JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES DEVELOPMENT

INVESTIGATING UNIVERSITY LEVEL STUDENTS’ PREFERENCES BETWEEN TRADITIONAL AND BLENDED LEARNING APPROACHES

2024-08-04T15:01:01+00:00

This research assessed the students’ attitudes toward blended learning at universities, specifically accenting delivery mode preferences, exam format preferences, and trust in the digital instructional resources. The study used a quantitative research method with descriptive survey design. A purposive sample of 450 students from public and private universities was used. The study utilized the validated instruments. It was also notable that students had highly positive inclination toward face-to-face interaction, and hands-on practice, which suggested a hybrid approach of face-to-face teaching and online instruction was preferred over the fully online style of teaching. The analysis revealed that university type and academic year influence attitudes. Concerning the exam types, students were more comfortable with traditional paper and pencil tests; but male students were more accepting of technology-based tests. The level of trust in digital instructional materials was high, although it varied by year of study. Thus, teachers should adopt a gradual approach in integration of blended learning into their classroom. There is need to support learning from diverse backgrounds. The study can help inform educational policy, course development & faculty professional growth in institutions.

LIFE SKILLS INTEGRATION IN PAKISTAN STUDIES TEXTBOOK GRADE-XII: A QUALITATIVE CONTENT ANALYSIS

2024-08-12T10:43:08+00:00

This qualitative research aimed to analyze the integration of twelve core competencies in the Pakistan Studies textbook for Grade Twelve based on the framework of the UNICEF MENA report (2017). The textbook was selected through purposive sampling. In analyzing the text, the approach used was qualitative content analysis with help of NVivo 14 software. The analysis showed that the textbook exhibited a mixed view of these life skills. To some extent, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication & participation are covered through historical analysis of specific instances or a description of governance structures and active citizenship. However, important skills like creative thinking, communication, self-management, and empathy are paid minimum attention. Textbook mainly seems to be information sharing on Pakistani history, politics, and social organization, and process of learning and developing life skills is not very visible. Based on study, it is suggested that curriculum developers make a more conscious effort to ensure that life skills are integrated into content of textbooks; in the form of extra exercises, problem-solving activities, actual conversations about these as the worthy lifelong skills.

INFLUENCE OF CELEBRITY ENDORSEMENT ON PURCHASE INTENTION: BRAND AWARENESS & BRAND PERCEPTION AS MEDIATORS

2024-08-21T13:55:02+00:00

The global celebrity endorsement market is growing to be worth millions of dollars. The celebrity endorsements are used in advertising by marketers to boost sales and have a good effect upon viewers' views, which in turn affects their purchasing decisions. Using quantitative approach, this study assesses how celebrity endorsements affect customers' perceptions of the company's product or brand & their choice to buy. The questionnaire was used to gather data from 100 respondents, was then examined. The study investigated how respondents perceived celebrities, their traits & how celebrity endorsements affected their purchase choices. Results show that celebrity endorsements in commercials make them more enticing than those that don't. Furthermore, the results further revealed that the consumer purchase behavior is greatly influenced by celebrity endorsements, with the celebrity popularity having a major influence upon these selections. This study explores the purchasing habits of the consumers while considering the number of criteria, including preference, age, and gender. The results offered significant information for reaching the conclusion and extracting some recommendations based upon the conclusion.

EFFECTS OF PARENTS' ECONOMIC STATUS ON STUDENTS’ EDUCATION DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC AT SECONDARY LEVEL

2024-08-25T13:57:57+00:00

The current study investigated the effect of parents' economic status on the education of the secondary students in District Panjgur, Balochistan, during COVID-19. It was a quantitative study with a survey of 150 male and female students from the public and private schools. The respondents were selected through a random sampling technique. Keeping in view the objectives of the study, a self-developed questionnaire was used. As per findings of the study, the pandemic had a significant effect on economics, education, and health sectors. Regression analysis approved significant relationship amid parent status & student education outcomes, helpful with parents' financial status impacts students' education over pandemic. The work environment also had a significant effect on educational outcomes. The study features the connected challenges of financial hardship, insufficient infrastructure for online learning & education. The recommendations include investment in digital setup, employing targeted financial support for concerned families, teacher training, creating community learning centers & supporting public health education.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY: THE ROLE OF MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION IN MITIGATING ETHNIC CONFLICT & FOSTERING UNITY IN PAKISTAN

2024-08-27T14:36:08+00:00

This paper aims to analyze and synthesize whether multicultural education can serve as a means of easing the ethnic conflict and cultural diversity in Pakistan. The ethnic diversity of nations, languages, and cultures has been a strength and, simultaneously, a weakness due to conflicts. This study submits that it is possible to coordinate multicultural education in schools and make it important tool for improving understanding amid different communities. This paper relies on the review of current policies concerning the education systems and proposals drawn from case studies of multicultural societies to provide an understanding of the way forward for Pakistan in responding to the multicultural realities in its education systems that how incorporating multicultural perspectives into the curriculum can help students appreciate different cultures and reduce biases. According to studies, minimization of conflict amid different forms of identities is possible by adopting presented cultural-structural model, that may boost positive attitude toward multiple Pakistani identities and promote the enhancement of the social cohesion in the country.

NARRATIVE BUILDING THROUGH MEMES ON RAPE AND HARASSMENT VICTIMS: A MULTIMODAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS

2024-09-02T10:33:11+00:00

The social media memes on rape and harassment victim in Pakistan create verbal and semiotic sexual violence for the victims along with their online supporters. Online misogyny is online abuse against women and girls that is rooted in a hatred and mistrust of women which seeks to silence the victims of rape and harassment, further reinforce gender inequalities. This research explored the role of linguistic and semiotic choices made by social media users to create social media memes serving victim blaming, victim silencing and revealing the diseased cognitive structures of such netizens (internet users) in the virtual world. The research is based on five social media memes on the most talked about cases of rape and harassment in the online world. The researcher selected those rape and harassment cases on which there were at least 25-50 memes. The present study data was taken from Facebook and Twitter in the form of screen shots of the memes. The data was analyzed at two level Micro-Discourse Analysis and Macro-Discourse Analysis. The research findings explored the triangular relationship between linguistic, social and cognitive structures. Thus, the social media memes revealed the cognitive structures of the meme creators through their linguistic as well as semiotic choices.

THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SOCIAL INTERACTIONS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS WITH FAMILY & SOCIAL CIRCLE

2024-09-01T07:03:44+00:00

The current study aimed to investigate the effects of social media on social interactions among university students in KP with family and social circle. The objectives include, to examine the new pattern of social media for social relationship, association of gender communication pattern with family and social circle with respect to social interactions by using the survey research design. A sample of 900 students (270 male & 630 female) were selected over stratified sampling method. A questionnaire was used to collect the primary data. The descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The study concluded that majority of the male students frequently communicate with friend whereas female students sometime communicate with friends. Majority of male and female students frequently communicate with classmate. The majority of male and female students communicate with peers and never communicate with classmate. Majority of male and female students sometime communicate with religious scholar. Therefore, the study concluded that both male and female frequently interact through the social media with family and social circle but still physical interactions exist with in family.

THE STYLISTIC ANALYSIS OF PAKISTANI HAND WASH ADVERTISEMENTS DURING COVID-19

2024-09-08T09:23:42+00:00

The study focused on style of advertising language used in Pakistani hand wash products’ audiovisual advertisements during COVID-19 to explore what is conveyed through visual, musical, verbal, and nonverbal features, and how it is conveyed to the target audience through the use of linguistic & figurative devices. Guy Cook’s (1992) model ‘describing TV advertisements’ recommended in his book discourse of advertising was used as a theoretical framework for the investigation of the link between verbal, visual, image, & music used in audiovisual advertisements to target audience. The findings showed that hand wash products’ advertisements were full of creativity and for marketing perspective they used diverse verbal and nonverbal features to arouse interest, attract attention, create conviction, stimulate desire, and get action from the target group in the COVID-19 context. The results offer significant information in extracting the desired outcomes and reaching the conclusion & making decision. In this drive, the study can be advantageous for those who want to understand the socio-pragmatic functions of language in AV advertisements through a stylistic lens from commercial to academic perspective.

EXAMINING EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS' IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONCRETE-PICTORIAL-ABSTRACT (CPA) MODE

2024-09-15T03:31:46+00:00

The early childhood educators facilitate interactions to assist your child in improving his or her comprehension and reading skills. Reading regularly helps two-year-old expand their vocabulary. Educators tie stories to events in children's lives, teaching them that written material and pictures have value. The basic objective of particular study was to investigate the Early Childhood teacher's role in using the concrete, pictorial, and abstract CPA models at ECE Level in government primary schools. Quantitative research approach was used for current study by deploying a survey research design. The population of the study was all ECE teachers in districts Mianwali and Lodhran. Using the purposive sampling technique, study sample was based on 100 ECE teachers and 100 caregivers. The result of the study reveals that most respondents agreed about using CPA model at ECE level. They suggest that this model should be used at different levels of education because it increases students' interest in teaching and learning process. Based on data, it is suggested that ECE should be applied in all public schools nationwide to increase primary enrolment and, through this approach, make learning more effective.

TEACHERS' ATTITUDES & BARRIERS TO IMPLEMENTING CLIMATE CHANGE EDUCATION IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

2024-09-29T07:35:26+00:00

This study aimed to investigate the teachers’ attitudes toward incorporating climate change education in secondary schools. It was a descriptive study with quantitative research design. Two hundred secondary school teachers were selected through a stratified sampling technique. For data collection, a five-point self-developed Likert scale was used. Data was analyzed over SPSS 20. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. It was found that most of the participants agreed about the importance of climate change in education, but they face barriers to implementation. The main challenges found were insufficient resources, training, and a crowded curriculum. The professional development participation particularly anticipated positive attitudes towards the climate change education. There was no significant difference in attitude towards the climate change based upon gender. A significant association was found between the subject taught and attitude towards climate change education. Findings highlight the need for targeted support, including improved resources, training, and curriculum integration, to enhance teachers' capacity and confidence in delivering climate change education.

DYNAMIC LINKS BETWEEN COMMODITY MARKETS & PAKISTANI SECTORAL INDICES: IMPLICATIONS FOR PORTFOLIO DIVERSIFICATION

2024-10-14T03:14:20+00:00

This research aimed to examine the inter-connections among international commodities markets and sectoral indices of Pakistan over the most recent period ranging from July 19, 2016, to December 29, 2023. This time period is selected based on recent important events of global significance including COVID-19 pandemics and recent geopolitical crisis emerged due to Russia-Ukraine war in Feb, 2022. This study is utilizing Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model for the deeper inquiry of interplay among the variables. The findings of the study indicate significant spillovers among variables with varying degrees of significance. The results show that various sectors of Pakistan economy showed asymmetric behavior indicating that some sectors were the risk transmitters while other were risk recipients. Moreover, volatility linkages are time-varying with heightened transmissions during turbulent periods. The results provide the significant information in reaching the desired conclusion and making decisions. The findings of study thus had important implications for investors (individual & institutional), fund managers and policy makers while devising strategies for diversification and risk mitigation in the Pakistani context especially in stressful periods.

SEEKING FREEDOM BEYOND PATRIARCHY: A HUMANIST STUDY OF BEYOND THE CAYENNE WALL BY SHAILA ABDULLAH

2024-10-16T04:58:10+00:00

The current study examines collection of short stories Beyond the Cayenne Wall (2005) by Shaila Abdullah, focusing on the female protagonists. The conceptual framework of the study is based on the “humanist approach” by Susan Moller Okin’s “Justice, Gender, and the Family” (1989) to analyze the protagonists' struggle to reclaim their humanist identity, beyond gender discrimination. The qualitative analysis of the short stories investigates how female characters navigate their traditional roles and set the standards of justice based on the “equality of opportunity” in society by liberating them from chains of patriarchy. The objectives of the current study are to examine female resistance against traditional gender roles, to examine how female characters construct their new identities, and to identify the depiction of the patriarchal constraints in the text and assess how they impact the female characters' lives and decisions. The findings offered significant information for reaching the desired conclusion about the research issues. In this regard, Okin’s humanist approach “personal is political” seeks to explore that the personal experiences of female protagonists particularly related to gender and familial roles, are deeply intertwined with the political structures and societal norms.

STUDY APPROACHES OF POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN ODL SYSTEM: A LONGITUDINAL SURVEY

2024-10-14T11:38:37+00:00

The study aimed to analyze the study approach of the postgraduate students across various semesters of studies. Longitudinal survey design was adopted to conduct this study. The participants of study were enrolled in Education degree program in university (Pakistan). There were two cohorts of students who participated in this study with 12 students in cohort-1 and 10 students in cohort-2. Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students (ASSIST- short version with 52 items) was used to collect data from students at three different times i.e., first time at the start of the second (coursework) semester, second time at end of second semester (development of research proposal stage) and third time during the dissertation stage. Similarly, the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The study results reported that the students used deep and strategic approach to study more than surface approach to study however, the percentage of using the surface approach was also quite high. It was also found that there was no gender wise difference in the surface, deep and strategic approaches of both cohorts of the research study. It is recommended to provide the students with guidance and facilitation for shifting their study approach from surface to deep approach.

WHY IS TVET NOT WORKING IN PRISONS? AN EXPLORATION OF PRISONS-BASED VOCATIONAL TEACHERS' PERSPECTIVES

2024-10-18T06:41:21+00:00

This research aims to find the roles and importance of TVET implementation within Punjab's prisons from the prisons-based vocational teachers' point of view. While offering the advantages of decreased recidivism and improved reintegration, delivery of TVET within prison settings may be problematic. The study adopts a qualitative research approach in undertaking the views on TVET among prisoners and the difficulties experienced in the process of rehabilitation through vocational training by conducting a series of semi-structured interviews with prison-based vocational training. The teachers reported issues, like disproportionate training, little organizational support, and a restricted professional environment prevailing in prison. This study, therefore, calls for further reformative changes in prison-based vocational training in Pakistan, especially in areas of curriculum, financial support and management, and social support for prisoners. Improving the professional practice of trainers through increased support for their learning and, in turn, acceptable learning environment to make TVET more active. By addressing these issues, much effort can be made to enhance contribution of the prison-based TVET in decreasing recidivism and assisting integration of prisoners back into society.

PREPARING FUTURE EDUCATORS: ASSESSMENT LITERACY AND RUBRIC USE AMONG PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS

2024-10-22T13:21:34+00:00

This paper discusses important need to emphasize a greater understanding of assessment literacy and rubrics for prospective teachers. It presents the current level of assessment literacy in the teacher preparation programmes, with emphasis on areas of weakness and implications arising from them for practice. A focus on the rubrics in educational assessment is made, and the advantages & disadvantages of their application are considered. The paper discusses perspectives concerning that how teachers train their students and themselves to use assessment literacy and rubrics and comes up with new ideas for improvement. Closely related to this, we stress the role of teacher educators as role models and key learners of the professional development. System perspectives, including accreditation requirements & collaboration amid postsecondary and PK-12 institutions, are explored. The study suggests further research in the areas of long-term effects of the implementation and training in assessment literacy and culturally sensitive assessment practices. There is a need for shared work in preparation of teachers to advance their ability for assessment literacy, that has great potential to promote positive educational achievement.

IMPACT OF TV REALITY SHOWS ON BEHAVIOR OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

2024-10-28T00:52:07+00:00

The aim of this study is to provide systematic review on tv reality show and behavior of university students. With reality TV's popularity rising globally, young adults, particularly university students are significantly impacted by the content they consume. Reality shows often depict aspirational lifestyles, dramatic conflicts, and unique social dynamics, which can shape viewers' attitudes, behaviors, and social expectations. For this purpose, articles form Web of science, Scopus, PubMed, EBSCO were extracted. Moreover, thesis, books and articles were also utilized in this study. The knowledge attitude practice theory is discussed in the article. Moreover, social learning theories are discussed in detail. Tv reality shows are discussed in detail. Knowledge, attitude, and practices are important for the student behavior related to TV reality shows. The findings reveal that exposure to reality shows is linked to shifts in social behaviors, including increased competitiveness, appearance-consciousness, and shifting perceptions of relationships & social norms. The educational programs that teach about media literacy and critical thinking can help students understand potential impact of TV reality shows on their attitudes and behavior.

EMPOWERING PAKISTAN'S TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY: THE ROLE OF POLITICS AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

2024-10-29T12:33:14+00:00

The transgender community in Pakistan faces significant social & economic challenges due to entrenched discrimination & marginalization. This study examines the influence of political engagement and community support networks on the socioeconomic empowerment of transgender individuals in Pakistan, using secondary data from various social surveys and community reports. By analyzing the relationship amid active political participation and access to supportive community resources, the study aims to determine how these factors refer to improved self-advocacy, employment prospects & social acceptance. The findings reveal that community networks providing emotional and financial support play a crucial role in enhancing confidence and agency of transgender individuals, while political engagement offers them a platform for collective action and visibility. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing the effective strategies to promote the inclusion and empowerment of the transgender community in Pakistan. The study’s outcomes will serve as foundation for future research and advocacy, aimed at addressing the unique socioeconomic barriers as faced by this marginalized group.

THE EFFECT OF RUMINATION ON AGGRESSION & QUALITY SLEEP AMONG YOUNG AND MIDDLE-AGED ADULTS

2024-11-11T14:58:10+00:00

The purpose of study is to investigates the relationship between rumination, aggression, and sleep quality among young and middle-aged adults, with a focus on gender and age differences. The study aims to examine that how rumination affects aggression and sleep quality and to explore predictive role of rumination in variables. A sample of 300 participants, comprising (n=114) males and (n=186) females, was selected. The statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation, linear regression, and t-tests, were conducted to test the hypotheses. The results reveal the positive relationship between rumination and aggression, indicating that the higher rumination levels are associated with the increased aggression. A negative but weak correlation between rumination and sleep quality was found, suggesting that increased rumination is associated with poor sleep quality. Moreover, age differences were significant, with young adults scoring higher in aggression and sleep quality than middle-aged adults. The findings provide valuable insights into the cognitive processes associated with aggression and sleep patterns, emphasizing the importance of addressing rumination to improve overall well-being.