicated strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = .87) and high test–retest stability (r = .91). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a four-factor structure with excellent fit (RMSEA = .04, CFI = .95, TLI = .93, SRMR = .06). Results showed significant improvements in scientific thinking with age (F(3,278) = 18.81, p < .001, η² = 0.17), while no gender differences were observed (t = -1.01, p = 0.315). These findings suggest that the STS-AT is a valid, reliable, and developmentally appropriate tool for assessing scientific thinking in early childhood.
Bibliometric Perspectives on E-book Evaluation
The remarkable advancement in the computing technology brings a new paradigm shift in the book perspective, transitioning from the physical book to the virtual book. It involves multiple sectors such as in the educational, health, engineering, economics, arts and many more. Rapid evolvement in the economic sector creates innovative platform that allows the authors to delve into E-book business that can reach to a wider audience without geographical limitations. Nowadays, anyone able to produce an E-book, however, to ensure that the E-book meets the usability and requirements of the audience is also important and cannot be neglected. Therefore, E-book evaluation is critical in this perspective. This study aims to explore the publication trends in E-book evaluation from 1984 until 2025. Several key aspects were investigated in this study that related to the (1) publication trends and growth, (2) the key authors and collaboration patterns, (3) institutional and country influence and (4) keyword analysis. The data were derived from the Scopus database by using the keywords (e-book OR ebook OR "electronic book" OR "digital book") AND evaluation. There are 595 obtained results in which after screening, the number of publications included for the study is 452. Data analysis and visualization were made using the biblioMagika and VOSviewer. The most productive years in E-book evaluation publications is in 2019 with 33 publications. The most prolific author is Ogata, Hiroaki from Kyoto University with total of 19 publications. Meanwhile for the influential institution for E-book evaluation is Kyoto University, Japan with 11 total publications with 90 total citations. The most productive country is United States with 85 publications in E-book evaluation. The E-book evaluation can be done either quantitatively or qualitatively. Notably, the advancement of artificial intelligence offers new dimensions for assisting in the evaluation process.
Development of 3D Visualization Media Using Assemblr Studio for Learning Polyhedral Geometry
The integration of technology in education has significantly transformed the teaching and learning process, especially in subjects like geometry, which heavily rely on spatial visualization. Students’ understanding of polyhedral geometry concepts is often hindered by the limitations of two-dimensional representations found in textbooks. Recent technological advancements have enabled 3D visualization to become an innovative solution for enhancing conceptual understanding in geometry. This study employs the Plomp development model, which consists of three phases. In the preliminary research phase, it was found that students struggle to understand polyhedral geometry due to limitations in visual representation. In the prototyping phase, an interactive and engaging 3D visualization medium was developed. In the assessment phase, media feasibility testing was conducted, focusing on expert validation and practical testing with students. The validation was carried out by three experts: a media expert, a subject matter expert, and an educational expert. The validation results indicated that the developed 3D visualization media achieved a very high level of validity, with an average score of 90.7%. Furthermore, the average practicality score was 79%, categorized as practical. The findings of this study demonstrate that the use of 3D visualization media based on Assemblr Studio is feasible for teaching polyhedral geometry.
Artificial Intelligence Role in Avoiding Ambiguous Vocabulary
Artificial Intelligence has undergone extraordinary development and progress in recent years and as such it has significantly influenced almost every domain or field of life, including education and learning. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of AI to understand ambiguous words in English and to avoid the ambiguity caused by them during learning English as a second language. Given the somehow limited number of studies that have been focused on the effectiveness of using AI to learn vocabulary in general and ambiguous English vocabulary as one of the most common difficulties encountered during learning English as a second language, the paper aims to highlight precisely the advantages and effectiveness that the use of AI brings in this aspect. This paper aims to present key and effective elements of the use of AI to avoid the ambiguities created by ambiguous words and to better understand and acquire this ambiguous vocabulary in conversation and to correctly interpret the intended meaning of the speaker. The study highlights the considerable values of the use of AI both in education and in the process of learning the English language if used correctly and with the appropriate instructions. Regarding the methodology used, a number of questionnaires were designed and distributed where the questions focus on the impacts, facilities and benefits that AI brings to the acquisition of ambiguous vocabulary.
Designing Interactive E-Books: A Focus Group Study
The design of digital learning resources for specialized domains such as Takaful (Islamic insurance) requires particular attention to usability, cultural sensitivity, and conceptual accessibility. While interactive e-books have gained popularity in education, their application in Islamic finance remains underexplored. This study investigates expert perspectives on the development of an interactive e-book tailored for Takaful education. Using a user-centered design approach, a high-fidelity prototype was evaluated through a focus group discussion with eight subject matter experts from Islamic finance and information communication technology (ICT). The findings revealed that effective content design must include multimedia elements—such as infographics, videos, and audio explanations to support comprehension of abstract concepts. Participants emphasized the importance of contextual relevance, recommending features such as clickable Quranic verses and glossary-linked definitions. Regarding interface design, users appreciated a layout that mirrors traditional reading formats, with consistent navigation and IIUM-aligned visual themes enhancing usability. In terms of interactivity, participants highlighted the value of quizzes with instant feedback, annotation tools, and embedded multimedia for fostering engagement and learner autonomy. These results align with existing literature emphasizing the role of digital glossaries, multimedia integration, and adaptive features in improving reading performance and knowledge retention. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge in educational technology by offering practical design recommendations for culturally responsive and pedagogically sound e-books in the Takaful domain. The insights gained can guide educators, designers, and policymakers in developing effective digital tools for Islamic finance education and public literacy.
Integrating Technology to Improve Research Competencies through SPSS Practical Training
The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of SPSS practical training to improve the research competencies of the students and academic staff of “Fan S. Noli” University. The population consists of 42 participants in the training sessions that were conducted during the development of the “Technology and data analysis in scientific research: Applications in SPSS, R and EViews” project, implemented in “Fan. S. Noli” University. The instrument used was a pretest and posttest questionnaire that was distributed among staff and students taking part in the training. The questionnaire’s aim was to grasp the perceptions of participants related to data entry, descriptive statistics, testing hypothesis, regression analysis, correlation analysis, and categorical data analysis. Subsequently, the data gathered was compared using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. The results indicated a statistically significant difference in all the fields mentioned above, thus confirming that participants performed better after the training than before.
The Utilization of Artificial Intelligence in Hungarian Higher Education: A Meta-Summary of Recent Studies
The rapid spread of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming higher education environments around the world – and Hungary is no exception. Over the past three years (2023–2025), several empirical studies have examined the attitudes of students and teachers toward AI, its uses, and the challenges of integrating the technology into Hungarian higher education institutions. The aim of this paper is to provide a comparative overview of these studies, i.e., to produce a meta-summary of the latest data and trends and to formulate recommendations for future AI strategies in Hungarian higher education. The analysis is based on four thematic categories: knowledge and use of AI tools, educational integration, ethical and pedagogical challenges, and institutional support and guidelines. Surveys show that artificial intelligence is no longer a marginal phenomenon in Hungarian higher education, but part of everyday practice. At the same time, the development of critical digital literacy, the clarification of ethical guidelines, and the establishment of institutional support systems are essential for the integration of technology into education. Based on the results, Hungarian students widely use AI tools for information retrieval and text creation, while teachers primarily use them for curriculum development and assessment purposes. In both groups, the integration of ethical and critical considerations appears to be a significant challenge. The study makes recommendations for the development of institutional policies, pedagogical practices, and ethical regulations.
Digital Self-Efficacy, Technology Adoption Practices and Technology Integration Skills: A Structural Equation Model Framework for Faculty Digital Competency Development
This study investigated the intricate interplay among digital self-efficacy, technology integration, and technology adoption practices within higher education institutions, examining their influence on faculty behaviors and overall productivity. Employing a quantitative approach utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the research assessed various facets of digital competency. Findings revealed faculty possess a commendable level of digital self-efficacy, particularly in safety (composite mean=3.34) and communication. While strong confidence exists in technology's potential to enhance student learning (highest performance expectancy=3.67), significant barriers were identified in facilitating conditions, notably unreliable internet connectivity (lowest=2.35) and institutional support. Regarding technology integration, faculty generally demonstrate an agreeable level of skill, valuing its role in career advancement (highest=3.30), though expressing least contentment with digital content quality (lowest=2.75). Crucially, the analysis confirmed robust interconnections: digital self-efficacy directly and substantially influences both technology adoption practices (estimate=0.782) and technology integration skills (estimate=0.782). Furthermore, technology adoption practices directly and positively affect technology integration skills (estimate=0.252), establishing a significant mediating role for adoption in the self-efficacy-integration relationship (indirect effect=0.129). The proposed model demonstrated a good fit (cfi=0.938, tli=0.916). In conclusion, faculty digital self-efficacy is a pivotal driver of technology engagement and integration.
Problab-Scratch Goes to School: Design, Teaching and Learning of Probability with Interactive Computer Models
Teaching programming and creating interactive computer models has attracted much attention over the years, mostly the attention of curriculum developers and teachers. ProbLab-Scrach is a series of tasks created to teach probability using interactive computer models using Google Colab and Scratch. This application is a means of facilitating discussions regarding probability material for junior high school students and contextualizing the content. This research aims to produce: (1) learning media developed on probability material at the Junior high school level, (2) level feasibility and student responses to learning media developed. This research is research and development (R&D) which uses the ADDIE model. Development procedures include analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. In the implementation stage, thirty participants of 8th grade (13-15 years old) Indonesian students learn probability materials with Google Colab and Scratch based on scenarios authored by the researchers. The results show that it is feasible to facilitate learning probability in Junior High School and have a positive impact on learning outcomes, especially theoretical and empirical probability.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Science Education: A Case Study
This study aims to examine how a faculty member working at an education faculty in Türkiye integrates artificial intelligence (AI) tools into science education, as well as their views and experiences. Based on a qualitative case study design, data obtained from semi-structured interviews and notes taken by a participant observer who attended the faculty member's classes were analyzed thematically, revealing five main themes. These themes are commonly used AI tools, AI and information reliability, AI and ethics, AI and access to information, and perceptions of AI. The research findings reveal that the definition of AI is not yet fully established and can be perceived in different ways, that information obtained through AI is not very reliable in terms of science education, that it contains misconceptions and misinformation, that there are ethical issues in AI-based studies, and that although AI facilitates access to information, it carries risks in terms of developing thinking skills. In light of these findings, science educators are advised to educate themselves on subject matter knowledge and misconceptions, critically evaluate information obtained through AI, and adhere to ethical principles when using AI.
Divergent Paths, Shared Goals: Green Finance Development in the V4 Countries
Green finance has long been the cornerstone of sustainable development, with mechanisms and financial instruments serving to support low-carbon growth and climate resilience. This article considers the evolution of green finance in the Visegrad Four nations (the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia) and how they compare regarding progress, challenges, and alignment with European Union sustainability objectives.Though they have a shared past and dependence on fossil fuels, the V4 countries are all growing at different rates. Poland pioneered the issuance of the world's first sovereign green bond in 2016 and remains at the forefront with new-bank innovative products and high levels of government participation. Hungarian growth is spearheaded by the Hungarian Central Bank, which has launched green mortgage bonds and regulatory incentives to introduce environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into financial markets. The Czech Republic has focused on establishing regulatory pillars, but implementation is slow and fragmented. Slovakia, on the other hand, relies on EU funding and national government schemes as well, with minimal domestic green financial tools. The analysis highlights both opportunities and barriers. While EU frameworks such as the Green Deal and Taxonomy Regulation provide strong incentives, national disparities in regulatory capacity, private sector engagement, and market maturity hinder convergence. Key challenges include reliance on fossil fuels, information asymmetries, and limited awareness among businesses and households. The study concludes that greater regional cooperation, increased transparency, and the development of cross-border financing mechanisms could strengthen the V4’s green transition. A joint V4 Green Bond Fund and ESG-focused education initiatives are proposed as pathways to accelerate sustainable finance in the region. Ultimately, effective green finance can deliver long-term environmental, economic, and social benefits, positioning the V4 countries as competitive actors in Europe’s shift toward climate neutrality.
Human-Centered Future: The Rise of Industry 5.0 in Corporate Sustainability Literature
In the second quarter of the 21st century, Industry 5.0 is considered as the most advanced stage of the industrial revolution, where the interaction between people and smart technologies has reached a new level. This assessment is not limited to the digital transformation of production processes, but also shaped by multidimensional sustainability elements such as environmental sensitivity, social benefit and ethical responsibility. The concept of Industry 5.0 seeks to build a manufacturing ecosystem grounded in sustainability and human-centric principles. The aim of this study is to reveal the current research trends in the international academic literature within the framework of the keywords “Industry 5.0” and “Sustainability” and to analyze the areas in which this conceptual framework is concentrated through bibliometric data. Building on this context, a total of 664 English-language scientific publications published between 2020 and 2025 in the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection database were included in the scope of the analysis. The retrieved data were processed using RStudio Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software, and the publications were systematically evaluated according to their distribution across research fields, open access status, funding institutions, ongoing projects, influential conferences, leading journals, and prolific authors. The findings reveal that engineering, computer-related fields, and environmental sciences stand out as the disciplines contributing most to this area, while the fact that 71% of the publications are open access has gained particular attention. Furthermore, it was identified that funding bodies originating from the European Union and China provide the majority of financial support for this research domain. International conferences and publishers such as IFIP, IEEE, and ACM are among the most prominent platforms where the research is disseminated. As a result of the research, it is seen that the themes of Industry 5.0 and sustainability are met with increasing interest in the scientific literature; this interest is supported by multidisciplinary collaborations, global research funds and open access policies. This study contributes to identifying gaps in the literature and possible future research directions by revealing how Industry 5.0 is positioned in the context of sustainability.
Public Perceptions and Trust Dimensions of Military Autonomous Vehicles in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
The development of autonomous vehicle technologies over the past decade has opened up new strategic, economic, and security policy opportunities for both the civilian and defense sectors. Technological innovations have also led to significant changes in the structure of warfare: unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), self-driving land vehicles, and artificial intelligence-supported systems have become increasingly prevalent in armed conflicts in recent years. These systems not only perform reconnaissance, logistical, or support functions, but are also increasingly involved in actively targeting and autonomously reaching the target area. The development and application of military autonomous systems therefore deserve special attention, as it raises a number of new types of risks and challenges in the areas of cybersecurity, ethical standards, international humanitarian law, and national security. The aim of this research is to map social attitudes and trust levels regarding the use of autonomous vehicles for military purposes. The study examines the opinions of different demographic groups on an empirical basis, paying particular attention to trust in technological developments, assessments of the safety of transport and combat systems, and legal and ethical considerations related to military applications of AI. The results show that the social acceptance of military autonomous systems is closely related to public trust in artificial intelligence and automated systems, as well as the perception of risks associated with them. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the economic and social impacts of technological innovations for defense purposes and lays the foundation for future research examining the integration of autonomous systems into military infrastructure, taking into account regulatory, security policy, and social aspects.
Matching Leadership Style to Project Context: Exploring Contextual Factors Affecting Project Managers' Leadership Style
Achieving project success is of vital importance for project owner organizations in implementing strategic objectives and supporting overall company development. The project managers’ leadership style is a critical factor in project success. Several previous studies (Müller & Turner, 2007; Yang et al., 2013; Tabassi et al., 2016; Bhatti et al., 2021) have analyzed the relationship between project managers’ leadership styles and project performance. Most of these studies have reinforced the general view that an appropriate leadership style facilitates successful project completion (Muller & Turner, 2007; Yang et al., 2013; Tabassi et al., 2016). However, there is no single best leadership behavior, as the effectiveness of a project manager’s leadership style depends on the characteristics of the project and its organizational context. Bearing this in mind, several researchers (Müller & Turner, 2010; Raziq et al., 2018; Kabore, Sane & Abo, 2021; Nauman et al., 2022) have analyzed the relationship between leadership style and project success in a more context-related manner, taking into account various project and organizational attributes. Nevertheless, these studies often differ significantly in the range of attributes they analyze and in how they conceptualize these contextual factors, leading to notable limitations. To identify the appropriate leadership style for project managers in different project contexts, there is a need to establish a comprehensive framework that includes the fundamental characteristics of both the project and its organizational context. This study provides a systematic review of project management literature, focusing on the relationship between project managers’ leadership styles, attributes of project context, and project success. Our findings reveal a lack of comprehensive, context-related studies in this field. Therefore, further research is needed to highlight key project and organizational characteristics that affect the identification of appropriate leadership styles by means of deductive reasoning.
Assessing the Financial Performance of Moroccan Regions: A Case Study Approach
In recent years, decentralization and regional governance reforms have become a key priority for many countries to promote sustainable territorial development. In Morocco, the 2011 Constitution introduced advanced regionalization, granting regional governments greater autonomy and responsibilities in financing and managing local development. However, more than a decade later, questions remain about the financial performance of these regions and their capacity to mobilize and manage resources effectively. This paper aims to assess the financial performance of Moroccan regions through a case study approach. It examines regional revenue structures, expenditure patterns, fiscal autonomy, and investment capacity to evaluate the alignment between financial capabilities and the objectives of advanced regionalization. Relying on data from official sources, this study aims to provide an analytical overview of regional financial capabilities within the framework of advanced regionalization, contributes to the discussion on regional finance and governance in Morocco and formulates policy-oriented insights to support more effective and sustainable territorial development.
A Bibliometric Examination of Entrepreneurial Traits in Scientific Literature
Entrepreneurship research has increasingly recognized the role of individual traits in shaping entrepreneurial behavior and success. Despite the growing body of literature, systematic evaluations of how entrepreneurial traits are studied remain limited. This paper applies bibliometric analysis to map and synthesise scientific publications on entrepreneurial traits, identifying key research trends, influential authors, and thematic developments in the field. The study draws on data retrieved from the Dimensions.ai database, covering publications up to nowadays. Using bibliometric techniques, the analysis examines citation structures, co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrence, and temporal trends. The results highlight the rapid growth of interest in entrepreneurial traits over the past two decades, with a concentration of research in journals focusing on entrepreneurship, management, and psychology. Among the most frequently studied traits are risk-taking, innovativeness, proactiveness, resilience, and self-efficacy, often linked to broader constructs such as entrepreneurial orientation and personality frameworks. Co-occurrence mapping further reveals clusters of research connecting traits to innovation, firm performance, and entrepreneurial intention.The findings show that the field has shifted from trait-based personality approaches toward more integrative perspectives that situate traits within social, cultural, and institutional contexts. Collaboration patterns indicate a global and interdisciplinary network, although research remains concentrated in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. This study contributes by providing a structured overview of the evolution and current state of entrepreneurial trait research. By highlighting influential works and emerging themes, it helps scholars navigate the literature and identify underexplored areas, such as cross-cultural comparisons and the role of traits in digital and sustainable entrepreneurship. Bibliometric evidence also offers practical implications for educators and policymakers seeking to foster entrepreneurial capacities in diverse contexts.
Structural and Functional Concept of the Labor Market Ecosystem
The purpose of the article is to identify the components of the labor market ecosystem, reveal the mechanisms of interaction and complementarity of these components, and identify opportunities for public authorities to influence the labor market in order to overcome its shortcomings and asymmetries. To achieve this goal, the authors used methods of correlation analysis, structural-logical and functional approaches, analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction, econometric and hypothetical methods. This made it possible to present the labor market ecosystem in terms of its internal and external environments, which should interact organically but in reality often act contradictorily, hindering and distorting the development of the ecosystem. By studying the process of forming the labor market ecosystem, the authors obtained reliable data on the correlation between employment and such components of the ecosystem as the volume of capital investments, the volume of final consumer spending, the volume of exports of goods and services, and the share of credit money in capital investments. The article pays particular attention to the creation of conditions for the development of human potential as a core component of the labor market ecosystem. The authors substantiate the role and directions of implementation of the regulatory component of the ecosystem, which is capable of limiting chaotic fluctuations and ensuring the purposefulness of the ecosystem as a whole.
Agility 2.0: The Impact of AI Integration on the Operation of a Financial Institution
In recent years, the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has significantly impacted various areas of corporate operations – especially those where agile methodologies are already embedded in everyday practice. This study examines how AI is transforming workflows, decision-making mechanisms, performance indicators, as well as human behavior and attitudes toward work within the agile operation of a financial institution. The research is based on a questionnaire survey completed by members of the agile team of a Hungarian financial institution, along with in-depth interviews conducted with several senior managers and professionals working in agile roles. These sources provide insights into experiences, attitudes, and organizational maturity related to the implementation of AI. The study explores how AI tools are integrated into daily routines, including task automation, predictive analytics, and more efficient collaboration. It highlights the differing perceptions of AI across various roles – from developers to product owners to executives – and sheds light on the coexistence of optimism and skepticism. Special attention is given to the challenges of aligning AI capabilities with agile principles such as flexibility, transparency, and continuous improvement. The aim of the research is to support financial institutions in developing more conscious and strategic approaches to AI adoption. The findings contribute to understanding how new technologies can become real competitive advantages in the agile environment of the future.
The Impact of Proactive Communication on Client Behavior: A Field Experiment in the Turkish Banking Sector
This study investigates the causal effect of proactive telephone communication on client behavior in the context of investment product maturity at a Turkish bank. Framed within the scope of Nudge Theory, the study assesses whether phone calls—though significantly more costly than digital channels—can effectively prompt timely client action, reduce opportunity costs, and improve client retention. Using a randomized field experiment (N = 200), clients were assigned to either receive a phone call or standard digital notifications. The results indicate that phone calls significantly accelerated reinvestment actions by approximately five days and reduced potential interest loss across all customer segments. However, no significant impact was found on satisfaction scores or 3-month churn rates. Qualitative feedback suggests that product features such as interest rates and limits may drive satisfaction more than communication methods. The findings suggest a strategic balance between digital nudges and targeted high-touch interventions.
Strategic Research Initiatives for Elevating Young Universities
Emerging universities encounter distinct challenges and opportunities in their pursuit of attaining elevated standards of academic excellence within the swiftly transforming domain of higher education. Whereas conventional educational frameworks have predominantly concentrated on pedagogical methods, an institution such as The American University of Kurdistan must incorporate comprehensive research initiatives that not only bolster its academic standing but also contribute to the corpus of global knowledge. By emphasizing interdisciplinary inquiry, cultivating partnerships with industry leaders and established academic entities, and allocating resources to cutting-edge research facilities, AUK can establish an invigorating milieu that fosters innovation and critical analysis. This study investigates two strategic research initiatives that possess the potential to advance the Department of Architectural Engineering at AUK, highlighting the crucial importance of scientific inquiry in promoting educational progress. This methodology not only enhances the academic journey for students but also positions the university as a key contributor to societal advancement. The results accentuate the imperative for nascent universities to reconcile their educational objectives with a profound dedication to research, thereby ensuring enduring growth and long-lasting success within the competitive landscape of academia.
Integration of Green Competencies in Entrepreneurial Practices for Sustainable Development of the Industry
Today, industrial enterprises face the challenges and opportunities of the green transition, sustainable development, and digital transformation. In their long-term entrepreneurial strategies, there are significant investment costs related to increasing sustainability and imposing circular practices. A significant part of them is focused on training human resources to understand environmental and sustainability issues and knowledge about the possible impacts of human activity on ecosystems. Such an effort leads to a paradigm shift in the way the industry operates and to the search for new management approaches to training people. Such training is an invariable element of the transformation of the economy toward a green and circular economy. Thus, the focus of attention is on new competencies, knowledge, skills, and experience, which are critically important for going through the transformation of the industry toward green and sustainable strategies, policies, and practices. Based on the research, a specific set of competencies has been analyzed and formulated, defined in their entirety as green competencies. The aim of the study is to derive the requirements for the competence profile of workers in industrial enterprises, with an emphasis on their environmentally and socially responsible behavior. As a result of the study and analysis, guidelines for integrating green competences into entrepreneurial practices for sustainable industry development are indicated, which can contribute to the development of the entire economy.
Learning from Nature: Recommendations for the Process of Rebuilding Antakya After the 6th February Earthquakes
Nature-based planning and design approaches have become one of the main strategies for the reconstruction of cities under disaster risk in terms of sustainability and resilience principles. In this study, the spatial relationship between ecological vulnerability and earthquake risk in the Antakya district of Hatay province, which was severely devastated by the Kahramanmaras-centered earthquakes that occurred on February 6, 2023, was revealed, and ecological vulnerability areas under earthquake hazard were mapped with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based analyses. The method used in the study is based on multi-layered spatial analysis. Layers such as CORINE land use, lithology, slope, and distance to fault lines were weighted by expert assessments. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and weighted registration methods were applied. Building data digitised from Google Earth Pro images and post-earthquake demolition data (Basarsoft) were overlaid, and the level of overlap of the structures destroyed in the earthquake with both physical risk and ecological sensitivity areas was evaluated. According to the findings, 18.7% of the structures are located in high-risk areas in terms of earthquakes, while 9.4% are located in ecologically sensitive areas. These results emphasize the necessity of nature-based spatial decision support systems in reducing disaster risks. The model presented in this paper is expected to guide both post-disaster urban planning and the protection of ecological integrity and enable the development of concrete recommendations for a sustainable, nature-sensitive and resilient Antakya.
The Impact of Macroeconomic Volatility on Gold Price Volatility: A Study in Vietnam
This study examines the asymmetric impact of macroeconomic volatility on gold price volatility in Vietnam, focusing on inflation, interest rates, exchange rates, and global gold prices. Unlike prior research centered on developed markets with assumptions of symmetric price responses, this paper addresses the unique dynamics of Vietnam’s gold market, where gold functions both as a commodity and quasi-financial asset, within a tightly regulated environment. A key institutional factor is Decree 24, introduced by the State Bank of Vietnam in 2012 to curb speculation, stabilize prices, and centralize gold trading. While initially effective, its long-term efficacy remains uncertain, particularly in the face of global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Using an Exponential Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity (EGARCH) model, the study analyzes monthly data from January 2007 to May 2023 across three phases: pre-Decree 24, post-Decree 24, and during COVID-19. The model captures volatility persistence and asymmetric responses of gold prices to macroeconomic shocks. Findings show that global gold prices consistently influence Vietnam’s gold price volatility, though this linkage weakens post-Decree 24, reflecting partial market insulation. Inflation becomes a more prominent driver of volatility in the regulated period, underscoring gold’s inflation-hedging role. Interest and exchange rates exhibit limited effects, and the COVID-19 period reveals heightened vulnerability, raising concerns over the rigidity of the existing regulatory regime. These results suggest the need for a more adaptive policy framework to balance market stability with responsiveness. The study contributes to emerging market literature by integrating regulatory context with asymmetric macroeconomic analysis.
Conversing, Crafting, Creating: How Tailored ChatGPT Chatbots and Makerspace Environments Spark Innovation in Elementary Students
Innovation skills are increasingly prioritized in primary education, yet empirical evidence on how emerging technologies cultivate these skills remains limited, especially in non-Western contexts. This study examined the separate and combined effects of two interventions—tailored ChatGPT scaffolding and a curriculum-integrated makerspace—on elementary students’ innovation. Using a post-test-only, 2 × 2 factorial, true-experimental design, 120 sixth-grade students (30 per cell) were selected by simple random sampling from four public schools and assigned to one of four instructional conditions: traditional teacher-led classroom, ChatGPT-enhanced classroom, makerspace only, or ChatGPT + makerspace. Over 12 weeks, all groups completed 15 STEM design challenges aligned with national standards; experimental groups received their designated supports. Outcomes were measured with the Young Innovators Scale (α = .92) and an expert-rated prototype task (ICC = .88). Multivariate analysis revealed significant main effects for ChatGPT, Wilks’ Λ = .27, F(2, 115) = 155.60, p < .001, partial η² = .73, and for the makerspace, Wilks’ Λ = .17, F(2, 115) = 277.80, p < .001, partial η² = .83. Univariate ANOVAs indicated large gains for ChatGPT (η² ≈ .50) and the makerspace (η² ≈ .71) on both innovation self-efficacy and prototype quality. The ChatGPT × Makerspace interaction was non-significant, suggesting additive rather than multiplicative effects. Findings substantiate the independent value of dialogic AI scaffolding and tool-rich fabrication in fostering elementary innovation and provide a data-driven foundation for integrating these technologies within STEM curricula in Arabic-speaking settings. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts and real-time AI–fabrication integrations to test potential synergies over extended durations.