Asian Research Journal of Arts & Social Sciences

Digital Cultural Communicators in Tiktok Live Commerce: Implications for the Microeconomic Sustainability

Rewindinar — 2025-08-21

This study analyzes the role of digital communicators in live commerce on the social media platform TikTok, which has become an innovative sales method. In the context of a digital commerce landscape, individuals act as active subjects in marketing. TikTok, as one of the largest social media platforms, has created an ecosystem where interactions between sellers and buyers take place in a virtual space driven by cultural and social capital. The main focus of this research is the importance of interaction between sellers and consumers in creating an engaging shopping experience, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The objective is to understand the communication techniques employed by sellers and their effects on audience engagement. The method used in this research is the observation of the TikTok account @louissescarlettfamily live shopping sessions. The account, which offers various products, was awarded the TikTok Awards as Top Education Creator in 2021. It has 4.8 million followers and a track record of high sales performance, achieving almost 1000 million per hour. The results indicate that the interactive atmosphere built during live commerce can capture consumers' attention and strengthen the emotional connection between the host and the audience. Sellers who successfully create enjoyable interactions have a greater chance of achieving sales success. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of a communicator's ability to adapt to digital platform dynamics and understand the audience, which is crucial in today's MSMEs sales in digital context.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Career Counselling on High School Students’ Career Choices: A Case Study from Barobaybay Academy, Northern Samar, Philippines

JEMALYN E. GARDUCE — 2025-08-23

The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a pivotal stage, particularly when it comes to making significant career-related decisions. At Barobaybay Academy Mission School, students have access to various resources and support systems designed to guide them through this process. However, the effectiveness of the school's career counselling programs in shaping students' career choices remains uncertain. This study investigates the effectiveness of career counselling in shaping the career decisions of Junior and Senior High School students at Barobaybay Academy Mission School in Lavezares, Northern Samar, Philippines. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered through survey questionnaires and open-ended responses from 144 students. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis. Findings revealed that students agreed that counselling helped them understand their strengths and interests (WM = 3.65), clarify career goals (WM = 3.62), and match their strand to their desired career (WM = 3.64). Student also agreed that financial constraints influence their decision to stay (WM = 3.35). and that counselling helps them cope with strain limitation (WM = 3.19). However, the impact is hindered by limited awareness, irregular implementation, and a lack of access to guidance counsellors. Many students expressed neutral responses regarding their confidence in making career decisions and reported not actively engaging with counselling services. Economic factors, such as financial constraints and limited strand offerings, significantly influence student choices. The study recommends enhancing counsellor availability, extending services to all grade levels, increasing promotion and visibility of counselling programs, and involving parents in the process.

Psychological Predictors of Stress and Anxiety among Youths in South East Nigeria: The Role of Art Education and Creative Expression

Grace Chizoma, Onyebuchi-Igbokwe — 2025-08-23

The mental health of youths in Nigeria, particularly in the South East region, is increasingly under threat due to rising socio-economic instability, academic pressures, identity conflicts, and reduced access to psycho-social support systems. This study investigated the psychological predictors of stress and anxiety among youths in South East Nigeria and evaluated the potential of art education and creative expression as moderating tools. Guided by Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory and the Expressive Arts Therapy framework, the research adopted a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to provide a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon. A sample of 600 youths, aged 15–30, was drawn from secondary schools, tertiary institutions, and community-based youth programs across the five southeastern states. Quantitative data were gathered using standardized psychological instruments: The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Creative Self-Efficacy Scale (CSE). The qualitative phase involved Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and semi-structured interviews with 40 participants to be engaged in visual arts, drama, music, and poetry-based programs. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (Version 28) for descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to examine relationships and predictive factors. NVivo 14 was used for qualitative coding and thematic analysis. Low self-esteem, poor emotional regulation, and academic overload were suspected determinants of stress and anxiety levels. There is however, the critical need to integrate art education into formal and informal psycho-social support systems for youths in Nigeria. Art not only offers a non-verbal outlet for coping with psychological distress but also fosters identity development, community belonging, and emotional resilience.

Oral Reading Performance of Multigrade Pupils at Mawigue Elementary School: An Input to Reading Remediation Program

Agustina B. Tay-pew — 2025-08-23

Reading is not merely a passive absorption of information, rather, it is an engaging process that cultivates our critical thinking, enabling us to comprehend and interpret the world around us. The study sought to determine the oral reading performance of Grade III, IV, V and VI Pupils of Mawigue Elementary School, Southern Conner District. Descriptive research design was employed and the date were interpreted using frequencies, percentages, means, and ANOVA. Results revealed that in Grade III, most pupils demonstrated frustration levels in mispronunciation, followed by substitution. Omission, repetition, and reversal showed the least number of pupils with frustration levels. In Grade IV, there was a significant difference in the oral reading performance, with a higher number of pupils exhibiting frustration levels in mispronunciation. Grade V pupils showed no significant difference in their oral reading performance across all areas assessed. However, Grade VI pupils exhibited frustration levels in mispronunciation, omission, substitution, insertion, repetition, transposition, and reversal. Overall, majority of the pupils demonstrated frustration levels in mispronunciation, omission, substitution, insertion, repetition, transposition, and reversal. To enhance the pupils' oral reading skills, the use phonics instruction by teachers in their English classes was recommended.

Disaster Preparedness among Public School Teachers in Manay, Davao Oriental, Philippines: A Post Hoc Comparison

Jon Marco M. Dayanghirang — 2025-08-26

Disaster preparedness in schools is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff in times of emergency. Teachers play a critical role in executing disaster response plans and sharing knowledge related to disaster readiness. This study used a descriptive-comparative study employing a T-test for Independent Samples and Anova tools. 251 public teachers were invited to answer an adapted survey questionnaire in Manay District, Division of Davao Oriental . Teachers' disaster preparedness levels were rated on a 5-point Likert scale, with a higher score indicating greater preparedness. The study reveals that public school teachers in Manay District, Division of Davao Oriental demonstrate a high level of disaster preparedness overall, with a mean score of 3.71. Teachers strongly recognize the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences related to disasters but show only moderate participation in disaster awareness campaigns. While no significant differences were found in disaster preparedness based on sex, age and years of service were found to be influential factors. Middle-aged teachers (31-40 years) and those with more than ten years of experience exhibited higher levels of preparedness, suggesting that life experience and professional tenure contribute to disaster readiness in educational settings. In response to the findings, it is recommended that training sessions and capacity-building workshops be conducted to enhance disaster awareness and active participation among all teachers, especially those with less experience.

The Political Economy of the News Program Kompas Petang on Kompas TV: An Analysis of Commodification, Spatialization, and Structuration

Haris H Witharja — 2025-08-26

Background: The political economy of media provides a conceptual framework to understand how economic and political factors shape the production, distribution, and consumption of media.

Aims: This study aims to examine how the aspects of commodification, spatialization, and structuration—within the perspective of Political Economy of Media—play a role in the management and presentation of the Kompas Petang news program on Kompas TV, as well as how ideological and commercial values interact within it.

Study Design: This research employs a qualitative approach using a case study design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Kompas Petang editorial office, Kompas TV, Jakarta, from March to November 2024.

Methodology: Data collection was carried out through participant observation, in-depth interviews with editorial and management teams, and internal documentation. Research informants included journalists, news producers, marketing teams, and media and communication experts. Data analysis was conducted interactively using the Miles and Huberman model, which involves data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing.

Results: The findings indicate that commodification in Kompas Petang is reflected in the integrative strategy between the editorial and marketing teams to achieve advertising revenue targets, with the highest recorded revenue reaching IDR 1.6 billion in April 2024. Spatialization is implemented through the application of a television network concept targeting Second Cities and optimising content distribution across digital platforms. Media structuration is marked by the influence of philosophical values inherited from Jakob Oetama, which continue to shape editorial policy-making despite market pressures and inter-media competition.

Conclusion: The three aspects of the political economy of media—commodification, spatialization, and structuration—synergistically shape the editorial work system of Kompas Petang, bridging journalistic idealism and media capitalisation demands. This study underscores the importance of balancing media independence with business strategies in today’s competitive digital era.

Forest and Identity: The Enduring Traditional Livelihood Practices of the Kukis in Kangpokpi District of Manipur, India

Thangjalen Doungel — 2025-09-04

This paper attempts to assess the types, amount and uses of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) by the Kuki Community of Kangpokpi district of Manipur. The study finds that forest resources plays an integral part for the Kukis in maximum ways like other tribal groups of Indian sub-continent. Out of the total 43 different types of NTFPs collected by the Kuki community, 20 items are leaves, 7 items are wild fruits, 3 items are flower parts, 3 items are roots, 2 items shoot and fuel, and the remaining 5 items for other valuable parts. Mushroom is the most favourite NFTPs collected by the Kukis. This study adopts a qualitative research approach to explore the role of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in the traditional livelihoods of the Kuki community in Kangpokpi District, Manipur. The methodology emphasizes ethnographic insights, participatory engagement, and in-depth understanding of socio-cultural and economic practices related to forest dependence. The study suggests that the Kuki ethnic community are more dependent on forest NTFPs due to historical factors, social and economic factors prevalent among the community.

Effect of Administrative Practices on Students’ Academic Performance at Kaiboi National Polytechnic

Kennedy Ntabo Otiso — 2025-09-05

Effective strategic leadership is a critical determinant of institutional success, particularly regarding student academic performance. This study investigated the influence of principals’ strategic leadership practices on students’ academic performance at Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Nandi County, Kenya. The research focused on three specific dimensions: communication practices, administrative practices, and role modeling. The theoretical framework was informed by the Education Production Function Theory and the Path–Goal Theory. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting a census of 210 participants including the Chief Principal, Deputy Principals, Heads of Departments, trainers, and trainees. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (frequencies, percentages). Results were presented using tables, charts, and graphs. Findings revealed that principals' communication, administrative, and role-modeling practices significantly and positively influenced student academic outcomes. Specifically, effective monitoring of lesson plans, regular classroom supervision, and ensuring syllabus coverage were highlighted as impactful administrative strategies. The study recommends that principals enhance communication and administrative efforts, conduct regular instructional follow-ups, and motivate students through recognition and support strategies to optimize academic performance.

Adoption of Green Practices among Food and Lodging Establishments in Conner, Apayao: A Descriptive Survey

Leandro B. Alla — 2025-09-10

This study investigated the extent to which local hospitality businesses embrace sustainability within the context of the province's designation as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Using a descriptive quantitative design, the research employed survey questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 120 respondents, comprising employees and customers from a total of 30 food and lodging establishments within the locality.

Findings indicate a high level of green practice adoption, particularly in waste management, water efficiency, energy efficiency, and sustainable purchasing. These establishments consistently implement cost-effective measures like comprehensive recycling programs and separating organic waste, using water-efficient cleaning practices and reusing rainwater, and reducing reliance on air conditioning by using natural ventilation. However, a clear disparity was observed in the adoption of capital-intensive initiatives, with measures such as using solar energy and purchasing sustainable furnishings being less common.

Both employees and customers demonstrated high awareness and positive perceptions of these practices. Employees were extremely motivated and satisfied with the practices, while customers expressed high satisfaction and awareness. The study also revealed a significant difference in green practices based on the type of business (hotel vs. restaurant) but not on the year of operation or the number of employees.

The results highlight a strong commitment to accessible, low-cost green practices in the local hospitality sector but underscore significant barriers to adopting more expensive, technology-driven initiatives. The study recommends targeted support, enhanced training, and strategic investments to strengthen sustainable hospitality in Conner, Apayao, and promote a model for other rural communities seeking to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship in support to the UNESCO’s biosphere certification of the province of Apayao, Philippines.

Gender Equality: A Pivotal Goal to the Realization of Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria

Nwambuko, Temple .C — 2025-09-10

This paper examines the extent to which gender equality relates to Nigeria's development outcomes and explores whether specific dimensions of inequality—such as access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and political representation—constrain the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Grounded in Sylvia Walby’s postmodern theory, the research employed a descriptive survey design and relied on both primary data (structured questionnaires) and secondary sources. The study population was drawn from Anambra State, with a total of 4,177,828 residents as recorded in the 2006 National Population Census of Nigeria, from which a sample size of 400 respondents was determined using Yamane’s (1967) formula. Data were analyzed using frequency distributions and chi-square tests at the 0.05 significance level. Findings demonstrate a link between gender equality and Nigeria’s prospects of meeting the SDGs, revealing that entrenched inequalities undermine progress across multiple goals. The study concludes that advancing gender equality is not only critical for achieving SDG 5 but also for accelerating progress in poverty reduction, inclusive governance, quality education, healthcare, and economic growth. It recommends strengthening legal and policy frameworks, promoting women’s access to education and resources, addressing socio-economic disparities, combating gender-based violence, and expanding women’s participation in leadership, among others. Thus, achieving gender equality represents a paramount goal for the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.

Determinants of Livelihood: Evidence from Char and Plain Regions of Assam

Masud Ul Haque — 2025-09-11

Riverine islands (chars) along the Brahmaputra region in Assam are ecologically vulnerable, lacking socio-economic benefits. The unavailability of empirical data related to the dynamics of livelihood in the riverine char regions leads to the current situation being unknown. Based on the primary household survey across the char and plain regions of four districts in Assam, the study employs a multiple linear regression model to examine the relationship between the household size, landholding, livestock, household education, days worked and geographical location (char vs plain), which influences household income. Regression estimates indicate that family size, landholding, and labour participation (in days worked) have played central roles in the improvement of income, underscoring the importance of family labour and the nature of land available to cultivation, especially in Char areas. Education, livestock ownership and location, by contrast, are not significant predictors under the present structure, suggesting no immediate translation into income returns. Policy implications emphasise the need to adopt stronger programmes for public employment, enhance productivity on land through offering non-farm options and improve skill development. These gaps are critical to building powerful livelihoods in both char and plain populations in Assam in the interest of reducing poverty.

Analysis of the Cultural Practices of the Kankanaeys through Validated Documentary Videos

Ida Flor Tajon Adriatico — 2025-09-12

The Kankanaeys, who reside primarily in the upland areas of Benguet and Mountain Province, possess a distinct cultural identity expressed through traditional religious rituals, medicinal practices, oral literature, and subsistence livelihoods. Yet, their cultural heritage is under threat due to modernisation, diminishing intergenerational transmission, and a lack of culturally appropriate educational tools. This study developed and validated educational documentary videos highlighting the beliefs and practices of the Kankanaey people of Mountain Province. The documentaries focused on four major cultural dimensions: religion, health, literature, and livelihood. The primary goal was to produce instructional materials that preserve and disseminate indigenous knowledge while aligning with pedagogical standards. Validation was based on both content accuracy and technical quality to ensure the videos’ effectiveness as educational resources. A descriptive research design grounded in the research and development (R&D) framework was employed. The process involved three stages: planning, development, and validation. Data collection utilised a modified interview guide designed to elicit qualitative insights on Kankanaey beliefs and practices, as well as a content and technical validation rating scale. The interviews provided culturally grounded information on traditional practices, while the validation scale allowed experts to assess the accuracy, relevance, and technical soundness of the videos. Findings revealed that the educational documentary videos were highly valid in terms of content and technical quality, with an overall weighted mean of 4.73, interpreted as “very highly valid.” This outcome affirms that the videos met established standards for educational media production and effectively conveyed the distinctive cultural heritage of the Kankanaeys. The results also underscore the community’s rich and enduring traditions, particularly in the domains of spirituality, health practices, livelihoods, and oral literature. The validated educational documentary videos contribute to the growing repertoire of culturally responsive teaching materials. Specifically, they may be utilised in the course Cordillera Heritage 101, offering students an accessible and authentic resource for engaging with indigenous knowledge systems. Beyond the classroom, the study demonstrates the potential of educational media as a tool for cultural preservation, fostering both academic learning and appreciation of indigenous heritage.

Impression(S) of Connotations in Advertising: Prospects of Creative Visualisation

Debasish Chakraborty — 2025-09-13

The primary task of advertising is to formulate a powerful sales message which is all about satisfying consumer needs, protecting the larger and establishing a long-term relationship with the product. Any creative strategy in advertising involves a crucial decision in adoption and choice of an appropriate visualization for catching the attention of the consumer. Visual images play a very important role in capturing the attention of the public which promotes selling of a product through advertising, where illustration and photographs are the key elements required to carry that message to the target audience. But these visual elements sometimes cannot make the desired persuasion due to lack of definite advertising connotations. The selection of appropriate denotative and connotative ideas is the key to any advertising campaign, which has the power to attract the attention of consumers, arouse their underlying desires or influence feelings, and thus speak of human needs or wishes that can be met by the advertised product, service and idea and build the brand image. The study aimed to analyze the print advertisements based on the descriptive visual analysis about the prospects of connotative approaches involves in the creative visualization techniques in any advertising message which inculcates among the mass, the sense of awareness through the use of appropriate visuals, direct, indirect or suggestive gesture in order to reduce, remove and bring out motivational possibilities in accepting the product which is perhaps more appropriate in a more creative and connotative manner, rather than literary meaning or direct articulation of the message. It aims to analyse the print advertisements using the theoretical frameworks and different aspects of advertising techniques on the basis of visual structures-illustrations, photographs, layout, body copy, headlines. intends to look into the connotative.

Examining Long Term Psychological and Social Impacts of COVID-19 among Residents in Mulenga Hills, Kasama District, Zambia

Elias Mponela — 2025-09-13

The study examined the long term psychological and social impacts of COVID-19 on the psychological and social behavior of residents of Mulenga Hills in Kasama District of Zambia. The pandemic, beyond its direct health implications, significantly disrupted mental wellbeing, social interactions, economic stability, and community life, creating widespread uncertainty and vulnerability among individuals and families. Many residents faced the dual challenge of protecting themselves from infection while coping with income loss, food insecurity, and reduced access to essential services. The study adopted a convergent design incorporating a mixed-methods approach. The target population consisted of adult residents (age ≥ 18 years) of Mulenga Hills, including both males and females who had lived in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic and some selected health workers; giving a sample size of 124 participants. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires with both closed-ended and open-ended questions whereas qualitative data were collected through interviews. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations whilst the qualitative data were analyzed thematically to identify common patterns, perceptions, and experiences of the participants. The findings revealed that fear of infection, economic challenges, job losses, and restrictions on movement contributed to increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation. In addition, the study established that family dynamics were strained, social cohesion weakened, and coping mechanisms varied across households. The study concluded that the pandemic had profound psychological and social effects on the community and underscores the need for targeted interventions. Based on these findings, the study recommended the integration of community-based mental health programs into local health systems to provide continuous support and resilience-building among residents.

Teacher Performance and Pupil Academic Outcomes in Multi-Grade Classrooms: Evidence from Southern Conner District, Philippines

Leonardo B. Lazaro, Jr. — 2025-09-15

In the academe, performance management motivates teachers to work well, helping them to advance their careers, fostering a culture of performance, choosing applicants for promotions, eliminating underachievers, and supporting the execution of organisational strategies. This paper assessed the relationship between the Performance Rating of Southern Conner District Multi-Grade Teachers and pupils' academic performance. A descriptive correlational method was used to examine the relationship between teacher performance and pupils’ academic performance in the 10 multi-grade schools of Southern Conner District. Pearson-r was used to compare the relationship between Individual Performance Commitment and Review (IPCR) rating and academic performance. It was revealed that the pupils’ Mean Performance Score (MPS) was very satisfactory, and an outstanding IPCR rating of the teachers. Statistically, it was shown that there was a significant relationship between teachers' IPCR rating and academic performance. With the difficulty experienced by multigrade teachers in handling diverse classes, the researcher recommends more teacher trainings and workshops on teaching diverse pupils, strict implementation of RPMS guidelines, more seminars and trainings on special education and educational continuity, and employment of strategies to foster camaraderie between parents and teachers to provide support and guidance.

Judging the Blazes of Satisfaction: An Analytical Study about Domestic LPG Consumers in Kerala, India

T Vineethan — 2025-09-16

The present study evaluates the degree of satisfaction of consumers of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) by focusing on service-related factors like easiness in booking, promptness in delivery, safety precautions, customer care services, and overall satisfaction, as well as demographic factors like gender, age, educational attainment, and monthly income. An organised questionnaire was applied to gather first-hand data from 210 home LPG customers, and chi-square tests, cross-tabulation, and descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the responses. The findings show that while customer care service was the least satisfactory aspect, consumers were very satisfied with the easiness in booking and safety precautions, and moderately satisfied with the promptness in delivery and overall services. Education and monthly income have a considerable impact on satisfaction levels, but gender and age group have lower relationships, according to cross-tabulation and chi-square analysis. The study also found that the overall satisfaction level is comparatively higher among consumers with higher education status than that of lower education status. The study also observed that the consumers with low monthly income are comparatively highly satisfied than those with higher monthly income. Moreover, the study concluded that the overall satisfaction level of consumers of Indane gas distributor is comparatively higher than that of Bharath gas and HP gas distributors. A consumer satisfaction survey serves as a diagnostic tool for supply chain of LPG. By identifying inefficiencies in booking, delivery, safety, and service, it assists distributors and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) in streamlining logistics, boosting consumer confidence, and improving service dependability. All of these contribute to a more robust and customer-focused supply chain.

Citizen Participation in Local Development: What is the Answer to Participatory Budgeting in Cote d’ivoire?

ADOMON Abodou Athanase — 2025-09-17

After 45 years, decentralization, which aroused much enthusiasm in Côte d'Ivoire in the 1980s, is still struggling to achieve the desired inclusive local development. The expectations and needs expressed by the local population are still not taken into account by elected officials in development actions. What reveals the challenges of local governance: crisis of legitimacy, decline in financial resources and especially the challenge of action efficiency that requires the participation of actors. How can local populations, marginalized by the discourse of local elected officials, contribute to decision-making that affects them in development projects? The objective of this study is to show that the Participatory Budget is an appropriate tool for citizen participation in the face of the communication deficit between the different actors of local development. The methodology is based on secondary data, including case studies and an analysis of work related to participatory budgeting in Porto Alegre, Brazil, and Yakassé-Attobrou, Côte d’Ivoire. To this is added information collected from 229 heads of household in Taabo and 327 in Alépé. Then interviews with municipal authorities in 2008 and 2014. The results show that the participatory budget, contextualized and applied as a tool for democratic debate in local affairs management, is an appropriate instrument to identify development actions to be carried out, as was the case in Porto Alegre in Brazil and in Yakassé-Attobrou in Côte d'Ivoire. This has facilitated the realization of equipment that corresponds to the needs expressed by the population in Yakassé-Attobrou.The popularization of this citizen participation mechanism will avoid the gap between municipal investment and the needs expressed by the populations of Alépé and Taabo. However, its effectiveness depends on the willingness of elected officials to engage in transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.

Role of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations’ Cultural and Educational Schemes in Fostering International Understanding among International Students in India

Sayed Anwar Hussaini — 2025-09-18

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has been playing an important role in the field of education for international students in India. It offers a number of scholarships to foreign nationals to pursue higher studies in Indian universities and other recognised institutes of higher education and learning. The research aimed to evaluate the role of ICCR cultural and educational schemes in promoting international understanding. It reviews the efficacy of ICCR schemes in achieving the purpose of international understanding through its cultural, educational, music and yoga, tourism, and socio-economic programs. A descriptive and exploratory research design was selected. This study has used both quantitative and qualitative research methods with a sample size of 35 international students enrolled in different Indian Universities under ICCR's scholarships. The data collection was done through the structured questionnaire; SPSS version 25 was used to analyse the responses. Also, descriptive, correlation, and regression analyses were conducted for the data collected through the present study. The programs of ICCR are well considered to bring out cultural awareness and an immense appreciation for the heritage of India. However, some areas of concern included difficulties in adjustment to the cultural differences and limited support services. This study underlines the potential of ICCR's programs to create a lasting impact as it promotes mutual understanding among international students. These findings add to the subtle understanding of the ICCR's role in cultural exchange and highlight opportunities for the strengthening of support structures, thereby suggesting a model to enhance the experience of international students, promoting cross-cultural dialogue in higher education.

Teachers’ Perceptions on Walk-in Classroom Observation and Its Influence on Instructional Practices and Pedagogical Approaches

KhedrupLa — 2025-09-19

This study explored how teachers perceive walk-in classroom observations and their influence on instructional practices and pedagogical approaches in schools under Thimphu Thromde. The study employed a mixed-methods approach incorporating surveys and interviews. The sample size comprised of 80 teacher respondents for quantitative data and 10 teachers for interview from the selected schools. The quantitative findings, measured on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree), showed that teachers generally had a positive view (M=3.52, SD=1.26) of the fairness and supportiveness of walk-in observations. However, many teachers expressed discomfort with unannounced visits (M=3.23, SD=1.67) and reported higher stress levels (M=3.72, SD=0.91). Qualitative data corroborated quantitative findings, with the majority of respondents acknowledging the benefits of immediate feedback and reflective practice, while some reported increased anxiety and disruption. Although the study offers valuable insights, it is limited by its small sample size and the absence of longitudinal data. Recommendations include creating a structured observation framework, improving observer training, and enhancing feedback mechanisms to encourage ongoing instructional improvement.

Integration and Implementation of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) in the Elementary Schools of Southern Conner District, Apayao

Manuel M. Batallones — 2025-09-23

The safety of learners from both natural and human-induced disasters is the top priority that teachers must consider in the process of teaching and learning. The study aimed to determine the integral role of the DRRM program in classroom instruction and how it affects the overall implementation in the school. The study used a descriptive-correlational method of research. There were 88 respondents of the study. Findings revealed that majority of the respondents were female, adult, teacher 3 and teaching in mono-grade class, and they were well-experienced teachers who have attended relevant trainings and seminars related to DRRM. Statistical analysis used Frequency count and percentage, ranking, weighted Mean, and Pearson r. The level of DRRM integration and implementation was found to have great extent. The relationships with class category and the number of training courses attended are significant and highly significant, respectively. There is no significant relationship between the level DRRM integration when group according to the level of implementation of respondents. The study concluded that the level of DRRM integration and level of implementation in the Elementary schools of Southern Conner District are high.

Feminist Semiotics in The Scarlet Letter

Gao Ranran — 2025-09-05

The Scarlet Letter is a novel by 19th-century American Romantic author Nathaniel Hawthorne. It tells a tragic love story set in 17th-century Puritan New England. As a woman of independent thought and rebellious spirit, Hester Prynne undergoes a personal transformation through her resistance to societal judgment and fate.

Aims: This study explores the independent spirit of Hester Prynne in The Scarlet Letter by examining the origins of Hawthorne’s feminist thought, the novel’s symbolic representations, and the gendered perspectives in its Chinese translations. It also investigates how translators’ gender influences the interpretation of feminist elements, contributing to the discourse on feminist translation theory within the Chinese academic context.

Study Design: The research adopts a feminist literary approach, integrating historical and symbolic analysis with comparative translation studies focused on gender.

Methodology: A comparative textual analysis of Chinese translations by male and female translators, assessed through linguistic, structural, and stylistic lenses.

School Support and Resource Allocation: Input to the Enhancement of Junior High School Student Retention at Barobaybay Academy-Mission School, Inc, Philippines

Christian M. Magallanes — 2025-08-20

Student retention remains a critical measure of educational quality, particularly in rural settings. This study investigates the influence of school support and resource allocation on student engagement and retention at Barobaybay Academy-Mission School, Inc. in Northern Samar. The objective was to identify which support services and resources most effectively enhance junior high school students' academic commitment and reduce dropout tendencies.

A mixed-methods design was employed involving 100 respondents (93 students, 7 personnel) selected via stratified random sampling. A validated survey instrument assessed demographic data, support program awareness and usage, perceived effectiveness of services, and resource sufficiency. Statistical tools such as descriptive analysis and Pearson correlation (r) were used to examine relationships between variables.

Students exhibited high awareness (95%) and frequent use (mean = 4.36) of support programs. However, perceived effectiveness was moderate (mean = 2.87). Notably, 75% indicated insufficient technological resources. Pearson correlation revealed a moderate positive relationship between school support and student engagement (r = 0.61), and a weaker but significant correlation between resource allocation and retention (r = 0.49).

Effective and well-targeted school support programs and adequate resource allocation significantly influence student engagement and long-term retention. Investments in digital infrastructure, wellness services, and career guidance are crucial for sustaining educational participation in underserved communities.

Challenges to Traditional Markets Sustainability for Ecotourism: The Case Study of Bangli, Indonesia

Ni Made Puspasutari Ujianti — 2025-08-26

This study addresses the sustainability challenges of traditional markets within the context of ecotourism in Bangli. The findings indicate that factors such as changes in tourist behavior, environmental impacts, and resource management contribute to these challenges. The objective of this research is to identify solutions that can support the sustainability of traditional markets in the region. The study aims to explore the challenges faced by traditional markets in supporting ecotourism in Bangli. The relevance of sustainability in traditional markets is underscored by the research findings, which reveal that traditional markets encounter various challenges, including competition from modern markets and shifts in tourist preferences. This research seeks to provide strategic recommendations for traditional market managers to adapt and contribute to sustainable ecotourism, taking into account social, economic, and environmental aspects. Thus, this study not only identifies the issues but also offers solutions that can enhance the sustainability of traditional markets in Bangli within the context of ecotourism.