JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES DEVELOPMENT

UNLOCKING THE SUSTAINABILITY: EVALUATING THE SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION IN ENGLISH TEXTBOOK GRADE IX

Muhammad Jamil — 2024-05-03

The study analyzed the sustainability dimensions integrated in the textbook of English (Grade IX) for Punjab, Pakistan using sustainability framework proposed by Tavanti (2010). For this purpose, the English textbook for Grade IX was purposively sampled and analyzed through the qualitative content analysis processed on NVivo 12 software. The analysis results show that the English textbook for grade 9 also covers environmental, social, institutional, cultural sustainability & value-based sustainability. Moreover, the values have been included like the moral stories for patriotism, national unity, and ethical conduct. The English textbook (grade 9) does not cover economic sustainability adequately. The study concludes that the textbook of English Grade 9 has boundaries to make indifferent students’ responsible citizens as claimed by liberal educational policy of Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board. However, curriculum may be further improved by adding explicit mentions of the sustainable practices, green technologies, inclusive growth, poverty, hunger, responsible consumption, and production. Findings further suggest holistic approach to include education for sustainable development in the textbooks.

THE INFLUENCE OF REWARD SYSTEM ON JOB PERFORMANCE OF INSTRUCTORS PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Muhammad Safdar Luqman — 2024-05-07

All organizations have reward schemes and awards to draw in and keep top performers. The main goal of rewards is to inspire workers and raise their level of engagement at work, which improves the workers' productivity as a whole. The aim of this study is to examine that how an organization's reward system affects worker performance. In this study, which used a quantitative methodology, 169 sets of questionnaires were given to the subjects who were chosen randomly. After that, the data were examined using SPSS software, and various analyses including correlation and regression analyses as well as the T-tests were performed. The findings demonstrate that every element significantly affects how well employees perform. This study will serve as a foundation for future investigations into the variables influencing teachers' effectiveness. The results provide important information in reaching desired conclusion & making suitable decision. The employers will benefit from this study by having a better method for rewarding the achievements that will improve the performances. The organization can use the study's findings to enhance its rewards program and make sure it will help raise the employees’ performance.

INVESTIGATING COMMUNICATION CHALLENGES IN ONLINE EDUCATION AT HIGHER EDUCATION IN PUNJAB

Shafqat Ali — 2024-05-20

This study investigates the communication challenges faced by teachers in online education at higher education level in Punjab. It was a quantitative study with descriptive survey design. Data were collected through a survey from 75 conveniently selected teachers across colleges & institutions using a self-developed five-point rating scale. The findings reveal that significant proportion of teachers experienced high levels of social isolation (32.3%), weak interaction with students (41.9%), lack of student motivation (47.3%), and difficulties in conceptual learning (57%) and assessment (63.4%). Also, the analysis showed differences based upon gender, location (urban/rural), and IT skills. The study underlines the difficulties faced in online teaching, emphasizing the need for directed interventions to increase teachers' digital pedagogy, develop meaningful student engagement and adopt assessment-related issues. It highlights importance of implementing a hybrid teaching-learning approach by associated online classes with traditional methods to moderate the identified challenges. It is recommended to focus on teachers’ digital pedagogy, technological proficiency, as well as strategies to develop students’ engagement.

THE FEMINISM AND ACTIVISTS’ PLETHORA IN CONTEMPORARY ERA: AN ANALYSIS IN PAKISTAN’S CONTEXT

Unzur Kaifa — 2024-05-21

This study examined the impacts of feminism on challenging and combating anti-woman ideologies and practices in contemporary society. Objective of this study is to explore implications of the anti-feminist shift within modern feminist trends. The women were restricted to their domiciles throughout Western civilization; neither were they allowed to possess property, pursue education, or engage in public life in medieval Europe. Women were denied the ability to vote, to pursue higher education, and to enter the workforce. The development of this study involved a quantitative base and survey was constructed for population aged 15 and above. Sample of 384 respondents using Cochran formula was obtained, specifically graduate & postgraduate students & faculty members. To produce feminist attitude, measure Likert-type scale was designed. The results were contained with reliability of .784. This study indorses evaluating interdisciplinary ideology of anti-feminism. Recognize its shifting nature while in view of regional and national specifics and global trends. The threat that anti-feminist speech and practices pose to the women’s rights worldwide should be recognized by governments and authorities.

TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN TEACHING-LEARNING PROCESS: A COMPARATIVE VIEW OF BELIEFS & PRACTICES OF TEACHERS

Munib-Ul-Muneer — 2024-05-24

Technology advances must be incorporated into teaching process to create dynamic, interactive learning environments that will equip students for the challenges of digital age. Examining attitudes & practices about technology developments in secondary education was the primary focus of the study. The study question "What is the impact of teachers' beliefs on their practices regarding the use of technological innovations at the secondary level?" was created to accomplish this goal. The data was gathered using an instrument based upon a five-point Likert scale. Through the use of stratified random sampling, 400 secondary school teachers were chosen as a sample. The SPSS software was used to examine gathered data. The data analysis revealed a substantial disparity in views of experienced and beginner teachers about usage of technological development. There was notable distinction between the approaches taken by inexperienced and experienced educators when implementing technology improvements. It was advised that the curriculum designers incorporate information upon the significance and application of technological developments at the secondary level based on the findings and conclusions.

WOMEN VIOLENCE DEPICTION IN DYSTOPIAN FICTION: AN ECOFEMINIST EXPLORATION OF THE PATRIARCHAL PATTERNS IN BINA SHAH’S BEFORE SHE SLEEPS

Ansa Naz — 2024-05-28

The current research explores Bina Shah's (2018) dystopian novel Before She Sleeps, which depicts violence against the women destroying nature's biodiversity. The worst effects on nature and women are examined using the ecofeminism framework by Vandana Shiva and Maria Mies (2014). Males use science to fulfil their goals under pretext of strengthening society. Both women & nature are cruelly disrupted by science, firming totalitarian state. Patriarchy, science, and technology all play interconnected role in shaping the world. Science, which is considered as a blessing, brutally disrupts both the normal cycles of women and of nature. Also, totalitarian regime benefits from it. The study reveals that development is a patriarchal project. Using the descriptive textual analysis method, the study's findings indicate that the scientific advancements, sexism, and innovation harm women and the environment. This study paves the way for studying the materialism from an ecofeminist perspective to provide new insights & add significant research to the literature.

THE SINO-PAK STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AND INDIA'S REGIONAL AIM IN SOUTH ASIA: AN ANALYSIS

Muhammad Nouman Ashraf Khan — 2024-05-28

In recent years amid 2013-2024, Sino-Pak relations witnessed a qualitative transformation as bilateral ties expanded in strategic perspective. Pakistan has been forced to pursue a strategic collaboration with China in order to preserve the balance of power in South Asia as a result of the dynamic post 9/11 global political changes and expanding strategic partnership between the US and India. Under the auspices of the Indo-US strategic partnership, India is making most of its resources and collaborating with US in a number of areas, including energy, defense and security, so as to fulfill its ambitions of becoming a dominating force in the region and building blue water navy. India regional aspirations are too great for Pakistan to overcome on its own. In order to oppose India's imperial aspirations in South Asian area, the Sino-Pak formed a strategic alliance. This study will pose some queries about most recent iterations of this partnership. In this research, strategic partnership amid two countries is described using a Rational Actor Model. The research goes on to say that Sino-Pak will not be deterred from pursuing the project despite India's assertion that corridor route goes through disputed Northern Pakistani territory.

THE USE OF META-COGNITIVE SELF-ASSESSMENT STRATEGY FOR DEVELOPING WRITING SKILLS AMONG STUDENTS

Misbah Noor — 2024-05-30

The role of meta-cognition is significant in teaching and learning process, such as the reading, writing development, problem solving, social cognition, self-control, attention, communication & in the development of personality. Thus, merely awareness about the learning procedure would not assurance of good instruction, on other hand, lacking it, teaching is just a trial and error as well as monotonous practice and most of the teachers can be destructive to their learners. This research conducted to explore the metacognitive self-assessment strategy effect on Writing Skills of 7th grade students in context of Pakistan in public school of Punjab. The experimental design was adopted in this study which involves two groups (experimental and control groups) pretest and posttest design. The sample consisted of 60 students of a public girls' high school. Writing Skills test was developed by researcher for data collection, mean, standard deviation and independent t-test were applied for data analysis. Results indicated that those students given the treatment attained higher scores compared to control. So, it is suggested that teachers should use metacognitive self-assessment strategy for teaching of writing skills in classroom.

INVESTIGATING PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS’ PRACTICES ABOUT CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT: A QUANTITATIVE APPROACH

Ambreen Siddique — 2024-06-03

The classroom management in educational institutions comprises carrying out management strategies and goals while keeping students' progress in mind. Classroom management promotes interaction in both directions and reciprocal comprehension among students and teachers. This quantitative study examined the classroom management practices of the primary school teachers in Punjab, Pakistan, aiming to describe the importance of classroom management and to identify differences in practices based on gender and district. Thus, a sample of 300 teachers from Lahore and Multan districts was surveyed using a questionnaire. Data analysis involved t-tests and ANOVA. The findings revealed significant differences in practices between male and female teachers, with female teachers indicating more effective strategies. Additionally, teachers in Lahore exhibited better practices compared to those in Multan. No significant differences were found based on the teacher qualifications. The study concludes that effective classroom management is crucial for enhancing student learning & recommends professional growth for teachers, along with policy considerations for class size and technology integration.

THE ETHICAL LEADERSHIP & SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE: ROLE OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE

Irfan Ullah Khan — 2024-06-07

The ethical leadership is responsible for confirming the ethical standards overwhelmed at desired norms and shared values, that results in workforces’ effective attitudes and behaviors, culminates at sustainable performance. In order to examine role of organizational culture in linking ethical leadership and sustainable performance, the data was collected from teachers (sample from population) hailing from higher education institutions in the southern region, KP, Pakistan, to investigate hypothesized relationship (association & mediation), among variables, to extract desired information in reaching the conclusion and making suitable decisions. The results of study confirmed the existence of association and partial mediation through the correlation and mediation procedures wherein findings can be used as guiding principles in managing research issues more artistically in attaining desired outcomes. Thus, it is suggested from results that ethical leadership can play significant role in higher institutions by ensuring ethical values and standards that are essential parameters for the behavioral transformation overwhelmed at the sustainable performance and culminates at sustainable development and anticipated success.

THE USE OF SMARTPHONES IN SHAPING OF STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AT SECONDARY SCHOOL LEVEL

Nazir Ahmad — 2024-06-07

Students use smartphones through access of different electronic media from anywhere at any time. Most of mobile phones can now efficiently cultivate popular activities such as playing computer games, accessing the Internet, supporting students' performance, destroying students' health & enhancing their academic performance. This study examines the teacher's perception of the role of smartphones in shaping students' academic performance at the secondary level. For this drive, data was collected by using a self-developed survey questionnaire. So, 160 secondary school teachers, including 70 male and 90 female teachers, were selected using simple random sampling. Data about frequencies, percentages, means, and SD were analyzed. The results show that teachers confirmed that smartphones support students in gaining new skills, like critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The studies also illustrate that smartphones are destroying students' health and increasing depression. Study advised that teachers and parents may check and balance the usage of mobile by students for their well-being. Teachers and parents motivate them to use smartphones positively, enhancing their learning and education quality.

PIXELS TO PROSE: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON IMPACT OF PICTURE MEDIA ON STUDENTS’ WRITING POTENTIAL

Tajuddin Sharar — 2024-06-11

The purpose of this research was to study the effectiveness and impact of pictures media upon elementary grade students writing competencies. The study employed a quantitative research method of the quasi-experimental design. The subjects of the research were eighth grade students at a private sector elementary school. Total 30 students were formed experimental and control groups. Experimental as well control group consisted of 15 students respectively. The sampling technique used in this research is the purposive sampling. Pre-test and post tests were conducted to evaluate the impact of picture students’ writing achievement/scores. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics of the percentage as well as mean score and standard deviations. The results of study offered significant information that further helps in reaching the desired conclusion and making the suitable decisions. The result suggests that pictures technique as writing instruction enhances the writing skill of students. However, the results further suggest that series of intervention is needed to achieve the objective of improving the students’ writing skills.

GEOGRAPHIC DIVERSITY AND LANDSCAPE IN TRANSITION: ANALYZING THE PHYSICAL FEATURES OF GILGIT BALTISTAN REGION

Muhammad Qasim — 2024-06-14

This study presents multidimensional analysis of the Gilgit Baltistan region, focusing upon its geographical, environmental, and socio-economic aspects. Employing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, the research defines the region's physical features, climatic conditions, and hydrological characteristics. It quantitatively assesses distribution of glaciers, rivers, and forests, utilizing statistical data to realize trends in hydrology and ecology. Qualitatively, study explores hazards and vulnerabilities inherent in region, including natural, man-made hazards, their intensity, and socio-economic implications. Also, it conducts a comparative analysis to examine strategic significance of mountain passes in facilitating the trade, travel and cultural exchange. Study reveals region's significant hydrological resources, with glaciers and snowmelt serving as principal water sources. Strategic status of mountain passes in facilitating trade and connectivity, with key passes like Khunjerab and Babusar serving as vital links between Pakistan to China, as well as connecting the region with other provinces of Pakistan. The analysis further reveals that among natural hazards the region is vulnerable to flash floods, landslides, and snow avalanches, intensified by its rugged terrain and climatic conditions.

EFFECTS OF ACADEMIC STRESS ON MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Mahvish Fatima Kashif — 2024-06-17

The objective of the study was to explore the effect of academic stress on the mental health of the undergraduate university students. The research was designed as a quantitative causal-comparative study. For the collection of data, standardized instruments were adopted. The instrument was thus duly validated by experts and a pilot study from 60 participants. The population of the study comprised undergraduate university students of the Lahore district. A proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to select the sample. The selected sample comprised 528 students. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Data analysis included independent sample t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis. The results revealed the significant correlation between the variables and academic stress was found a significant predictor of mental health issues. It is therefore recommended that the institutions should develop awareness among the students and their parents, regarding the issues under study. Moreover, enhancing the depth and breadth of the research scope can help to get further probe into the issue under considerations.

EXPLORING ON RECORD & OFF RECORD STRATEGIES IN PRAGMATICS OF SIALKOT SOCIETY

Mareen Tahira — 2024-06-21

In pragmatics, study of how context influences interpretation of meaning, "on record" and "off record" strategies play crucial roles in communication. These strategies are part of the politeness theory developed by Penelope Brown and Levinson. This study uses Brown & Levinson's Politeness Theory to study politeness tactics used in familial interactions in Sialkot, Pakistan. Thus, surveying 40 families from urban and rural areas, the research uses a mixed-methods approach to examine the effects of gender, socioeconomic status & cultural norms. The results show complex communication dynamics where politeness techniques are shaped by societal and gendered factors. Rural families take a diversified approach, whereas urban families tend to communicate on-record. The study revealed that effective communication involves a balance between on record and off record strategies, depending on context, the relationship amid speaker and listener, and potential face-threatening nature of communication. The study provides significant and leading outcomes about pragmatics and further highlights the significance of realizing cultural subtleties in familial interaction & proposes directions for future studies that will use multimodal analytic approaches & examine regional variances.

EDUCATED AND UNEDUCATED PARENTS’ MIND SET TOWARDS GIRLS’ EDUCATION: COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVE AT SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Noor Muhammad — 2024-06-23

Education is a fundamental human right without gender discrimination to uplift the economic, social, and culture of society through education. The main purpose of the study was to investigate the comparison of educated & uneducated parents’ mindsets regarding female education at secondary school level. The essentialness of this investigation was to view the mindset of parents comparatively toward girls’ education. The population of study was parents of secondary school-level students of Dera Ghazi Khan. The research design was causal-comparative based on a survey. The sample of the study was 96 parents who were selected through the random sampling techniques. The questionnaire was developed at a five-point Likert type of scale to collect the data from the selected parents. The study results showed that educated parents preferred the girls’ education more than uneducated parents, urban parents than rural parents, and mothers than fathers. Thus, it is recommended that the female should avail educational opportunities for their educational development. The government must offer financial help to those parents who are unable to educate their daughters due to financial constraints.

THE LINKAGES BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE HIDING & KNOWLEDGE SHARING VIA LMX & AGREEABLENESS: A MEDIATED MODERATED MODEL

Sajid Mushtaq — 2024-06-25

The study will contribute to the knowledge hiding literature by providing interesting insights in trickledown effect of supervisor knowledge hiding on subordinate knowledge sharing behavior with the co-workers, while; here, LMX as mediator would extend literature of knowledge hiding. Drawing on SET & COR theory by using cross-sectional data collected over structured questionnaire from employees of TEVTA organization, the research will be a considerable addition in both knowledge hiding and knowledge sharing literature. It would also provide the considerable knowledge in OB studies where personality traits i.e., agreeableness as moderator will influence upon relationship of LMX and knowledge sharing by subordinate with coworkers. It argues that, the effects of supervisor knowledge hiding (predictor) not stop at subordinate end while it transmits (trickledown) in coworker and badly affect their social well-being (outcome). More interestingly, agreeableness will moderate relation of LMX & subordinate knowledge sharing behavior with co-workers while the COR will support to author’s stance. In addition, theoretical and practical implications of the study are also a key point of the present research.

THE DIGITAL DESIRE, REAL CONSEQUENCES: PORNOGRAPHY & SEXUAL ABUSE IN PAKISTAN

Naveed Zafar — 2024-06-27

Google ranked Pakistan among the most pornographic searching content countries in the world. At same time, Pakistanis feel uncomfortable while discussing sex and pornography publicly considering this subject as a taboo. On other hand, there is an increase in cases of rape, child abuse, and sexual harassment in the country indicating an alarming threat. This study explores possible relationship between X-rated content consumption and its relation with sexual abuse cases in particular context. The theoretical framework of social learning theory (Bandura, 1977) & cultivation theory (Gerbner, 1969) was employed. Data for this qualitative study is collected through the interview guide method using instrument of semi-structured interviews. The research population comprises the rape convicts currently under jail term in District Jail of Kasur (n=20 convicts). Thematic analysis of the study reveals that the consumption of X-rated content at an early age stimulated the rape convicts to commit the rape. Other factors involved in committing rape are the socio-economic conditions and psychographics of rape convicts. The study recommends that the PTA should increase and ensure its filters with the strict checks upon the online traffic and trends of the search-on-search engines.

INFLUENTIAL EDUCATORS: UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACTS OF TEACHER BEHAVIOR ON ELEMENTARY STUDENT PERSONALITIES

Amna Aslam — 2024-06-28

This study delves into influence of teacher behavior on elementary school students, with a focus on their behavior development. Its primary objectives encompass understanding the driving forces behind student growth at the elementary level and identifying core factors shaping their personalities. Employing a quantitative research approach through a descriptive design, the investigation centers on impact of teachers' conduct on student behavior evolution. Study acknowledges the standing of personal ethical principles and individuals’ freedom while underscoring the significance of instilling universally recognized behavioral values and virtues among elementary-level students in Pakistan. Data collection method involved a meticulously crafted questionnaire, comprising distinct items that inquired about impact of teachers' behavior on students’ moral development. The study extensively analyzed data using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS, including T-test. This underscores teacher significance beyond academics, enhancing ethical growth & responsibility. The study emphasizes universal consensus on vital role of positive teacher-student relations in elementary education for student development.

EXPLORING THE TEACHER EDUCATORS PRACTICES FOR INTEGRATING EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTIONS

Madiha Khadim — 2024-06-29

In the contemporary era, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has become a pivotal paradigm in global education, aiming to equip learners with essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes for a sustainable future. In Pakistan, embedding ESD within the education system is a national response to global sustainability challenges and the country's unique socio-economic and environmental issues. This study investigates the practices of teacher educators in integrating ESD into teacher education programs in Pakistan. Using the mixed-methods approach, research examines the practices about ESD and how these practices align with global ESD standards. Quantitative data were collected through a survey of 316 teacher educators from public universities in Punjab, while qualitative data was collected via interviews with 17 teacher educators. The findings reveal that many educators employ innovative methods such as project-based learning, collaborative tasks, and field trips, to ensure reliance on the traditional lecture-based approaches. It concludes with recommendations for enhancing ESD practices amid teacher educators, emphasizing the importance of training and awareness to foster SDE in Pakistan.

NAVIGATING DISCOMFORT FOR GROWTH: STUDENT EXPERIENCES WITH PROVOCATION PEDAGOGY IN PAKISTAN

Yaar Muhammad — 2024-06-30

The content of this study is a qualitative case study on how the provocation pedagogy was adapted and practiced in an experimental peace education classroom situated within Sialkot, Pakistan. Drawing on reflections from 43 students and the instructors field notes, this research examines how these pedagogical approach influences learning; critiques assumptions around district identity and culture; as well encourages critical analysis of the social justice. This research offers important reflections on transformative qualities of provocation pedagogy, and how this sits with other ethical considerations in order to strengthen its use and protect against potential misuse. Findings add a new layer to the perennial debates about pedagogy of discomfort in learning and site-specific peace education. While this study reflects on hope that provocation pedagogy has to offer in engaging students as critical thinkers and as vehicles for transformative cultural work, it also contains ongoing concerns about ethical issues and risks in diverse contexts. To that end, this study serves as a model for educators looking to integrate the type of culturally relevant transformative learning, particularly as it relates to issues of social justice.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS' ATTITUDE TOWARD RESEARCH IN PUBLIC SECTOR COLLEGES OF LAHORE

Nighat Ara — 2024-06-30

The students' attitudes are more significant in the modern world than their experiences and academic preparation. A positive attitude toward research is the key to success and progress in knowledge-based societies. The study aimed to investigate undergraduate students' attitudes towards research in public sector colleges of Lahore. The population of this study comprised of B.Ed. (Hons.) students. The sample was selected over convenient sampling technique of 180 students from five public sector colleges in Lahore. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire developed by Papanastasiou was used for data collection. The data was analyzed through statistical package for social sciences-20 using descriptive and inferential statistics. A T-test was used to find differences based on gender. The results offered significant information for reaching the conclusion and making suitable decisions about research issues under study. It was revealed that most students had a positive attitude towards research. Moreover, there was a significant difference between the attitudes of males and females toward research, with more positive attitudes by male students.

ESTABLISHING CAREER COMMITMENT VIA JOB AUTONOMY: EXPLORING GENERAL & SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVE

Kashif Iqbal — 2024-06-30

The job autonomy and career commitment are essential but latent factors of teachers’ personality in education and special education. This study aimed to seek job autonomy for establishing career commitment among general and special education teachers. A correlational design was used for data collection from teachers of special education (N = 60) and general education (N = 60). A convenient sampling technique was used in this study. Two self-developed structured questionnaires were used as instruments of the study. The expert opinion (N=02) validated the instrument validity, and reliability coefficients were .816 and .873. The data analysis was done over SPSS version – 23 with descriptive and inferential statistics. The study's findings depicted that most respondents were having freedom to decide what to do each day. The degree of career commitment and autonomy shared by teachers is not significantly different. Thus, study offered valuable data in reaching desired conclusion. Study recommends that professional development opportunities must be provided by special education and school education departments of Punjab to maintain level of job autonomy to develop career commitment among teachers.

A SOCIO-SEMIOTIC STUDY OF MEDIA GENDER MISREPRESENTATION IMPACT ON YOUTH’S COGNITION AND IDEOLOGY

Hana Habib — 2024-06-30

According to Cook (2001), the advertising content influences and persuades people and contributes to shaping perceptions and attitudes. Advertisers and image producers depict human figures on billboards to develop social affinity between images and viewers. This study aims to explore the patterns of gender misrepresentation in Pakistani print advertisements over socio-semiotic perspective. It focuses on its impact on Pakistani youth’s cognition about the self and other gender dichotomies and gender-based ideologies. This qualitative study employs a descriptive approach to examine semiotic choices made in billboard advertising media. The interviews were led to get deeper insights into impact of gender misrepresentation on youth. Purposive sampling technique is adopted for data collection, while the convenient sampling technique is chosen for interviews. The study results entail that the image producers make explicit and implicit semiotic choices to ascertain gender stereotypical representation of both genders. It is recommended that advertisers and image producers pay heed to this serious issue and portray both the genders positively and neutrally, that can help in establishing an inclusive & progressive society where both genders are respected and play their parts equally.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FINANCIAL CRISIS AND DEPRESSION AMONG PRIMARY CAREGIVERS OF VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN

Salbia Abbas — 2024-06-30

Primary caregivers of children with disabilities most intently experience higher level of depression, less interactive families and increase social & psychological challenges in contrast to parents of normal children (Benson & Karlof, 2009; Higgins et al., 2005; Cook et al., 2002; Emerson, 2003). The current research explored an association amid financial crisis & depression amid primary caregivers of visually impaired children. The cross-sectional design with quantitative research methodology was used to investigate the association among two constructs. Sample of 150 individuals were recruited through convenient sampling technique. Data was collected from both rural and urban areas of Sialkot and was analyzed by the application of SPSS. The findings of the current research revealed that financial crisis and depression (r=.288**, p<0.01, p<0.05) are linked positively. Values of linear regression explored that financial crisis and depression positively predicts impact on lives of primary caregivers of visually impaired children (r=.360*, p<0.05). The current research suggests that NGOs, human rights federations, Govt. policymakers have potential to significantly impact the ability of parents or caregivers of the visually impaired children to achieve a well-rounded and balanced life.

THE ANALYSIS OF PSYCHOPHYSICAL IMPACT OF LEARNERS ON THEIR COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT AT SECONDARY LEVEL IN KPK

Mir Alam Said — 2024-06-30

This study explored teachers' views on psychophysical impact of learners on their cognitive development at secondary level in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Objectives were to examine psychophysical effects on academic performance, compare academic results with social behavior, investigate the importance of social behavior on academic performance, and suggest steps to improve cognitive development and social behavior. The study used descriptive survey methodology, collecting data from 15 randomly selected schools. A 25-item questionnaire was developed & administered to teachers. The sample included 90 students categorized as high, average, and below-average achievers from both science and arts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that psychophysical impact and cognitive development are interrelated, with social behavior influencing the academic performance to varying degrees across achievement levels. Similarly, study recommends a holistic approach to education that considers social and academic factors in promoting the student development towards desired success.

IMPACT OF IN-SERVICE TRAINING ON DISTRIBUTED LEADERSHIP SKILLS AMONG EDUCATIONAL MANAGERS IN PUNJAB

Muhammad Abbas — 2024-06-30

The current quantitative study aimed to determine the impact of Quaid-e-Azam Academy for Educational Development (QAED) in-service training on the distributed leadership skills of educational managers from Punjab province. The study sample was 463 school heads and managers across the province of Punjab through a random sampling technique from the Punjab province. Data were collected over adopted questionnaires from indicators of QAED used during in-service training sessions. Google form was designed based on a five-point Likert scale to get online data from participants. The study's findings revealed that most participants showed significant progress in result-driven about various skills & leadership capabilities about setting academic goals, monitoring instructional performance & making decisions after in-service training. Positive response also explored the impact of in-service training in developing competencies such as vision, communication, objective oversight procedures, and evidence-based action that allow one to be transformed. The development of such directive leadership is essential for school improvements. In same way, short workshops demonstrate initial capacity developments.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOMS: ADVANCING FUTURES THROUGH SCHOOL CAREER COUNSELING

Nosheen Malik — 2024-06-30

Opting career is one of most important choice in pupils’ life. The right choice ensures success in their personal and professional life. This research aimed to examine the impact of career counselling sessions and vocational guidance methods on the pupil’s career choices of 8th-grade students in Bahawalpur. Students were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups across four different elementary schools (2 boys & 2 girls' schools, public & private). A validated online questionnaire adapted from Minnesota Career Cluster Interest Survey was used to collect the data. The results revealed significant differences in career choices between the two groups after treatment. Data analysis using SPSS-21 showed that the availability of a career counselor/ teacher and attendance at counseling sessions were strongly associated with students' career choices. The study found that parental education level was a vital factor, as about 3-quarters of students tended to follow their parents' professions & advice rather than exploring other options. Study recommends that incorporating compulsory counseling programs in social & behavioral sciences curricula across elementary schools to better support the students' career decision-making.

IMPACT OF BLENDED LEARNING TEACHING TECHNIQUE ON STUDENTS ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS AT ELEMENTARY LEVEL

Misbah Ejaz — 2024-06-30

The increasing demands on teachers have led to the strategic integration of information communication technology, suggesting that teachers' efficacy can be heightened through the judicious incorporation of technology into their teaching techniques. In light of this premise, this research aimed to assess the impact of blending learning teaching techniques on the academic achievements of 8th class science subject students in Gujranwala. The main objective was to compare achievement levels between blending learning and traditional methods. In this regard, the pre-test post-test control group design was utilized, with a sample of sixty students randomly selected. Data were collected through achievement test, revealing the blending learnings' superiority in enhancing the students' cognitive skills according to Bloom's taxonomy. This study examined the leading issues in contemporary situation wherein results provide significant information in reaching the decision of study and making some appropriate recommendations. This highlighted the potential benefits in a tailor-made format thereby incorporating blending learning in developments of education at different levels especially at the elementary level.

EFFECT OF COGNITIVE ACTIVATION STARATEGIES ON ANALYSIS SKILLS AT SECONDARY LEVEL IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Misbah — 2024-06-30

The research employs a quantitative approach, employing a pre-test-post-test control group design to assess efficacy of cognitive activation strategies in enhancing the students' analytical prowess. A sample of secondary level students was randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group endured targeted interventions including cognitive activation strategies, while control group followed conventional teaching methods. Both groups were subjected to pre & post-intervention assessments, focusing on analytical skills in the context of English education. Findings reveal a significant improvement in analytical abilities among the students exposed to cognitive activation strategies compared to those in the control group. This improvement was shown through standardized tests, observation, and qualitative analysis of student work. The implications of these findings underscore imperative for educators to mix cognitive activation strategies into pedagogical practices to optimize students' analytical skills in English education at secondary level. This study contributes to burgeoning discourse on effective teaching practices, providing empirical evidence to support the adoption of cognitive activation strategies in fostering analytical skills amid students in Punjab Pakistan.